Polka program slated for Jan. 18 broadcast

Winchester Academy will present its next program on Waupaca Radio WILW-FM 96.3.

“Polka Heartland: Why the Midwest Loves the Polka” will be broadcast at 6:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 18.

This is a special, first-ever, live radio broadcast of a Winchester Academy program. Normally, Winchester programs are held at the Waupaca library.

“No need to venture out on a cold wintry night for this program,” according to Maggie Jones, a member of Winchester Academy’s board of trustees. “Rather, listeners are invited to gather together with friends for an evening of ‘Winchester Academy on the Air.’”

Jones said the purpose of Winchester Academy is not only to educate and enlighten, but also to entertain.

This special broadcast, presented by Richard March, a Madison folklorist, musician and author of Polka Heartland, kicks off a celebration of Winchester’s 25th year in Waupaca.

March’s talk will be a deeper look at the polka, the particular dance that has retained such a significant following fully 170 years after its inception as a European pop culture craze in the 1940s.

March will discuss the polka’s history, its evolution, and how it fits into community cultural values in today’s world.

Acting as moderator for the live radio program will be Dr. David Poeschl, Waupaca School District administrator.

“Listeners should make an evening of it, planning a potluck dinner, ordering in pizzas, or just enjoying each other’s company while listening to 96.3,” Jones said.

Questions for Richard March can be submitted during the broadcast by calling the studio at 715-940-9900.

This broadcast is a joint effort between Winchester Academy and Waupaca FM Radio 96.3. Waupaca Radio is a low-power FM radio station operated by the city of Waupaca. Its primary purpose is to be a public safety communication tool, as well as to connect the Waupaca citizens with the activities of their government and community.

Winchester Academy is funded through sponsors and tax-deductible donations.

For more information about Winchester Academy, check winchesteracademywaupaca.org, follow on Facebook, or contact Executive Director Ann Buerger Linden at 715-258-2927 or [email protected]