Meeting minutes

The Oklahoma Accordion Club held a meeting on Sunday, June 14, 2026, starting at 3:30 pm.

Accordion players who performed were Tom Phillips, Wayne Turgeon, Dick Albreski, Ron Shearon, Dana and Rod Kroutil, and Lois Roth.

Our next meeting will be Sunday, July 12, at 3:30 pm.

Because of poor vision I can no longer do the secretary job. If anyone is interested in being the club secretary, please speak to Maggie Abel. Thank you.

The Oklahoma Accordion Club met on Sunday, May 10 for its Mother's Day gathering.

President Maggie Abel called the meeting to order at 3:30 pm. We recited The Pledge of Allegiance.

Our next meeting is scheduled for Sunday, June 14. There will be music, snacks, and fun. We hope to see you there!

The Oklahoma Accordion Club held a meeting on Sunday, April 12, 2026. It was our annual Pizza Party. Before the music program started we enjoyed delicious pizza from Hide Away. President Maggie Abel called the meeting to order at 3:30 PM.

We recited the Pledge of Allegiance and sang "America The Beautiful." Tom Phillips said a prayer before we ate.

Meeting was adjourned, and then Lois played a few more songs while the clean-up workers did their job. We will meet again on Sunday, May 10. The theme is Mother's Day or whatever anyone wants to play for us.

The Oklahoma Accordion Club held a meeting on Sunday, March 8, 2026, starting at 3:30 pm. Early arrivals were treated to some lively Irish tunes.

President Maggie Abel called the meeting to order. She welcomed everyone to The Saint Patrick's Day party.

We recited the Pledge of Allegiance and sang "America the Beautiful."

Sadly, we received word that recent member Shirley Irene Hammack has passed on. Featured in a previous newsletter, Shirley won a prize for her accordion skill at age 10. A computer programmer at Duncan Regional Hospital, she and three of her musically-inclined family drove to OKC so she could take up accordion again after an absence. Her playing of Blue Tango impressed several teachers in attendance. Shirley and Wilber were married 57 years. Her service took place the second Sunday in March.

Tom said he is recovering from a stroke and his accordion is a challenge.

Milo Shedeck played his clarinet with Dick and Barbara, including an old German song once played by his grandfather.

We enjoyed a sing-along — "You Are My Sunshine," "My Wild Irish Rose," "When Irish Eyes Are Smiling," and "When The Saints Go Marching In."

Ron Shearon demonstrated various reeds on his Giuletti accordion, on which he has done some complicated repair work. He told us that every accordion has a serial number.

The meeting was adjourned. There was jamming afterward.

Karen West was in charge of a delightful snack table.

We'll meet next on Sunday, April 12. Themes are Spring, Easter, and whatever you want to play for us. See you then!

The Oklahoma Accordion Club met on Sunday, February 8, for a Valentine celebration.

President Maggie Abel called the meeting to order at 3:30 pm and welcomed everyone.

We recited The Pledge of Allegiance and sang "America The Beautiful."

We also enjoyed a new duo — Milo Shedeck on clarinet and his wife Lucy Shedeck on accordion. Their songs included "Tinker Polka" and "Snow Waltz." Milo had a B-flat clarinet and was transposing the music as he played.

We also had a singalong of several love songs whose lyrics Frank Boyd projected on the wall.

Dick reminded us about the Accordion Conference in March. The hotel rooms have kitchenettes this year, and two bands will perform at the Saturday night banquet.

The meeting was adjourned. As typical, there was jamming before and after the meeting.

We'll meet again Sunday March 8 at 3:30 pm. Join us for a wee bit of Irish music! Daylight Saving begins that day so don't be late!

OAC held its first meeting of the year on Sunday, January 11, 2026. The theme was Hawaiian.

Vice President Ron Shearon led us in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance and we sang "America the Beautiful."

In keeping with the Hawaiian theme, grass skirts and colorful leis were provided to attendees. A banner depicting beach sandals decorated the wardrobe table.

The singalong generated by Anne Lopez and Lois Roth included "Auld Lang Syne" and "Tiny Bubbles."

Guest Patsy Clymer from the Will Rogers Senior Center's Hawaiian Class demonstrated and taught several accordionist ladies the Hula, while Patsy's husband John Clymer played "The Hukilau" on his ukelele. Patsy was accompanied by a number of her classmates in tropical garb.

Ron delighted member Susan Hause by announcing her as the winner of the raffled Princetti accordion, which he put immediately into her keeping.

The snack table was handled by Karen West.

There was the inevitable jamming after the meeting!

We'll meet next on Sunday, February 8, at 3:30 PM. The theme is L-O-V-E — that's "Love!"

The Oklahoma Accordion Club held its annual Christmas party on Sunday, December 14, starting at 3:30 pm.

President Maggie Abel called the meeting to order at 3:35 pm. Ron Shearon (Treasurer and VP) led the Pledge of Allegiance. Maggie told us where to put our warm clothing gifts for charity. She said the raffle is set up and each ticket is one dollar.

Shayla, a guest from Yukon, is just learning to play the accordion. She and Maggie played a duet — "Camptown Races." Shayla is also a tuba player!

Guest Judi Denney brought her mother's accordion to sell.

John Warren played several songs, including "White Christmas," "Too Fat Polka," and "Stardust."

Dick Albreski gave a lovely rendition of "Silent Night" using sustained basses. Then he performed a 2026 Fun Band song — "Eviva Espana," and ended with "Let it Snow."

Accordionists were invited to try the two accordions that were for sale.

Music continued with Ron playing "It Came Upon A Midnight Clear" with two-finger harmony.

Karen West told us that she is in the process of moving to her new senior living apartment on North Penn.

The music continued with Anne Lopez and Lois Roth performing three Christmas favorites: "Winter Wonderland," "White Christmas," and "Jingle Bell Rock."

The traditional raffle was held with Ron calling the ticket numbers. Some happy people won some very nice gifts!

The afternoon ended with a sing-along, with music by Anne Lopez and Lois Roth. Songs were "Silver Bells," "Jingle Bells" with member Cassi Radicelli playing bells, "Silent Night," and "O Christmas Tree."

The meeting was adjourned, and as expected, there was jamming afterward.

A big Thank You to the people who brought snacks, and to Karen for setting up the table.

Our next meeting will be Sunday, January 11, 2026. Come and celebrate the New Year with music and fun!

The Oklahoma Accordion Club met Sunday, November 9, 2025.

President Maggie Abel called the meeting to order at 3:30.

VP & Treasurer Ron Shearon led us in The Pledge Of Allegiance. We sang a verse of "America The Beautiful," followed by "Happy Birthday" to Frank Boyd.

Guest Jack Radicelli joined the meeting online from Cleveland, Ohio. Jack is Cassi Radicelli's son and Anne Lopez's brother.

Anne Lopez and Lois Roth began the music with "Blue Spanish Eyes."

Maggie had brought her digital Roland 4X accordion to the meeting. She said it's for sale for the right price. It has a recorder, and it can be played with or without using the bellows, also silently with a headset. Ron, a former Roland owner himself, demonstrated a few of its 400 voices (piano, organ, sax, etc.) He played "Anniversary Song" and "Drink To Me Only."

Dick Albreski and Barbara Yuill joined us online from Scottsdale, Arizona. There were challenges with the sound, but they were resolved, and we enjoyed their duet "J'Attendre."

Ron changed to his own accordion and played a waltz, "Bavarian Nights," using high and then low reeds.

Shirley Hammack and Ron played a duet — "Over The Waves." Shirley performed "Amour." Susan Hause and Maggie played "Silent Night."

Ron reminded us of the Christmas party coming December 14. Please bring cookies or other treats to share; items for the raffle; and hats, gloves, socks, etc. for charity. One of the raffle items will be an accordion. Ron will also collect annual dues at the December meeting.

Singalong time came next. Anne and Lois provided the music for two WWI songs — "Smile Smile Smile" and "Til We Meet Again". And there was some lively clapping to "The Mexican Hand Clapping Song."

Sil Lopez sang "Yours" with Anne accompanying him on her accordion. Anne and Lois played "South of the Border." Anne played "El Choclo" while Maggie and Frank demonstrated the Tango. Anne and Lois performed "La Paloma." Anne played "Tico Tico" and "Jarobe Tapatio."

The meeting was adjourned.

Our next meeting will be the Christmas party on Sunday, December 14, at 3:30 PM. Join us at this special time of the year for music and singing and delicious treats!

It was good to have Karen West at the meeting after her recent health problems.

There was jamming afterward with Anne and Lois playing a few more Spanish songs. Then they were joined by Wilber Hammack on a Jew's harp with vocals by Mark Hammack for "My Darling Clementine," "Red River Valley," and other old favorites.

The Oklahoma Accordion Club met Sunday, September 14, 2025. Attending were 17 members (1 on Zoom) and 5 guests. Total attendance was 22. Before the meeting Anne Lopez and Lois Roth entertained with German music. aggie Abel called the meeting to order at 3:30. She announced we are celebrating the club's 25th anniversary today. Ron Shearon (club Treasurer and VP) spoke about the condition of our country, then led us in reciting The Pledge of Allegiance. We sang the first verse of "America The Beautiful," then "Happy Birthday" to OAC. Then the performances began! Ron played "Drink To Me Only With Thine Eyes" and "I Don't Know How This Song Ends." John Warren treated us to a collection of his favorites including "That's Amore," "God Bless America," "Yankee Doodle Dandy," and "Too Fat Polka." Our pro Dick Albreski took over and performed "Hoop-Dee- Doo," "Waltz For Barbie" which he composed for Barbara Yuill,

The Oklahoma Accordion Club held a meeting on Sunday, August 10, 2025. There were seventeen people present: fifteen members and two guests. A board meeting was held at 3 PM. aggie Abel called the general meeting to order at 3:30. VP/Treasurer Ron Shearon led the Pledge of Allegiance. Anne Lopez and Lois Roth played to accompany the singing of "America the Beautiful." Linda Hardwicke has donated a Princetti accordion to the club! It is a 120 bass and weighs 16 pounds. Ron has checked it over and installed new straps. He demonstrated it and invited anyone interested to try it out. Ron began the music per-

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aggie Abel called the meeting to order at 3:30 pm. She announced that there was a table of free sheet music and a table of snacks at the back of the room. Vice nd Treasure Ron Shearon led us in reciting The Pledge of Allegiance. We sang a verse of "America The Beautiful" accompanied by Anne and Lois. A lovely donated accordion was on display, and players were invited to try it out. It is a "ladies" size with narrow keys and 120 basses. Music began with Elias Lansford performing several songs, including "In An Old Castle," "Our Boys March," and "A Sailor's Hornpipe." Elias takes lessons with Bob Mansfield.

aggie Abel called the meeting to order at 3:30 PM. There were 18 members and 16 guests present. VP and Treasurer Ron Shearon led us in reciting The Pledge of Allegiance. Secretary Lois Roth provided the music as we sang "America the Beautiful" and "Battle Hymn of the Republic." Ron asked for volunteers to play in his new creation, the "Twelve Bass Accordion Band." He and Maggie provided music and instruments that had a limited number of buttons. Bob Mansfield, Maggie, Ron, and Lois joined in the impromptu performance of "Drink To Me Only With Thine Eyes" and "Country Gardens."

The Oklahoma Accordion Club held its monthly meeting on Sunday, April 13, 2025. Early arrivals were treated to projected videos of professional performers at the 2025 National Accordion Association convention. At 3:30 aggie Abel called the meeting to order. There were fifteen members and three guests present. We recited The Pledge of Allegiance and sang a verse of “America The Beautiful.” Anne Lopez began the music with the lively “Alabama Jubilee.” Anne and Lois (Roth) performed an old favorite, “When It's Springtime in the Rockies,” first as a waltz and then a polka. Anne soloed with “Paris Skies.” A newer club member from Duncan, OK, Shirley Hammack said that as a child she was in an accordion contest. Out of 65 entries, ten-year-old Shirley won third place in her division! (Photo on page 1.) The music continued as Aeden Keeley, a student of Dick Albreski, played two solos: “Edelweiss” and “Blowin' in the Wind.” Stillwater member Janet Haskin played a hymn, “Wonderful Words of Life.” She followed with two polkas: “Barbara” and “Pennsylvania.” Dick played the traditional “Easter Parade” by Irving Berlin. Then he performed “Tico Tico,” “Tick-Tock Polka,” and “Peg O' My Heart.” Dick re-explained his unique way of alternating basses: “Instead of the fifth note on the scale, I alternate with the sixth note. For example I use A instead of G when playing C basses.” Karen West performed Pat Boone's famous hit song, “April Love.” Then it was sing-along time. Anne and Lois provided the music for “April Showers” and “Easter Parade.” Frank Boyd projected the lyrics onto the wall so all could join in. Next came dance time. Anne played “La Rosita” while Maggie and Frank demonstrated two styles of dancing the Tango — American and Argentine. Anne and Lois played “The Old Rugged Cross.” Rusty Dolton May 2

The Oklahoma Accordion Club met on Sunday, October 13, 2024, at 3:30 PM. aggie Abel called the meeting to order. VP Ron Shearon led us in the Pledge of Allegiance. The OktoberFest music began with Dick Albreski and Myke Dixon playing "Edelweiss." Dick told a few memories he had of Frank Gesinski. Then he played one of Frank's favorite songs: "Tico Tico." Barbara Yuill joined Dick for the toetapping "Beer Barrel Polka." They followed with "Waltz For Barbie" composed by Dick. Dick played "Gypsy Polka." Guest Kirsten Corrao said she started teaching herself to play accordion during the covid lockdown. She played "Song of the Volga Boatman" on her button accordion. Maggie related how she began her accordion lessons with Dick. John Warren and Lois Roth jammed together with "Five Foot Two," "Too Fat Polka," and others. Lois performed several German songs including "You Can't Be True Dear," "Circling Pigeons Landler," and "Vagabunden." She concluded the music with "Red Wing" and more familiar songs. The meeting was adjourned. We will meet again Sunday, November 10 at 3:30 PM. Come and enjoy the music and the fun!

The Oklahoma Accordion Club held a meeting on Sunday, June 9, 2024. Our venue was the music room at Messiah Lutheran Church in OKC. Before the meeting Anne Lopez and Secretary Lois Roth warmed up with a few favorite songs. aggie Abel called the meeting to order at 3:30 PM. We recited The Pledge of Allegiance and sang a verse of "America the Beautiful." Anne told us of her cousin's recent vacation in France. She found a cross and grave near Normandy that might be that of a family member. Myke Dixon has been searching for a chord organ in good condition. He finally found one in Kansas. Anne read aloud a note from Larry Gering's son Chris. He thanked the club for providing accordion music before Larry's funeral April 7. He enclosed $100 honorarium for our club. VP/Treasurer Ron Shearon gave us a message from Past Prez Dick Albreski. He says "Hi" and would like to be with us but was not feeling well. We were all happy to have past VP Karen West back with us today after several months recovery from surgery. The music began with Anne and Lois performing three country/western tunes: "Tennessee Waltz," "San Antonio Rose," and "Waltz Across Texas." The theme continued with their singalong: "Hey Good Lookin," "Red River Valley," "Deep in the Heart of Texas," and "Home on the Range." Member Frank Boyd projected the words to each song on the wall. Anne demonstrated several ways to make a song more interesting by changing reeds or octave as you repeat the song. Anne and Lois played "The Anniversary Song" to celebrate Maggie and Frank's first wedding anniversary. Maggie and Frank enjoyed a dance together. The meeting concluded with Myke Dixon joining Anne and Lois for a jam session. They played a variety of songs. Anne performed her special version of "Blue Moon." The meeting was adjourned. Our next meeting will be Sunday, July 14, at the usual time and place. Join us for a few hours of music and fun!

The Oklahoma Accordion Club met on Sunday afternoon, March 10, 2024. The location was the music room of Messiah Lutheran Church in OKC. Before the meeting Anne Lopez and Lois Roth played "welcome in" music. aggie Abel called the meeting to order at 3:30. Ron Shearon, VP and Treasurer, led us in reciting The Pledge of Allegiance. We sang the first verse of "America The Beautiful." Dick Albreski told us a few highlights of the upcoming convention. The Youth Band will perform Saturday at noon. There will be jam sessions every night. The convention has a new location this year: Hilton Garden Inn, Lewisville, Texas, a little north of Dallas. Matthew Medley and Dick began the music with the Youth Band's 2024 convention songs. They performed "Faded Love," "Polish Polka Medley," "Come Do The Polka," "La Petite Blanc," and "Skater's Waltz." Dick soloed with his arrangement of "Skater's Waltz" - in swingtime! Elias Lansford, Bob Mansfield's student, played several solos, including "Going Up and Going Down," "Good Vibes," "Carefree Boogie," and "Beautiful Brown Eyes." Then it was time to sing along! Anne and Lois provided the music for "Easter Parade" and "Macnamara's Band." The duo continued by playing "Peg O My Heart," "Danny Boy," and "Just A Closer Walk With Thee." Anne soloed with several Irish songs: "The Kerry Dance," "Givens Waltz," and "O'Malley's Song." Anne and Lois finished the afternoon of music with a trio of polkas: "Barbara," "Helena," and "The Lucky Polka." They also played a request from the audience - "Edelweiss." The meeting was adjourned. Our next meeting will be Sunday, 3:30 p.m., April 14. Come and celebrate Spring!

February Meeting Minutes Lois Roth The Oklahoma Accordion Club held its first meeting of the year on Sunday, February 11, 2024. The January meeting had been canceled because of inclement weather. aggie Abel called us to order at 3:30 pm. Total attendance was 15. We recited The Pledge of Allegiance, led by Ron Shearon. We sang "America the Beautiful," accompanied by Anne Lopez and Lois Roth. Maggie introduced all the attendees. The music began with a Valentine sing-along: "Love Makes the World Go 'Round," and "Have I Told You Lately." Anne and Lois provided the music. The duo then performed "The Song From Moulin Rouge," "La Vie En Rose," and "Only You. ' Anne soloed with "Under Paris Skies." Sil Lopez sang "Quizas, Quizas, Quizas" ("Perhaps, Perhaps, Perhaps"), accompanied by Anne on accordion. John Warren joined in for a jam session of many old favorites, including "When The Saints Go Marching In" and "Jambalaya" for Mardi Gras. Anne and Lois played "Lucky Polka." Ron Shearon told us some interesting facts about the hymn "Amazing Grace." Then he played the song. The meeting was adjourned. Our next meeting will be Sunday, March 10. It will officially start at 3:30, but if you come early there will be music and visiting. Respectfully submitted, Lois Roth, OAC Secretary Ted Shadid, March 1 Ron Shearon, March 1 Janet Haskin, March 8 Becky Rickard, March 25 Dan Hanson, March 28

January 2024 The Oklahoma Squeezins The Oklahoma Accordion Club held its Christmas party/meeting on Sunday, December 10, 2023. aggie Abel called the meeting to order. · VP and Treasurer Ron Shearon led the "Pledge of Allegiance." · Maggie introduced all the attendees. · The accordion music began with Elias Lansford performing "Silent Night". · Asher Elliott had our toes tapping with "Frosty The Snowman" and "Dance the Polka". · Laz Elliott performed "La Mari Posita" by Frosini. He said it is one of Frosini's less popular compositions. · Dick Albreski and Laz teamed up for a swing style version of "Skater's Waltz". They followed with "The Gypsy Polka". · Barbara Yuill and Dick played "Marching In March" -- one of the Fun Band songs for the 2024 Accordion Convention. · Dick soloed with "Let It Snow". · Laz performed a Frosini waltz titled "Alpine Festival". · Karen West played "Happy Holidays" and "Santa Baby". Karen couldn't play for us since last May. It was good to hear her again. · Then it was sing along time. With Karen and Lois Roth providing the music, we enjoyed singing several holiday favorites: "Silver Bells." "Jingle Bells" (with Maggie jingling the bells); "Silent Night." and "O Christmas Tree". · Karen and Lois concluded the music program with "Frosty, The Snowman". · The meeting was adjourned. · Myke Dixon had his camera equipment set up, and he took photos of anyone who asked. · After the meeting John Warren and Lois got together for a jam session. Our first meeting of the new year will be Sunday, January 14. Join us for a good time and some good music! Respectfully submitted, Lois Roth, OAC Secretary December Meeting Minutes Lois Roth

December 2023 The Oklahoma Squeezins The Oklahoma Accordion Club met on Sunday, November 12, 2023, at Messiah Lutheran Church in OKC. aggie Abel called the meeting to order at 3:30 pm. Ron Shearon led us in the "Pledge of Allegiance." We sang "America The Beautiful." · Bob Mansfield presented a workshop that included many valuable pointers on learning the basses; playing a duet with yourself; performing a bellows shake; and understanding chords, keys, inversions, etc. He also handed out papers titled "Bob's Finger Substitutions." · Dick Albreski said he has books and CDs of Christmas music for sale. · Then the music began! - Dick and Myke Dixon played a duet - "Drink To Me Only With Thine Eyes." - Dick got us in a holiday mood with jazzy versions of "White Christmas" and "Santa Claus Is Coming to Town." - Myke said he will bring his camera to the December 10 meeting and will take pictures of anyone interested. - A guest showed us a small accordion that he wanted to sell. - Next on the program was a singalong. It included two World War I songs for Veterans' Day: "Pack Up Your Troubles in Your Old Kitbag," and "Till We Meet Again." The third song was "This Land Is Your Land." Anne Lopez and Lois Roth provided the music. - Anne and Lois performed "Third Man Theme," Elmer's Tune," and "Ashokan Farewell." - Maggie and Frank added to the fun by dancing to "Cafe Polka." The meeting was adjourned. Refreshments today included cotton candy made by Myke and his spun sugar machine. Other snacks were provided by Karen West and her helpers. The OAC Christmas party will be Sunday, December 10. You are encouraged to bring holiday treats to share. Also please bring hats, socks, gloves, etc. for charity. Join us for an afternoon of music and fun! Respectfully submitted, Lois Roth, OAC Secretary November Meeting Minutes Lois Roth

October 8, 2023 The Oklahoma Accordion Club held its Oktoberfest party on Sunday, October 8, at the Messiah Lutheran Church of OKC. aggie Abel called the meeting to order at 3:30 pm. · We recited the "Pledge of Allegiance," led by Ron Shearon, and sang "America The Beautiful." · Bob Mansfield introduced his guests. Elias Lansford, Bob's young student, performed "Morning" from "Peer Gynt Suite," "Samson and Delilah," and "Carefree Boogie." · We sang "Happy Birthday" to Karen West. Dick Albreski followed up with the Polish version of the song. He had just come from playing a twohour gig in Guthrie, OK. · Dick handed out copies of "Silver Skates" and gave a short workshop on how to approach a new piece of music. He said the music is a road map, and the musician should study it carefully before picking up his accordion to play it. · Dick and Barbara Yuill performed three seasonal duets: "Apples, Peaches, Pumpkin Pie," "Das Kufsteiner Lied," and "Ole Suzanna Revisited Schottische." · Dick and his student, Jack Schillo, played "Too Fat Polka" and "Du, Du, Licht Mir In Hertzen." · Then it was singalong time. We harmonized to "Lilli Marlene" and "Edelweiss." Song sheets and accompaniment were provided by Anne Lopez and Lois Roth. · Anne and Lois continued the music with several German waltzes, including "You Can't Be True, Dear," "The Blue Skirt Waltz," and "Schneewalzer" ("Snow Waltz"). Dick joined them for a three-accordion version of "Rain-Rain Polka." · Maggie announced that Frank Gesinski is retiring from his position as editor of the Squeezin's monthly newsletter. Frank has published the newsletter for many years and has done a great job. Thank you, Frank! The Club is searching for a new editor. If anyone is interested, please contact Maggie. · Myke Dixon set up his electric chord organ and played for us. We were invited to give it a try, and several people did so. · Then Myke picked up his accordion and played "When The Saints Go Marching In" and "Take Me Out To The Ball Game." He said he's happy to be back in Oklahoma and with OAC again. · Ron concluded the afternoon of music with "Danube Waves" (several of its many parts), and "Drink To Me Only With Thine Eyes." The meeting was adjourned. Maggie and Frank Boyd added to the festivities by wearing German costumes, and by dancing to some of the German tunes. Refreshments included delicious squash pie from Myke Dixon. Our next meeting will be Sunday, November 12. The fun officially starts at 3:30, but come early to visit and to enjoy the warm-up music.

August 13, 2023 The Oklahoma Accordion Club held a monthly meeting on Sunday, August 13, 2023. We gathered in the music room of Messiah Lutheran Church in OKC. aggie Abel called the meeting to order at 3:30 pm. • Treasurer and VP Ron Shearon led us in reciting "The Pledge of Allegiance." • At Ron's suggestion, all the members who had brought their accordions got together and played "Amazing Grace." • Ron said that he has been helping children at his church learn accordion basics. • The music program began with Dick Albreski and Barbara Yuill performing two duets: "Tick Tock Polka" and "The Waltz of Love" (a Czech waltz). • Next Dick tried to stump the audience with some Name That Tune fun: • The songs were "All of Me," "I Don't Know Why," "Volare," and "Marie." His listeners knew them all! • Dick and his student Jack Schillo (a new Club member) played "Charlie The Chimp" and "Our Boys March." • Jack performed "Sweet Caroline." • Dick reminded us NEVER to buy an accordion on E-Bay! • Then it was time for a sing-along: • Anne Lopez and Lois Roth played the accompaniment to three seasonal songs: "In The Good Old Summertime," "Those Lazy Hazy Crazy Days of Summer," and "Cruising Down The River." • Anne and Lois performed a collection of Spanish and Mexican tunes: "A Gay Ranchero," "Spanish Eyes": "South of The Border," and "La Paloma." They ended with "Chiapanecas" ("Mexican Hand Clapping Song"), assisted by an enthusiastic audience. • Anne concluded the afternoon's music with a medley of Spanish songs: "Jarape Tapiteo." • Dick announced that he will be busy in September and October performing at German gigs. He and Barbara will also be playing in Phoenix. • He is planning some workshops for future OAC meetings. Our next meeting will be Sunday, September 10, at 3:30 pm. "Warm-up" music starts at 3:00 pm. There will be fun and food - and you may hear some German music!

June 11, 2023 The Oklahoma Accordion Club held its June 2023 meeting on Sunday the 11th, starting at 3:30 pm. We assembled in the Music Room of the Messiah Lutheran Church. aggie Abel Boyd opened the meeting with a welcome to all. · Treasurer and Vice on Shearon led us in reciting "The Pledge of Allegiance." · Maggie explained how to put a song on the whiteboard or on a wall so everyone can see it. It requires Ultimate Guitar software. She said that key changes are easily made. · Milo Shedeck announced that there will be a band concert at Kite Park in Nichols Hills on Thursday, June 15, at 7:00 pm. Concerts will be held there every Thursday evening through August. [Concert was later postponed one week due to weather.] · The afternoon of music began with a singalong. Anne Lopez and Lois Roth played for a groupsing of "You're A Grand Old Flag" (in honor of Flag Day), "Don't Fence Me In," and "Hey, Good Lookin' ". · We made plans for the July 9 meeting. It will be a pool party at Dick Albreski's home, in celebration of the 23rd anniversary of our Club. We discussed ideas for food, music, guests, etc. There will be a place inside for accordion players to perform. RSVP to Karen West by noon on July 5. · An email poster will be sent with detailed information. [Sent June 30] · Anne and Lois performed three country-western songs: "Tennessee Waltz," "Tumbling Tumbleweeds," and "Waltz Across Texas." · Dick performed for us on Zoom. He played "L- O-V-E," and "Somewhere My Love" ("Lara's Theme"). · Anne and Lois played a collection of German music that they will perform on June 13 at Touchmark Senior Living in Edmond. Songs included "Hoffbrau Haus," "Lilli Marlene," "Tavern Waltz" ("Erika"), and many others. The meeting was adjourned at 4:45 pm. Our next meeting will be Sunday, July 9 [but not at the church]! Watch your e-mail for the poster!

March 12, 2023 The Oklahoma Accordion Club held its third meeting of the year on Sunday, March 12, 2023, at the usual venue. Before the meeting, Dick Albreski and Laz Elliott entertained with songs that the Fun Band will perform at the 2023 National Accordion Association Convention in Dallas. aggie Abel called the meeting to order at 3:30 pm. · We began with music from the Youth Group. They performed the five pieces that they will play at the convention: "This Is Our Song For You," "Medley of Polish Polkas," "Que Sera, Sera," "Nights of Splendor," and "Lawrence Welk Medley." The players were Laz Elliott, Asher Elliott, Ladan Elliott, Alex Rockwood, and Jonathan Liszeski. · Maggie welcomed everyone to the meeting, and asked guests to introduce themselves. She announced that there is a table full of donated sheet music at the back of the room, and we may take what we want. · D.J. Liszeski, a guest, played two songs on his concertina: "What Do You Do with a Drunken Sailor?" and a lively jig. · Karen West performed "Orange Colored Sky." · Next, we had a singalong. The tunes were: "MacNamara's Band" for St. Patrick's Day, and "Jambalaya" for Mardi Gras. Anne Lopez and Lois Roth provided the music. · Anne and Lois played two more Irish songs: "The Band Played On" and "The Kerry Dance." Anne followed with several solos: "Given's Waltz," "O'Malley's Song," "Tarantella," and a medley from "The Godfather." · Dick put us in a romantic mood by performing "Spanish Eyes," "I Left My Heart in San Francisco," and "Amour, Amour, Amour." He concluded with "Beer Barrel Polka." · Ron Shearon suggested that we put together a "mini concert" for YouTube. He welcomes any ideas or comments from players. The meeting was adjourned. Our next meeting will be Easter Sunday, April 9, at 3:30 pm. Please join us for an afternoon of accordion music.

December 11, 2022 The Oklahoma Accordion Club had its annual Christmas party on Sunday, December 11, 2022, at 3:30 pm. The location was Messiah Lutheran Church of OKC. aggie Abel called the group to order at 3:30 pm. She introduced everyone who was present. • Tom Phillips led us in "The Pledge of Allegiance." • Dick Albreski and some members of our Youth Group began the music program. Laz Elliott and Dick performed "Here We Go." The Adult Fun Band will play this song at the 2023 National Accordion Association Convention in Texas. • Dick got us in the holiday mood with a solo, "Let It Snow." • Alex Rockwood played "Up on the Housetop." • Luke Anderson continued the seasonal theme with "White Christmas" and "Sugar Plum." He was playing his new Titano accordion for the first time. Dick told us that Titano is the only brand of accordion that has the air button at the top of a bass row. • Laz Elliott performed two solos: "Tanzende Fingel," and variations on "Dark Eyes." • Maggie reminded members to pay their annual dues to Ron Shearon, Club treasurer. He is also accepting donations to help our young players with convention expenses. • Dick will take our donated winter accessories to a needy charity. • Dick announced that Job Elliott and Courtney are getting married next year. • Christmas music continued, with Ron playing "The First Noel" and "It Came Upon the Midnight Clear." • Maggie played "Silent Night" on her 72-bass accordion. • Dick said that his first "big" accordion was an 80-bass instrument. Accordions smaller than 120 basses are now becoming more popular. • Tom Phillips presented us with a trivia question: Upon what instrument was "Silent Night" first performed? Answer: A guitar. • Dick played as we sang "Happy Birthday" to Maggie Abel and Lucy Shedeck. He followed with the Polish version, which includes the words "May you live one hundred years." • Karen West was wearing a cute reindeer antler hair decoration and jingle bell jewelry. She performed "Happy Holidays" and "Santa Baby." She said she had just begun to play again after months of dealing with a walking issue. We're happy that she's performing again! • Singalong sheets were distributed, and everybody sang "Jingle Bells," "Silver Bells," and "Silent Night." Accordion accompaniment was provided by Anne Lopez and Lois Roth. • Anne and Lois finished the afternoon of music with "White Christmas," "Parade of the Wooden Soldiers," and "Winter Wonderland." During the meeting, we all enjoyed visiting the snack table, which was loaded with cookies, candies, and other delicious treats provided by Club members. Our thanks to Karen and her helpers for setting up the refreshments. We will begin 2023 with a meeting on Sunday, January 8. The official starting time is 3:30, but you are welcome to come early to visit and to hear (or play) some "warm-up" music.

November 13, 2022 The Oklahoma Accordion Club held a meeting on Sunday, November 13, 2022. We gathered at the usual venue -- Messiah Lutheran Church in OKC. Before convening the meeting, we had an informal Board meeting of all the members who were present. We discussed ideas for enlarging and improving the Club. aggie Abel called the meeting to order at 4:00 pm. • There were no Zoom attendees. The guest was Cassi Radicelli, Anne Lopez's mother, visiting from Cleveland, Ohio. We were all happy to see her again! Maggie told us that Janet Haskin can't be with us because she's at home recovering from a hip fracture. Get well soon, Janet! • Ron Shearon played "We Three Kings of Orient Are" to get us in a holiday mood. • Frank Boyd led us in "The Pledge of Allegiance." • Ron is still working on the complicated job of tuning his Crucianelli accordion. He explained that combining two reeds makes another: e.g., oboe and piccolo together form the clarinet reed. He played "Bavarian Nights Waltz." He said it is an arrangement that Dick Albreski made for the 2015 Fun Band, which Dick directs at the annual National Accordion Convention we attend in Dallas. • Then it was time for a singalong. Players Anne Lopez and Lois Roth accompanied the group as they sang "The Happy Wanderer," "Red River Valley," and "Battle Hymn of The Republic." • Anne and Lois performed three Spanish pieces: "Maria Elena," "La Golondrina," and "La Paloma." "La Golondrina" was played as a duet with harmonizing parts. • They continued with a jam session, playing a variety of songs, including "Sentimental Journey," "Jambalaya," "Just A Closer Walk with Thee," and "Goodnight Irene." • Anne soloed with "Cana Dulce." The duo's finale was "Besame Mucho," sung by Sil Lopez, with Anne accompanying him on accordion. The meeting was adjourned. The Club's Christmas party will be Sunday, December 11 at 3:30 pm. A special email invitation will be sent to all members regarding the party. Guests are most welcome! Join us that afternoon for some Holly Jolly fun and music!

October 9, 2022 aggie Abel called the meeting to order at 3:30 pm. She introduced all those attending. VP and Treasurer Ron Shearon led "The Pledge of Allegiance." • Announcements: Dick Albreski is busy this month with Oktoberfest gigs. Anne and Sil Lopez stayed home today to be with Cassi (Anne's mother). • Frank Gesinski was with us on Zoom. He started the music with a medley of German Oktoberfest songs: "O Du Lieber Augustine," "Du Du Licht Mir im Hertzen," "Nach Hause," and "Geh'n Wir Mal Rüber." He then played "The Chicken Dance," "The Hokey Pokey," and a Strauss waltz. • Ron demonstrated how he is tuning his Crucianelli accordion. He said it's an ongoing process. He is tuning it and adding more reeds by following instructions on YouTube. He played an Italian waltz - "Neapolitan Nights." Ron is the proud owner of thirteen accordions. • Maggie handed out music chord charts with lyrics of several Garage Band songs from the recent variety show at Will Rogers Park. Lois played them while we sang "Sloop John B," "Wagon Wheels," and "Country Roads." • Lois Roth entertained with more German music. She performed "Drink Brother, Drink." "Fraulein," "Die Lorelei," "You Can't Be True Dear," and others. The meeting was adjourned at 5:00 pm. Maggie had brought a box of sheet music and music books that were donated to the Club by Accordionist Bob Burger. Players took what they wanted. The remaining music will be on display at the next meeting. Member Anne Lopez wrote a thank you card from the Club to Mr. Burger. Join us on Sunday, November 13 at 3:30 PM at Messiah Lutheran Church for an afternoon of music, visiting, and refreshments.

September 11, 2022 The Oklahoma Accordion Club held its ninth meeting of the year on Sunday, September 11, 2022. Before the meeting Ron Shearon and Anne Lopez played "Welcome Music." • aggie Abel called the meeting to order at 3:30 pm. • We stood and recited "The Pledge of Allegiance." Anne offered a prayer for all those affected by the NYC bombings on 9/11/01. • Maggie introduced those who were present. Wayne Turgeon joined us on Zoom from his home in England. He said that he will be traveling to Israel in the near future. • The music began with some early Oktoberfest songs played by Anne Lopez and Lois Roth: "The Country Musician," "Liechtensteiner Polka," and "Hofbräuhaus." • Anne said she had recently exchanged emails with Lou LeBrun in Springfield, Missouri. Lou said that the Tulsa accordion group is going to visit her soon and play with her. If anyone wants to contact Lou, they should text her because her phone isn't working. • The music continued with Dick Albreski performing a waltz called "Tulips from Amsterdam." He followed with a lively polka medley: "Liechtensteiner," "Tick Tock," and "Pennsylvania," and finished with "Schneewalzer" ("Snow Waltz"). • This is Dick's busy season. He has several gigs at different breweries, including one in Okarche. The Bohemian Knights will be at the Yukon Festival on October 1. He said he will send us his schedule. • Next on the program was Ron playing "Neapolitan Nights." • Maggie played "Charlie the Chimp" with vocal by Frank Boyd. Maggie said they had rehearsed outside the church for 20 minutes while waiting for the maintenance man to come and unlock the door. • Then it was singalong time. Anne and Lois accompanied the group as they sang "Lili Marlene" and "Edelweiss." Then Dick added his accordion expertise to the fun, and we danced "The Chicken Dance." • While the dancers rested, Anne and Lois played a polka medley: "Just Because" and "Too Fat," and "No Beer," "Das Kufsteiner Lied," and "Erika" ("Tavern Waltz"). • Winston Sok joined the meeting on Zoom. He played "La Vie En Rose" and "That's Amore." • Frank Gesinski (also on Zoom) played "Chicken Dance," "The Hokey Pokey," and "Yours." • Maggie said her slogan is "Make Accordions Great Again!" (MAGA). • The meeting was adjourned. Our Oktoberfest party will be Sunday, October 9, at 3:30 pm. Come early and enjoy the visiting and the "Welcome Music."

December 12, 2021 The OAC Christmas party was held on Sunday, December 12, 2021, at Messiah Lutheran Church in OKC. Before the meeting we enjoyed accordion solos by Dick Albreski and Laz Elliott. aggie Abel called the meeting to order. Fourteen members and 18 guests were present. Maggie introduced all the attendees. We stood and recited "The Pledge of Allegiance." • The music program began with Dick leading four Youth Group members performing songs that they have prepared for the upcoming NAA Convention. Players were: Laz Elliott, 15; Asher Elliott, 13; Alex Rockwood, 17; and Luke Anderson, 15. • The group played "This is Our Song For You." Alex soloed with "Silent Night." The group played "Melody of Love." Luke and Dick played "Golden Slippers." Asher soloed with "Celito Lindo." The group performed "Dark Eyes." Laz and Dick played "Batter Up." • We all enjoyed having the Youth Group entertain us! • Dick and his student, Lois Wyrick, played a duet: "Go Way." • Dick had toes tapping with "The Merry Christmas Polka." • The Play-Along Fun Band got us further into the Christmas mood with "Away in A Manger," "Silent Night," and "Silver Bells." Players were Annette Zongker, Irene Bookbinder, Karen West, Dick Albreski, Lois Roth, and a guest. The songs are Dick's arrangements, each with three-part harmony. • Maggie announced that the present Club officers will serve for another year. However, if anyone would like to volunteer to run for an office, we will hold an election. • Karen and Lois handed out song sheets, and accompanied us in a sing-along. We serenaded ourselves with "Silver Bells," "Jingle Bells" (with Maggie jingling the bells), "Silent Night," and "O Christmas Tree." • Ron Shearon played "It Came Upon the Midnight Clear." • Karen and Lois followed with a duet: "Frosty The Snowman." • Karen performed "Happy Holidays." • Maggie reminded us of the National Accordion Association (NAA) convention coming in March. • During the meeting, we snacked on cookies and other delectables brought by members. Members also brought donations of gloves, hats, socks, etc., for charity. The meeting was adjourned. Our next meeting will be January 9, 2022. We'll celebrate the New Year with accordion music!

October 10, 2021 The OAC met on Sunday, October 10, 2021, at the usual venue, Messiah Lutheran Church. People were greeted with a variety of German songs played by Anne Lopez and Lois Roth. The Zoom connection remained open throughout the meeting, but no one signed in. • aggie Abel called the meeting to order at 3:30 pm. We stood and recited "The Pledge of Allegiance." • Maggie and her guest, Frank Boyd, were dressed in colorful German folk costumes, and they added to the fun by dancing the polka. • The music program began with the Junior Fun Band playing the songs that Karen West and Frank Gesinski emailed to members a few weeks ago: "Schnee Waltzer" and "Just Because." Players were Dick Albreski, Karen, Anne, Maggie, and Lois. • Barbara Yuill and Dick performed a lovely waltz duet: "Trattoria il Centro." Dick soloed with "Madeline Polka," and an Italian song. • Dick told us that he is busy with 21 gigs this month, but he managed to "squeeze us in." Thank you, Dick! • Wayne Turgeon was visiting in person from his new home in England. We were all happy to see him! He said he is taking lessons from Dick via Zoom. He played "Cruising Down The River" and "A-Hunting We Will Go." Yes, there are accordionists in England! Wayne said he hopes to join a jam group and have some fun. • Wayne easily won the monthly "Who Came the Farthest to the Meeting" contest. • Music continued with Maggie playing "Lida Rose" and "Til There Was You" - two great songs from "The Music Man". • Both Maggie and Karen attend music classes at the Will Rogers Senior Center. An interesting article about Maggie appeared in the August-September issue of Caregiver Magazine. It told about her busy life, and included photos of her with her accordion. • Next, Ron Shearon played "This Is Our Song For You" on his Roland 4x accordion, following with a duet, "Silent Night". He had recorded the melody part previously, and he played the harmony part "live"- Saccompanying himself! He demonstrated several of the Roland accordion's 120 instruments/voices. • Anne and Lois handed out song sheets, and we harmonized with "Lilli Marlene" and "Edelweiss." Then it was dance time, and everyone joined in the traditional "Chicken Dance." • Anne and Lois played a German Landler - "The Country Musician," and "Rain, Rain Polka." • Karen and Lois concluded the meeting with more German music: "Hoffbrauhaus" and "Schutzenliesel." The meeting was adjourned at 4:50 pm. We'll meet again Sunday, November 14, at 3:30 pm at Messiah. All players and listeners are invited!

April 11, 2021 The OAC met on Sunday, April 11, 2021, for our annual Pizza Party. §aggie Abel called the meeting to order at 3:30 pm. She introduced the people in the room. −Diana Richard is in charge of the Club website. −Ron Shearon is Vice nd Treasurer. He drives from Bison (Oklahoma) to attend meetings. −Karen West is refreshment and table-set-up organizer. −Lois Roth is Secretary - and a music provider before meetings. −Tom Phillips is our previous Treasurer. He drives two hours from Holdenville.to attend meetings. −Laz Elliott is one of our outstanding Youth players. −Gary Elliott, guest, is Laz's father. §Karen and Lois began the music with some traditional spring tunes: "April Showers," "Easter Parade," "When You Wore a Tulip," and "Peter Cottontail." §Wayne Turgeon played "Mexican Hat Dance." He attended on Zoom from his new home in England. The time there is six hours ahead of ours. He said the weather was cold and rainy -- a typical English Spring. §Ron Shearon played "Danube Waves." He told us that he is starting Palmer-Hughes Book 3. §Barbara Duer performed on Zoom: "Monday Morning Blues" from 1920, and "That Banjo Rag." She said she loves playing Rags! §Lou LeBrun (on Zoom) treated us to: "Accordion Boogie" and "Crazy," a song written by Willy Nelson made famous by Patsy Cline. §Laz performed "Come Back to Sorrento." He concluded the music and put us in a party mood with "Beer Barrel Polka" as arranged by Dick Albreski. Then it was time to enjoy the pizza and dessert. Thanks to Karen for ordering the pizza! The meeting adjourned at 4:45. Our next meeting will be Sunday, May 9. Please join us -- in person or on Zoom. Mother's Day songs will be especially welcome.

February 14, 2021 The OAC meeting was held on Sunday, February 14, 2021. Because of a winter storm, it was a Zoom meeting -- not the hybrid meeting we had planned. aggie Abel called the meeting to order at 3:30 pm. Ten members and one guest attended. We began with business and announcements: •Ron Shearon is both Club vice nd treasurer. •On March 14 we plan on having a hybrid meeting with snacks. •On April 11 we will try to have the annual pizza party. Details have not been worked out yet. •We would like to put Lou LeBrun's biography in the Squeezin's newsletter. It would be done in parts, as space allows. Lou is making easy song arrangements for our jam sessions: "Ragtime Cowboy Joe" and others. •Frank Gesinski can't join us today. He says "Hello" to everybody. •T. Z. Wright will be performing at The Round Barn in spring. There will be a virtual show in April, and an outdoor show in June. These events are fund raisers for The Barn. •Mike Clarke has moved to Minnesota. •It was suggested that we put a writeup about Shelia Lee in the Squeezin's newsletter. •The music began with Ron playing "Just A Closer Walk with Thee." His accordion is a Roland FR-4x. Ron said it has many different sounds and is fun to play. Maggie has a similar instrument. •T. Z. played and sang a traditional Mardi Gras song for us, "Meet the Boys on the Battlefront," and said He usually performs at the Norman celebration. T. Z. followed with a Bob Dylan piece called "On a Night Like This." •Barbara Duer performed "Ragtime Cowboy Joe," as arranged by Lou and Barbara. Her second song was "Creole Belles." •Wayne Turgeon played "La Donna Mobile." Wayne is moving to England next month -- to the Stratford-on- Avon locale. •Barbara told us more about Shelia Lee. Shelia gave lessons on-line, and there are many easy songs on her free website. She was wonderful at teaching and helping everyone. She was an important part of the NAA, with a dance band and contests. •Wayne concluded the music with "Let's Dance the Polka." Meeting adjourned at 4:30 pm. Our next meeting will be Sunday, March 14. We plan on having a hybrid meeting. Please join us for some good music and a good time!

January 10, 2021 Our first meeting of the new year was held on January 10, 2021. It was a hybrid meeting, with seven members attending in person, and six members and one guest attending on Zoom. Because of Covid precautions, •Dick Albreski played "warm-up" music before the meeting. •aggie Abel called us to order at 3:30. We stood and repeated the Pledge of Allegiance. She told us that Ron Shearon is recording the meeting. •Dick played three Fun Band pieces that will be performed at the convention in March. They are: "Il Mio Primo Musette," "Waltz No. 2 from Suite No. 2" by Shostakovich, and "Tzena, Tzena". •Dick told us that he had to search for a charity that would accept our donations of winter clothing accessories. Several places were closed (The Jesus House, etc.) because of Covid rules. He finally discovered that the Salvation Army was open, and that they were glad to accept the items. Thanks to Dick for persevering! •He also said that the cash donated by our members for the Youth Group will be used for the their convention expenses. If there is no convention this year, the money will be kept for the next one. He's proud of our group for carrying on as best we can during these unusual times. •Anne Lopez read a touching note from John, Barbara Mahar's husband. He thanked the Club for their sympathy card. •Maggie noted the two members who drove the farthest to the meeting today: Tom Phillips (Holdenville), and Ron Shearon (Bison). •Election of a new Treasurer took place. Ron Shearon nominated himself, and was elected unanimously. He is also our vice president. Thank you, Ron! And thanks to Tom Phillips for his two years as our treasurer. A reminder: Send dues checks to Ron. •Barbara Yuill, joining us on Zoom from Arizona, said that she was enjoying 69-degree weather today. •Then we had more music. Dick played "Happy Birthday" to our guest, Cassi Radicelli, Anne Lopez's mother. •Anne (on Zoom) performed two "Cleveland" songs: "Lover Tell Me Why" and "Oh Dear Polka." She told us that radio station WRJQ plays polkas all day, every day. •Karen West and Lois Roth played "San Antonio Rose," followed by their favorite January song, "In the Good Old Summertime." Then they played for a sing-along of "Auld Lang Syne." •Dick performed "You Are My Homeland," a Slovakian waltz. •Karen soloed with "Put on a Happy Face." •Karen and Lois played "Old Piano Roll Blues" from Barbara Duer's January blog music. •Ron concluded the program with a French waltz: "I Don't Know How This Song Ends." Our next meeting will be on Sunday, February 14. Bring on the love songs! Please either come in person or "Zoom-in," and we'll celebrate Valentine's Day together.

November 8, 2020 The Oklahoma Accordion Club met on Sunday, November 8, 2020. Before the meeting, we enjoyed accordion music played by Lois Roth, followed by Dick Albreski. Maggie Abel and Ron Shearon set up and tested the Zoom equipment. • aggie Abel called the meeting to order at 3:40. She told the Zoom attendees the names of those present in the room. She said that the Christmas meeting will have a few changes this year, including no raffle. • The music program began with Wayne Turgeon and Dick playing "Come To The Sea." • Then, Dick got us in the holiday mood with a medley of "Santa Claus Is Coming to Town," "Jingle Bells," and "We Wish You A Merry Christmas." This medley is Dick's arrangement, originally made for Milo Shedeck's band. • Dick also performed "Waltz of Love" and "Une Valse Musette." • Dick told us more about the Christmas party plans. The younger members will perform, featuring Laz Elliott playing selections by Frosini. Instead of purchasing raffle tickets, members will be asked to donate their raffle money to the Youth Travel Fund. Dick will collect hats, scarves, socks, and other winter accessories for charity. • The music continued with Maggie playing two Palmer Hughes songs: "The Donkey" and "Charley the Chimp." • Ron added to the Christmas mood with "Silent Night." • Guests Kris and Buck Anderson entertained us with a military medley for Veterans Day. With Kris playing accordion and Buck on bass guitar, they performed "The Army Air Corps," "The Marines Hymn," "The Caissons Go Rolling Along," and "Anchors Aweigh." • Kris discovered OAC one day when Karen and Maggie had lunch in the restaurant where she works. The subject of accordions came up, and Kris said she used to play one. She was invited to attend a meeting, and she did! • Buck told us some highlights of his musical career. • Dick and Lois played several songs together, including "Tennessee Waltz," "Que Sera, Sera," and "Til We Meet Again" (a song from WWI). • Dick soloed with "Amour." • Barbara Duer (on Zoom) performed "Rustic Dance" and "A Day in the Life of a Fool." • Wayne Turgeon concluded the music program with "Tennessee Waltz." • aggie Abel asked for nominations for club treasurer. Wayne volunteered to be a nominee. Thank you, Wayne, Voting will be next month. The meeting was adjourned at 4:50 pm. Our Christmas party will be Sunday, December 13. There will be plenty of music, snacks, and fun! Please join us for the celebration.

October 11, 2020 The OAC met at 3:30 pm on Sunday, October 11, 2020. This was our second "hybrid" meeting. Before the meeting, Dick Albreski welcomed us with a medley of German songs. aggie Abel called the meeting to order. •Lou LeBrun thanked the people who had attended her Zoom birthday party on October 10. •Norman Seaton gave us the good news that there will be a National Accordion Association convention in Dallas in March 2021. •Dick started the music with the lively "Just Because" polka. •Lou played and sang "I'm Gonna Sit Right Down and Write Myself a Letter." •Barbara Duer performed "The Expectation Waltz." She said it's one of the most beautiful waltzes she has ever heard. •Kris Anderson (guest) played a western medley of "Riding on the Range," "Little Brown Jug," and "The Ranger March." •Karen West saluted Oktoberfest with "Hoffbrauhaus," followed with "My Little Girl." •Ron Shearon played "Over the Waves." When asked, he said it's a three-hour round-trip for him to attend the meeting. •Karen played and conducted a sing-along of "The Happy Wanderer" and "Edelweiss." •Barbara concluded the music with "Snow Waltz," aka "Schneewalzer." •Maggie and Karen told us about Lou's Zoom party. Pam Tom was the hostess. Many family members and friends attended. •The story of Lou's wonderful accordion career was told, accompanied with pictures. Some of the guests entertained with great accordion music. The meeting was adjourned at 4:50 pm. A big Thank You to all the members who come early to set up the meeting, and stay late to clean up.

June 2020 The Oklahoma Squeezins Oklahoma Accordion Club Zoom Online Meeting Minutes May 10, 2020 Maggie Abel, President, opened our meeting using Zoom online at 3:34 pm, due to the coronavirus pandemic. We had Cory Pesaturo was our guest from Rhode Island. See: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cory_Pesaturo. Welcome Cory •Dick Albreski started us off with a peppy polka: "Anna Polka," and followed it with "Reine de Musette," his own composition. •Barb Duer introduced us to "Yellow Bird" and "O Sole Mio." •Barb showed us how different "O Sole Mio" sounds playing it regularly, versus with a rhumba rhythm. •Anne Lopez played "Never on Sunday." •T. Z. Wright entertained us with "Accordion Crimes." •Frank Gesinski performed the lovely Italian tango, "Luna Rossa." •Our Club would like to congratulate Anna Rockwood, who just graduated from high school. She is now going for a degree in microbiology. Way to Go, Anna! •Best wishes for recovery to Lou Lebrun, who recently had heart surgery. •The Club members discussed technical possibilities of online meetings, like using an HDMI cable to project Zoom on your TV from your computer. Some wondered if there existed an application to allow us to play together. Others mentioned virtual background possibilities after seeing how T. Z. appeared to be playing at a lake. And Billy Henson was able to share his antique car cruising pictures, especially his 1958 Lincoln! •Dick asked us to remember in our prayers his son, Dick, Jr., who is exposed to the coronavirus as a medical care worker. •Before ending the meeting, we shared some of the interesting things we have been doing to stay sane during the lockdown. Some of us have great imaginations: - The Lopez's used an old wooden massage table to play ping pong. - Billy has been hanging out with his inversion table. - Barb has been attending virtual spiritual retreats - Toni Paulding was given a parakeet to keep her company! Respectfully, Anne Lopez, OAC Acting Secretary May Meeting Anne Lopez

of the New Year was held on January 12, 2020. Before the meeting, the Jam Group practiced two new songs: "Hava Nagila" and "Domino." Players were Barbara Duer, Karen West, Anne Lopez, Toni Paulding, and Lois Roth. aggie Abel called the meeting to order. She made the following announcements: •Our March meeting will be held, as scheduled, on the second Sunday, March 8. The National Accordion Association Convention is a week later than usual, March 18-21. •Our April pizza party/meeting is normally scheduled for April. However, the Board voted to reschedule it for March 8, to avoid having the pizza party on Easter Sunday or Mother's Day. •If you haven't paid your dues yet, please send or give your payment to Treasurer Tom Phillips. •A man's black, all-weather jacket, with sunglasses and other items in the pocket, was left at the December meeting. Please contact Maggie it if it's yours. •Dick Albreski, Barbara Yuill, Toni Paulding, and Barbara Duer (on banjo) performed the March 2020 NAA Fun Band songs: "The Best Things in Life Are Free," "Dear Hearts and Gentle People," "Il Mio Primo Musette, Waltz No. 2 from Suite No. 2," and "Tzena, Tzena." Each piece has three parts, and was arranged by Dick Albreski. •Dick wants to have a "mass practice" of all Fun Band players before the Convention. The Fun Band will perform on Friday, March 20, at the Convention. This is a change from the usual Thursday night performance. •According to the Club bylaws, Colleen Rettman (newly elected Historian) cannot be an officer until she has been a member for one year. Barbara Duer volunteered to take the office. She was nominated and elected. •Dick introduced his guest, Jarrell Cathy, who is one of the original founders of the Club. Wayne Turgeon introduced his guest, Richard Montague. Anne's guest was her mother, Cassie Radicelli. •A group photo was taken of the five Board members. •We sang "Happy Birthday" to Barbara Yuill, Cassie Radicelli, and Tom Phillips. Dick added a Polish song, "May You Live to be 100." •Dick suggested that OKC members have a Fun Band practice in Tulsa with some of our out-of-town members. Barbara Duer will check on the possibility. [For details or to be included in the carpool, check the Prez Sez column in this issue.] •The music continued with Wayne and Dick performing "Fascination." Wayne played his new Scandalli accordion. •Bob Mansfield played and sang three songs: "Adios Querida," "Amor, Amor," and a South American song, "Carnival." •Karen West, Barbara Duer, and Lois Roth played "Don't Be Cruel," as a tribute to Elvis. Three Everly Brothers songs followed: "All I Have To Do Is Dream," "Bye Bye Love," and "Let It Be Me." •Barbara Duer ended the program with "Monday Morning Blues Rag" and "Accordion Rag." Our next meeting will be Sunday, February 9. Come and enjoy an early Valentine celebration with music and fun!

September Meeting GermanFest! September 8, 2019 OAC Before aggie Abel opened our meeting with Dick and Milo Shedeck opened the meeting with the "Clarinet Polka." Thanks for the clarinet part, Milo! Many brought guests. Karen West brought her friend, Carol, from karaoke. Bob Mansfield brought Liz and Ben who do clown work. Barb brought Alton, a Bluegrass fan, and this year's soundman. Maggie brought Chong from her dance club. Anne and Sil Lopez brought Carol, Tony, and Linda, all good friends. Member Ophelia Woody came all the way from Minco, Oklahoma, to join the festivities, and John and Barb Mahar drove from the Tulsa area to join us. We welcomed new member, Rick Wicker. Chester Weems, the concert photographer also attended and displayed his pictures of the August concert. Thanks, Chester! We want to thank all members who helped ready the party, with special thanks to Barb Duer for preparing the food, and to Lois Roth for buying the buns. Barb made fresh potato salad. We had no problem chowing down most of the delicious brat, hotdogs, German potato salad, kraut, and apple pies. Secretary, Anne Lopez handed in her resignation so that she can care for her mother in Ohio. The Club will decide if they will hold an early election for the post of secretary, or have a temporary until general elections in December. We were all very saddened to hear that member David Richard, Diana Richard's husband, passed away, and that member Mary Jeanne Hojem passed away. Our condolences to both families. Karen West gave a report on the concert ads. Special thanks to Mary's Maids Service, that paid for a free two-page ad for our concert in the Yukon Progress. Senior News distributed FREE copies of their publication at the concert. • Bob Mansfield did a great join entertaining all with: • "Im Munchen Steht Ein Hofbrauhaus" • "Du Du Liegst Mir Im Herzen" • "'s ist alles dunkel, 's ist alles trübe • "Wenn die Soldaten" • Jean Hill, who admitted to first teaching herself to play the accordion upside down (!), played: • "Zillertaler Landler (Zillertal) • "Mein Vater war ein Wandersmann" • Anne and Lois played the sweet strains to: • "You Can't Be True Dear" • "Hofenbrauhaus" • Barb, Anne, and Lois ended our GermanFest with: • "Just Because" • "No Beer" • "Beer Barrel" • "Liechtensteiner" • "Wooden Heart" • Anne Lopez, OAC Secretary

June 2019 The Oklahoma Squeezins OAC Meeting May 12, 2019 Before the meeting, Bob Mansfield led the jam group in rehearsing "Colonel Bogey March." aggie Abel called the meeting to order at 3:30. •Maggie read aloud an e-mail from Wayne Turgeon. He is going to England for several months. •Karen West played her concert selection "Don't It Make My Brown Eyes Blue." Bob suggested that she and all players place their music stands to one side and just glance at the music as needed. This allows the audience to see the player(s). •The Trio (Barbara Duer, Karen West, and Lois Roth) performed "Tico-Tico," "Chop Sticks," and "William Tell." Bob gave helpful suggestions about improving the songs. •Tom Philips played his concert piece, "When The Saints Go Marching In," including a bass solo. •Maggie read the list of concert jobs, and asked for volunteers: 1. Front door greeter and tip jar caretaker: Billy Henson. 2. Setting up and taking down chairs: several volunteers. 3. Assist players getting on and off of stage: position still open. 4. Poster placement at Czech Hall: Beth and Billy Henson. 5. Gift card purchase: Barbara Duer. 6. Yukon posters: Karen and Maggie. 7. A parking attendant: We aren't sure this job is necessary. It will be discussed further. 8. Internet ads: Maggie. 9. Edmond Library postings: Anne Lopez. •Karen will bring the concert posters to the June meeting. •The sound system is still uncertain. Tom has a large amp we can use. Various microphones are available, and people are needed to work with the mic set-up and placement on stage. We are open to ideas and volunteers. •Then we had more music. Bob performed several lovely pieces: an Oberek (composed for a four part group); "If You Love Me" ("L'Hymne a L'Amour"); "Sogno d'una Vergine;" and "All My Love." •Toni Paulding played "Hot Points" by Frosini. She and Dick Albreski will perform it as a duet for the concert. A reminder to all members: Be sure to attend the June 9 meeting for music and fun with Nick Ballarini, and bring a guest with you! • Respectfully submitted, Lois Roth, Acting Secretary May Meeting Lois Roth Advertisement

Page 4 March 2019 The Oklahoma Squeezins OAC Meeting Minutes February 10, 2019 aggie Abel opened the meeting at 3:35 pm with 19 members and 4 guests in attendance. Questions about the upcoming National Accordion Association convention were directed to the website (http://www.accordions.com/naa) to obtain the best hotel rates, which include a great breakfast. Members who are going to attend were advised that music in three parts could be downloaded from the site for the various convention bands. Carpools and roommates were suggested. Members were asked to contact Barbara Pedersen, pedersen.barbara@yahoo.com, as she would like to catch a ride and/or roommate to the convention. The excitement is mounting for those who will attend! Jean Hill, a guest who teaches Irish step dancing, demonstrated an Irish jig. She brought her accordion and played a merry Irish jig. She also played: • “March of St. Timothy,” a contra dance, and • “The Irish Washerwoman” Come again soon, Jean! Larry Gering suggested we create a monthly "gig" calendar, so Club members can attend the events of fellow members. Dick Albreski puts many such events in his newsletter calendar. An Italian bandoneon will be playing at the Civic Center, Saturday, February 16, at 8:00 pm. The bandoneon is a type of button box. Bob Mansfield brought up a great tip. Pender's Music Store sells music stand extensions. Sounds like a great idea. Who hasn't struggled with that third or fourth page of music? Bob also explained that his Weltmeister accordion has a French sound on his reeds. He played the beautiful "Where is Your Heart.” He is also working with a Tejano musician to write a Tejano polka. He played his own composition: • “Hill Country Polka” Dick Albreski serenaded us with his Valentine party songs: • “I'm in the Mood for Love” • “Lover” Maggie reminded us that Club members help to set up the meeting room at 2:00 pm. The officers meet at 2:30 pm, and jamming officially starts at 3:00 pm. However, some early birds begin jamming a bit sooner, while the officers are still meeting. Official Club meeting starts at 3:30 pm. Ron Shearon drives 85 miles to attend, all the way from Bison, Oklahoma. Last month he showed us his Giulietti accordion. This time he brought his "aluminum" Hohner accordion to demonstrate the musette reed sound when he played: • “This Song Is for You” Wayne Turgeon brought three guests with him. Thanks, Wayne! He played: • “Over the Waves” • “Emperor Waltz” Anne Lopez and Lois Roth romanced us with: • “Harbor Lights” • “You Can't Be True Dear” • “Only You” The Fun Band (Lois Roth, Karen West, Toni Paulding, and Barb Duer on her banjo), led by Dick, entertained us with many songs: • “Melodie D'Amour” • “That's Amore” • “Liechtensteiner Polka” • “Are You Lonesome Tonight” waltz medley • “Salute to George M. Cohan” The Band will be rehearsing to play at the Convention. Karen ended our meeting with a golden oldie: • “Breaking Up Is Hard to Do” REMINDERS: Members were reminded that the usual second Sunday Club meeting in March will be moved to the THIRD SUNDAY, March 17, due to the May 6-10 accordion convention. If you plan to play in our annual August concert, you should already be preparing. Members are requested to perform their numbers for the Club beginning in May, in order to get used to playing before a group, and give Maggie the name of their pieces. If you haven't paid your dues, please send your renewal to Treasurer Tom Phillips, 3326 NS 367 Rd., Holdenville, OK 74844, or in person at the meeting. Thanks! • Anne Lopez, Secretary February Meeting Anne Lopez

OAC Meeting Minutes 1/13/2019 Our president, Maggie Abel, opened the meeting at 3:30. We had a good start for 2019, with Tom Phillips was voted in unanimously to replace resigning Treasurer Sil Lopez. Congratulations, Tom! Karen West requested that the August concert ads and campaigns, which she has traditionally handled in the past, be reassigned to others. Ron Shelton recently acquired a Giuletti accordion. He demonstrated the Giuletti's range with: * "French Waltz" * "It Came Upon a Midnight Clear" On a frigid January day, Dick Albreski warmed us up with: * "Liechtensteiner Polka" Dick also showed us how we can modify the way a song sounds with the sax, clarinet, bassoon, etc., reeds. He demonstrated this with: * "I Love Paris" * "Peg of My heart" Dick's student, Rowan Shelton, did an excellent job playing: * "Sleep Holy Child" * "Charlie the Chimp" Keep up the good work, Rowan! Lois Roth, Barb Duer, and Karen West ("The Trio") lent a nice variety with" * "On Danze a le Villette" * "Romanze," and * "Autumn Leaves," accompanied by Bob Mansfield Lois and Anne jazzed things up with: * "Hey Good Lookin'" * "Has Anybody Seen My Gal" * "Music, Music, Music" Anne Lopez played a Costa Rican folk song: * "Amor Atemporada" * "Theme from the Godfather," a Sicilian medley Wayne Turgeon entertained us with: * "Trust in God and Stand in Awe" * "Wild Irish Rose" Barb graced us with: * "Buon Musette" * "Bicyclette Del Belsize" Bob Mansfield shared the history of this original composition and played: * "Tejano" He also played the beautiful waltz: * "L'Aime des Poetes" Excitement for the National Accordion Association conference is growing. Dick will be in charge of an Adult

September 9, 2018 aggie Abel called the meeting to order at 3:35 pm. Present were The first happening was an impromptu polka and waltz jam session with Lois Roth, Bob Mansfield, Anne Lopez, Barbara Mahar, and Dick Albreski. Dick and Anne also jammed with a couple of energetic polkas. The first order of business was the result of our survey for our concert. Word of mouth, Lucas Ross's TV ads, and the Daily Oklahoman were prominent in spreading the word about our concert. The attendees enjoyed Lou LeBrun's ragtime, the variety on the program, and the Youth Band best. Other miscellaneous information will help us improve the 2019 concert. Ron Shearon is in the process of editing the video he took, and he will get back to us when it is done. He also invited us all to his birthday party in March at the Iglesias Christiana El Shaddai. He also asked if anyone would care to play for dancers in an Oktoberfest in Enid on September 29, at the local Lutheran church. Please contact Ron if interested. Lois and Anne started our Septemberfest with two beautiful waltzes: "The Blue Skirt Waltz" and "You Can't Be True Dear." "The Country Musician" and "Isabella Waltz" completed their selections. Septemberfest wouldn't be the same without a good polka. Dick stirred us with "The Beer Barrel Polka" and "The Pennsylvania Polka." Then he entertained us with his own composition, "I Love to Dance." Bob and Karen West followed with the lovely "Mein Yiddish Meidele." About this time, we were drooling over the bratwurst, Nathan's hot dogs, German potato salad, sauerkraut, red cabbage, and apple pie, so we took a break to eat. While we ate, Bob serenaded us with "Auf Wiedersehen," "You Couldn't Please Me More," and "Tomorrow Belongs to Me." We're looking forward to next year's Septemberfest already!! • Anne Lopez, Secretary September Meeting Anne Lopez Advertisements

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July 7, 2018 aggie Abel opened the meeting at 3:30 pm. We had Welcome, Nita! When a member asked about the Club's founding, Dick Albreski, one of the founding fathers, confirmed that the Club started in 2000. Dick led a workshop on "Accordion Secrets." He covered the following skills: • Physiology of basses • Study on knowing thy switches • Variation of touch • Finger exercises for staccato and legato • Parallel vs. contrary motion • Scale practices increase technical proficiency in specialized skills including velocity, strength of muscles, coordination of hands, etc. • Thanks for the informative lesson, Dick! Details of our upcoming concert were discussed. A list of volunteer duties was passed out, as well as emailed to all members for signup. Even you didn't have a chance to sign up, feel free to pitch in and help, especially with setup of chairs or cleanup duties. Many hands make little work! Volunteers with pre-concert duties need to arrive 1:15-1:30 pm. All performers need to arrive no later than 2:00 pm. We had quite a lineup of players, many wanting to rehearse their concert pieces: • Dick Albreski serenaded us with "Siempre en Mi Corazon," and a great rendition of "Granada." • Toni Paulding played "Waltz Theme," a difficult piece requiring much practice. Thanks for the extra work, Toni. You inspire us! • Mike Clark performed "This Land Is Your Land." • Tom Phillips played "When the Saints Go Marching In" and "Amazing Grace." • Ron Shearon played an old favorite, "Drink to Me Only with Thine Eyes." • Bob Mansfield entertained us with "Swing Low, Sweet Chariot" on the piano accordion, and a Yiddish folksong, "Tum Balalaika," on the free bass accordion. • The trio -- Barb Duer, Lois Roth, and Karen West -- stirred our patriotism with the spirited tunes "You're a Grand Old Flag," "Yankee Doodle Dandy," and "This Land Is Your Land." • Lastly, Anne Lopez and Lois Roth played their arrangements of "Tell Me a Story," "Lover Tell Me Why," and "Give Me My Heart Back." A good time was had by all. Keep bringing those refreshments! Anne Lopez, Secretary July Meeting Anne Lopez Advertisement

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June 10, 2018 Our president, Maggie Abel, called the meeting to order. • Jimmy Woolly thanked all who participated in the Garden Festival. He said that over 2,500 people were in attendance at the festival. • It was decided that jamming will begin on our monthly meeting day as soon as the setup is completed, about 2:15 pm, until 2:55 pm for those who enjoy playing together. • Many thanks to our Music Makers (Barbara Duer, Lois Roth, Karen West, Beth Henson, Jimmy Woolly, and Annette Zongker) who started our meeting off with upbeat selections: - "This Land Is Your Land" - "The Eyes of Texas" - "Dixie" • Bob Mansfield led a workshop on "Clues to Break into Unfamiliar Music." His tips included paying attention to the following details: ✓Determine the key ✓Review the dynamic markings ✓Break the piece into learnable sections ✓Look ahead for big leaps or busy motifs ✓Search out accidentals in both clefs ✓Resist the temptation to play the easy parts. ✓Practice the "hard places" first. ✓If possible, listen to the piece on YouTube. Thanks for the great tips, Bob! • Bob then entertained us with two international numbers: ‣ "Sherele" ‣ "Sher" • Mike Clark played the inspirational song, "Praise Him! Praise Him!" • We were all saddened to receive word of Sharon Fox's unexpected passing. This newsletter includes a brief in memoriam article. Sharon will be missed. • Dick Albreski said he loves to play the accordion because of the flexibility to play international music. Dick took us on a tour of Italian, Spanish, French, German, ragtime, jazz, and classical music. • Karen West gave us an update on the various advertising venues for the August Concert. She played some old favorites: ‣ "The Shadow of Your Smile" ‣ "Unchained" • Anne Lopez, Lois, and Barb (on banjo) ran through the peppy sing-a-long selections for the concert: ‣ "You Are My Sunshine" ‣ "Que Sera Sera" ‣ "Love Makes the World Go Round" A good time was had by all! • Anne Lopez OAC Secretary May Meeting Anne Lopez Advertisement

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Page 4 October 2017 The Oklahoma Squeezins February Meeting Anne Lopez OAC Meeting Minutes February 11, 2018 Our president, Maggie Abel, opened the meeting to 14 members, and welcomed 2 guests. • We discussed the possibility of taking pictures of everyone with their accordions in order to create a directory for the members. We were also encouraged to wear our name tags. • Bob Mansfield led the workshop of the month. Finger strengthening exercises were presented, as well as wrist repetitions and wrist flexibility drills. Thank you, Bob, for preparing these for us. • Treasurer Sil Lopez reported the Club balance as of February 14, 2018, at $1,928.05. • Different members offered praise for the NAA convention. Barb Duer mentioned she has been attending for six years, and has loved meeting new people as much as the accordion workshops and shows. Dick and Evie Albreski have been attending since 2000, 18 years now. Dick has been leading the Fun Band since 2012. He mentioned that about 60% of the instruments are acoustic accordions, and 40% are digital (no reeds, electronic). Some of the fun events include line dances, the Youth Band, the Fun Band, the Band Camp, Jazz at the Bar, Superstar Banquet, etc. Accordions and more accordions fill the convention weekend, but there is also a very social atmosphere! • Our very own Music Makers (Barb Duer, Lois Roth, Karen West, Toni Spaulding, Beth Henson, and Maggie) entertained us with the "Oklahoma Accordion Waltz," written by Dick, followed by "J'attendrai." • Our Trio (Lois, Karen, and Barb) brought back memories with "Can't Help Loving You," "Till There Was You," and "You Light Up My Life." • The Scandalli Sisters, Anne Lopez and Lois, played their improvised versions of "Let me Call You Sweetheart" and "Harbor Lights." • Karen followed with a heartfelt "That's All." • Anne Lopez, Secretary Advertisements

The Oklahoma Squeezins January 2018 Page 3 December Meeting Maggie Abel OAC Meeting Minutes December 10, 2017 arbara Duer welcomed 29 members and 11 guests to the Christmas party meeting. Christmas treats and Christmas music were the order of the day! • TOP NEWS! Beginning in 2018, bring your accordion to every meeting because, starting in January, seasoned teachers such as Dick Albreski or Bob Mansfield will conduct a group lesson for attendees during each meeting. All levels of experience are welcome. • Club members cast their ballots for new Club officers for 2018. Nominees from last month’s meeting ran unopposed: aggie Abel, Vice-President Karen West, Secretary Anne Lopez, and Historian Beth Henson. Remaining in office for his second year is Treasurer Sil Lopez. • Attendees purchased tickets for donated raffle items displayed on several tables. • Dick directed the entire Youth Band in playing “This Is Our Song For You.” Solos were offered from Matthew Medley “Riding the Range;” Asher Elliott: “Drink To Me Only With Thine Eyes;” and Lazarus Elliott: “Beautiful Heaven.” Two firsttimers followed: Anna Rockwood performed “Czech Polka,” and Alex Rockwood played “The Big Parade.” The Band closed with “Apples, Peaches, Pumpkin Pie.” • The Christmas raffle was a success, orchestrated by Vice-President Tom Phillips, with assistance from Bob Mansfield. Many nice prizes went to happy ticket-holders! Proceeds go to assist youth members attending the National Accordion Association convention in March. • Bob Mansfield played a beautiful song for our Jewish friends. • Warming up for performing at the Woody Guthrie tribute show at the Blue Door later that night, T. Z. Wright played several Guthrie songs: “Little Bird,” and “Are You Washed in the Blood of the Lamb.” As members helped put things away after the Christmas party, all-time crowd favorite Lois Roth entertained worker bees with a medley of holiday music. • Secretary Maggie Abel Advertisements

The Oklahoma Squeezins December 2017 Page 3 November Meeting Maggie Abel OAC Meeting Minutes November 12, 2017 arbara Duer welcomed 19 members and 2 guests to the November meeting. • Nominations were requested for new officers to be voted on in December. Results were: Maggie Abel, president; Karen West, vice-president; Anne Lopez, secretary; and Beth Henson, historian. The treasurer, Sil Lopez, will continue to serve. • Dick on accordion and Milo Shedeck on clarinet performed a Veterans Day medley, featuring the official song for each branch of the service, asking veterans to stand as their branch was honored. We heard "The Caissons Go Rolling Along" (the Original US Army Song); "Marines’ Hymn”; "Anchors Aweigh" (the US Navy Marching Song); "Semper Paratus” (the Coast Guard Marching Song); “Off We Go into the Wild Blue Yonder” (the US Army Air Corps and US Air Force song); and "America the Beautiful." • Dick and Toni Paulding offered a lovely duet entitled "Sparkling.” Dick and Wayne Turgeon performed "Tourelay." • Dick directed the Oklahoma Accordion Club's Music Makers band members Beth Henson, Karen West, Toni Paulding, Lois Roth, Barbara Duer, Janet Hoskins, and Maggie Abel. They played "Beer Barrel Polka" and "Schneewaltzer" (the 400-year-old “Snow Waltz”). • Anne Lopez and Lois Roth performed "Lover Tell Me Why," a traditional Czech tune; "Tell Me a Story" by Frankie Yankovic; and "Give Me My Heart Back," a Fun Band piece arranged by Dick. • Bob Mansfield played a Russian Yiddish piece on his 15-button, free bass accordion, "Tum Balalaika," and then on his regular accordion, "Dansa Farfalla," arranged from an Italian traditional waltz. • Lois, Barbara, and Karen offered World War I songs "Smile" and "Over There," plus "The Petite Waltz," arranged by Lou LeBrun. • Bob Mansfield, using Barbara's Petosa accordion, performed "The Blue Panther." The December meeting will be held in the back room near the school office entrance. Members should bring hats, gloves, scarves, socks, etc., for the needy. Christmas treats — candies, cookies, etc., should be brought to share!! NOTE: Beginning in 2018, either Dick Albreski or Bob Mansfield will present a participatory accordion lesson at each meeting, so everyone should bring an accordion! • Maggie Abel We Need You Dick Albreski It’s December, and that means the OAC must turn to its members for their continuing support. We need each and everyone to renew their membership so we can continue to keep the accordion alive. The primary membership is $20.00, a family membership is $10.00 for each additional family member, and a hip fee is $300.00. As we end this very successful accordion year, we wish to extend to all members a very joyous holiday season. Remember, “Our squeezin’ is pleasin’.” See you all at the Christmas party!

OAC Meeting Minutes October 8, 2017 Because of the small group, there was no business meeting. Instead, we had an impromptu concert of German music. • The players were Bob Mansfield, Annette Zongker, Karen West, and Lois Roth. • Karen played Bob's small, free bass accordion. • The song list included: "Edelweiss," "Lilli Marlene," "Liechtensteiner Polka," and "Blue Skirt Waltz." The next Club meeting will be Sunday, November 12, at 3:30 pm. There may be more music that is German. Come and join the fun!

September Meeting Maggie Abel Oklahoma Accordion Club September 2017 Meeting arbara Duer welcomed German food and German music were the order of the day! Vice-om Phillips announced that an out of state museum has accepted the donation of an antique accordion from OAC, and will display it with a plaque crediting the Club. Historian Karen West displayed a large variety of newspaper and magazine articles published regarding the Club's August 2017 concert. Sharon Fox and Lou LeBrun were the first to perform. The duo played "Mister Toni Polka," "Cheese and Crackers Polka," and "Bel Viso," aka "Pretty Face Polka." As an array of German fare from the famous Ingrid's Kitchen was served to a line of hungry diners, Bob Mansfield entertained. First he played "Rhinelander," "Karlstad Ball," and "Edelweiss." Then, on his 12-base baby freebase accordion, he did justice to "'S ist alles dunkel, 's ist alles trube," which he arranged. He followed with "Adon Olam," a traditional Jewish song, "Hatikvah," "Choson Kale Mazel Tov," and "Hava Nagila," all of which he arranged. Anne Lopez performed three polkas: "Wooden Heart," "Beer Barrel," and "Liechtensteiner." Polka was again celebrated when Janet Haskin performed "Swedish Polka" and "Caprise Polka." Lou LeBrun closed the event with "Bill Bailey," "Can't Give You Anything But Love," "Chattanooga Choochoo," "I Don't Look Good Naked Anymore," and "Don't Take Your Love from Me." • Secretary Maggie Abel Two accordion-related records were broken recently. One record was for the longest continuous accordion playing, and the second record for the largest accordion orchestra. Cory Pesaturo, on August 4 and 5, 2017, broke the previous record of 31 hours and 25 minutes by performing for 33 hours and 14 minutes in Graz, Austria. Performers were allowed a 30 second break between songs, and a five-minute break every hour. During the event, musical compositions could not be repeated within any four hours. Two witnesses were required at all times during the record attempt. On August 24, 2017, in Shenzhen, China, 2,260 accordion players performed in concert. They were required to play a multi-part arrangement from start to finish for a minimum of six minutes. There were neutral monitors for every 50 performers to guarantee that each performer completed their part. The previous record was made on August 20, 2016, where only [?] 1,517 accordionists performed. For more information, go to: www.accordions.com/china/Shenzhen. Two Accordion Records Dick Albreski Accordion for Sale Monarch MIDIVOX-X Electronic Accordion. Includes case, cables, and power box. Used very little. $1,500.00. Contact Billy Henson, 405/822-3770, or Beth Henson, 405/514-1567, if interested.

July Meeting Oklahoma Accordion Club July 9, 2017 Meeting arbara Duer welcomed • Historian Karen West introduced her guests, Edwina and Jason Johnston. • Barbara recited the list of concert musicians to show the proposed order of play on August 13. On certain numbers, accordionists may be accompanied by: Toni Paulding on vibraphone, Barbara on banjo, Mike Clark on bass guitar, and T. Z. Wright on guitar. • Past ick Albreski directed the Oklahoma Accordion Club Band (aka The Music Makers) including Barbara, Toni, Beth Henson, Lois Roth, Karen West, and Maggie Abel. Songs included "La Sorella," "Gypsy Nights," "Put Another Nickel In," "Play A Simple Melody," "I'll Fly Away," "Do Lord," and "When the Roll is Called Up Yonder." • Vice President Tom Phillips played old-time favorite "Golden Slippers." • Dick played interesting jazz variations on "The Lady Is A Tramp." • A sing-along by trio Barbara, Lois, and Anne Lopez included "You Are My Sunshine," "Home on the Range," and "The Saints Go Marching In." • Lois and Anne, as a duo, performed "Blue Skirt Waltz" and "Rain Rain Polka." • Bob Mansfield played his small free bass. It has 15 buttons and weighs approximately 12 pounds. We heard two traditional Jewish songs, "Frailach," a dance; and "Adon Odo" in E minor. Out-of-towners George Secor and Lou LeBrun will accompany Bob at the concert. • T. Z. Wright played three Irish songs with his 48-button Guiletti: "Accordion Crimes," "Morrison's Jig," and "The Scotsman" (aka "I See You've Won First Prize"). • Toni Paulding, with her gorgeous vibraphone, which she plays each Saturday at her church, accompanied Lois and Barbara on hymns, "In The Garden," "Whispering Hope," and "Amazing Grace." • Maggie Abel Maggie Abel Advertisement

Page 4 April 2017 The Oklahoma Squeezins There is still time for you to see one of the most enjoyable plays of the year, with an included accordion. Evie and I had the pleasure of sitting through the play “Dirty Rotten Scoundrels,” starring our own OAC member Lucas Ross. The play is cute, very entertaining, and somewhat adult, and portrays a fact of life. Two con men, a beautiful woman, and the elite French Riviera collide in this sexy and irreverent farce. Lucas will again perform at the Sooner Theatre, 101 E. Main Street, Norman, OK, next Thursday, Friday, and Saturday (April 7-9) at 8:00 pm. Lucas supports the OAC -- please support him. Trust us, you will like it! March Meeting Oklahoma Accordion Club March 19, 2017 Secretary’s Report The St. Patrick’s Day celebration meeting of the Oklahoma Accordion Club was also the first Club meeting after the 30th annual National Accordion Association convention in Richardson (Dallas), Texas. The Club, therefore, met on the third Sunday of the month instead of its normal second Sunday. arbara Duer opened the meeting attended by a dozen members. • Dick directed Fun Band members Barbara, Karen, Toni Paulding, Beth Henson, and Secretary Maggie Abel in playing a few of the five songs that the complete Fun Band performed at the convention: “Blue Skies Medley,” “Polkatime in Texas,” and “Viva España.” • The trio of Karen, Barbara, and Lois Roth entertained with “Londonderry Air,” “MacNamera’s Band,” and “Fiddle Medley.” • “O’Malley’s Song” was performed by Karen and Barbara. • Past ick Albreski and Barbara played “Harvest Home.” • “Jigtime Polka” and “Magic Fingers” were the treat provided by Dick’s solos. As the upcoming April meeting is the club’s annual pizza party, those details were ironed out. Members are to contact club historian Karen West at (405) 949-0394 with reservations for themselves and up to one guest per member, specifying the type of pizza: cheese, pepperoni, supreme or veggie. • Maggie Maggie Abel Advertisement We Recommend Dick Albreski

February Meeting Oklahoma Accordion Club Valentine's Day Meeting February 12, 2017 arbara Duer welcomed • Barbara made announcements: Club dues should be paid to our new treasurer, Sil Lopez, or to his wife Anne. It is time to sign up to play in the annual concert this August. The order of play in this year's concert will be rearranged to mix advanced players with beginners. The concert will be 90 minutes long instead of the previous two hours. • Bob Mansfield opened the music segment by playing his arrangement from Dvorak's "New World Symphony," followed by Bob's arrangement of a Russian waltz. • Lois and Anne played three Elvis Presley songs: "Love Me Tender," "Are You Lonesome Tonight?" and "Blue Hawaii." • Fun Band director and Past ick Albreski directed the Fun Band (Barbara Duer, Lois Roth, Karen West, Maggie Abel, and Toni Paulding) in playing "Play a Simple Melody," "Give Me My Heart Back," and "Eviva España." • The trio of Lois Roth, Anne Lopez, and Karen West played three songs: "Second Waltz" by Shostakovich, "Blue Moon," and a unique arrangement of "When the Saints Go Marching In." • Jimmie Woolley and a few other jammers played "Your Cheatin' Heart" and "I Saw the Light." • Dressed in South American garb, Karen played "South America, Take It Away" and "Fever." • Wayne Turgeon played "Praise to the Lord the Almighty the King of Creation" and "Que Sera" ("Whatever Will Be Will Be"). The March meeting will be held on the third Sunday instead of the second Sunday, as members will still be heading home from the National Accordion Association convention (March 3-12) on the second Sunday. • Maggie Maggie Abel Advertisement

December 11, 2016 Club arbara Duer called the meeting to order, welcoming • The dues for the coming year will be $20 per member, plus $10 for additional family members. • Voting for the new treasurer took place, and Sil Lopez will assume those duties in January, filling the shoes of outgoing Treasurer Milo Shedeck. • The Youth Band played under the direction of past ick Albreski. • "Silent Night" by Matthew Medley • "Jolly Old Saint Nick" by Laz Elliott • "Batter Up" by Asher Elliott • "Miami Beach Rumba" by Job Elliott • The entire ensemble concluded with Dick's "This is Our Song for You." • An almost endless raffle, and an auction which featured a nice leather jacket, took place using items donated by Club members, proceeds to go to support the youth members. Vice-president Tom Phillips ably conducted the proceedings. • The Oklahoma Accordion Club band played a Christmas medley including "The Chipmunk Song" (Alvin!) and "Jingle Bell Rock." Participants included Annette Zongker, Toni Paulding, Lou Le Brun, Janet Haskin, Barbara Duer, T. Z. Wright, and Maggie Abel. • T. Z. Wright played several pieces, including the Irish "Morrison's Jig" and the beautiful "The Star." • Anne Lopez and Lois Roth played "White Christmas" and "Silent Night." • Lou Le Brun played an historic and rarely heard version of "Stormy Weather." • Janet Haskin closed the meeting with "Carol of the Bells." • Maggie Abel Maggie Abel Advertisements

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October Meeting Oklahoma Accordion Club October 9, 2016 Meeting Secretary's Report Club arbara Duer opened the meeting, attended by • Reminders were issued that the December Christmas party will include raffles and an auction. Bring winter clothing such as gloves, mufflers, and socks for a good cause. • Historian Karen West has initiated a suggestion envelope for next August's concert. Club members can submit their ideas in the envelope anonymously. • Barbara presented two recent members with their OAC badges: Abby Bozart and Steve Dryer. • Music began with Bob Mansfield and Steve Dryer performing duets: "Blue Skirt Waltz" and "La Ti Do Ra" (a round). • Bob then played three solos: "Hatikvah," the national anthem of Israel, which starts at a snails pace and then speeds up; "Ah Yashima" (May There Be Heard); and "Heart in C Minor," a Russian tango. Bob will play on Halloween night in a chamber orchestra at OU. • Toni Paulding was accompanied by her daughter Julie Marehwa (on flute) playing the hymn "In the Garden." • Barbara played "Na Golici" ("Trumpeten Echo Polka") and "Metsakukkia" ("Woodland Flowers"). • Lois Roth joined Barbara in presenting "Send Me the Pillow," "Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain," and "Waltz Across Texas." • Lois and Anne played "Blue Skirt Waltz" and "Rain Rain Polka." • Bob jumped back in with two more songs, "Quizas" and "Sabor A Mi," both accompanied by his excellent vocals. • Larry Gering directed The Mob (Barbara Duer, Lois Roth, Toni Paulding, and Maggie Abel) in playing "Happy Wanderer." Karen supplied the lyrics so the group could sing along. • Maggie Abel Maggie Abel One of the favorite OAC meetings of the year is the Christmas party. The Club, however, does not follow tradition at this time of the year. Instead of receiving gifts, we encourage giving gifts. Members are asked to bring hats, gloves, scarves, and socks that can be donated to the homeless in Oklahoma. For several years, our Club has kept less fortunate children and adults a little warmer with your donations. We know we can count on you to support this worthy cause again this year. In addition, we hold a silent auction, and the proceeds are given to the OAC Youth so they can attend the National Accordion Association Convention, to be held in Dallas, Texas in March 2017. Please help by bringing a gift that can be auctioned off at this meeting. Giving is the theme of this meeting. However, we also can receive because we ask members to bring candies and cookies that can be exchanged and enjoyed. What greater joy can we have then candies, cookies, fellowship, and accordion Christmas music. Advertisement Christmas Party Dick Albreski

October 2016 The Oklahoma Squeezins Septemberfest Meeting Advertisement Septemberfest Meeting Oklahoma Accordion Club September 11, 2016 The aroma of tasty German dishes greeted Some of the treats were bratwurst, Nathan's hot dogs, German potato salad, red cabbage, sauerkraut, strudel, and apple pies with beautiful latticework crusts. • Club arbara Duer presented a membership badge to Toni Paulding and a hip badge to Ophelia Woody. • Barbara said the August concert was a great success, and she initiated a discussion of tweaks for future concerts. • The concert went 45 minutes longer than the expected time of two hours. Ideas included efficient movement of microphones and stands as players enter and leave the stage, each player sticking to a five-minute limit, and refraining from introducing Flashmob members first to maintain the element of surprise. Proposed was a comment folder that anyone can contribute to. • Historian Karen West had arranged poster board displays of news and magazine articles published before and after the 2016 concert. • As people ate, members entertained: • Bob Mansfield played: - "In muchen stet ein hofbrauhaus" and "Du Du" ("You Can't Be True"), both with German vocals - "Karlstad Ball," a schottische, a Rhinelander that was more like a polka - "Edelweiss" played as a song-along - "'S ist alles dunkel, 's ist alles trübe," with German vocals. • Chuck Vodicka and Dick Albreski played "Let's Polka." • Wayne Turgeon played "County Fair." • Past President Dick Albreski played a patriotic medley in remembrance of the 9/11 event whose anniversary is today. Included were "The Star Spangled Banner" and "Columbia the Gem of the Ocean." • Bob offered a practice and performance tip: Place the music stand with your sheet music over to the side where you can occasionally glance at it, but you will not always be tempted to rely on it while playing. • The Flashmob (director Larry Gering, Tony Paulding, Karen West, Lois Roth, Barbara Duer, Maggie Abel, accompanied by Janet Haskin, Annette Zongker, Mary Hojem, and Ophelia Woody) played "Hofbrauhaus," "Schutzenliesel," and "Das Kufsteiner Lied Walzer," along with three songs made famous by Elvis Presley: "Don't Be Cruel," "Are You Lonesome Tonight?" and "Hound Dog." Members are reminded to be accumulating items for the Christmas meeting raffle and auction. • Maggie Maggie Abel Q. What do you get when you toss an accordion off a tall building? A. Applause. Q. Why do some people have an instant aversion to accordion players? A. It saves time in the long run. Q. When does a accordion player sound the best? A. When the tune is over. Q. What's the definition of a gentleman? A. Someone who knows how to play the accordion and doesn't.

Page 4 July 2016 The Oklahoma Squeezins Oklahoma Accordion Club June 12, 2016 Meeting OAC arbara opened the meeting, attended by 21 members and one introduced guest. • Barbara explained the popular "flashmob" concept, examples of which can be seen on YouTube.com. In a public place, one person begins playing or singing a song, and other people trickle in until a "mob" is playing or singing together, surprising the bystanders. Member Larry Gering is organizing a flashmob to play several simple numbers in the August 14 Annual Concert. Flashmob rehearsals are currently being held Wednesdays from 4:00 to 6:00 pm for all skill levels. Contact Larry at dktrg1@hotmail.comor 808/443-8883 to participate. • Historian Karen West displayed the concert poster she created with Secretary Maggie Abel. Newsletter editor Frank Gesinski e-mailed the poster to the membership, including a photo version, which can be posted on Facebook or attached to e-mails. • Barbara offered a signup sheet for Concert performers to name the songs they will perform, limited to five minutes per performer. • Former Vice-om Phillips was voted in as acting vice president while Dan Orza is on a leave of absence. • Tom reported that he had arranged for several accordions donated to the Club to be placed in a Wisconsin museum with a placard crediting OAC as the donor. • Club members voted to raise annual dues to $20 per member, $10 per additional family member, and raised the lifetime membership to $300. The new rates are effective July 16. • Music began with "Beer Barrel Polka" played by Chuck Vodicka. • T. Z. Wright performed Bob Dylan's "Man Gave Names to All the Animals," and a "semi-Irish" tune, "Handsome Molly." • Barbara discussed, with member input, the possibility of videoing this year's concert. • Karen played "I Gotta Be Me." • Bob Mansfield and George Secor played as a duet: Bach's "Jesu Joy of Man's Desiring," and Igor Stravinsky’s “Polka,” with an interlude by Bob. • George then performed Handel's "The Harmonious Blacksmith.” Bach's "Ave Maria" was presented by Bob, and French composer Gounod’s "Ave Maria" was presented by George. • Barbara played "Polka Musette," which was sent by Lou LeBrun, and then the first three lines of a number by Magnante "La Bella Theresa," which she is learning. • Anne Lopez and Lois Roth played "Where Is My Heart" from "Moulin Rouge," plus "La Vie en Rose." • Larry, accompanied by T. Z., Karen, Lois, Barbara, Maggie, Steven Scott, and Toni Paulding, played several numbers proposed for the flashmob. The next meeting will be July 10. • Maggie Abel OAC Secretary June Meeting Maggie Abel Advertisement

July 2016 The Oklahoma Squeezins Oklahoma Accordion Club June 12, 2016 Meeting OAC arbara opened the meeting, attended by • Barbara explained the popular "flashmob" concept, examples of which can be seen on YouTube.com. In a public place, one person begins playing or singing a song, and other people trickle in until a "mob" is playing or singing together, surprising the bystanders. Member Larry Gering is organizing a flashmob to play several simple numbers in the August 14 Annual Concert. Flashmob rehearsals are currently being held Wednesdays from 4:00 to 6:00 pm for all skill levels. Contact Larry at dktrg1@hotmail.comor 808/443-8883 to participate. • Historian Karen West displayed the concert poster she created with Secretary Maggie Abel. Newsletter editor Frank Gesinski e-mailed the poster to the membership, including a photo version, which can be posted on Facebook or attached to e-mails. • Barbara offered a signup sheet for Concert performers to name the songs they will perform, limited to five minutes per performer. • Former Vice-om Phillips was voted in as acting vice president while Dan Orza is on a leave of absence. • Tom reported that he had arranged for several accordions donated to the Club to be placed in a Wisconsin museum with a placard crediting OAC as the donor. • Club members voted to raise annual dues to $20 per member, $10 per additional family member, and raised the lifetime membership to $300. The new rates are effective July 16. • Music began with "Beer Barrel Polka" played by Chuck Vodicka. • T. Z. Wright performed Bob Dylan's "Man Gave Names to All the Animals," and a "semi-Irish" tune, "Handsome Molly." • Barbara discussed, with member input, the possibility of videoing this year's concert. • Karen played "I Gotta Be Me." • Bob Mansfield and George Secor played as a duet: Bach's "Jesu Joy of Man's Desiring," and Igor Stravinsky's "Polka," with an interlude by Bob. • George then performed Handel's "The Harmonious Blacksmith." Bach's "Ave Maria" was presented by Bob, and French composer Gounod's "Ave Maria" was presented by George. • Barbara played "Polka Musette," which was sent by Lou LeBrun, and then the first three lines of a number by Magnante "La Bella Theresa," which she is learning. • Anne Lopez and Lois Roth played "Where Is My Heart" from "Moulin Rouge," plus "La Vie en Rose." • Larry, accompanied by T. Z., Karen, Lois, Barbara, Maggie, Steven Scott, and Toni Paulding, played several numbers proposed for the flashmob. The next meeting will be July 10. • Maggie Abel OAC Secretary June Meeting Maggie Abel Advertisement

May 2016 The Oklahoma Squeezins Oklahoma Accordion Club April 10, 2016 Meeting Club arbara Duer called the April Pizza Party Meeting to order. Present were • Barbara reports that the Club is gearing for the August concert. To that end, Historian Karen West is preparing a duties list for volunteers. • A vote to raise Club dues will be proposed to the members in June. The current $16 per year membership could increase to $20, and an additional family member could rise from $8 to $10. A hip could increase to $300. • Guests Vicky Mansur, Abby Bozarth, Lori Lyon, Carol Falk, Chris Rettman, Taylor Jones, and member Annette Zongker-Smith's adorable grandtoddler Elsie were introduced. • Former Vice-President Tom Phillips gave the blessing before a variety of pizza and a beautiful cake were served. As everyone ate, musicians came forward. • A trio made up of Past President Dick Albreski, Lou LeBrun, and Barbara on banjo, played a "pizza medley," including "Yes, Sir, That's My Baby," "Five Foot Two, Eyes of Blue," "I'm Lookin' Over a Four-leaf Clover," "Chinatown," and "Whispering." • Lou, who is from Springfield, Missouri, then played "Accordion Boogie" by Magnante, on her new PANcordion. • Karen played "This Old Man" from the movie "Hop Skip Jump," "Ain't Misbehavin'," "Can't Help Lovin' That Man," after which she was spontaneously joined by "accordion mob" Larry Gering, Dick, and Vice-President Dan Orza in a medley that included "Julida Polka" and "Just Because." • The duo of Colleen Rettman and Dan played "Red Wing Polka." • Wayne Turgeon outdid himself with three selections: "The Caissons Go Rolling Along," "Come to the Sea"; and "The Marines Hymn," on which he was joined by Tom. • "Home Sweet Home" and "Bury Me Not on the Lone Prairie" were presented by Steven Scott. • Dick continued this month's Magnante theme with "Accordiana," followed by "12th Street Rag." • Dan's homage to Magnante was "Valse Allegro." • Barbara and Lou played "Raggedy Rag." • The Accordionaires (director Dan, Lois Roth, Karen West, and Maggie Abel) were joined by Tulsan Janet Haskin and by Lou to play "April Showers," "April Love," "Walking in the Rain," and "Rubber Duckie." • Lou closed the meeting with "Ebb Tide." At the May meeting, members are asked to let Barbara know what they will play for the August concert. Submitted by • Secretary Maggie Abel April Meeting Maggie Abel Advertisement

Meeting November 8, 2015 arbara Duer called the meeting to order. • Barbara made the following announcements: ⇒The next meeting will be our Christmas party. There will be special performances by the Youth group and by Lou Le Brun. ⇒Club members are asked to bring new or gently used winter clothing accessories (hats, gloves, socks, etc.) to be donated to the needy. ⇒Members are also asked to bring items for our traditional raffle/auction. Proceeds will be used to help pay for the Youth Group's convention expenses next March. ⇒All members are encouraged to bring cookies or other Christmas treats for refreshments to share. • Nominations were held for four officer positions. Nominated were Barbara Duer for president, Dan Orza for vice president, Maggie Abel for secretary, and Karen West for historian. Elections will be held at the December meeting. • Barbara said she would like to plan performances a month ahead so that each meeting will have plenty of music. • Karen is creating a book of the Club's 2015 events. • Dick Albreski suggested that we need new people to be officers. • Barbara Duer praised the officers for the work they have done and are doing. • Tom Phillips auctioned off two used accordions. Bob Mansfield and Jim Woolly purchased them. • Sil Lopez introduced two guests, Kathy and Shelby Matherly. They live in Edmond. • Then it was time for music! Barbara Duer told us about Guido Deiro. She has a book of his compositions and will make copies of any songs that we may want to try. She and Dick opened the program with three selections from the book: "Deiro's Rag," "Jewel Waltz," and "March." "Deiro's Rag" is the original "Sharpshooters March." • Dick played "Minnie's Borcht" by Louise Goldberg. • Dan Orza performed "Sharpshooters March." • Anne Lopez played "Lost Hope Waltz," followed by a fine arrangement of "Blue Moon" (her theme song). • Bob Mansfield treated us to "P. H. Rumba" by Palmer-Hughes, and "Blue Panther" --- a "takeoff" on the Pink Panther theme --- composed by Bob and The Sisters At Play. • The program concluded with The Accordionaires performing a medley of patriotic songs that included "God Bless America," "The Battle Hymn of the Republic," and "You're A Grand Old Flag." The players were Dan Orza, Karen West, Barbara Duer, and Lois Roth. Our next meeting is scheduled for Sunday, December 13. Come and enjoy the party! There will be food, fun, and Christmas music.

Club arbara Duer called the meeting to order, with • At the November meeting, nominations will be accepted for new officers. At the December meeting, new officers will be voted in. At the same meeting, donated hats, gloves, and scarves will be collected to give to the less fortunate through a contact of Past ick Albreski. Christmas goodies will be accepted in December, plus auction items to benefit the Club's accordion-playing youth. • At the November meeting, Barbara will introduce Pietro Deiro's music. Deiro was the first to use a bass instrument as a solo, first to name the piano accordion, and he wrote many accordion compositions. Dick and Barbara will play three songs of Deiro's. • New member Larry Gering was again introduced. • Visitor Donna Kilpatrick brought an accordion to the meeting to sell. Guest Tom Purvis, who plays many instruments, is learning the "Chicken Dance" on accordion for his son's wedding. • Karen led applause for Barbara and Dan Orza for cooking food for last month's Septemberfest meeting. • Bob Mansfield reminded the group that the following Sunday at 2:30 is Callithumpian Squeeze, an auditiononly accordion concert held at the Norman Depot, featuring some Club members plus additional musicians. Nick Ballarini will stroll before the concert, and the variety of music will include the "Liberty Bell March." • Bob played a variety of polkas: First, "Polka" by Igor Stravinsky, on the freebase accordion. He followed by playing on the piano accordion the Slovakian-style "S.M.P.J. Polka"; the "No. 34 Krakowisk," a Polish polka; "Gankino," a Bulgarian Polka in 11/8 time; and the "Free Bob" Polka, composed by Bob. • Janet Haskin and Bob played the "Brahms Waltz" and "Etude No. 1," a composition by Bob's student. Janet soloed with "Die Fliedermaus" by Strauss. • Barbara played "Cossack Dance" (with Bob on percussion clackers); Barbara and Bob played the lively "Czardas"; then came "Chattanooga Choo-Choo" with Barbara on banjo and Bob handling accordion and vocals. • The Accordionaires (director Dan Orza, Lois Roth, Barbara Duer, Karen West, and Maggie Abel) played German tunes "Hoffbrau Haus," "Du, Du Liegst Mir Im Herzen," "Edelweiss," "Lili Marleen," and closed with "Beer Barrel Polka." Submitted by Maggie Abel, Secretary October Meeting Maggie Abel Advertisement

November 2015 The Oklahoma Squeezins Accordion Lessons Dan Orza Two Master's Degrees in Music & Ed. Music Educator Dept. Head Retired US Army Band Commander Conductor at NAA Call 405/326-1124 DanOrza9731@gmail.com Advertisement October Meeting Diana Richard

The Oklahoma Squeezins August 2015 Page 3 The OAC will hold their Third Annual Accordion Affair August 9, 2015 at the Czech Hall on Czech Hall Road in Yukon, Oklahoma. The concert will take place from 2:30 to 4:30 pm. All OAC members are encouraged to perform, plus bring family and friends. Once again, Lucas Ross from KFOR will show his accordion talents and emcee the program. Cotati Accordion 25th Annual Festival will be held on August 22 and 23, 2015 in Cotati, CA. An old OAC friend, Ginny Mac, will be one of the many talented accordionists. It will also feature the reunion of Those Darn Accordions band. For more information, visit www.cotatifest.com. Fourth Annual OAC Septemberfest will be held on September 13, 2015, at the Messiah Lutheran Church from 3:30 to 5:50 pm. All members and guests are welcome. For more information, see Squeezins, the OAC N\newsletter, or visit the www.OKAccordions.com website. The Callithumpian Squeeze presented by Roland Lohmann and The Good Things Confectionary on October 18, 2015 from 2:00 to 4:00 pm at the Norman Train Station. Guest artist will be Nick Ballarini from Dallas, and George Secor. Also, you will hear the Prime Squeeze Trio, consisting of Bob Mansfield, Roland Lohmann, and Rod Murrow, plus many additional OAC members who will perform. For more information contact Roland Lohmann at 405/819-3521 or visit Rolandshimr@aol.com. The OAC Christmas Party is currently scheduled for December 13, 2015, at the Messiah Lutheran Church located at the corner of Portland and Northwest Expressway in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, from 3:30 to 5:30 pm. This annual event will have a silent auction, with the proceeds going to the Youth Band, and the collection of hats, scarves, socks, and gloves for the homeless. It is our time for giving, but also receiving. There will be a cookie and candy exchange that will tempt the appetites of all. Imagine eating all the treats as you listen to Christmas music played on the accordion. Look for more accordion events in future issues of Squeezins. Mark Your Calendars Dick Albreski Advertisement Q: What is the perfect weight for an accordion player? A: Three-and-a-half pounds, including the urn. Q: Why do musicians leave their accordions on the dashboard? A: So they can park in handicap spaces. Q: What's the difference between an accordion player and god? A: God doesn't think he's an accordion player. Q: What do you call a successful accordion player? A: A guy whose wife has two jobs.

Page 4 August 2015 The Oklahoma Squeezins OAC Meeting July 12, 2015 Secretary's Report As Club members arrived before the meeting, the Accordionaires (director Dan Orza, Lois Roth, Karen West, and Maggie Abel) played their August concert numbers, "Cactus Polka" and "Comrades March." Club Vice-om Phillips called the meeting to order. Twenty members and four guests attended. • A photographer seeking photographs for Henry Dolive's article in The Oklahoman shot photos during the meeting. • Several guests brought accordions to sell, which they set up at the side of the room. • Tom said parking southwest of Czech Hall is suggested, with player entry through the south door. The Czech Hall concert location has a raised stage. Concert players will enter from the left, where a small room is available for players to prepare. After each number, accordions will be carried offstage, to the right, by the player. • Tom requested concert participants to come forward to play in the order planned for the concert. • Tom began the sequence by playing "Amazing Grace." • The Anfangers (Tom, Myke Dixon, Rusty Bolton, Steve Scott, Wayne Turgeon, and Maggie Abel) played "Echo Waltz." • Wayne played "Golden Slippers;” Myke played "Heartbreak'n Rock;” Maggie played "Soldier's Joy." • Steven Scott played "Fast Train;” Colleen Rhettman played "Smile Awhile;” Karen West played "Going Out of My Head." • Dan Orza played "Two Guitars" and "Glow Worm;” Rusty played "Over the Waves." • The entire ensemble joined in the concert finale, "God Bless America." • Members who were not present are requested to e-mail their song titles to Maggie at for the printed program. Tom invited anyone who wished to play additional music for today's attendees to come forward. None did, and the meeting was adjourned. Respectfully submitted by Maggie Abel July Meeting Accordion Lessons Dan Orza Two Master's Degrees in Music & Ed. Music Educator Dept. Head Retired US Army Band Commander Conductor at NAA Call 405/326-1124 DanOrza9731@gmail.com Advertisement Maggie Abel

OAC Meeting Minutes The annual OAC pizza party meeting was attended by • At 3:30, pizza and drinks were served, and at 4:00, the meeting was called to order. arbara Duer displayed two thank you cards from the Elliott boys, and one from the Smith sisters, who were among those youth assisted financially by the Club to attend the recent March convention. • Barbara passed around a signup sheet where members could indicate what music they plan to play in the August concert to be held at Czech Hall on August 9. • Roland Lohmann is planning a concert in October. Players would coordinate with Bob Mansfield to audition for this concert. • Colleen and Bob Rhettman were new attendees. Colleen joined the Club during the meeting. • Vice om Phillips suggested each member play his concert piece twice before each at-home practice session, then again twice afterward. • Bob Mansfield announced that George Secor is in the hospital in Illinois. • The Accordionaires (director Dan Orza, Lois Roth, Karen West, and Maggie Abel) played "April Showers," "Easter Parade," and "Just Walkin in the Rain." Dan then played a solo, "Two Guitars." • T. Z. Wright played and sang along to "A Walk in the Irish Rain," the humorous "You Ate the Apple," and "Soldier's Joy." • Wayne Turgeon played "Golden Slippers." • Anne Lopez and Lois Roth played a French medley of "I Love Paris," "The Song from Moulin Rouge," and "La Vie En Rose." • Colleen played two Pavarotti songs, the second of which was a waltz. • Historian Karen West played "It Might as Well Be Spring." • Barbara Duer soloed with two French pieces • Past President Dick Albreski played a medley that included "The Lady is a Tramp," "All of Me," and "S' Wonderful." • The trio of Bob Mansfield, Rod Murrow, and Roland Lohmann played two songs, the last of which was "And the Waltz Goes On." At the next meeting, members are to begin practicing their numbers for the OAC concert.

Page January 2015 The Oklahoma Squeezins 4 December Meeting Oklahoma Accordion Club Christmas Party meeting December 14, 2014 • arbara Duer called the Christmas Party meeting to order. Twenty-seven festively dressed members and seven guests attended. • Throughout the meeting, music stopped periodically while Vice om Phillips drew raffle tickets or called an auction so winners could claim a prize such as monogrammed accordion-themed T-shirts made by Annette Zongker, wine baskets, Christmas ornaments in the shape of accordions, homemade afghans (one by Barbara and one by Beth Henson), a decorative treble clef pillow, accordion-themed potholders, a book of French music, and others. Tickets were only 50 cents each. • A box of donated winter hats, gloves, scarves, and socks was collected for a local charity, the Oscar Romero Foundation, which delivers them to the homeless. • it was announced that Today is the day members typically pay their annual club dues to Milo Shedeck. Members pay $16, and additional family members, $8. • The entertainment began when Bob Mansfield led a sing-along. Barbara played banjo, Anne and Lois played accordion, and Karen jingled the bells. The songs: “Jingle Bells,” “Silver Bells,” and “Joy to the World.” • That group (minus Karen) was soon joined by T. Z. Wright, who played guitar and sang “Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer.” • T. Z., Bob, Barbara, Anne, and Lois played “Silver Bells.” • Milo played “Joy to the World.” • Christopher Darr received his new member badge. • From a copy of the Norman Transcript, Bob Mansfield read an article about the Club’s annual concert. • Barbara said Czech Hall may be the site of the Club’s concert the second Sunday in August. The Hall has a prep room for musicians, and a raised stage. • Roland Lohmann wants the Club to add an additional concert at a different time of year, perhaps at the Norman Event Center. The board will consider doing so. • Mike Clark, Past President Dick Albreski, and Jerry Wooley played “I Saw the Light,” followed by “Old Time Religion.” • Barbara played a version of “Jingle Bells,” heavy on the minors, on her accordion. She also played the “French Expectation Waltz,” employing her musette sound. • T. Z., notably using his iPad instead of sheet music, played “Mr. Grinch” on the guitar, then on the accordion he played “Daddy Please Don’t Get Drunk This Christmas.” • Roland and Rod Murrow played “I’m Gettin’ Nothin’ for Christmas,” followed by the witty “Rinky Doo Café.” • Janet Haskins debuted as a soloist with “Carol of the Bells,” chosen because she has always loved to play it on the piano. • Bob and Barbara played a duet: “Up on the Housetop” from the Green Book. • Bob played something he had played at St. Michael’s Episcopal Church in Norman that morning: “Prelude in B-flat.” • Bob and George Secor played Bach’s etude, “Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring.” • George soloed “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” and “The Christmas Song” (“Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire”). • After receiving a request, George explained the difference between a piano accordion and a freebase accordion. The next meeting will be Sunday, January 11, 2015. Respectfully submitted Maggie Abel, Secretary

OAC Minutes November 9, 2014 Meeting ! arbara Duer called the meeting to order. • Barbara made the following announcements: − There will be a "Sweets Exchange" at the December 14 meeting. Members are asked to bring cookies or other Christmas treats to share. The Club will supply the drinks. − We are collecting winter accessories for the needy. Please bring new or gently used hats, scarves, gloves, socks, etc. to the December meeting. We do this every year, and the items are greatly appreciated. • We are considering a larger venue for the next August concert. We have outgrown The Depot, and don't like to turn people away for lack of seating. One strong possibility is the Czech Hall. • Milo Shedeck has been club treasurer for two years. Nominations are open for a new treasurer. • It is membership renewal time. Please pay your dues to Milo. • Tobin Garrison, a guest, was introduced. He is an upright bass player, and performs traditional jazz music. He and Bob Mansfield are arranging to play gigs and other events together. • Dick Albreski said that seven of our young members plan on attending the NAA Convention next March. There will be a raffle held at the December meeting to aid the Youth Group with expenses. Members are asked to bring items for the raffle. • There were two accordions on display, and were for sale by the Goodmans. • The Club presented a birthday card to George Secor, and sang "Happy Birthday" to George and to all the November birthday celebrators. • Then it was music time. Bob opened the program with the "Mexican La Malagueña." • Then, Bob, Barbara, and Karen West performed "Moments Musiceaux," with Barbara playing free bass accordion. They followed with "A Joyous Acclamation," and concluded with "España Cañi," accompanied by Magdalena Brantley playing the maracas. • Bob and George played the "Clarinet Polka." • George performed two selections on the free bass: "Sonata in D major" by Haydn, and "Paper Moon." • Bob played Bach's "Air On G String" on the freebass accordion. • Frankie Martinez, playing his Ruby Queen red button accordion, along with his band, performed "Hey Baby" ("Que Pasò"), and a Tex-Mex song entitled "Half An Orange." • Myke Dixon and Dick played the "Theme From Emily," followed by a waltz. • Wayne Turgeon played "Vive La Compagnie." Then, in honor of Veterans Day, Wayne, Myke, and Tom Phillips played "The Caissons Go Rolling Along," and Tom played "The Marines' Hymn." • Dick performed "Le Tango du Bol Musette," and two other lovely French pieces. • Bob and Dick demonstrated the difference between wet and dry sounds of the accordion. • T. Z. Wright played and sang "He'll Have To Go," "Whiskey for Breakfast," and "Chameleon." • Barbara Duer performed three selections, including "Lanerydsschottis" and "Rhubarb Schottische." • George played "Rhubarb Schottische" on his small free-bass accordion (fifteen basses). He said that he will present a workshop on free-bass at the March NAA Convention. Also, he and Bob will perform free-bass duets. • George has several small free-bass accordions for sale. ! Please join us on December 14 for our annual Christmas meeting. There will be beautiful music, delicious sweet treats, and a holiday gift raffle. ! Respectfully submitted, Lois Roth November Meeting Maggie Abel !Page ! December 2014! The Oklahoma Squeezins 4

Oklahoma Accordion Club Meeting Minutes September 14, 2014 ! Club arbara Duer welcomed 35 members and 13 guests to the Germanfest-themed meeting. Club badges were presented to members Myke Dixon, Rusty Dolton, and Bernie Adler. Members applauded OAC lifetime member Frankie Martinez. • The Accordionaires (Dan Orza, Lois Roth, Karen West, and Maggie Abel), joined by Mary Hojem, Anne Lopez, Annette Zongker, and Janet Haskins, opened the meeting with a medley of German songs, including “Lustig ist das Zigeunerleben,” “Das Kufsteiner Lied Walzer,” “Schutzenliesel,” “Westphalia Waltz,” “Blue Skirt Waltz,” “Stammcafe” (“Café Mozart Waltz”), and “Schneewalzer” (“Snow Waltz”). • Rod Murrow and Roland Lohmann performed “Danngehn Wir Mal Rüber,” arranged by Gary Dahl. Rob then played a German piece, “Anna’s Waltz.” • Annette Zongker performed the “Champagne Polka,” accompanied by Dan Orza. • Lois Roth and Anne Lopez conducted a singalong, accompanied by Barbara Duer on her banjo. Lyrics were distributed to the medley of “Lilli Marlene” and “Edelweiss.” • Anne Lopez and Lois Roth teamed up for “Country Musician.” Finally, Anne performed “Too Fat Polka” on Lois’s button box. • Club Vice-om Schmidt played “Schnitzelbank.” Tom said the title refers to a smorgasbord featuring a variety of sausages. • Karen West, Bob Mansfield, and Barbara Duer performed “Oberek,” a Polish dance. • German food was served to those present, prepared by Dick and Evie Albreski. Treats included bratwurst and hot dogs, German potato salad, red cabbage, sauerkraut, and lattice-topped apple pie. • George Secor and Bob Mansfield played “Century Polka.” George then played “Chopin’s Waltz in Aflat Major” and the jazzy “Moonglow.” • Frank Gesinski played a ländler from The Sound of Music, based on the tune “The Lonely Goatherd,” and then he played “Bye Bye My Baby Polka.” • Barbara Duer demonstrated two ways of playing the Hungarian song “Csardas.” • Karen West and Barbara Duer performed a duet, “Polish Polka.” • Bob Mansfield performed the “Helena” and “Jenny Lind Polkas.” Then he sang along as he played a medley of “Sistalles dunkel,” “‘s ist alles trube,” and “Wenn die Soldaten durch die Stadt marschieren.” • Club past president Dick Albreski played a medley of the “Pennsylvania Polka,” “Beer Barrel Polka,” “Let Me Call You Sweetheart,” “She’s Too Fat for Me,” “Take Me Out to the Ballgame,” and “The Chicken Dance.” • At Roland Lohmann’s request, Bob Mansfield played “Peanuts Polka.” ! Barbara ended the meeting by encouraging members to join each other in duets at future meetings. ! Respectfully submitted by • Maggie Abel, Secretary September Meeting Maggie Abel !Page ! October 2014! The Oklahoma Squeezins 4

Oklahoma Accordion Club July 13, 2014 Meeting ! arbara Duer welcomed 28 members and three guests, plus a reporter and photographer who were preparing an article about the Club. ! A flyer is currently being sent to all members to print or post on-line, inviting others to attend OAC’s free August 10 concert at Norman Train Depot. ! The September Germanfest-themed meeting will require reservations as Past ick and Past Treasurer Evie will be serving up bratwurst and tasty treats. Call Historian Karen West at 614/949-0394 to make a reservation for you and one guest. ! Some -- but not all -- of the performers at today’s meeting were giving a sneak preview of pieces they will play at next month’s public concert: ! • The Accordionaires (director Dan Orza, along with Lois Roth, John Buchanan, Karen West, and Maggie Abel) played the “Paragon March,” “La Múcura,” and “La Paloma.” ! • Vice President Tom Phillips played “Just a Closer Walk with Thee,” accompanied by Past President Dick Albreski. ! • Myke Dixon played “La Donna è Mobile.” ! • The Anfängers, a group led by Tom Phillips, played “Indian Song” and “Join the Fun,” in parts. Members include Myke Dixon and Maggie Abel. Two other members will join this piece at the concert. ! • A sing-along medley played by Barbara Duer (on banjo), Lois Roth, and Anne Lopez consisted of “When the Saints Go Marchin’ In,” “You Are My Sunshine,” “Home on the Range,” and “She’ll Be Comin’ ‘Round the Mountain.” ! • “Route 66” and “The Lady Is a Tramp” were performed by John Buchanan and Dick Albreski. ! • Bob Mansfield played “Hora” and “Bulgar,” followed by “Blue Bottom Button” played on a button box, along with a few extra numbers. ! • Maggie Abel played “Hungarian Dance.” ! • Karen West played “I Wanna Be Around (to Pick Up the Pieces).” ! • Roland Löhmann and Rod Murrow played “You’re Sixteen.” ! • Guest George Secor from Illinois, whom we heard at the April convention in Plano, played a number of songs, including the “E-Major Sonata” by Dominica Scarlatti, and what he said was a typical closing “night set” medley: “Dreamsville,” “In the Wee Small Hours of the Morning,” and “That’s All.” ! —- Maggie Abel, Club Secretary July Minutes Maggie Abel !Page ! August 2014! The Oklahoma Squeezins 4

How do you get an accordionist to play in time? Get them to play by themselves. ! How do you make two accordionists play in time? Shoot one of them. ! Minutes of OAC Meeting June 8, 2014 ! Our June meeting was held in the church music room. ! • arbara Duer called the meeting to order. She told us that Karen West and Maggie Abel have made a To Do list for the August 10 concert. They are also putting a program together. ! • Karen had her picture in the OKC paper recently when she played her accordion at Will Rogers Park. The occasion was a plant sale sponsored by the Garden Club. ! • William Dalton (a guest) has a Scandalli accordion for sale. His father played it with a band in Mustang for many years. Bob Mansfield performed "La Vie en Rose" on the Scandalli. ! • Then we rehearsed for the concert. Tom Phillips and Myke Dixon played "The Indian Song" and "Lightly Row." ! • Myke played a solo: "La Donna e Mobile." Bob gave him some helpful suggestions. ! • Karen West played "I Wanna Be Around." ! • Bob played "Sway" ("Quien Sera"), accompanied by Karen with maracas. ! • The music continued with Bob performing two button box solos: "Blue Bottom Button" and "Jambalaya," with vocal. He told us that a button box is limited in what it can do - unlike an accordion, which is much more versatile. ! • He also entertained us with several accordion solos, including "Lunch Time Boogie," "Base Scootin' Blues," and "You Belong To My Heart." ! • Barbara Duer played "The Merry Widow Waltz." ! • Anne Lopez played a few of her favorite songs, including "Let Me Call You Sweetheart," "Blue Skirt Waltz," and "San Antonio Rose." ! Our next meeting will be Sunday, July 13. Join us for an afternoon of accordion music as we rehearse for the concert. ! Respectfully submitted, Lois Roth for Secretary Maggie Abel May Minutes Lois Roth for Maggie Abel I love the summertime -- it's invigorating. What I don't love is to open an accordion and find that it has sat in a hot car while the owner just had a few small errands that wouldn't take much time at all. All accordion reeds are set in place with beeswax and rosin. It doesn't take much time to melt the reed blocks wax. Within minutes, the temperature in a car can rise over triple digits. The worst thing you can do is take your accordion out of a HOT car and try to play it. You have just blown several reeds out of the reed blocks. The same holds true for cold weather. Cold makes the reed block wax very brittle. Again, playing a cold accordion can also blow out the reeds. The rule is simple: "If it is too hot for you, it is too hot for your accordion. If it is too cold for you, it is too cold for your accordion." It doesn't take much time at all to cause severe damage to your accordion. The repair can be very costly. Save your money by following the above rule. How Hot Is Hot? Dick Albreski !Page ! July 2014! The Oklahoma Squeezins 4

Do you play a musical instrument but want to get better? Do you find yourself practicing the same thing over and over and not improving? This guide will help you play your instrument to your fullest potential: 1.! Identify what you need to practice. This could be a specific piece, a set of scales, or even something general like reaching high notes. Read through the piece and make sure you understand it. Review the piece with someone who plays the instrument well, or a teacher. 2.! If possible, listen to the piece played by someone you know or a professional musician. This will give you an idea of what the piece should sound like, what kind of feeling the piece gives, and how fast the piece should be. 3.! Don't jump right in to the piece you want to work on; warm up with a series of scales or other warm up exercises. There are books you can buy for your instrument with warm ups and scales. 4.! Run through the piece once, pausing to circle your mistakes with a pencil. If this is your first time encountering a particular piece, start at the beginning and work slowly forward. Be aware of your mistakes, and go back and correct them. 5.! After getting more familiar with the piece, target the areas that need work. Don't start at the beginning of the piece and start playing until you reach the problem spots, but begin with those problem areas. Then go back and play the whole piece again once you've fixed the difficult parts. 6.! Even if you think you can play the section faster, start slowly. Build up the tempo while paying strict attention to pitch, tone, rhythm, dynamics, and phrasing. There's no use in practicing something the wrong way. 7.! Make sure to play the piece more than once, even if you think you played it right. You'll get the hang of it better if you practice it without mistakes to a slow metronome (max 100 bpm) for five to 30 minutes, depending on your patience. 8.! After the problematic areas have shaped up, go back to the beginning of the piece and play through it, keeping an eye out for the measures you worked on previously. If the sections you worked on are still shaky as you encounter them throughout the piece, go back and patch them up again. 9.! The same steps can be taken for scales, an exercise, or various techniques. Begin slowly and listen for mistakes. At this stage, you want to be picky. 10.!Make sure you're focusing on your mistakes! Studies show that few students quit because they're not practicing. Rather, they quit because their practice time isn't spent progressively. When one makes a mistake, his or her brain is constantly ahead of what he or she is actually doing. When a mistake is made, you must go back a few notes (or better yet, a whole measure) before your mistake and play it over and over again (ideally, you'd want to play it more than ten times). How to Practice Effectively Barbara Duer !The Oklahoma Squeezins! July 2014!

Meeting May 11, 2014 ! arbara Duer called the meeting to order. Vice om Phillips offered a prayer. Then we all enjoyed the special refreshments: pizza and soda pop. Roland Lohmann provided the drinks. As we ate, we listened to music played by Roland, Bob Mansfield, and Rob Murrow - "Schnee Walzer," "Blue Skirt Waltz," and other German songs. ! The music performances that followed were mostly selections that players are working on for the August 10 concert: ! • Steve Scott, Wayne Turgeon, Myke Dixon, and Tom Phillips played "The Indian Song." Barbara Duer accompanied them on a hand-held drum. ! • Roland and Rob played "You're Sixteen." ! • Tom gave us his version of "Old McDonald" - "Old McCongress Had A Farm Bill." ! • Karen West played "I Wanna Be Around." ! • Barbara played "Czardas" and "Rustic Dance." ! • Dick Albreski played "Moonlight in Vermont." ! • The Accordionaires (Dan Orza, Karen West, John Buchanan, and Lois Roth) performed several pieces, including "Paragon March," "Lady of Spain," and "Popeye the Sailor Man." ! • Bob, Roland, and Rob played "You Needed Me." ! • Dan soloed with Sousa's "Semper Fideles March." ! • Dick played "Accordiana." ! Dick said the youth group will perform at the concert. Barbara said that she, Lois, and Anne Lopez are working on a medley, with Barbara playing banjo. ! Roland told us that he plays with an accordion group that meets in Alva almost every week and has a great time. ! Our next meeting will be Sunday, June 8. Come and play your accordion, or just listen to the music. !

Oklahoma Accordion Club March 9, 2014 Monthly Meeting Minutes Club arbara Duer conducted the monthly meeting, attended by • Barbara noted that the upcoming meeting, Sunday, April 13, will feature a pizza party. Each member is entitled to bring one guest. Members should call Karen West at 405/949-0394 with their reservations to ensure food preparation will be adequate for the attendance. • The August 10 meeting will consist of a concert at the Norman Depot train station. Last year's concert was attended by a full house, and Club members are invited to perform at the upcoming concert. Auditions will not be required, but participants are encouraged to prepare by performing their selected music during the May, June, and July Club meetings that lead up to the August concert. • Thank you cards were sent to the OAC by several families whose children received financial assistance from the Club to attend and perform at the National Accordion Association's 27th annual convention in Plano, Texas in March 2014. • Barbara said that the format of future meetings will change next month to include an initial meet and greet for 5-7 minutes after convening. After that, a jam will begin, using sheet music that has been e-mailed a few weeks earlier to members for practice at home. • Performances began as OAC Vice om Phillips introduced a group performing "The Donkey Song" from Palmer-Hughes Book 1, performed in rounds by Tom, Wayne Turgeon, Steven Scott, and Maggie Abel. • The Accordionaires (Director Dan Orza and regular members Lois Roth, Karen West, John Buchanan, and Maggie Abel) performed a medley of Irish songs, accompanied by Past President Dick Albreski, Bob Mansfield, and Roland Lohmann. • Roland Lohmann and Rod Murrow performed "Chattanooga Choo-Choo." Their page-turner was Dan Orza. • Barbara Duer performed "Ashokan Farewell" on the accordion. The music is a 1984 fiddle tune that was picked up by Ken Burns for his video series on the Civil War. • Dick Albreski accompanied Barbara Duer with "Harvest Home Song," which music was included in the March newsletter. • Barbara Duer said the tenor banjo is considered the Irish banjo. • Dick Albreski performed "A Great Day for the Irish," "Las Gaviotas," and "La Piccinina." • Bob Mansfield played four pieces. The first two were mazurkas: "Tra veglia e sonno" and "La Napoletana." Then Bob performed "Dicitencello vuie," and "Sogno d'una Vergine." • Frank Gesinski played "Yours (Quiereme Mucho)" and the "Mickey Mouse March." The meeting adjourned with a reminder to call Karen West to make April pizza party reservations. Respectfully submitted, Maggie Abel March Minutes Maggie Abel !Page ! April 2014! The Oklahoma Squeezins 4

Meeting January 12, 2014 ! Past ick Albreski called the meeting to order. ! • Dick said there was an 80-bass Pollina accordion for sale and anyone interested should try it out. ! • He introduced the new club officers: arbara Duer, Vice President Tom Phillips, and Historian/Librarian Karen West. ! • Officers in place for one more year are Secretary Maggie Abel and Treasurer Milo Shedeck. ! • Then Dick turned the meeting over to Barbara Duer. She told us she loves the Club, and wants to keep it moving forward. She listed the plans for 2014 as discussed by the Board. Important events will be a pizza party in April, a concert in August, German Septemberfest, and a Christmas Cookie Party in December. ! • Jim Whitten, a new club member, received his membership badge. We also greeted a guest, Floyd Thornton. ! • The National Accordion Association Convention will be March 6, 7, 8, and 9 in Plano, Texas. The Southfork Hotel is the new location. Seven of our young students plan to attend the convention. ! • The music began with performances by some of the youth group. - Job Elliott played "Florette" by P. Frosini - Tim Granger soloed with "Yesterday" - Job and Dick performed "Bel Viso" by P. Frosini - Isaac Elliott played "Barbara Polka" - Laz Elliott played "This Is Our Song For You" ! • We took time out from the music session to buy and distribute raffle tickets. There were many fine prizes ready to be taken home by the lucky winners. ! • During the meeting, we all enjoyed the cookies and other refreshments brought by our members. ! • On with the music! - Tom Phillips performed "All Through The Night" - Anne Lopez performed "Habañera," followed by "Cherry Pink and Apple Blossom White" - John Buchanan and Dick played "Route 66" and "Christmas Medley Polka" - Floyd Thornton played "The Salvation Medley" - Barbara Duer performed an Israeli version of "Jingle Bells " played in a minor key - Barbara and Dick played two duets: a Klezmer song and "Nobel Franz" ! • The music continued while the winning raffle tickets were drawn: - The Accordionaires (Dan Orza, Karen West, John Buchanan, and Lois Roth) were joined by Janet Haskin, Barbara Mahar, and Annette Zongker. They performed "White Christmas," "Winter Wonderland," and "Merry Christmas Overture." They closed the meeting with the traditional "Auld Lang Syne." ! Our next meeting will be Sunday, February 9. Let's get together and celebrate with some Valentine music! !

Meeting November 10, 2013 ick Albreski called the meeting to order. • Nominations for new officers were announced. For president: Barbara Duer, nominated by Magdalena Brantley. For librarian: Karen West. Nominations for vice ere tabled. • Members are asked to bring cookies or other treats to the December meeting for everybody to enjoy. Also, please bring winter wear items (hats, scarves, socks, gloves, etc.) to donate to a charity. • Seven OAC students plan to attend the National Accordion Association Convention in Dallas in March 2014. The Club will assist them financially. A raffle will be held at the December meeting to raise funds. Club members are asked to bring gifts for the raffle. Bring items that are music-oriented, if you have any. Last year's Christmas raffle was one of the party's highlights. • Treasurer Milo Shedeck will collect annual dues at the December meeting. • The music program began with Tom Phillips playing "Sleep Holy Child." • Barbara Duer performed Gordon Kohl's arrangement of "Mirjambrunnen," followed by her own arrangement of "Hungarian Dance Number 4." • Dan Orza told about his band experience in music college. He said each student was handed various band instruments (trombone, oboe, etc.) and was expected to learn to play each instrument well enough to give a performance. He later realized that knowing how to play many instruments is very useful to a bandleader. • Dick played his professional 72 bass Giulietti accordion for us. He demonstrated the sounds of its various reeds with "White Christmas," "Tico Tico," "Fascination," and "La Tipica," then switched to master for "Clarinet Polka." • Frank Gesinski performed "Pigalle." • The Accordionaires (Dan Orza, Karen West, and Lois Roth) played "Cossack Dancer." Then Janet Haskin and Annette Zongker joined them for two World War I Songs: "Smile Smile Smile" and "Over There." • Dick concluded the music with a medley of patriotic songs, ending with "The Star Spangled Banner." Our Christmas meeting will be on Sunday, December 8. We will meet in the middle room of the church, close to the office entrance. Please join us for a musical start to the Holidays!

OAC Meeting September 8, 2013 We were welcomed to the annual Septemberfest meeting by ick Albreski. • The music began with Dan Orza performing the beautiful "Waltz Allegro," composed by Charles Magnante. • Tom Phillips offered a prayer. Then we all enjoyed the German food: Brats and rolls, potato salad, various side dishes, and apple pie. A big Thank You to Evie and Dick for the delicious dinner! • Music continued with The Accordionaires (Dan Orza, Karen West, John Buchanan, and Lois Roth) playing three very German songs: "Schutzenliesel," "Lustig ist das Zigeunerleben," and "Liechtensteiner Polka." • Dick took over with "Beer Barrel Polka" and other selections. • Anne Lopez and Dan played a duet: "Two Guitars." Then Anne soloed with "Wooden Heart" and "Lilli Marlene." • Dick performed "European Waltz," "Pennsylvania Polka," and "Schneewalzer." • Bob Mansfield played a German medley, including "Hofbrauhaus," "You Can't Be True, Dear," "Holtzacton Schattus," and "Tomorrow Belongs To Me" from Cabaret. • Dick introduced the guests. We were glad to welcome two new OAC members: Rod and Carolyn Murrow. Dick also reminded us that we need a nominating committee for the positions of nd vice president. • The music concluded with Anne and Lois performing three songs from Lois's collection of concertina music: "Isabella Waltz," "The Country Musician," and "Rain Rain Polka." Our next meeting is scheduled for Sunday, October 13. Nick Bratkovich from Tulsa will perform for OAC members and guests. You don't want to miss this great accordion player!

Meeting ick Albreski called the meeting to order. • Dick had brought some extra accordions for anyone who wanted to play. Everyone with an accordion played "Happy Birthday" to Milo Shedeck. Dick followed with "Easter Parade." • Milo and Lucy served delicious birthday cake to the group. • We agreed to hold the next meeting on May 12. This is the scheduled date, and it is also Mother's Day. • Dick announced that the 2014 NAA Convention will have a new location: The Harvey House. • Future OAC meetings were discussed. Dick asked members for new ideas for special places to meet, and different things to do. Bob Mansfield will find out if we can have a meeting at the Norman Performance Center -- possibly in August. This meeting could include a concert, if there are enough participants. • The big September Fest party will be at the church, as it was last year. • Other ideas under consideration are: a meeting in Tulsa; a fund-raiser of some kind; and a special meeting at a local restaurant. • Then we had music! −Dick and John Buchanan began with "The Swedish Polka." −John soloed with "Elmer's Tune." −Anne Lopez treated us to a medley of romantic French tunes: "I Love Paris," "Under Paris Skies," and "The Song from Moulin Rouge." −Anne and Dick played "La Vie En Rose." −Barbara Duer played two pieces that she had received from Gordon Kohl at the NAA Convention: "Chosjajka" and "Cossack Dancer." Magdalena Brantley accompanied her with clackers --- a handmade rhythm instrument. − Bob Mansfield performed several selections: "The Accordionist March," "The Italian Polka," and three French songs: "For Me Formidable," "Douce France," and "Y'a d'la Joie." He also played and sang "Blue Skies," and ended with "Sweetly" by Andrew Bird. −Dick handed out copies of "Midnight in Moscow." He demonstrated ornamentation of the song by adding thirds for harmony, and triplets and counter basses for interest. −He also presented us with an "accordion puzzle" picture -- a mirror image of the left side of a 140 bass accordion. −Dick played two Polish polkas that he had learned as lessons in the forties: "With Money You Can Do Anything" and "Happy Mary," and "The Michael Oberek." His final song was "Eveline," composed by him for Evie. −Bob showed us how to make an Italian accordion sound "French" by half-engaging two switches. −The Accordionaires (Dan Orza, Karen West, John Buchanan, and Lois Roth) ended the meeting with three seasonal songs: "April Showers," "Raindrops Keep Fallin' on My Head," and "Tiptoe Thru the Tulips." They also performed a British March, "Song of the Regiment." There was a fun jam session after the meeting. Our next meeting will be on Sunday, May 12. Spring! May! Mother's Day! Come and play with us!

!Page 4! February 2013! The Oklahoma Squeezins January Meeting Lois Roth for Maggie Abel Minutes of OAC Meeting January 13, 2013 The band began the New Year gathering by playing “Heart and Soul” and “Auld Lang Syne.” The meeting was called to order by ick Albreski. There were twelve members present. • Dick announced our new officers: Maggie Abel, Secretary; Barbara Duer, Historian; and Milo Shedeck, Treasurer. • Our next meeting will be February 10, and will have a Valentine theme. The Youth Group will perform, and a few of the Fun Band members will play the music that is being prepared for the National Accordion Association Convention. • The convention takes place the same weekend as the OAC March meeting. The board will decide how to handle this, and will announce a decision at or before the February meeting. • At the convention, Dan Orza will present a workshop on conducting. • The NAA Convention schedule includes the Fun Band on Thursday evening, Polka Night on Friday, the Youth Group performance on Saturday afternoon, and on Saturday night a banquet followed by a performance by the Club’s old friend, Tony Lovello. • Dick suggested that we take a look at accordionist Richard Noel on YouTube. • After the business meeting, Bob Mansfield performed three songs: “La Cubana Mysterioso,” “Samba Italiano,” and “Domino.” • The band trio played “The Tennessee Waltz” in memory of Patti Page. They concluded with “Let Me Call You Sweetheart” and “Missouri Waltz.” Our next meeting will be on Sunday, February 10. Come and listen to love songs! Respectfully submitted, Lois Roth (acting for Secretary Maggie Advertisement

OAC Meeting, December 2, 2012 ick Albreski called the Christmas meeting and party to order at 3:30 pm. The refreshment table was loaded with special treats brought by members. • The nominations for new officers were announced. They are Maggie Abel for secretary, Barbara Duer for historian, and Milo Shedeck for treasurer. • Dick asked for other nominations. There were none, and the nominations were closed. • Members voted using paper ballots, and the nominees were elected. Congratulations to our three new officers! • Dick explained the raffle rules. Tickets prices were three for $1.00, or 18 for $5.00. We were given time to view the raffle items and distribute our tickets. • Six talented members of our Youth Group entertained us with these selections: −"Good King Wenceslas" played by all −"Sleigh Ride" played by Job Elliott −"Jolly Old Saint Nicholas" by Becca Smith −"I Saw Three Ships" by Isaac Elliott −"Hark! The Herald Angels Sing" by Bria Smith −"Jolly Old Saint Nicholas" by Timothy Granger −"Up On The Housetop" by Madeline Smith −"Olive Blossoms" by Job Elliott −"Joy To The World" played by Isaac, Timothy, and Job We should all be very proud of these young players and their leader Dick Albreski! • Anne Lopez had toes tapping with "Never On Sunday" and "Blue Skirt Waltz." • Then, the raffle was held. The Youth Group, aided by Evie Albreski, drew the winning tickets. Proceeds from the raffle amounted to $129, which will be added to the Youth Fund. • Bob Mansfield concluded the music with "Counter," a piece containing unusual harmonies and melodies. • Dick closed the meeting by saying that the Club has had a successful year, and has started some new traditions. He reminded us that membership renewal has begun. • The National Accordion Association convention is scheduled for mid-March, and will include St. Patrick's Day weekend. • A jam session of Christmas music followed the meeting. Our next meeting will be January 13, 2013. A Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all OAC members and their families!

!! December 2012! The Oklahoma Squeezins Oklahoma City Traditional Music Association November Meeting Lois Roth OAC Meeting November 11, 2012 ick Albreski called the meeting to order at 3:30 pm. • We have two nominations for new officers: Milo Shedeck for treasurer and Barbara Duer for historian. • Anne Lopez volunteered to continue sending special occasion cards from the Club. • The Christmas Party will be on Sunday, December 2. Reservations are not necessary. Guests are welcome! There will be many gifts for an exciting raffle. • Members are asked to bring Christmas cookies or other snacks to share. The club will provide drinks and paper items. • Our Youth members will perform for us, as soloists, and as a group. • Dan Orza is providing music for a sing-along/ play-along. • Members were reminded to bring donations of hats, gloves, socks, and other small winter clothing items to donate to charity. • The music program began with a solo by Barbara Duer entitled "Schneewalzer." • Then Dick joined Barbara, and they played "Waltz Theme." • Dick introduced our special guest accordionist, Nick Bratkovich. His mother Betty and his nephew Steve were with him. Nick performed a variety of ethnic pieces, including music from Macedonia, Serbia, and Bulgaria. All enjoyed his wonderful performance. • Dick played "Merry Christmas Polka" to get us in the mood for our next meeting. • Dan Orza, Karen West, and Lois Roth played "Autumn Leaves," following with "Smile, Smile, Smile" and "Over There" in honor of Veterans' Day. They concluded with a western favorite, "Tumbling Tumbleweeds." Please remember to bring raffle gifts, charity items, and Christmas goodies to the December 2 meeting. There will be plenty of Christmas music to enjoy! Respectfully submitted, Lois Roth, Secretary The Oklahoma Accordion Club welcomes the following new association to our newsletter. Like the OAC, they strive to keep music alive. A non-profit organization dedicated to the promotion and preservation of Traditional American and Celtic music. Meeting the first Saturday of each month at Village Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), 9401 N. Ridgeview Drive, on Britton Road (N. 93rd) between N. May Avenue and N. Penn Avenue. Park on the north side and enter through the double doors. Workshops (Learning the Traditions) 6:00-6:50, 7:00-7:50 pm, Open Mic (Sharing the Traditions) 8:00-10:00 pm, Jam Sessions (Playing the Traditions) 10:00-11:45 pm. For more information, go to www.octma.org.

!! November 2012! The Oklahoma Squeezins September Meeting Lois Roth OAC Meeting October 14, 2012 ick Albreski called the meeting to order. • Members were invited to take copies of available jam music. • Our Christmas meeting will be held on December 2. Mark your calendars please! Each member is asked to bring a gift to raffle. Proceeds from the raffle will be for the Youth Fund. • Hats, gloves, and other winter accessories will be collected at the December meeting and donated to charity. • The terms for club secretary, treasurer, and historian are up at the end of the year. The nd vice president will each serve for one more year. If any member is willing to fill one of these positions, please contact Dick Albreski. We need volunteers! • Anne Lopez suggested that we try to have more time to jam at each meeting. • Music followed the business meeting: −The band started things off with "Cruising Down the River" and "Heart and Soul." −Anne Lopez and Lois Roth played "Isabella Waltz," "The Woodpecker Song," and "The Country Musician." −Bob Mansfield performed a medley of German songs, followed by "Dance of the Gypsies" and "Mischievous Swing." −Job Elliott played "Tesknota Za Ojczyzna," "Czardas," and "Magic Fingers." −Then Dick demonstrated the versatility of his midi-accordion with a medley of songs, including "Beer Barrel Polka" (tuba effect), "La Paloma" (marimba effect), and "The Twelfth Street Rag." −Frank Hulstrom, a guest, concluded the music with "Ghost Riders" and "Buttons and Bows," played on his guitar. • An enthusiastic jam session followed the meeting. Our next meeting will be Sunday, November 11. Details about the Christmas meeting will be discussed then. Respectfully submitted, Lois Roth, Secretary Mike Stoops was a regular in the early days of the OAC. His only love in life, other then his wife, Susan, was the accordion. I never met a man who loved playing the accordion more than Mike. He passed away last month, and I know where he is now playing. Mike is survived by his wife Susan, and by his parents Carl and Shirley Stoops. Please remember Mike in your prayers. This is a "heads up" for the December meeting. It will be held on Sunday, December 2, at the Messiah Lutheran Church, as usual. This will be on the first Sunday of the month, NOT the second Sunday. Please bring some of your favorite Christmas cookies, cakes, and/or candies that can be enjoyed by others. The Club will provide all the drinks and paper products. There will be no member gift exchange, but we still want you to have an opportunity to get a gift. Therefore, we will have an auction to gain some financial support for our student members who will be traveling to Dallas in March 2013. This year we anticipate six of our student members will perform in the Dallas Youth Band. This will not be an expensive auction -- you can set your limit. Currently, we have two fine gifts that will be on display and, if you have something you can donate to the cause, please bring that gift to the December meeting. We would love to offer 15 gifts for auction, but we are 13 gifts short. We do ask that, if you can provide a gift, please let us know so we can keep a record. Knowing our Club, there will be additional gifts. Also, our tradition will be continued where we collect items that are given to a charity, items that can keep some person in need a little warmer. We are asking that you bring to the December meeting a pair of gloves, a hat, a scarf -- even a pair of socks -- that we can donate to others. As you read this memo, it seems that all I have done was to ask for something. Well, isn't that the spirit of Christmas? Your Christmas present will be the student members performing a Christmas program at that meeting. Heads Up!!!

!! September 2012! The Oklahoma Squeezins OAC Meeting August 12, 2012 ick Albreski called the meeting to order. •Steve Scott was presented with his membership badge. Welcome to the Club, Steve! There are now 64 members on the roster. •Dick announced that our next meeting, September 9, would be a celebration of Septemberfest with German music. The menu will also be very German -- everything from brats to Strudel. Each member may bring a guest. Dick and Evie must know how many will attend, so a sign-up sheet was passed around at today's meeting. •Two youth players, Isaac Elliott and Tim Granger, will perform at the September meeting. This is their very first recital, so let's welcome them with a large group of OAC members. •Roland Lohmann is going to open a new candy store in Norman. The grand opening is scheduled for late October. Nick Ballarini from Dallas will be there, and he will also hold a fun accordion class at another location in Norman during that time. If you are interested in attending the Ballarini workshop, please advise either Lois Roth or Dick and Evie Albreski. Time and place will be determined once we know how many members are interested. Available times are Thursday afternoon or Friday morning. •Dick began the music with three German songs. Copies were available for whoever wants to practice them for the next jam session. The songs are "Das Kufsteiner Lied Walzer," "Der Troye Husar/Oh Susanna," and "Edelweiss." Dick also played "La Paloma" -- he said it's a popular request at German celebrations. •Dick will be performing at the Chapel Creek Winery September 8 and 9 from noon until 2:00 pm. •Maggie Abel and Steve Scott played a duet called "Batter Up Waltz." •Frankie and Eleanor Martinez performed "Desvelado," "La Media Naranja," and "Gavilan Polliro," with vocals by Frankie. They will be entertaining at an ice cream social in Spencer on August 25, from 6:00 to 9:00 pm. •Anne Lopez and Dick, along with Barbara Duer playing her banjo, treated us to a lively "Pizza Medley," followed by "The Third Man Theme." •Dick performed a medley of songs from many countries, and a waltz medley that included "Fascination." •Roland sang a fun song, "Squeeze Me," accompanied by Dick on accordion. •Dan Orza, Karen West, and Lois Roth concluded the music with "Love Me Tender" (sung by Maggie Abel), "School Days," "Tennessee Waltz," and "Washington Post March." The next meeting will be on Sunday, September 9. It's Septemberfest time! Remember, this meeting is by reservation only. Respectfully submitted, Lois Roth, Secretary August Meeting Lois Roth

!! August 2012! The Oklahoma Squeezins OAC Meeting July 8, 2012 ick Albreski called the meeting to order. • Several members were wearing patriotic costumes for the contest. Judges for this event were Frances Engle, Bob Mansfield, and Dan Orza. • The meeting began with MUSIC! −Rebecca Smith played two solos: "The Mickey Mouse Club Song" and "Bluebird Waltz." −Maddie Smith performed "Bella Notte" and "Hooray For Love." −Dick introduced guests Carlotta and Jerry Alustad. They brought an accordion that's for sale. Club members were invited to try it out. −The music continued with Job Elliott performing "Trattoria el Centro." −Job and Dick played "Happy Oberek." −Then Job treated us to a patriotic medley. −Maggie Abel was next. She dedicated her first song to her husband Steve Scott: "Drink to Me Only with Thine Eyes." Her patriotic contribution was "The Marines' Hymn." −Dick performed "Ambiance Musettienne." He reminded us that this beautiful piece is the one that a soldier in Afghanistan requested and that the Club found and sent to him. −Bob played and sang "God Bless America." He also performed "Hora and Bulgar." −Then Dick handed out song sheets for a patriotic sing-along. We all enjoyed singing these great songs: "The Star-Spangled Banner," "You're a Grand Old Flag," and many others. Bob accompanied us on his accordion. Thank you, Bob! −The judges announced that Magdalena Brantley was the winner of the costume contest. Her prize was a gift certificate to a restaurant. −Dan Orza and Lois Roth concluded the meeting with "The Battle Hymn of the Republic," "America" ("My Country Tis of Thee"), and "America the Beautiful." • A fun jam session followed the meeting. Our next meeting is scheduled for Sunday, August 12. There's no special theme - hot-weather songs might be appropriate! Please bring your jam books and we'll play together after the meeting. Respectfully submitted, Lois Roth, Secretary July Meeting Lois Roth

!! July 2012! The Oklahoma Squeezins OAC Minutes June 10, 2012 ick Albreski called the meeting to order. • Dick announced that the next meeting on July 8 will be highlighted by a CONTEST for the best patriotic costume. The winner will receive a gift card. The judges will be Magdalena Brantley, Steve Scott, and John Sakaly. • Dick reminded all accordion owners: DO NOT leave your accordion in a hot car! • New business cards will be available next month. • A big event is being planned for the Fall. It may be a picnic or it may be some other special meeting. Ideas from members are welcome! • Then came the music! −Barbara Duer and her new Giulietti accordion played two duets with Dick: "Galaminnen Waltz" and "Adios Muchachos." −Dick performed two original songs: "Brianna's Dream" and "Rebecca's Request." He concluded with "Le Gammin d'Paree." −Dick and Lois Roth played "J'Attendrai." −Frankie and Eleanor Martinez treated us to three songs: "Viva Seguin," "La Media Vualta," and "Frankie's Polka." They told us about their attending the Conjunto Festival in San Antonio last month. −Dan Orza, Karen West, and Lois Roth played a few oldies: "In The Good Old Summertime," "Heart and Soul," and "Five Foot Two." −Dan soloed with a fine arrangement of "Ol' Man River." −Bob Mansfield performed four pieces: "Dom de Iludir," " Quizas," "Frenesi" (with vocal), and "A French Touch." −The meeting concluded with a seven-player jam session. We tried out a new song, "There'll Be a Hot Time." Our next meeting will be July 8 at the usual church locale. Patriotic costumes -- and music -- everybody! Respectfully submitted, Lois Roth, Secretary June Meeting Lois Roth

!! June 2012! The Oklahoma Squeezins OAC Minutes May 20, 2012 ick Albreski called the meeting to order. • Our celebration of National Accordion Month started with pizza, drinks, and cookies for all. • Bob Mansfield performed four selections: - "Longa Farafaza"; a medley of "Dulab Hijaz" and "Dulab Shahnaz"; "Hadoni Hadoni"; and "Zeina." Dustin Cooper accompanied him on the drum. • Lucas Ross received his membership badge from Dick. A big welcome to our newest member! • Dick said we are very close to equaling last year's membership. • The music continued with two solos by Job Elliot: - "La Spagnola" and "I Love To Dance." - Job and Dick followed with a duet: "Skoda Lasky" (aka "Beer Barrel Polka"). • Dick played "Madeline's Polka," an original composition. • He then gave us an instant workshop: When performing at a retirement/nursing home, you should have a song plan: - First, a group participation songs with hand clapping -- "Music, Music, Music" or a similar song. - Second, a "lesson song" - "When You're Smiling" or a similar song. - Third, a song that lets the listener travel and use his or her imagination. Dick then played a medley of songs from various countries: Italy, France, Germany, etc. to illustrate. • Roland Lohmann reminded the group that the accordion is an entertainment center. Each accordion comes loaded with thousands of songs. You, the player, have to figure out which buttons and keys to push! • Dick urgently requested that all "playing members" bring their accordions to the next meeting. • The orchestra -- Karen, Dan, and Lois -- entertained with "I Want a Girl Just Like the Girl" for Mother's Day. Some spring songs followed: "While Strolling Through the Park," "Tiptoe Through the Tulips," and "Raindrops Keep Fallin' on My Head." • The meeting ended with a grand jam session. We played "Marie," and then all the jam book songs. • Our next meeting will be on Sunday, June 10, at our regular church location. Note that this is NOT the annual picnic. That has been postponed until fall. Respectfully submitted, Lois Roth May Meeting Lois Roth

!! May 2012! The Oklahoma Squeezins OAC Minutes April 15, 2012 ick Albreski called the meeting to order. • The club treasury balance is $1,178.66. • Our May meeting will be on the third Sunday, because the second Sunday is Mother's Day. The meeting date is May 20. We will celebrate National Accordion Month -- bring your accordions for a big afternoon of music! • The June meeting will be our annual picnic. Dan Orza and Barbara Duer are the planning committee. Date, time, place, and menu are being considered --- stay tuned! • Robbie Rattan received his membership badge. Welcome, Robbie! • Then it was music time. - Dick presented The Mystery Guest, Lucas Ross. He and Dick played "Country Gardens" - Barbara Duer and Dick played "My Angel Polka" and "Jalousie Tango" - Bob Mansfield performed four pieces: o "The Lord's Word" (a gospel song composed by Bob) o "Shirale" o "Rumanian Hora and Bulgar" o "Domino and Tango 1" - Maggie Abel and Dick played "Drink to Me Only with Thine Eyes." • A Happy Birthday salute to Milo from Dick and all of us! • The finale was a Grand Jam Session. The orchestra (Dan, Karen, and Lois) and six more accordionists (Barbara Duer, Beth Henson, Lucas Ross, Robbie Rattan, Dick Albreski, and Bob Mansfield) had fun with "Easter Parade," "April Showers," "Rubber Duckie," and several other favorites. Many players were sight-reading --- good job everyone! Our next meeting will be Sunday, May 20. Bring a copy of "Marie" from this newsletter. Respectfully submitted, Lois Roth April Meeting Lois Roth

!! April 2012! The Oklahoma Squeezins March 11, 2012 OAC Minutes ick Albreski called the meeting to order. • Dick announced that we now have 49 club members. • Honorary members include the National Accordion Association and our Youth Group. • Treasurer Evie Albreski reported a checkbook balance of $1,083.23. • We were reminded that active members who have not paid their 2012 dues will not be carried after April. • Karen West is helping design new business cards for the club. She will work with an OAC printer, Robbie Rattan, to create the cards. • Our next meeting will be on April 15 because Easter is the second Sunday (April 8). • May is National Accordion month, and May 6 is National Accordion Day. Dick told us that the accordion was patented on May 6, 1829. Members who have ideas for celebrating this great occasion at the May 13 meeting please contact Dick. • A wonderful variety of accordion music followed the business meeting: - Anne Lopez and Dick played a collection of Anne's parents' favorites: "Pennsylvania Polka," "Harbor Lights," "San Antonio Rose," "Tennessee Waltz," and "Blue Skirt Waltz." - Dick directed four members of the Adult Fun Band: Barbara Duer, Beth Henson, Rob Rattan, and Lois Roth in a preview of the NAA music that will be played next week in Dallas. The songs are "Cruisin' the Oj Dana," "Of Thee I Sing," "Prune Song," "J'Attendrai," "Irish Medley," and "My Angel Polka." - The Orchestra -- Dan Orza, Karen West, and Lois Roth -- presented some Irish songs, including "When Irish Eyes Are Smiling," "Sweet Rosie O'Grady," and " Galway Bay." - Dick played a group of songs: "La Paloma," "Helena Polka," "The Chicken Dance," and others from many different countries. - Bob Mansfield and Dick treated us to the "Liechtensteiner" and "Beer Barrel" Polkas. - Bob concluded the music with a "Gypsy Waltz" and "Mischievous Swing." We hope to see you all at the next meeting on April 15. The jam song will be "Easter Parade," key of C Major. Respectfully submitted, Lois Roth, Secretary. March Meeting Minutes Lois Roth Dick's NAA Award

• The club now has 34 paid members. • The checkbook balance is $1,367.27. This amount includes $51.75 in donations received today from those taking music from Dave Mannan's collection. • The Board has approved giving $100 each to three families to help with expenses for five students going to the NAA Convention in Dallas. • The OAC bylaws will be reviewed, and changes will be addressed soon. • At our next meeting on March 11, several members of the Adult Fun Band will give a preview of the convention selections. The complete band will play these songs at their concert in Dallas on Thursday, March 15. • The National Accordion Convention is March 15, 16, and 17. We were reminded to make reservations ASAP. • Anne Lopez said that Annie Johnston, one of our Tulsa members, has had surgery, and that she will send Annie a card from the Club. • Karen West volunteered to help design a new OAC business card. • Bob Mansfield was approved and unanimously voted in as our vice president. We appreciate his willingness to fill the office. • A program of fine accordion music followed the business meeting: −Dick began our Valentine's Day show with "Let Me Call You Sweetheart." Dick said it was a request from Billy Henson to Beth. −The Smith Sisters, Rebecca, Bria, and Madeline, played "This Is Our Song For You." −Becka soloed with "On Your Mark." −Bria and Maddie played "Annie in the Cabbage Patch." −Hannah Braden and Job Elliott's duet was "Clarinet Polka." −Job performed "Sharpshooters March." −Hannah performed "Autumn Nicole" by Dick Albreski. −Luke Adams played a lively solo titled "Accordion Jump." −Then Bob Mansfield and Win Blevins performed for us: • "Adio Querida" (a duet) • The "Theme from Antony and Cleopatra" (a solo by Win) • "Longa Farafaza" and "Si Tu Partais" (solos by Bob) −Frank Gesinski played "Happy Birthday" to Evie Albreski. He followed with "True Love" from High Society. −Roland Lohmann played his red accordion and sang "Have I Told You Lately That I Love You." He shared his happy memories of seeing Minnie Pearl with the Grand Ole Opry and hearing that song. −Anne Lopez added three love songs: "Love Me Tender" (with Bob Mansfield on vocal), "The Anniversary Song," and "Returning Dreams." −Dick treated us to "Un Valse Musette" and "La Tipica," a Mexican polka. −The program concluded with the Orchestra (Dan Orza, Karen West, and Lois Roth) playing a Valentine's Day medley, including "I Love You Truly," "I've Told Every Little Star," and "That's Amore." −Diana Richard took pictures as people performed. • Piano and organ books and sheet music from Dave Mannan's collection were on display for members to view and to take with them. The remaining music will be displayed at the March meeting. Donations will be gratefully accepted. We all enjoyed this great music-filled meeting!

OAC meeting. This will be our dress rehearsal. Anyone going to the NAA on March 15 who would like to play in the Recreational Band, please contact me ASAP. There will be local rehearsals before the Dallas event. I feel this will be the OAC year. Knowing the elected officers and their dedication to the accordion and our Club, I see big things in the horizon. Please continue to support our Club through your membership. Q. What do a true music lover and an accordionist have in common? A. Absolutely nothing. Q. What do you get when you toss an accordion off a tall building? A. Applause. Q. What does a long court hearing and a bad accordionist have in common? A. There is always a huge sigh of relief when the case is closed. Q. What is an accordion good for? A. An introductory course on map folding.

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!! February 2012! The Oklahoma Squeezins OAC MINUTES January 8, 2012 Meeting • Dick Albreski called the first meeting of the new year to order. • The 2012 officers were presented: hil Scibelli, Treasurer Evie Albreski, Librarian Diana Richard, and Secretary Lois Roth. Other appointees are: Hospitality Director Anne Lopez, Orchestra Director Dan Orza, and Newsletter Editor Frank Gesinski. • Dick read aloud Phil's letter from the January 2012 newsletter concerning the resignation of liver Delaney. • Secretary's report: The minutes from the last (November 2011) meeting are in the newsletter. • Treasurer's report: The bank balance is $250.99. The next report will include the annual dues that are in the process of being collected. • Librarian's report: We have archives!! • The club needs a vice president. Dick Albreski volunteered to run for that office. He was nominated and elected. • Dick reminded us that the Club's red accordion is on display and is for sale. New business followed: • Accordion teachers should inform Lois Roth if they have young students who want to play in the Youth Band at the Dallas Convention in March. • We were reminded that the Club's elected officers are: president, vice president, secretary, treasurer, and librarian. This group's purpose is to take care of everyday OAC business. • A newly elected Board of Directors will now be responsible for reviewing and correcting the apparent discrepancies in the Club's bylaws, and for addressing any other OAC problems that may arise. • After a period of discussion, four members were nominated and elected to the new Board of Directors. They are Dick Albreski, Bob Mansfield, Jackie Mashore, and Dan Orza. • Dick told us that Greg Klugiewicz's mother passed away recently. Greg is the chairman of the National Accordion Convention. • We gave a round of applause for Jackie Mashore -- Welcome back, Jackie! • The Club was reminded that Anne Lopez will no longer mail birthday cards to members. She will continue to send special cards (get well, condolence, etc.). Please call her if you know of any member in need of a card. • Bob Mansfield moved that the meeting be adjourned. • Dick Albreski gave us a very interesting and educational workshop about accordion reeds and reed blocks. Thank you, Dick! • Then it was Music Time! - Anne Lopez performed "April in Portugal," "I Could Have Danced All Night," "Arrivederci Roma," and "The Carioca." - Roland Lohmann played and sang "I Wonder Who's Kissing Her Now" and "C'est Manifique." - Renato Gladio performed several numbers, including "Under Paris Skies" and "Two Guitars." - Bob Mansfield concluded the solos with "Valse Caprice" and "Zug Farvus." - The orchestra ended the music program with "Spanish Eyes" and a rousing "Auld Lang Syne." Happy New Year everybody!! A final note: The red accordion has been sold!

Lois Roth OAC Minutes November 13, 2011 Meeting • liver Delaney called the meeting to order. • One guest, Lynda Moore, has an accordion for sale. She was referred to Dick Albreski for assistance. • Oliver read a paragraph from the Oklahoman Parade: Yo-Yo Ma's new hobby is the accordion! • Our Christmas meeting will be Sunday, December 4, at our usual place. It will start at 3:00 pm instead of 3:30 pm. The menu is still being planned -- if a full meal is decided upon, each member will be asked to bring a side dish. • Donations of winter hats, scarves, gloves, and socks will be collected at the meeting and given to a charity. Items should be new or nearly new. • Election of club officers for 2012 will take place soon. • Sil Lopez led us in a round of applause to thank Oliver for the October 16 picnic. • Members were asked to think about our 2012 agenda, and about what they want from the Club. Oliver would like to have a major function with the dual purpose of creating interest in the accordion and raising money. Members who have any new ideas for OAC are asked to contact Oliver Delaney or Phil Scibelli. • Several members gave brief sketches of their accordion playing history: - Janet Haskin is a pianist, and started playing accordion when she received her mother's accordion. - Margaret Oldham began taking lessons when she was in fourth grade. - Phil Scibelli took lessons as a child, and started playing again two years ago. - Anne Lopez was inspired to learn accordion after seeing Dick Contino perform at a theater in Cleveland, Ohio. - Renato began taking lessons at age 65. He was inspired by the Lawrence Welk show. - Oliver gave Micaiah Elliott his beginner lessons. • Members were reminded that jam books are available from Lois Roth or Diana Richard. • Then we had music! - Anne Lopez played "Bewitched, " "How Are Things in Glocca Morra," and "Lost Hope" (a Spanish waltz). - Janet Haskin performed "Carol of The Bells." - Karen West, Janet, and Lois played "Come Back To Sorrento" and "Mattinata." • A lively jam session followed the meeting. The theme for the December 4 meeting is Christmas!

!The Oklahoma Squeezins! November 2011! Annual Picnic Lois Roth Advertisement OAC Picnic October 16, 2011 A big Thank You to Oliver and Clare Delaney for hosting the picnic! After touring their beautiful historic home, we all enjoyed a bountiful picnicfeast. The weather was perfect for music on the patio afterwards. The trio (Karen West, Dan Orza, and Lois Roth) played "Ol' Man River" and three other songs; Bob Mansfield performed several pieces, including selections From Amelie, and Anne Lopez played "Danny Boy." Our next meeting will be Sunday, November 13, with an autumn/Thanksgiving theme. Orchestra rehearsal starts at 2:00 pm, and the regular meeting begins at 3:30. Respectfully submitted Lois Roth

September Meeting Minutes Lois Roth OAC Minutes September 11, 2011 Meeting The meeting opened with Dan Orza playing "El Cumbanchero." liver Delaney called us to order. He welcomed everybody, especially the three members who had made the long trip from Tulsa. • We passed around an article about the OAC from the December 2010 issue of Oklahoma Magazine that is an interview with Dick Albreski and Frank Gesinski. • Two accordions that are for sale were available for members to try. • The annual club picnic will be on Sunday, October 16, at the Delaney home. • Margaret Oldham announced that she has screenprinting equipment. If anyone has a place to set it up, we could print OAC tee shirts for the Club. Her suggestion was tabled. • Ann Lopez led us in a musical game of Name That Tune. Lois R. won the chocolate prize. • Bob Mansfield performed two original compositions: "Dance of the Gypsies" and "Mischievous Swing." He also explained his bellows shake method to us. • The orchestra played "Westphalia Waltz," "Schnee-Walzer" ("Snow Waltz"), and "Bohemian Polka." • The music ended with Janet Haskin performing "The Battle Hymn of the Republic." Advertisement

!! October 2011! The Oklahoma Squeezins The Great Accordion Myth Uncovered Joe Petosa The purpose of this article is to explain in detail the myth about the most frequently asked question when buying an accordion: "What does the accordion weigh?" This article would be completely pointless if accordions were sold by the pound. The truth is that all accordions with the same musical features will be similar in weight, give or take only a pound or two. Many accordions have shed a few pounds due to pre-manufactured components being substituted for plastic or metal in lieu of the traditional high quality sound of unique woods. The types of material accordions are made from are an important function of balance and playability. The only way to substantially reduce scale weight is to compromise musical ability or physical size. But there are more important things to consider than weight alone. So let us begin to understand what really makes an accordion lighter or heavier. Firstly, the accordion can be made smaller (lighter) or larger (heavier) by changing the number of playing notes and/or reed sets. The fewer notes and/or reed sets, the smaller an accordion can be made. The other alternative to obtain a smaller size accordion while maintaining the same amount of notes is by reducing the individual key width and spacing of the bass buttons. This design is for smaller statured adults or, more commonly, children. The most prevalent misconception is that fewer bass buttons means a smaller and lighter accordion. This couldn't be further from the truth. There are full-size 41-note accordions with 72 basses identical in size and weight to a 120-bass. Accordions are available with less than 39 notes, but maintain 120 basses. So let's understand what and why you should know in order to make an informed and appropriate decision. Changes on the bass side are unlike the treble side. There is not much difference between a 48- bass and 120-bass accordion, other than the number of buttons and the spacing. The standard Stradella bass system offers a 12 note musical range using either four or five sets of reeds with a respective three or four octave musical range. The bass reeds are called: Bass, Tenor, Alto, Contralto, and Soprano (the Soprano set adds an additional approx. 4.5 oz. of weight). Whether four or five sets of reeds and 48 or 120 basses, the bass mechanics are nearly identical with 12-bass fulcrum rods and valves along with 12-chord fulcrum rods and valves running the length of the bass box. The difference is the number of additional buttons that play a duplicate note. The purpose and advantage of more buttons is to ergonomically improve the player's ability to access different bass buttons (the same note), but without having to make huge jumps, thus making it easier to articulate. In essence, the more bass buttons, the more accessible and efficient the fingering. The additional weight per chord button is an amazing 0.009 oz. The scale weight difference between a 120- and 60-bass accordion, everything else being equal, is a mere 6 oz.! Understand that the right-hand note range and the overall keyboard length measurement from key end to key end determine the size of an accordion. This is why we see keyboard measurements described in specifications as 19¼", 18", 17", etc. If you divide the keyboard measurement (i.e. 18") by 24 (the number of white keys on standard 41- key accordion), you will obtain the width measurement of each white key, less the amount of space between the keys. The spacing between keys will vary depending on the quality of the accordion. The least amount of space the better. Also, check out the lateral movement of the keys. See how far one can be moved side to side. A well made keyboard will not allow one key to move laterally and touch another. The bass side is designed to accompany the musical range of the right hand. Therefore, the less keyboard note range the less bass buttons necessary. Standard Right and Left combinations are 41 treble and 120 bass (shown as 120/41), 37 treble and 96 bass (shown as 96/37), 34 treble and 72 bass (shown as 72/34), and 26 treble and 48 or 12 bass (shown as, you got it, 48/26). Don't be afraid of having too many bass buttons, they don't add weight, or make the accordion larger. Besides, when the accordion is on, how do you know how many there are? How many can you see? The second principal to understand is the accordion is something you wear, like a dress, suit, or pair of shoes. One thing we all do before buying clothing is to try the items on to make sure they fit right and feel comfortable. Most of us will try on a few different items to see which one fits best. And of course a tailor-made suit fits the best. Additional labor and skill is taken to ensure a proper fit. Accordions are made in the same way. Some have taken additional labor and skill for a better balance. Why would you buy an accordion without trying it and/or comparing it with others? Like clothing, accordions fit differently, and every accordion will fit an individual differently. Accordions should be Continued on next page

!The Oklahoma Squeezins! October 2011! compared to see which one feels the most comfortable to you. A correctly fitting instrument can help improve your learning and performance ability. The idea that accordions with the same keyboard length, reed sets, and playing notes are alike is absolutely untrue. The most critical aspects in choosing the right accordion are: Fit, Balance and Compression. You will soon learn this is more important than the "scale weight" (this is referred to as the "playable weight"). Fit is the first step. In order to have complete control of your accordion, it must properly fit your stature. Always try an accordion when seated. The length of the keyboard should begin just below your collarbone, and end slightly resting on the inside of your right thigh (this prevents movement when closing your bellows). Second, the accordion must remain stationary. It is important that your accordion be secure and not move while playing. With the correct fit, the accordion is locked in place with your shoulder straps and wedged with 60% of the weight on your lap and 40% on the shoulders. We know what it feels like to have a large accordion on...it is overwhelming. But too small can be just as difficult to play. If it is too short, then the accordion is not able to rest on your lap. Therefore, 100% of the weight is pressed on the shoulders, making it feel heavier. This also allows for too much movement and constant re-adjusting of the position of the accordion. Having to keep adjusting your straps to re-position the accordion back to that comfortable spot adds additional physical effort. If, over a period of playing time, the accordion starts to feel heavier, then all the extra effort takes away from conserving your physical energy in playing. Try a back strap as well. The most important purpose of the back strap is to hold the shoulder straps together allowing no movement of the accordion. If a back strap is too low, this takes weight off the shoulders by making the straps loose on top. This allows your straps to slide and move. Keeping the back strap higher or diagonal (high on the left straps across to a lower position on the right) secures the shoulder straps from sliding; this, in turn, keeps the accordion stationary. When the straps stay in place, your accordion will stay in place. No extra energy is expended fighting your straps. Once you find the proper size accordion that "fits," we can move on to understanding the next elements that are also important in obtaining the perfect accordion for you. Balance is a crucial and intricate part of an accordion. For example: using a 10-pound dumbbell or object with a similar weight, hold the object in your hand against your chest. You're holding 10 lbs. Now, fully extend your arm in front of you. Does the weight feel the same or a lot heavier? Even though the scale told us it is 10 lbs, it feels much heavier. Did the scale lie? Of course not, it's called leverage. The further weight gets away from the center point, being you, the heavier weight feels. Another example: what would be more difficult to carry, a 10" x 10" x 10" carton (40-inch circumference) weighing 10 pounds, or a 5' x 5' x 5' carton (20-foot circumference) weighing 5 pounds? If you weren't told the dimensions, you would choose the 5 lb. carton because it is lighter. But, knowing the physical size, the 5 lb. carton would be very difficult to carry due to its large diameter. Where weight is located is more important than the weight itself. Did you ever try to bench press when one side of the bar has more weight than the other, making it more difficult to press up because you were also compensating for the imbalanc

!The Oklahoma Squeezins! September 2011! August Meeting Lois Roth OAC Minutes August 14, 2011 Meeting liver Delaney called the meeting to order. We welcomed a new member, Maggie Abel. Oliver made the following announcements: • Our annual picnic will be on Sunday, October 16, at the Delaney home. Starting time will be 2:00 pm. Bring your accordions. • The new jam books (containing ten songs) are now available to Club members. • Members who have e-mail will receive a reminder of each meeting a few days ahead. Then we had some music! • Dick Albreski and Maggie Abel played a duet called "Kick Off." • Maggie soloed with "Skating." • Dick performed an old favorite --- "Moonlight in Vermont" ---- following with "Mozart Polka" and "Music, Music, Music." Oliver showed us a 1942 photograph of the OKC Accordion Orchestra. He asked OAC members to share any photos or memories they have concerning OKC accordion history. The band concluded the program with "My Wild Irish Rose," "The Song From Moulin Rouge," and "Edelweiss." Our next meeting will be Sunday, September 11, at 3:30 pm. Respectfully submitted, Lois Roth

!The Oklahoma Squeezins! July 2011! Oklahoma Accordion Club June 12, 2011 Vice hil Scibelli called the meeting to order. Guests and members were welcomed. This was an "all music" meeting with many fine performances: • Hannah Braden (accordion) and Clem Braden (mandolin) started us off with "The Irish Washer Woman" and "Fisher's Hornpipe." Then Hannah played her own arrangement of "The Entertainer" by Scott Joplin. • Dick Albreski (accordion) and Barbara Duer (banjo) had toes tapping with "Chinatown" and "Alabama Jubilee." • Dick followed with a "Vagabond Medley" of many different types of songs. • Janet Haskin, Karen West, and Lois Roth played "In The Good Old Summertime," "Cielito Lindo," and "Love Makes The World Go Round." • Phil Scibelli treated us to "Neapolitan Girl," "Sparkling," and "El Rancho Grande." • Janet Haskin played several songs, including "Amazing Grace" and "The Tulsa Lumpenball Polka" by our own Dick Albreski. • The meeting ended with Anne Lopez performing an accordion medley. Barbara Duer joined in with her banjo on "Harbor Lights" and several other songs. The next meeting is scheduled for Sunday, July 10, with a patriotic theme. June Meeting Lois Roth

!The Oklahoma Squeezins! June 2011! Oklahoma Accordion Club Minutes of the May 8, 2011 meeting liver Delaney called the meeting to order. • Special recognition was given to Dan Orza for his work with the band, and to Dick Albreski for his work done on the membership drive. • Name badges were presented to Barbara Duer and Carolyn Felder. A big welcome to our two new members! • Frankie and Eleanor Martinez told us about the Conjunto Festival at Rosedale Park in San Antonio, Texas on the weekend of May 13-15. They will attend, but will not be performing. • The music was superb as always! • Barbara and Dick played "Jamboree." • Frankie and Eleanor entertained us with "Por El Amor a Mi Madre," "Mil Noches," and "El Gavilán Pollero." • Bob Mansfield performed a tango medley: "Dicitencello Vuie," "Pygmalion," and "Nightingale's Tango." He also played and sang "Perfidia." • Carolyn Felder told how she started playing accordion, and debuted with "Oh, How I Love Jesus." • Oliver told about buying his first accordion, and then taking it apart and reassembling it. He suggested performers tell a little of their "accordion history" before they play. • Dick Albreski played a medley of songs from various countries including: "That's Amore," "Edelweiss," "Bésame Mucho," and "The Pennsylvania Polka." He related his accordion history and how he became a full time performer, teacher, buyer, seller, and repairer of accordions. • The next OAC meeting will be June 12. The theme will be Father's Day! Respectfully submitted, Lois Roth May Meeting Lois Roth How do you get an accordionist to play in time? Get them to play by themselves. How do you make two accordionists play in time? Shoot one of them. How do you protect a valuable instrument? Hide it in an accordion case. Knock-Knock. Who's there? Accordion. Accordion who? Accordion to the TV, it's going to be cold out.

!! June 2011! The Oklahoma Squeezins Bio Sign First, a very brief history. I was born and grew up in Des Plaines, Illinois (near Chicago), and am a graduate of the Evanston Hospital School of Nursing. I was married to Edward Roth for 28 years, and we had three children, all born in Carlsbad, New Mexico. In the 1960s and 70s, Carlsbad was a thriving town because of the potash mines where Ed was a mining engineer with Kerr- McGee. Now for my accordion history. When I was about eight years old, I went to a friend's birthday party where she played her new accordion for her guests, and OH HOW I WANTED ONE! The next Christmas, Santa obliged with a 12-bass. My sister Barbara and I took lessons for several years, with a step-up to a 120-bass along the way. Our Dad was our staunch supporter -- he even liked listening to our practice sessions. Our Uncle Elmer (pictured above) played concertina expertly, and Barbara and I sometimes played accordion with him at family gatherings. From him came my love of German music. Elmer is gone now, but I have a collection of his sheet music, and still enjoy playing it. Lessons stopped when high school started, but there was music -- I played viola in the orchestra and learned to appreciate classical music, and more importantly, how to keep one eye on the conductor. I picked up the accordion again in the 70s, when I bought a student-sized Hohner on a trip to El Paso, Texas, and began taking lessons from Bill Ground back in Carlsbad. We performed occasionally at a retirement home, and played together for several years. Our family moved to Edmond, Oklahoma in 1984, and Ed passed away two years later. My daughter Diana and I joined OAC in 2005 by way of Dick Albreski. My current accordion is a 96- bass Scandalli, bought in August 2001 from Lindberg Musik in Munich, Germany. One memorable day, I discovered there is no quicker cure for jet lag than walking into a store full of accordions - what an eye-opener! It has all been fun and still is. I cannot imagine life without playing and listening to accordion music. Accordion Foot Rest One of our new members, Barbara Duer, uses a "classical guitar foot rest" when she plays her accordion. She is pictured here playing with Dick Albreski. And, as you can see, when she places her left foot on the rest, it gives her better balance and allows her to open her bellows without bending them around her knee. While this may not be for everyone, you may want to give it a try. The foot rest folds up compactly, is adjustable to several heights, costs under $20, and is available in music stores and on-line. Lois Roth

!The Oklahoma Squeezins! May 2011! Oklahoma Accordion Club Minutes of the April 10, 2011 Meeting liver Delaney called the meeting to order at 3:45 pm. • Oliver reported on the March NAA Convention in Dallas. He also reviewed the March OAC meeting. • We were reminded that Frank Gesinski would like biographies from club members (contact him for a bio form). The club says thank you to Frank for doing such a fine job with the monthly Squeezins. • Diana Richard reminded us that if you need a replacement name badge, you must buy one. A reminder will be placed in the May Squeezins. She showed us a cart from Home Depot that is sturdy and is great for accordion transport. The price is $26. • Dick Albreski announced that a donated accordion will be raffled off in the near future. • New OAC business cards (from Margaret Oldham) are available for distribution. • Club members should check the Squeezins each month for info about the next meeting. • Dan Orza announced the Orchestra's future gigs. The next one will be on May 1 at the OKC Marathon, early morning, weather permitting. • We welcomed a guest, Carolyn Felder. • It was decided to have the May meeting on the usual day, May 8, even though it is Mother's Day and a busy day for many. • The annual picnic is tentatively planned for July. Ideas and input are welcome. • Then the following entertainment was enjoyed by all: - Frankie and Eleanor Martinez performed "Nuevo Laredo," "Volver Volver," and "Atotonilco." - Renaldo played two of his own arrangements. - Anne Lopez played "Never on Sunday," "La Paloma," "Dumani," "Besame Mucho," and the "Theme from The Godfather." - Orchestra members Dan Orza and Lois Roth presented some seasonal music: "Peter Cottontail," "April Showers," and "Easter Parade." Our next meeting will be on May 8. The theme: MOTHER! The schedule will be Orchestra rehearsal from 2:00 to 3:00 pm; board meeting 3:00 to 3:30; and general meeting starting at 3:30 p m. Respectfully submitted, Lois Roth April Meeting Lois Roth Advertisement

!! May 2011! The Oklahoma Squeezins Bio Sign Our victim this month is Frank Gesinski. Frank was born and raised in Detroit and southeastern Michigan, and has lived and worked in southern California, Mexico City, Montreal, Toronto, Houston, Dallas, and Tulsa. He and is wife, Rosa Maria, were married in Mexico City, where Frank lived and worked for several years. They have two children: Eric, who lives in Jenks, Oklahoma, and Marni, who lives in Maryland. Eric plays the guitar, and Marni is a pianist. Frank is a Certified Business Continuity Planner as well as being a tech writer and, for many years, worked for American Airlines and Sabre. When he was eight years old, Frank started asking his parents to have accordion lessons. Finally, after a couple of years, they relented. He took lessons for a year or two, and hasn't stopped annoying people with his playing since then. In high school, he played in a fourpiece band that played at dances and an occasional wedding reception. After moving to Tulsa, Frank started playing with The Polkatimers. They, too, play at various Oktoberfests, parties, and receptions. And they have played several times on a local Tulsa radio station over the years. Frank also entertained solo in a local German restaurant for eight years, playing the accordion and telling corny jokes. Frank has been an OAC member since a few months after the club's founding, and has been the newsletter editor for many of those years.

!The Oklahoma Squeezins! March 2011! Page 3 Oklahoma Accordion Club February 2011 Meeting Minutes Our Valentine meeting was held on Sunday, February 9. liver Delaney presided. There were 21 members present, and one guest, Ray Luth, brought by Bob Mansfield. •The outgoing officers were recognized and thanked for their work. •The minutes of the January meeting were approved as presented. •The January treasurer's report was approved as presented. •The librarian reported that the website is in upand-running. •The club has gained three new members: Win and Meredith Blevins, and Maryhelen Hagge. •Dan Orza announced that the orchestra played for a Mustang Heights Baptist Church party on February 11. He said that orchestra appearances help with club publicity, as does the monthly calendar of events. •Phil Scibelli proposed giving more structure to each meeting with a written schedule and a signin board for performers. •Oliver Delaney suggested ways to energize and enlarge the club, including: - Encourage members to bring guests to the meetings. - Have a special event meeting this summer. - Plan a trip to Tulsa to meet with the Tulsa group. - Create a theme for each meeting -- a holiday, when appropriate. - Plan each meeting in more detail, and shorten the meeting time, if possible. •New business cards will be printed for the club. •We thanked Ann Lopez for sending birthday cards to members. Ann asked us to tell her about any member who should have a get well or other type of card sent to him or her. •We sang “Happy Birthday” to Margaret Oldham, and we all enjoyed the cake she brought. •We were informed that the Cowboy Hall of Fame has a stage for performances. •Bob Mansfield reminded us that board meetings are open to all members. •Then it was music time! - The orchestra played several Valentine songs including "Because of You, " "That's Amore," and "People Will Say We're In Love." - Roland Lohmann serenaded us with "Se Magnifica" (ooh-la-la!) and "Bella Notte." - Bob Mansfield and new member, Win Blevins, played Offenbach's “Barcarolle.” - Bob performed "Sabor a Mi” and "Besame Mucho." Then he switched from accordion to button box and played an original composition, "Blue Bottom Button." - For the finale, Dick Albreski played "Lover," "Granada," and "Bella Notte." Our next meeting will be on Sunday, March 20. This is a week later than usual because of the Big Event in Dallas. There will be a bellows shake workshop given by Dan Orza. Respectfully submitted, Lois Roth February Meeting Lois Roth Advertisement

!The Oklahoma Squeezins! January 2011! Minutes Oklahoma Accordion Club December 4, 2010 The Christmas party was held -- in conjunction with the regular meeting -- on Saturday, December 4, with A potluck was held with the club providing fried chicken, and members bringing side dishes and desserts. All the food was delicious, and members enjoyed the time of fellowship. Bob Mansfield led the entertainment by playing various Christmas carols: "Christmas Waltz," "I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day," and "There's No Place Like Home for the Holidays." He also played the "B.C. Clark Jingle," and was joined by Jackie Mashore who led the members in singing the lyrics. He followed up with "Rudolph the Red- Nosed Reindeer," "The Christmas Song," "Let It Snow," "Jingle Bell Rock," and "White Christmas." The following officers were elected for the 2011-2012 term: President-Oliver Delaney; Vice President-Phil Scibelli; Secretary-Lois Roth; Treasurer-Evie Albreski: and Historian-Diana Richard. The following amendment was voted on and passed by the membership by secret ballot: "No expenditure or commitment of funds over $50.00 may be made by any club member, including board members, without approval of at least two members of the Board of the Oklahoma Accordion Club." Beth Henson reported that Bill Henson, OAC president, was working out-of-town and was sorry he couldn't be at the Christmas party and meeting. Hannah Brennan, one of our very talented younger members, performed "Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer" and "Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring." The OAC Orchestra performed the "Merry Christmas Overture," "Greensleeves," and "Frosty the Snowman." Karen West performed "Winter Wonderland." Dick Albreski closed out the event with "Let It Snow" and "White Christmas." Since the Christmas party was held the first weekend of December, it was a perfect lead-in to the Christmas season. Everyone left feeling the joy of the upcoming holiday. A special thank you goes to Dick and Evie Albreski for arranging for and picking up the food, bringing table decorations, etc. A thank you also goes to their assistant, Anne Lopez, who helped set up the tables. This is the last meeting for which I will be taking minutes. Thank you for allowing me to serve during the past two years. It has been my pleasure and gave me the opportunity to become more acquainted with our great members. Respectfully submitted, Beth Henson December Meeting Beth Henson It's Time to Plan Dick Albreski In less then 70 days, the National Accordion Association's 24th Annual Convention and Trade show will start in Dallas Texas. The convention will run from March 10 to 12, 2011, at the Westin Park Central Hotel in Dallas, Texas. This year's preplanning gossip indicates one of the best meetings ever. Our OAC Youth will again perform at this meeting. There will be a lot more information to follow. Mark your calendar today! The American Accordionists Association (AAA) will host its annual Festival from July 13 to 17, 2011 at the Charleston Airport Sheraton, in Charleston, SC. The AAA is very student-oriented, and they will bring some of the best young and notso-young accordionist together for a truly memorable accordion experience. I give this show a 10, and urge you to put it on your things to do. More data on this meeting will follow.

!! December 2010! The Oklahoma Squeezins November Meeting Beth Henson Minutes Oklahoma Accordion Club November 14, 2010 • • Vice immie Woolly called the meeting to order. •The Christmas party will be held at the church on Saturday, December 4, from 3:00 to 5:00 pm -- The club will provide meat and bread; members are asked to bring side dishes and/or desserts -- Members may bring one guest each -- Members are also asked to bring caps, gloves, socks, etc., which Jimmie will take to downtown shelters for the homeless. • Elections for new officers will be held at the December meeting -- Those running for office are: President: Oliver Delaney Vice President: Phil Scibelli Treasurer: Evie Albreski Secretary: Lois Roth Historian: Diana Richard. • An addendum will be made to the bylaws to add a limit to the amount that can be spent without board approval -- This will also be voted on at the December meeting. • The orchestra performed "The Missouri Waltz" and "Waltz Across Texas." • Bob Mansfield performed "Tora Ora" and "Up Doc." • Dick Albreski performed a Christmas medley and a piece titled "Tulips from Amsterdam." • Members were reminded to renew their memberships. Respectfully submitted, Beth Henson

!! November 2010! The Oklahoma Squeezins Minutes Oklahoma Accordion Club October 10, 2010 • • Vice immie Woolly called the meeting to order. • New member Rinato Gladio was presented his OAC name badge. • Members were reminded that the election of all club members is coming up in November. The new officers will be announced in December at the Christmas party, and will begin serving in January 2011. • Both Janet Haskin and Frank Gesinski attended from Tulsa. Several visitors attended, including Mike Clark; Gary and Stephany Elliott; and Clem, Paul, Sara, and David Braden, as well as June Butricks. • Dan Orza played a piece he wrote 53 years ago, while a junior in high school, titled "Fantasity." • We were entertained by two of our student members, Hannah Braden and Job Elliott. They began with a duet of "The Lawrence Welk Tribute." Hannah performed "Let's Dance the Polka" with Dick Albreski. Job and Dick followed with "The Accordion Jump." Hannah played a solo, "Autumn Breeze." Job played "Fascination." They closed out their concert with a duet, "Sparkling." Both Hannah and Job are talented accordionists, and all in attendance enjoyed their performances. • The OAC orchestra performed "Carnival of Venice" and "Under Paris Skies." • Frank Gesinski performed Oktoberfest music, "Bauernhauser Walzer" and "In Heaven There Is No Beer." • Jimmie Woolly played accordion, and his friend Mike Clark played ukulele on duets, "Tick Tock Polka" and "I'll Fly Away." This was an unusual but very enjoyable performance. • Bob Mansfield performed "Italian Themes Suite," "Up Doc," and "French Sojourn with Psychotic Reaction," written by his son Beau. October Meeting Beth Henson

!! October 2010! The Oklahoma Squeezins September Meeting Beth Henson Minutes Oklahoma Accordion Club September 12, 2010 • • ill Henson called the meeting to order. • Dick Albreski introduced his friends, Nick Ballarini and Greg Klugiewicz, who drove to Oklahoma City from Texas for the meeting. • Greg gave an overview of the 2011 National Accordion Association meeting that will be held in Dallas, Texas, March 10-12, 2011. He invited everyone to participate. • Nick gave a mini-concert and played a variety of music, some of which included Mexican, Italian, Western, and Big Band. He played a special piece, the Sesame Street theme song, for Roland Lohmann's two-year-old granddaughter Avery. Club members and guests thoroughly enjoyed listening to this very talented and entertaining artist. • Following the concert, Nick answered questions and demonstrated some of the many beautiful Roland accordions he brought with him. • Roland Lohmann donated $28 to the club treasury from the sales of homemade root beer. For every bottle sold to club members, he will donate $4. If the bottle is returned to him, the donation will increase. He provided root beer floats to the membership for snacks - it was delicious. Respectfully submitted, Beth Henson

Page 2 July 2010 The Oklahoma Squeezins Did you ever hear the phrase, ”It won’t last?” There were those who said the Oklahoma Accordion Club wouldn’t last, but at the OAC Birthday Party on June 13th, 2010, we proved that statement wrong. Our members are truly dedicated to keeping the accordion alive and well. A sincere “thanks” to Oliver Delaney for taking charge of the event. The food was great, and preparations were more then expected. A sincere “thanks” to the board for their wish to celebrate our ten years of growth. A sincere “thanks,” also, to all members who have supported the OAC and, hopefully, your support will continue in the future. I feel a strong sense of pride in our accomplishments, and look forward to what the next ten years will bring. I do know that you cannot go forward until you review the past. illy Henson remembered those members who have passed away: Karl Geppert, Bob Lynch, Al Good, Fred Onken, Judy Cathey, Lillian Leskala, Erv and Millie Biernat. We know their “Squeezin is now Pleasin.” Each of us has a role in the club and each of us should express our thoughts and wishes for the club. I can’t recall any moment in time that a member did not have a voice in the club’s future. Take a moment and think hard about what you feel the club should be doing. We have 55 supporting members. If each of us contributed an idea, there would be 55 new ideas. Who knows, we could even have another “bash.” The expenses for June give a hint for the club to consider a FUND RAISER. We are not in the red (current checkbook balance is $812.32). But, There was no income for June, and our expenses totaled $775.00. Again, if there are 55 supporting members who could give a fund raising idea, who knows what could happen. See you all on July 11th at the Messiah Lutheran Church. PRESIDENT Bill Henson Mustang, OK MustangBilly@cox.net VICE-PRESIDENT Jim Wooley Oklahoma City, OK jimmiewoolly@sbcglobal.net TREASURER Dick Albreski 7109 NW 102nd Street Oklahoma City, OK 73162 405/721-0564 evrich@swbellnet SECRETARY Beth Henson Mustang, OK BHenson1@cox.net HISTORIAN/LIBRARIAN Bob Mansfield Oklahoma City, OK bobmansfield@cox.net PAST PRESIDENT Dan Orza P. O. Box 721320 Oklahoma City, OK 73172 cell: 405/326-1124 fax: 405/722-5525 dano9731@att.net NEWSLETTER EDITOR Frank Gesinski 8035 South Irvington Tulsa, OK 74136-8404 918/492-1715 OKAccordionClub@sbcglobal.net WEBMASTER Diana Richard Diana.l.richard@gmail.com WEBSITE http://www.okaccordions.com/ The Treasurer Sez Dick Albreski A d v e r t i s e n e n t

The Oklahoma Squeezins July 2010 Page 3 June Minutes Beth Henson Minutes Oklahoma Accordion Club June 13, 2010 • President Bill Henson welcomed 25 members and 11 guests to the celebration of the OAC’s tenth anniversary. Everyone enjoyed a wonderful catered Italian meal, funded by the club. • Bill presented a nametag to new member Jocelyn Pederson. • According to the first newsletter, Bob Mansfield performed at the very first meeting of the OAC, and it was considered fitting that he should perform at the tenth anniversary party. He, his son Beau Mansfield, and student Jocelyn Pederson performed several pieces. Solos performed by Bob were “Russian Energy Drink” (composed by Beau), and “81 Rue de Briey (Valse Caprice).” Bob and Jocelyn performed “Bluebird Waltz,” “Copy Cat,” and” Follow the Leader.” Bob and Beau performed “Blue Skirt Waltz,” “La Camparsa,” and “Quisos Post.” • The founding members of the OAC were: Dick Albreski, Richard Butricks, Oliver Delaney, Frank Gesinski, Bob Mansfield, Johnny Sakaly, Kay Stout, and L.D. Todd. • Members who have passed away in the past ten years are: Karl Geppert, Al Good, Judy Cathey, Lillian Leskala, Bob Lynch, Erv and Mildred Biernat, Fred Onken, and Virginia Driscko. • Anne Lopez performed “Tarantella,” “Amoré,” and an Italian medley to go with our Italian meal theme. • Dick Albreski, who was also at the first meeting, performed “Becca’s Request,” “Breanna’s Dream,” and “The Madelyn Polka” in honor of his granddaughters who were at the party. He also performed “I Love to Dance” in honor of his wife Evie. • Norwood and Nina Dunham of Tulsa, Oklahoma were able to attend the celebration, and recently celebrated their 62nd wedding anniversary. Nina donated musical instruments to the OAC. • Dick said that in the last ten years he was privileged to visit the factory in Italy where his accordion was built; got to attend the Coupe Mondiale in Arlington, Virginia; and has composed two books of music, one of which was recently copyrighted. • The food was delicious, the tables were decorated beautifully, the music was fantastic, the company was great -- it was a festive occasion, and the tenth anniversary of the Oklahoma Accordion Club was an event that will be remembered for a long time to come. Respectfully submitted, Beth Henson

June 2010 The Oklahoma Squeezins May Minutes Beth Henson Minutes Oklahoma Accordion Club May 9, 2010 • Vice immie Woolly called the meeting to order in the absence of ill Henson, who was working out of town. • A name badge was presented to new member Phil Scibelli. • Oliver Delaney discussed the upcoming celebration of the tenth anniversary of the OAC, which will be held at the June 13th meeting. It was recommended that we have an Italian meal, and that each member can bring one guest. Beth Henson volunteered to help make phone calls to the membership, if necessary. Margaret Oldham volunteered to bake and decorate a birthday cake. • Johnny Sakaly inquired if anyone had seen the movie "Schultze Gets the Blues." Several members had and said it is a good flick. It is about a German accordion polka player, newly unemployed, who fell in love with Zydeco music and ended up in Louisiana. A link to a preview of the movie is at: http:// www.imdb.com/video/screenplay/vi814088473. It does look entertaining as it is billed as comedy/ drama/music -- a good combination for a movie. • The OAC orchestra will perform at the Italian Festival on June 5th. Anyone interested in participating should contact Dan Orza. • Club members are encouraged to bring new members to the Club meetings. • We had some great performances from our very talented members: - The orchestra performed the following numbers: "Love Makes the World Go Round," "Let Me Call You Sweetheart," and "My Irish Rose." - Jimmie Woolly and Dick Albreski performed "Your Cheating Heart," "Rocky Top," and "Tick Tock Polka." - Dan Orza performed "El Cumbanchero." - Duetists Phil Scibelli and Dick Albreski played "Evening in Roma." - Dick performed "Twilight Time," "I Could Have Danced All Night," "Blue Moon," "Over the Rainbow," and "Besame Mucho." • Dick mentioned friends who are having health problems, including Nina Dunham and Tony Lovello. We wish them the best. Respectfully submitted, Beth Henson ADDENDUM: All members are invited and encouraged to attend the celebration of the tenth anniversary of the OAC on June 13th. Please try to be present.

May 2010 The Oklahoma Squeezins Advertisement Minutes Oklahoma Accordion Club April 11, 2010 •Vice immie Woolly called the meeting to order since ill Henson is working in Amarillo, Texas. •Dan Orza thanked everyone for jamming before the meeting began. •There was no recommendation from the committee for the June birthday party. Two suggestions were made from the floor: 1. Have a barbeque dinner catered for the membership, or 2. Have an Italian dinner catered (Dan is to get more information about a caterer he knows). It was suggested that the meal be served at the church during the regular meeting time if the church would give permission, or at the Stars & Stripes Park. The board will follow up with Oliver Delaney to see if he has made other plans. Every member would be permitted to bring one guest at no charge. A firm decision will be made by the May meeting. •Although the May meeting falls on Mother's Day this year, the meeting will be held as usual. •The youth accordionists accompanied club members as they sang "Happy Birthday" to Eleanor Martinez. •Job Elliott, Hannah Braden, and Dick Albreski performed the pieces that the youth played at the National Accordion Association convention in Dallas. Job and Hannah learned every part so that they would be able to fill in where needed during the concert, and did an outstanding job. Pieces played today were "Melody of Love," "Tinker Polka," "Lawrence Welk Tribute," and "The Accordion March." Solos were performed by Hannah: "Sparkling," and by Job: "Honky Tonk Polka." They are both very talented young people. Maddie, Brea, and Becca Smith also performed at the NAA, but couldn't attend today's meeting because of a conflict with soccer matches. •We had the pleasure of having members of the Tulsa Accordion Band attend our meeting -- Janet Haskin, Annie Johnston, and Barbara Mahar. They, along with Dan Orza, performed "Blue Skirt Waltz" by Vai Blaha/Mitchell Parish, "Easter Parade" by Irving Berlin, and "Faust Waltz" by G. Gounod. •Dan Orza performed "Jolly Caballero." •Dick Albreski performed "Laura" and "Lover." •New member Phil Scibelli played "The Teddy Bear March" and "Elaine." •Jimmie Woolly played "Amazing Grace" and "How Great Thou Art." Respectfully submitted, Beth Henson April Minutes Beth Henson

Beth Henson Advertisement Minutes March 14, 2010 ill Henson called the meeting to order. In attendance were The new members are Phil Scibelli and Jocelyn Pedersen, both of whom played the accordion when they were younger and have now decided to pull their accordions from the closet and resume playing. Welcome to the OAC! Bill reported on the NAA convention in Dallas this weekend, and on the various workshops that he attended. Bob Mansfield shared a great article about himself that appeared in The Norman Transcript this weekend, highlighting his multi-faceted life as accordionist and hairdresser, as well as many other areas. The article can be seen at: http://normantranscript.com/features/x1491882962/Accordian-to-him. We all agreed that he doesn't look like he's approaching his 70th birthday, and he says that he believes his music keeps him young. We wish you a happy birthday, Bob, with many more to come! Karen West announced that she is retiring on May 29. Congratulations, Karen! We were reminded of the OAC website: www.okaccordions.com. We were entertained by our talented musicians: • Anne Lopez performed "When Irish Eyes Are Shining," "How Are Things in Glocka Morra," "Danny Boy," and "Irish Washerwoman." • Roland Lohmann performed "My Heart Is Weary" by G. Paisiello, "Under the Double Eagle" by J.H. Wagner, and "Waltz Musette" by Jo Bash and E. Bash. • Bob Mansfield performed "Cpqye (Hearth)," "Brahmsiana Dance," "Domino/Tango I," and "Pango Polka." • The youth who performed at the convention did very well. Youth from our club were the Smith girls, Hannah Braden, and Job Elliott. • The Las Vegas Accordion Convention will be held on November 1-5.

April 2010 The Oklahoma Squeezins 2010 NAA Convention Dan Orza Advertisement Accordion Lessons Dan Orza Two Master's Degrees in Music & Ed. Music Educator Dept Head Retired US Army Band Commander Conductor at NAA Call 405/326-1124 Dano9731@att.net

Page 4 February 2010 The Oklahoma Squeezins January Minutes Beth Henson Minutes Oklahoma Accordion Club January 10, 2010 • The meeting was called to order by Vice immie Woolly. There were 12 members in attendance. • It was noted that the OAC website is up and running (http://www.okaccordions.com). • A report was given on the Christmas party, and everyone agreed it was fun. Dick Albreski said that it would be good if we could pick advance dates for the summer picnic and Christmas party so that everyone can participate. • Dick pointed out that the OAC will be ten years old in June -- the club was founded June 2000. We had a birthday cake for the fifth anniversary, and it would be nice to do something special this year to celebrate. A motion was made and passed to have a tenth-year birthday party. We should consider a date when our out-of-town members will be able to attend. The date of June 13 was suggested. A committee was established, with members Oliver Delaney, Jackie Mashore, and Jimmie Woolly, to come up with a recommendation for a celebration. They will submit a report at the next meeting. • Jackie Mashore reminded us that club members had played at the NAMI (National Alliance of Mental Illness) walk a few years ago. A photograph of the group was taken at that time, and it is still used as part of the NAMI’s advertising. Their next walk is May 16, and they would like to have players again, as a group or as solos. The event will be held in Stars and Stripes Park. • Dick said that the Bohemian Knights, the band he and Milo Shedeck play in, will be performing at the Royal Bavarian Restaurant and Beer Garden on Friday, January 15; Friday, January 22; Saturday, January 23; and Friday, January 29. Performances begin at 6:00 pm. • Anne Lopez suggested that we have a social night at the Czech Hall, and listen and dance to the music of the Bohemian Knights. • We had lovely performances from the following individuals: - Anne Lopez: “Lina Mazurka,” “Fanciulla che Sogna,” and “Santa Lucia” - Dan Orza: “The Sharpshooter’s March” - Dick Albreski: “Edelweiss,” “The Secret,” and “Continental Caper” • Dan reported on the performance by Lois Roth, Max Gunter, and himself at the Scandinavian Festival. They had a good time and enjoyed the event. • Richard Butricks would like to have the club travel to Enid to the Pegasus studio to make a recording as a promotional tool for the OAC. Recordings could be as a group or of individual members. He could make arrangements for a Saturday or a late-evening recording time. Respectfully submitted, Beth Henson Advertisement

Page 6 December 2009 The Oklahoma Squeezins November Meeting Minutes Lois Roth Minutes Oklahoma Accordion Club November 8, 2009 • ill Henson called the meeting to order. He apologized for missing the October meeting, and thanked Jimmie Woolly for presiding. • Bill read a note from the Yukon Czech Hall, thanking the OAC orchestra for performing at the Polka Picnic. • Bob Mansfield, club historian, has the music that has been given or contributed to the club, but it is not in good order. The Board recommends that the music be disposed of. In the future, if a member wants a particular piece, they may talk to Bob, Dan Orza, or Dick Albreski, who all have extensive libraries of music. Bob will maintain articles about the accordion and the OAC. • Diana Richard has been working on our club’s website, and it is up and looks great. The URL is http://www.okaccordions.com. A calendar of club events is included on the site. Thanks to Diana and her husband for their hard work. • The Christmas party will be held on December 5, at the Czech Hall in Yukon, 2:30-5:30 pm. The party will take the place of the December meeting. We will have to clean up at the end. The club will provide chicken and salads; members are asked to bring cookies or candy. Members are allowed to bring one guest each; there will be a $5 charge for additional guests. Members are also asked to bring gloves, scarves, caps, socks, etc., for a charity. • An entertainment committee was established for the party and is headed up by Beth Henson. There were no volunteers for the committee. If anyone has ideas for the party, they should contact Beth. • Bob Mansfield performed “Sweetly,” “Hearth Tango,” “If It Takes Forever,” “All My Love,” and “Your Baby Blues.” • Anne Lopez performed “Vaya Con Dios,” “Back in the Saddle Again,” “Happy Trails to You,” and other Western tunes. • Members participated in jamming immediately following the meeting. • Richard Butricks noted that he and June will celebrate their 45th wedding anniversary on November 24. Congratulations! Respectfully submitted, Beth Henson Advertisement Accordion Lessons Dan Orza Two Master's Degrees in Music & Ed. Music Educator Dept Head Retired US Army Band Commander Conductor at NAA Call 405/326-1124 Dano9731@att.net Tune challenge for accordion thief Richard Browning was stopped in his car with the instrument hidden behind his driver's seat, Lewes Crown Court was told on Monday. The £150 price tag was still attached to the accordion although Browning, of Midhurst Road, Eastbourne, claimed he had been using the instrument to busk on the streets of Seaford, East Sussex. But the police officer, who stopped the 31-yearold in August last year, challenged him to play a tune to prove it was not stolen. When Browning failed to raise a note on the instrument, the officer arrested him for shoplifting. It was eventually discovered the accordion had been stolen from Music Memorabilia Saddlers House in High Street, Alfriston. Browning, who admitted the theft of the accordion and 14 other crimes that included burglary and driving offences, was sentenced to two years in jail.

Lois Roth Minutes Oklahoma Accordion Club November 8, 2009 • ill Henson called the meeting to order. He apologized for missing the October meeting, and thanked Jimmie Woolly for presiding. • Bill read a note from the Yukon Czech Hall, thanking the OAC orchestra for performing at the Polka Picnic. • Bob Mansfield, club historian, has the music that has been given or contributed to the club, but it is not in good order. The Board recommends that the music be disposed of. In the future, if a member wants a particular piece, they may talk to Bob, Dan Orza, or Dick Albreski, who all have extensive libraries of music. Bob will maintain articles about the accordion and the OAC. • Diana Richard has been working on our club's website, and it is up and looks great. The URL is http://www.okaccordions.com. A calendar of club events is included on the site. Thanks to Diana and her husband for their hard work. • The Christmas party will be held on December 5, at the Czech Hall in Yukon, 2:30-5:30 pm. The party will take the place of the December meeting. We will have to clean up at the end. The club will provide chicken and salads; members are asked to bring cookies or candy. Members are allowed to bring one guest each; there will be a $5 charge for additional guests. Members are also asked to bring gloves, scarves, caps, socks, etc., for a charity. • An entertainment committee was established for the party and is headed up by Beth Henson. If anyone has ideas for the party, they should contact Beth. • Bob Mansfield performed "Sweetly," "Hearth Tango," "If It Takes Forever," "All My Love," and "Your Baby Blues." • Anne Lopez performed "Vaya Con Dios," "Back in the Saddle Again," "Happy Trails to You," and other Western tunes. • Members participated in jamming immediately following the meeting. • Richard Butricks noted that he and June will celebrate their 45th wedding anniversary on November 24. Congratulations!

November 2009 The Oklahoma Squeezins Minutes Oklahoma Accordion Club October 11, 2009 • • The orchestra jammed until 3:30. • Jimmie Woolly called the meeting to order and stated that there was no new business to discuss. • Dick Albreski told us more about the Christmas party that will be on Saturday, December 5, at the Czech Hall, from 2:00 to 5:00 pm. Each club member may bring one friend. The club will provide chicken, drinks, and salads (potato, cole slaw, etc.). Members should bring appetizers and desserts. We will collect winter clothing accessories for charity. Bring hats, scarves, gloves, socks, etc. DO NOT wrap them. • It was noted that the band has a gig on December 5 starting at 4:00 pm. Band members will have to leave the party early. • Dick A. treated the group to an Oktoberfest concert: "In München Steht Ein Hofbräuhaus," "Schützen Liesel," several polkas, a German medley, and "The Chicken Dance!" • Karen West played "Walking After Midnight." • Melba Ewing played "Goodbye World Goodbye." • Ellen Wilson played "Happy Trails To You." • Then we jammed some more. • Jimmie played gospel music and we had a ball! Respectfully submitted, Lois Roth, Acting Secretary November Meeting Minutes Lois Roth Our meeting will be November 8 -- we need you to attend this meeting. It's time to start getting into the holiday spirit and, in November, we have Thanksgiving and, in December, we have our Christmas party. There should be more information coming soon, so come to the meeting to get the details. Also, Beth gave me a flyer with information about the National Accordion Association convention in Dallas. The hotel has changed. The dates are March 1014, 2010, and the Hotel is the Westin Park Central Hotel, 12720 Merit Drive, LBJ 635@Highway I-75, Dallas, TX 75251. Start planning now. The Prez Sez Bill Henson

October 2009 The Oklahoma Squeezins Minutes Oklahoma Accordion Club September 13, 2009 • ill Henson called the meeting to order. • Micaiah Elliott will be going to Los Angeles to participate in the Junior Division of the Roland international contest. • A check was received from the Calvary Baptist Church, Enid in the amount of $174.85 as a love offering for the orchestra's recent performance at the church. It was reported that the congregation really enjoyed the orchestra. The church also recorded the event on DVD, which was given to our historian for the library. • An international accordion festival will be held in Las Vegas October 19-21. • Kay Stout, one of the founding members of the OAC, was present at the meeting and was given a warm welcome. • A report was given on the orchestra's performance at the Czech Hall on August 29. • Jairon Baquero and Bob Mansfield played two duets: "Dance Boheme" and "Hungarian Dance." Jairon followed up with "Indifference." Bob announced that members were invited to a recital to be given by Jairon next Sunday, September 20 at 3:00 pm at the Unity Church, 5603 NW 41st, Oklahoma City. Bob played "Dance of the Comedians." • Dick Albreski gave an interesting, informative presentation on bass solos on the accordion. • The orchestra performed numbers they had rehearsed prior to the meeting. Respectfully submitted, Beth Henson September Meeting Minutes Beth Henson Q. How do you make two accordionists play in time? A. Shoot one of them. Q. What's the difference between an accordion and a macaw? A. One is loud, obnoxious and noisy; the other is a bird. Q. Why did the chicken cross the road? A. To get away from the accordion recital. Q. What's the difference between an accordion and a macaw? A. One is loud, obnoxious and noisy; the other is a bird. Q. Why did the chicken cross the road? A. To get away from the accordion recital. Q. What is the best thing to play on an accordion ? A. A flame thrower.

Beth Henson • • ill Henson called the meeting to order. • Photos of members at the March National Accordion Convention and the OAC orchestra's performance at the OKC Italian Festival in June were circulated. • Bill presented new member Sandor Silagi with his OAC nametag. • A note to Dan Orza from the Rotary Club was circulated, thanking him for his performance at the Rotary Conference on May 1, 2009. • Everyone was happy to see Jackie Mashore after her lengthy absence from club meetings and activities. • Visitors were recognized: Lani Taylor, Stacee Silagi, June Butricks, Will Chan, Sarah Chan, and Hannah Boydston. • Dick and Evie Albreski received a big thank you from the membership for hosting the summer picnic at their home. The event was a lot of fun for everyone. • Dick will perform at the garden club in Surrey Hills tomorrow (July 13). • Dan Orza reported the orchestra will perform at Spanish Cove, Yukon, on July 17. • The Big Squeeze scheduled for August has been cancelled. The regular monthly meeting will be held at the church on August 9. • Bob Mansfield stated that Jairon Baquero will repeat his June recital in September, and he will have the venue and time by the next meeting. Jairon did a great job at the Norman recital. • As usual, there were a number of outstanding performances from our great, talented members: • Karen West - "Sweet Georgia Brown" • Sandor Silagi - "Lilli Marline" and "Du, Du Licht Mir In Hertzen" • Jackie Mashore and her granddaughter Hannah Boydston played their recorders and performed "Ode to Joy" and "When the Saints Go Marching In." Hannah closed out their session with a song of her choice, a very good rendition of "Amazing Grace." • Dick Albreski - "Bourrasque" and "Paris Tour Eiffel" • Bob Mansfield - "Green Light" by Charles Magnante, "Parigi", and "La Cabana Mysteriosa" • Jackie announced that the band Mountain Smoke will have a CD release party soon. • Bob Mansfield presented a very informative session on bellows control and bellows shakes, which the membership found interesting and helpful. • The meeting was adjourned.

• Joan Colee, with the Oklahoma Seniors' Cabaret, invited OAC members to perform in the Cabaret's show this fall. Members of the Cabaret are 55 years old and up. She distributed business cards, if anyone is interested in participating. • Bob Mansfield performed "Dajcovo" by Boris Karlov. • The Elks Lodge has invited the OAC to perform at the Italian Festival again this year, on June 6. Dan will perform and asked members of the orchestra to join him. • Dick Albreski will perform for a garden club on July 13. • Anne Lopez performed a Mexican medley of "La Raspa," "Las Chiapanecas," and "La Cucaracha," and was accompanied by Sid Lopez, Jimmy Baquero, and Sandor Silagi. She also performed "Popular Jarabe Tapatio." • Sandor Silagi performed "Hi Lilly, Hi Lo" and "Pop Goes the Weasel." • Several members shared interesting stories and anecdotes about receiving their first accordions and when they began playing and performing. • Roland Lohmann played and sang "I Will Be with You in Apple Blossom Time." • The summer picnic will be at Dick and Evie Albreski's home on June 14 at 2:00 pm. The club will provide meats and drinks, and members are to bring sides and desserts as well as their lawn chairs. An article providing directions to the Albreski home will be in the next newsletter. • Bob Mansfield will hold a workshop on bellows control at the July meeting. • The Calvary Baptist Church in Enid has invited the OAC to perform a 30-minute program on a Sunday evening at some future date. • The next Big Squeeze is scheduled for August 9. Dan Orza is coordinating the performances; anyone who wishes to perform should let him know. • There is a Polka Picnic scheduled on Saturday, August 29, at the Czech Hall in Yukon. The OAC has been invited to participate in a Battle of the Bands, and will perform first. Other participants are the Masopust Band and the Bohemian Knights. Food will be served. • Next Saturday, May 9, the orchestra will meet at Dan's home to copy music and get their books in order. • Margaret Oldham performed "Waiting for the Robert E. Lee" and "The Battle Hymn of the Republic." • Bill and Diana Richard are working on getting the OAC website moved and brought up to date. Diana will see what she can bring over from the old site to the new, and will get a domain name. • The meeting was adjourned.

• ill Henson recognized our visitor, John Lohmann, Roland's son. • A Big Squeeze has been scheduled for August 9. We may change our regular meeting date to accommodate the event. • Although our numbers were few, the music was great. • Roland Lohmann performed "Memories of Paris" by Frank Maracco. • Bill reported that the NAA in Texas was fun even though it rained the whole weekend. • Our club is going to start having quarterly workshops. Bob Mansfield will present the first one in May on bellows control and action. • Bob Mansfield performed "Wave" (Latin). • Jairon Baquero performed "Olive Blossoms" and "Gianina Mazurka." • Anne Lopez performed "Blue Hawaii" and "Roman Guitar." • Dick Albreski performed "Convoitois" (French waltz) and "Bel Viso" (Italian novelty). • Dan Orza performed "Waltz Allegro" by Charles Magnante. • Both Bill and Dan have keys to the church now, so there should be no more delays in starting the meeting due to someone running late.

• ill Henson presented an OAC name tag to new member John Conner. • Visitors were introduced. • Beth Henson reminded everyone to sign in. Performers were asked to list on a form that will be provided the name(s) of their musical selection(s); this will make it easier to list the songs in the monthly minutes and will be requested every month. • Throughout the meeting, OAC musicians performed outstanding renditions of musical numbers. The first up were The Smith Sisters, Maddie and Brea, granddaughters of Dick and Evie Albreski, who performed an accordion duet "Skating." • Bill Henson passed around a thank you card and picture of the OAC orchestra that were received from the Bethany First Nazarene Church where the orchestra performed recently. The orchestra received payment of $200 for the club treasury. The orchestra was treated to dinner and heard a very good motivational speaker. Dan Orza reported that, as a result of this performance, the OAC orchestra has been invited to play patriotic music at Spanish Cove in Yukon in July. The gig will pay $200. • Bob Mansfield brought the music library, along with a journal, to the meeting. Members are welcome to borrow music from the library, and are asked to record the date the music is borrowed as well as the names of the pieces that are borrowed. • The Youth Band, consisting of Jairon Baquero, John Conner, and Micaiah Elliott, performed several numbers: "Polish Polka Medley," "Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious," "On Campus March," and "El Relicario." They were joined with a vocal from Brea Smith on "Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious." The Youth Band will perform at the NAA convention in Richardson, Texas next weekend. • Roland Lohmann played "I Wonder Who's Kissing Her Now" and "Jambalaya." • Sandor Silagi played "Drink to Me Only with Thine Eyes." • Dan Orza performed "Waltz Allegro" by Charles Magnante. • Micaiah Elliott performed "Jolly Caballero." • The club was informed that this meeting was Troy Jones' last meeting with the OAC. He has decided to return to Wisconsin, his home state. • Johnny Sakaly said that he had held a party for arack Obama's inauguration, and he invited Jairon Baquero to perform. Jairon did an outstanding job and was the hit of the party. • Jairon then performed "Indifference." Following his solo, he performed a duet with Bob Mansfield, "Stars and Stripes March." • Bob followed on with "American Patrol" and "Original Boogie Woogie." • John Connor performed "Expressione." Continued on April 2009 The Oklahoma Squeezins • Bill Henson stated that he received a call from a garden club wanting someone to play and demonstrate the accordion. Dick Albreski volunteered to meet with the group. • Troy Jones played "Whispering Hope" and "Keep on the Firing Line." • Troy then gave a demonstration of a tabletop accordion. The tabletop accordion, as well as another accordion, are for sale before his moving at the end of the month. • Frankie and Eleanor Martinez and their band performed several numbers to entertain the OAC: "Nuevo Laredo," "La Media Naranja," "Before the Next Teardrop Falls," "La Media Vuleta," "La Bamba," "The Chair," "Silver Wings," "Wildwood Flower/In Heaven There Is No Beer/Got No Reason," "Fiesta Noche la Paso Contigo," and "La Mucura/Amover el Bote/Limbo Rock." • All the music was excellent, and it gets better at every meeting! Each person's unique style and interest makes our club what it is. •