Trustees Honor Roll

Kalik, Frank

Accordionist, Bandeader, Promoter and Disc Jockey (1943)
Inducted on November 26, 1994

Frank Kalik has devoted his life to Slovenian culture and Clevland-Style music, leading his own orchestra from 1961 to 1981, producing "Frank Kalik’s World Showcase of Music" on radio since 1973, and forming the Slovenian Heritage Association of Western Pennsylvania in 1984. Under his direction, the Kalik Orchestra made the "Steeler Fight Song" the biggest-selling polka recording in Pennsylvania. The Kalik Fan Club evolved "Polka Fun Day" into "Kalikfest," one of Western Pennsylvania’s major polka entertainment weekends. Kalik and Company Travel also became a leader in polka tours. Recreating authentic music, costume and dance, the Slovenian Heritage Association has toured the continent, performing at the rededication of the Statue of Liberty in 1986, the Constitution’s Bicentennial in 1987, and at Folklorama in Canada. The impact of Frank’s multi-faceted career is encapsulated in his trademark: "Music, Memories and Fun."