August / September 2009 Everyone is Invited! 70th Anniversary Commemoration Program to Mark the Invasion of Poland and the Beginning of World War II Tuesday, September 1, 2009 • 12 Noon Polish American Cultural Center Museum Exhibit Hall 308 Walnut Street in historic Philadelphia, PA While visiting the Museum Exhibit Hall you can see the pictorial display of actual World War II photos.

Museum & Gift Shop Open: Monday through Saturday 10 A.M. to 4 P.M. Admission is free • Call the Museum at: (215) 922-1700 Visit the Museum on the Internet at: PolishAmericanCenter.com Email Guestbook is located on the front page on the Museum’s site.

The Polish American Congress and Polonia Commemorate the 70th Anniversary of World War II Reflecting on the 1939 Invasion of Poland and the Struggles of Poland during World War II 1.) On September 1, 1939 . . . Nazi German troops invaded Poland marking the beginning of World War II. Poland was the first country to resist Nazi expansion in Europe.

10.) The Nazis constructed their concentration camps in occupied Poland to conceal from the world the atrocities they were committing.

2.)

On September 17, 1939 . . . Soviet Russian troops attacked Poland on its east border. This was a shock to the Polish Nation, since Poles never expected the Russians to unite with Nazi forces in violation of their non-aggression pact.

11.) In the Spring of 1940, Soviet authorities murdered 15,000 Polish officers and intellectuals, 4,000 found in Russia’s Katyn Forest and the gravesites of others still unknown.

3.)

Throughout the invasion of Poland, the people fought courageously against the Nazi Germans and the Russian army, but their armed forces were not equipped to withstand the combined might of their invaders.

4.)

On September 28, 1939 . . . Warsaw fell to Nazi German forces after long and hard fought battles. This marked the beginning of the Polish underground resistance which was active throughout the war.

5.) During the invasion of Poland, 200,000 men were killed or wounded in battle. More than 600,000 Polish soldiers became prisoners of war held by Russian and German troops. 6.)

Intending to reduce Poland to a nation of slaves, Hitler planned to eradicate any existence of Polish heritage and culture. After the occupation of Poland, Nazi German soldiers slaughtered thousands of Poland’s intellectuals and clergy, trying to void the country of its leaders.

12.) Poland was home for the majority of Europe’s Jews for over 800 years. Hitler’s plan was to exterminate the Jews as well as all the Polish people. 13.) During World War II six million Polish citizens were slaughtered; 3 million Polish Christians and 3 million Polish Jews. 14.) Poland suffered the greatest loss of life of all occupied countries during World War II. 15.) General Wladyslaw Sikorski headed the Polish government-in- exile from headquarters in France, allowing Poland to remain recognized as a nation during the Nazi occupation. 16.) Throughout the war, extensive underground activities by the Polish people, including the 1944 Warsaw Uprising, hindered Nazi efforts to exterminate the Polish nation and its culture, while also helping to save hundreds of thousands of Poland’s Jews.

7.) Following the opening months of World War II, Poland’s western territories were annexed to Nazi Germany and the eastern territories annexed to Soviet Russia. 8.) Soviet authorities deported 1.7 million Poles to Russian labor camps where over one million people died from starvation and overwork. 9.)

Listen to re-broadcasts of the Polish American Radio Program 24 hours a day • 7 days a week at: PolishAmericanRadioProgram.com

Several thousand Polish soldiers escaped and formed fighting units to continue the struggle for Poland’s independence and participated extensively in France, the Battle of Britain, Monte Cassino and Normandy.

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N ew s l e t t e r 308 Walnut Street Philadelphia, PA 19106 Telephone: (215) 739-3408 PolishAmericanCongress.com

August / September 2009 Read the Polish American News Online at:

PolishAmericanNews.com

Where you can hear weekly

“Historic Reflections.” See complete radio schedule in this newspaper.

August / September, 2009, Polish American News - Page 2

4th of July 2009 in Philadelphia, PA The 4th of July celebrations in Philadelphia, America’s birthplace, were a great success. The City of Philadelphia and the Sunoco Welcome America committee deserve much credit, and the news media also did a great job reporting on the activities. On the 4th of July, the ceremony at Independence Hall, which drew a large crowd, marked the 233rd anniversary of America’s Birthday. This year the Independence Day Parade took place in historic Philadelphia, where tens of thousands enjoyed over 150 groups, including a float and marchers promoting Polish Heritage. Compliments to representatives of the Polish American Cultural Center Museum and the Polish American Congress for their participation during the 4th of July Celebrations! The parade float from South Jersey Polonia highlighted the 400th Anniversary of the First Polish Settlers in America along with the Polish National Alliance of Cumberland County #3106, dressed in colonial costumes from the time of the First Polish Settlers in 1608. Our thanks to Henryk Michalkiewicz, who organized the float and marching group to highlight Poles in America. Following the parade, the marchers enjoyed a Polish lunch at the Polish American Cultural Center. As the summer continues, you are invited to visit Historic Philadelphia, the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, the Constitution Center and the Polish American Cultural Center Museum at 308 Walnut Street, as well as the Kosciuszko House at 3rd and Pine Streets. They are all within walking distance of each other. And while in the Polish American Cultural Center Museum, check out the large map of Poland on the back wall which has been a big hit with tourists showing family members what cities they visited in Poland, or where their families lived before emigrating to America. For more information about a visit to Historic Philadelphia, visit the Museum’s site, which has a link offering information on planning your visit to Philadelphia and other tourist sites in the tristate area. Check it out at: PolishAmericanCenter.com - look for the “plan your visit to Philadelphia” link on the front page, or visit: TriStateVisitors.com.

Polish National Alliance Lodge 3106, marches down Market Street in Philadelphia’s 4th of July Independence Day Parade.

Float highlights 400th Anniversary of the arrival of the First Polish Settlers in America on October 1, 1608.

Following the 4th of July Parade, the float along with Polish National Alliance marchers dressed in colonial attire, visited the Polish American Cultural Center at 308 Walnut Street, to continue the celebration and enjoy a Polish lunch.

Email Us Your Photos From Your Trip to the Museum [email protected]

Visitors gather for photo at the bust of Pope John Paul The Great at the Polish American Cultural Center Museum 308 Walnut Street in historic Philadelphia, PA

August / September, 2009, Polish American News - Page 3

Everyone Is Invited to Attend the Festival at America’s Czestochowa “44th Annual”

Polish American Festival

September 5, 6, 7 (Labor Day), 12, & 13 2009 Sat. Sept. 5th

Joe Grkman Polka Band Eddie Forman Orchestra

Sun. Sept. 6th Old School

New Life M Maleo Reggae Rockers

Mon. Sept. 7th

Labor Day Ted Lange & Squeezbox New Life M

The National Shrine of Our Lady of Czestochowa 654 Ferry Road - Doylestown, PA www.PolishShrine.com

$9.00 Per Person Admission Includes: Free Parking Midway Rides Stage Shows Special Events For info call: 215-345-0600

Maleo Reggae Rockers

Sat. Sept. 12th

The Del Sinchak Band Dennis Polisky & the Maestro’s Men

Polish Folk Groups will entertain throughout the festival.

Sun. Sept 13th Polish American String Band

Eastern Sound Orchestra

2009 Adam Styka Art Exhibit and Sale Polish Folk Dance Groups will perform during the festival.

Children will enjoy face painting and free rides at the Polish American Festival

Festival Hours • 12 Noon to 8 P.M.

For more information about the Polish American Festival Visit: PolishShrine.com New Compact Disc of Authentic Folk Music by

John Jaworski and the Polish Village Musicians

Songs You’ll Hear for the First Time!

Especially from the Krakow-Rzeszow Regions 16 Polish Vocals - CD-2801 - $17 postpaid

Send check, cash or money order to

Chet Schafer Productions PO Box 410452, Chicago, IL 60641

Amusement rides are always enjoyed by people of all ages.

Syrena Auto Body Shop 6201 Oxford Avenue • Philadelphia, PA • (215) 535-6606 691 Bethlehem Pike • Montgomeryville, PA • (215) 361-1900 From the Desk of

Yolanda Konopacka DeSipio of Bennett, Bricklin & Saltzburg, LLP Attorneys at Law • Call: (215) 423-4824 Available to assist clients throughout the Philadelphia area & New Jersey in both the English and Polish Languages Immigration, Personal Injury, Worker’s Compensation & Real Estate

Krakus Meat Market A Complete Polish Super Market Home Made Kielbasa - Imported Items from Poland

3150 Richmond Street, Philadelphia, PA Telephone: (215) 426-4336 • Internet: KrakusMarket.com

30th Annual Polka Motion September 17-20, 2009

Rehoboth Beach Convention Center Rehoboth, Delaware

For more information, visit rbpolka.com

Office Hours by Appointment



Ewa Matczak, D.M.D.

3084 Aramingo Avenue Philadelphia, PA 19134 Telephone: 215-739-2787



Mary Ann Zerkowski, President Berks County Polish American Board of Education [email protected] The Berks County Polish American Heritage Association recently held the first Polish Open Golf Tournament at Green Acres in Bernville, Pennsylvania. Chris Okonski organized the tournament to raise funds to support the operation of the Berks County Polish American Cultural Center located in the GoggleWorks Center for the Arts in Reading. Fifty-six golfers hit the links while other members attended to enjoy the food, music and the beautiful day. Brian Keller, Brian Woodard, Bob Rosers and Kevin Wade took home the first place trophies. DZIEKUJEMY BARDZO to our corporate sponsors Giorgio Foods and Quaker Maid Meats; to our golf hole sponsors: Mary Ann Collison, Jess Cwiklinski, Frank Reboltz, Mary Ann Zerkowski, Barbara’s Silver Scissors Hair Salon, Elite Dentistry, Drs. Kathy Gurski and Mark D’Agostino, The Hawthorne, Elite Eyecare, Atty. Adam Krafczek, Lawley’s Disposal & Container Service, Loose Ends Magazine, James Pace DPM, Pagoda Electrical and Super Duper Seafood; and to our donors Jim and Nancy Hoy, Joe and Eleanor Bocian, Dolores Milanek and Pancerella & Associates. During the months of August and September, Polish crystal and pottery will be on display at the Berks County Polish American Cultural Center along with a description of the pottery-making process. Polish pottery will be on sale during the exhibit. If you haven’t already done so, plan to visit the Cultural Center in the GoggleWorks before the summer ends. The Center is open every weekend from 11:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. The Polish American Heritage Association of Berks County will hold its annual picnic on Saturday, August 22, 2009, at the Lower Alsace Picnic Grove, Roosevelt and Columbia Avenues, Stony Creek Mills, a suburb of Reading. A buffet featuring barbeque chicken, barbeque spare ribs, hamburgers, hot dogs and adult beverages as well as other goodies will be served at 2:00 P.M. The O’Such Rhythm and Music Trio will provide music for your listening and dancing pleasure. Cost: $20 for members, $22 for non-members. Reservations can be made with Nancy at 610-779-5409.

August / September, 2009, Polish American News - Page 4

From the Desk of Michael Blichasz, Host Saturday Variety Program at 11 A.M. 1540 AM Radio WNWR • Philadelphia, PA I welcome you to review the information from my most recent weekly commentaries and ask that you share this information with your family members and friends.

You Decide What to Support! The June 2009 report of the United States Department of Labor Statistics lists that 14.7 million Americans are unemployed and seeking full-time employment. Add to that number millions of individuals still seeking part-time employment and the fact that 80% of this year’s college graduates are still unable to find a job, and you have a major crisis in the United States of America. These staggering numbers provide further incentive for all of us to support the Buy American Made Campaign which would help keep current jobs and expand job opportunities here in America. We need to admit that too many American jobs have been lost to globalization, and that things won’t change unless we all unite to support American businesses who employ American workers. I constantly hear from people who tell me how disturbed they are about the imbalance between foreign made and American made products. People also tell me they were not concerned about the trade imbalance and its effect on the well-being of American workers and families until they themselves, a family member, friend or neighbor lost a job because of global outsourcing. One thing I’m pleased to report is that more people are talking about this very important issue and are beginning to speak up at stores where they shop and are now discussing the Buy American Made Campaign with others on a regular basis. In order to level the playing field, I again urge you to look for currently available American made products at every store where you shop. We can make a difference, one purchase at a time. Your participation with the Buy American Made Campaign is a must if we’re going to help American workers maintain and regain employment opportunities in the U.S.A. When you go shopping, look for, ask for and purchase American made products so we don’t continue to hear that more jobs are being lost to global outsourcing.

Voter Registration Campaign Continues The Polish American Congress, Eastern Pennsylvania District, Voter Registration Volunteers have distributed thousands of mail-in voter registration forms in Southeastern Pennsylvania. It’s important that Polish Americans continue to voice their opinions about key issues and remain active participants in the political process. As the sixth-largest ethnic group in America, Polish Americans have a strong voice, and that voice must be heard during every election. If you live in Pennsylvania and need a mail-in Voter Registration Form, call the Polish American Congress office in Philadelphia, Monday through Friday, at (215) 739-3408, and an application will be sent to you. This mail-in Voter Registration Form is good for all Pennsylvania Counties. October 5, 2009 is the last day for Pennsylvania voters to register for the municipal election that will take place on Tuesday, November 3, 2009.

Polish American Travel Service Travel Reservations • Translation Services PEKAO • Parcels to Poland 2714 E. Allegheny Avenue • Philadelphia, PA 19134

(215) 634-3396

Visit us on the Internet at:

PolishAmericanCenter.com

A Wake Up Call! For many years, growing employment opportunities in the U.S.A. helped build American industry, supported American workers and their families and permitted millions of immigrants from all over the world to become proud Americans and realize a piece of the American dream. In more recent years, global outsourcing of jobs became a common practice for some American businesses who sought reduced operational and employee costs and increased profits. Over the past 20 years the negative effects of globalization were less noticeable to you and me because unemployment was lower and jobs were more readily available. However, the current recession is a wake up call which has finally forced us to reassess job outsourcing and acknowledge that business practices of the past are now coming back to haunt not only American workers, but the American economy. If globalization provided a fair balance of employment opportunities for people in the U.S.A. and around the world, everyone could prosper. But the preoccupation with lower operational costs, avoidance of taxes, and desire for higher profits led more and more American businesses to outsource jobs overseas. Today, even though product packaging continues to bear familiar American corporate names and logos, production and assembly of a growing number of items occur largely in foreign countries which means fewer manufacturing and related jobs for Americans. America experienced recessions in the past and was able to recover more quickly because there were many more production and related employment opportunities still available. Today, with massive globalization, computerization and modernized production technology, many jobs require fewer employees to produce items. This makes it harder to get people employed and the economy moving. We can all agree that the American people should have never sat back and permitted so many jobs to leave America, jobs that employed millions of Americans year after year. The current recession and loss of jobs didn’t happen overnight, and the recovery will take time. However, you can help now by purchasing products presently being made in America, which are available to you at stores right now with the Made in America label. The main goal of the Buy American Made Campaign is to bring about a better balance between American made and foreign made products. American workers are depending on you to look for, ask for and buy American made products and to let business owners and store personnel know about your concerns at the cash register, where it is most important that your concerns are heard.

Polish Language Classes at the Polish American Cultural Center The Polish American Cultural Center at 308 Walnut Street in historic Philadelphia announces its fall/winter semester Polish Language Classes. Two levels of the Polish language focusing on conversation will be offered. Classes will be held on Wednesday evenings from 6:00 P.M. until 8:30 P.M. The cost of the twelve week program is $135 plus book fee. If you are interested in enrolling in the Polish Language Classes at the Polish American Cultural Center, you can call for an application, Monday through Friday between 9 A.M. and 5 P.M. (215) 922-1700.

Attention Schools The Pulaski Coloring Contest will begin Thursday, September 10, with all entries to be returned by Monday, September 21, 2009. Schools interested in participating should call the Polish American Congress Coloring Contest Committee at (215) 739-3408, Mon.-Fri., 9 A.M. to 4 P.M.

August / September, 2009, Polish American News - Page 5

Polish American Cultural Center Museum in Philadelphia, PA Museum’s Historic Reflections Project August / September The Polish American Cultural Center Museum in Historic Philadelphia presents Historic Reflections from Polish and Polish American history on the Polish American Radio Program. The reflections are organized in a daily format. Some of the dates may be the birthday or death date of a prominent person. Other dates may celebrate a milestone in a prominent person’s life such as a career promotion, invention date, or some accomplishment that contributed to science, medicine, sports, or entertainment history. Other dates may be an anniversary of a historical event in Polonia or Poland’s history. You can hear weekly historic reflections on the Saturday edition of the Polish American Radio Program at 11 A.M. on 1540 AM Radio from Philadelphia. Listen to rebroadcasts 24 hours a day at PolishAmericanRadioProgram.com. For your information, we have listed a selection of historic reflections for the months of August and September. August 1, 1943 - Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth (Executed by Nazis) The eleven Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazereth were arrested and executed by Nazi soldiers in Nowogrodek, Poland, in 1943. The sisters, who administered an orphanage in Nowogrodek, were taken to the outer limits of the town, shot and buried in a common grave. August 2, 1940 - Kosciuszko Squadron #303 was formed The Polish pilots of the Kosciuszko Squadron #303, attached to the RAF, fought valiantly in the Battle of Britain in 1940. The Kosciuszko Squadron downed 126 enemy aircraft, winning the admiration of the British government and people. August 3, 1924 - Joseph Conrad (Died) Jozef Korzeniowski, better known as Joseph Conrad, is an internationally respected author in the Polish and English languages. He is known for his works Lord Jim and Heart of Darkness. August 4, 1904 - Witold Marian Gombrowicz (Born) Witold Marian Gombrowicz was a Polish novelist and dramatist. His works are characterized by deep psychological analysis, a certain sense of paradox and an absurd, anti-nationalist flavor. He gained fame only during the last years of his life but is now considered one of the foremost figures of Polish literature. August 5, 1981 - Polish American Heritage Month (Founding) Polish American Heritage Month began in the City of Philadelphia, PA. A few years later it was moved to October to include schools and the fall season activities. In 2009, we mark the 28th anniversary of this effort which became a successful national celebration of Polish history, culture and pride. August 6, 1955 - Senator John F. Kennedy (Visit) Senator John F. Kennedy visited Poland on August 6, 1955. He made a pilgrimage to Czestochowa, Poland and returned to the United States with great admiration for the faith of the Polish people. August 7, 1942 - Kazimierz Barburski (Born) Kazimierz Barburski won the bronze medal for fencing in the 1968 Olympic Games in Ciudad de México. August 8, 1915 - Fr. Kornelian Dende (Born) Fr. Kornelian Dende was the director of the Fr. Justin Rosary Program in 1915. The Fr. Justin Program is heard on 1540 AM Radio every Sunday at 12 noon and is aired on dozens of other radio stations throughout the United States. August 9, 1988 - Polish American Cultural Center Museum (Opening) The opening of the Polish American Cultural Center Museum at 308 Walnut Street in Historic Philadelphia took place on August 9, 1988. On this date, Vice President, George Bush, Sr. along with John Cardinal Krol and members of Polonia gathered to cut the ribbon at the new museum, which is a Polish American focal point for visitors to Historic Philadelphia.

August 10, 1898 - Tadeusz Mostowicz (Born) Tadeusz Mostowicz was a Polish journalist and author of over a dozen popular novels. He is best known for The Career of Nicodemus Dyzma, the book that inspired Jerzy Kosinski’s 1971 novel, Being There. August 11, 1950 - Steve Wozniak (Born) Steve Wozniak, also known as “Woz”, is a Polish American computer engineer who invented the Apple I and Apple II computers. His invention of the Apple personal computer led to the largest computer revolution in history. August 12, 1915 - Alexander Wojciechowicz (Born) Alexander Francis Wojciechowicz was a professional football player in the National Football League. He was an offensive lineman and linebacker for the Detroit Lions and Philadelphia Eagles. August 13, 1920 - Battle of Warsaw Polish soldiers, led by Marshal Pilsudski and General Wladyslaw Sikorski in the Battle of Warsaw against the Bolsheviks, fought from August 13th to August 18th in 1920. Poland’s victory stopped the Bolsheviks from spreading their revolution across Europe. August 14, 1941 - Fr. Maximilian Kolbe (Executed) Fr. Maximilian Kolbe is now named Saint Maximilian Kolbe. Fr. Kolbe, a Franciscan priest asked to be executed in the place of Franciszek Gajowniczek, another Pole detained at the Nazi Auschwitz death camp. In return, Fr. Kolbe was sentenced to a slow death by starvation and Franciszek Gajowniczek, whose life was spared, was eventually reunited with his family. It was on August 14, 1941, that Fr. Maximilian Kolbe was executed because the Nazis felt his death by starvation was taking too long. August 15, 1935 - Waldemar Baszanowski (Born) Waldemar Baszanowski, a famous Polish weightlifter, won gold medals at Olympic competitions in 1964 and 1968, as well as five world weightlifting championships. August 16, 1905 - Marian Rejewski (Born) Marian Rejewski was one of a three man team of mathematicians that cracked the German Enigma code during World War II. Rejewski’s fellow mathematicians and cryptologists were Jerzy Rozycki and Henryk Zygalski who were remembered during past historic reflections. August 17, 1896 - Robert Chodasiewicz (Died) Robert Chodasiewicz, a Polish military officer, offered his service to the Union Army during the American Civil War. Robert Chodasiewicz served with distinction and upon completion of the war, immigrated to Argentina. August 18, 1937 - Edward Stachura (Born) Edward Stachura was a Polish poet, philosopher and writer. He has over 18 major works to his credit and was one of the most interesting writers of the post war generation. The major theme in his works is the connection between art and reality. August 19, 2002 - Marek Kotanski (Died) Marek Kotanski was a Polish psychologist who practiced social work in Poland helping the sick, poor and homeless. Marek Kotanski started many successful programs which still operate today. August 20, 1898 - Leopold Infeld (Born) Dr. Leopold Infeld was a noted Polish physicist who worked with Albert Einstein at Princeton University. The two scientists co-formulated the equation describing star movements. August 21, 1907 - Henry Archacki (Born) Henry Archacki, founder of the Polish American Historical Association and historian, chaired the committee to have Paderewski’s heart enshrined at the National Shrine of Our Lady of Czestochowa in Doylestown, Pennsylvania.

August / September, 2009, Polish American News - Page 6

Historic Reflections from the Polish American Cultural Center Museum in Philadelphia, PA • August / September August 22, 1939 - Carl Yastrzemski (Born) Carl Yastrzemski, was a Major League Baseball Player and the hitting star of the Boston Red Sox. Carl Yastrzemski, won the Triple Crown in 1967, hitting .326, with 44 home runs and 121 RBI’s. August 23, 1778 - Jozef Hoene-Wronski (Born) Jozef Hoene-Wronski was a Polish mathematician, philosopher, economist, lawyer and military officer who served under General Thaddeus Kosciuszko during the Polish Insurrection of 1794. August 24, 1975 - Ed Halicki (No Hitter) Ed Halicki is a former Major League baseball pitcher, who on this day in 1975, threw a no hitter for the San Francisco Giants against the New York Mets in a 6-0 victory. August 25, 1905 - Helena Kowalska (Born) Helena Kowalska entered the convent in Krakow, Poland. Her convent name was Sister Maria Faustina Kowalska and through her visions, she brought about the Divine Mercy devotions which have now spread around the world. Sr. Faustina Kowalska was canonized a saint of the Catholic Church. August 26, 2009 - Our Lady of Czestochowa (Feast Day) On this Feast day, Polish people all over the world honor Our Lady of Czestochowa as the patroness of Poland. Celebrations are held at the Shrine in Czestochowa, Poland, the Shrine in Doylestown, Pennsylvania and hundreds of places named after the beloved Czarna Madonna. August 27, 1890 - Polish Union of the United States of America (Founded) The Polish Union of the United States of America was a fraternal organization started by Msgr. Majer in St. Paul, Minnesota in 1890. The organization is now headquartered in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania and promotes the well-being of its members as well as Polish culture and pride. August 28, 1932 - Francizek Zwirko (Won Aviation Award) Francizek Zwirko was a prominent Polish sport and military aviator. Along with Stanislaw Wigura, he won the international air contest “Challenge 1932”. August 29, 1756 - Jan Sniadecki (Born) Jan Sniadecki was a mathematician, philosopher and astronomer at the turn of the 18th century. He is known for his works on planetoids and pioneering work in the study of probability. August 30, 1902 - Jozef Bochenski (Born) Jozef Maria Bochenski was a Polish Dominican logician and philosopher. He took part in the 1920 campaign against Bolshevik Russia, he served as Chaplain to Polish troops in WWII and fought as a soldier at the Battle of Monte Cassino. After the war Jozef Bochenski held many academic chairs at various educational institutions and is a noted philosopher of the “Cracow Circle.” August 31, 1980 - Solidarity (Born) The Polish Trade Union “Solidarity” was led by electrician Lech Walesa in the Baltic sea port of Gdansk, Poland. Solidarity was the catalyst that led to the downfall of communism in Eastern Europe. September 1, 1939 - Invasion The brutal invasion of Poland by Hitler’s Nazi Forces took place on September 1, 1939. The invasion of Poland marked the beginning of World War II. From the first day of the invasion, Polish soldiers valiantly fought to stop the Nazi invaders. Their resistance is well remembered through the statement “Poland, the first country to fight back Nazi forces”. Throughout World War II, Polish soldiers in exile helped other countries fight against Hitler’s Nazi soldiers.

September 2, 1969 - Chris Kuzneski (Born) Chris Kuzneski is a New York Times bestselling American author. Born in Indiana, Pennsylvania, he currently lives in Tampa, Florida. Kuzneski played football at the University of Pittsburgh where he received his undergraduate degree in writing and his master’s degree in teaching. So far, his books have been translated into more than 15 languages. September 3, 1951 - Edward Krzyzowski (Died) Captain Edward Krzyzowski of the U.S. Army’s 2nd Infantry Regiment was killed in action on this date in 1951 during the Korean War. He was posthumously awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor for providing cover that allowed his unit to escape communist encirclement. September 4, 1809 - Juliusz Slowacki (Born) Juliusz Slowacki was a poet and playwright who wrote “The Trilogy of Polish History”. Pope John Paul II quoted Juliusz Slowacki’s works on more than one occasion. Slowacki had an influence over other great Polish poets such as Krasinski, Norwid, and Ujejski. His ashes were laid to rest in the Royal Crypt in Wawel Castle. September 5, 1936 - Bill Mazeroski (Born) Bill Mazeroski played with the Pittsburgh Pirates and was an outstanding defensive second baseman. He won the Gold Glove Award eight times. His lead-off homer in the bottom of the 9th inning of the 7th game of the World Series in 1960 ranks as one of baseball’s greatest moments. Mazeroski’s homer gave the Pirates a 10-9 win over the Yankees for the World Series Championship. September 6, 1908 - Korczak Ziolkowski (Born) Korczak Ziolkowski’s master work of a monument to Chief Crazy Horse is continued by his family after his death in the Black Hills of South Dakota. When completed, Ziolkowski’s monument to Chief Crazy Horse will be 563 feet high by 641 feet long, making it the largest sculpture in the world. September 7, 1939 - Brave Soldiers (Surrendered) The brave Polish soldiers under Major Sucharski were forced to surrender at the Polish Naval Depot in Westerplatte after seven days of desperate defense and inflicting heavy casualties on the invading Nazi German army. Poland continued to fight its invaders throughout World War II. September 8, 1230 - Erazmus Vitello (Born) Erazmus Ciolek Vitello was a Polish Friar, theologian and scientist. Witelo is known for his work in psychology and especially optics. The Vitello Crater on the earth’s moon is named after this early scientist.

September 9, 2004 - Rose Gacioch (Died) Rose Gacioch was a pioneer in women’s professional baseball and one of the inspirations of ‘A League of Their Own’, the all American professional women’s baseball league started during World War II. September 10, 1957 - Pawel Huelle (Born) Pawel Huelle, of Gdansk, Poland, is a famous prose writer. He graduated from Gdansk University. He worked for the press service of the Solidarity trade union, was a teacher of philosophy and history, and served as director of Polish Television in Gdansk from 1994 to 1999. Pawel Huelle’s famous work is Weiser Dawidek which was made into a film. September 11, 1975 - Markus Klepaski (Born) Markus James Klepaski is the bass guitar player for Breaking Benjamin. He is also the founder of the clothing line Ke’Kuhn. He currently lives in Pennsylvania with his wife and two children.

September 12, 1925 - Stan Lopata (Born) Stan Lopata was a professional baseball player who was on the Philadelphia Phillies and Milwaukee Braves teams. He was a catcher and two-time all star player.

Visit us on the Inernet at: PolishAmericanCenter.com

August / September, 2009, Polish American News - Page 7

Historic Reflections from the Polish American Cultural Center Museum in Philadelphia, PA • August / September September 13, 1964 - Rafal Ziemkiewicz (Born)

September 24, 2002 - Leon Hart (Died)

Rafal Ziemkiewicz is known as a social science fiction author whose works deal with future governments and the political climate in Europe. He is also currently writing for the Polish edition of Newsweek.

Leon Hart was a great football player who won the Heisman Trophy and Maxwell Award while at Notre Dame and went on to a great career with the Detroit Lions. He was inducted into the Polish American Sports Hall of Fame.

September 14, 1561 - Jan Tarnowski (Died) Jan Amor Tarnowski (1488–1561) was a PolishLithuanian szlachcic. He was Grand Crown Hetman from 1527 and was the founder of the city of Ternopil, where he built the Ternopil Castle and the Ternopil Lake. September 15, 1941 - Miroslaw Hermaszewski (Born) Miroslaw Hermaszewski is Poland’s first cosmonaut. In 1978, Hermaszewski spent eight days in the Salyut space station and won an award for his participation in the mission. He eventually made it to the rank of General of the Polish Air Force. Miroslaw Hermaszewski is currently retired.

September 25, 1888 - Stefan Mazurkiewicz (Born) Stefan Mazurkiewicz was a Polish mathematician who developed the Hahn-Mazurkiewicz theorem that deals with curves and space of curves. He also helped crack the Russian cipher code as a cryptologist for the Polish General Staff during the Battle of Warsaw. September 26, 1963 - Joe Nemechek (Born) Joseph Frank Nemechek III is a NASCAR Sprint Cup Series driver and owner of NEMCO Motorsports. He won the 1992 Busch Series championship. He is nicknamed “Front Row Joe” for his tendency to qualify near the front of the field, a term deemed by former teammate Wally Dallenbach. September 27, 1331 - Battle of Plowce (Event)

September 16, 1985 - Madeline Zima (Born) Madeline Rose Zima is an American actress, known for her six years as Grace Sheffield on the TV Series The Nanny or more recently as Mia Cross on the Showtime dramedy Californication.

September 17, 1968 - Jerzy Dabrowski (Died) Jerzy Dabrowski was an aeronautical engineer and designer of the famed PZL.37 Los medium bomber. Jerzy Dabrowski’s airplanes were used during World War II and were of superb flying quality. At the end of his career, he worked for Boeing Aircraft Corporation in Washington State. September 18, 1944 - Walter Shimshock (Shot Down and died in the Aircraft “I’ll be Seing You”) Walter Shimshock was a 19 year old tail gunner on a B-17 Bomber that had been airlifting supplies to the people of Warsaw. During this mission, the “I’ll Be Seeing You” was hit by German flak and fell to earth. Two of the ten crew members on board survived and were captured by the Germans and sent to a Nazi POW camp. September 19, 1905 - Leon Jaworski (Born) Leon Jaworski was the famous Polish American lawyer and prosecutor in the Watergate Case. Leon Jaworski also served as a war crimes prosecutor in Germany during WWII.

September 20, 1960 - James Pawelczyk (Born) James Pawelczyk is a NASA astronaut and associate professor of Physiology. Dr. Pawelczyk served as a payload specialist in Space Shuttle Columbia from April 17th to May 3rd, 1998.

On September 27, 1331 one-third of the Teutonic Order’s force of knights under Dietrich von Altenburg left the blockaded peasant town of Plowce. The Poles, under Wladyslaw Lokietek and his son Casimir, immediately attacked in a frontal assault. A few seconds later, Polish detachments hiding to the left of the city in a forest also attacked. In three hours the Teutonic knights had been defeated and their leader captured. The Polish forces, victorious in this phase of the battle, took prisoner 56 knights, and freed many Polish captives. September 28, 1973 - Brian Rafalski (Born) Brian Rafalski (born in Dearborn, Michigan) is an American professional ice hockey player who plays defense for the Detroit Red Wings of the National Hockey League. Prior to joining the Red Wings, Rafalski played seven seasons with the New Jersey Devils. After struggling to enter the NHL, Rafalski has won three Stanley Cups and become an effective defenseman in the league. In his nine seasons in the league, he has played in five Stanley Cup finals. (2000, 2001, 2003, 2008, 2009) September 29, 1943 - Lech Walesa (Born) Lech Walesa was President of the Republic of Poland from 1990 to 1995. Walesa was a trade union and human rights activist who is recognized throughout the world for his participation with Poland’s Solidarity Trade Movement which helped end communism in Europe. September 30, 1954 - Barbara Trzetrzelewska (Born) Barbara Trzetrzelewska, is known by her stage name, “Basia”, for her successful music career as a jazz-pop singer in the United States, the United Kingdom and Japan. Basia has two platinum albums to her credit and is noted for possessing a wide vocal range.

September 21, 1869 - Henryk Melcer-Szczawinski (Born) Henryk Melcer-Szczawinski was a Polish composer, pianist, conductor, and teacher. His works include two piano concertos, one in E minor (1892-4) and one in C minor (1898); a violin sonata (1907), and a piano trio in G minor (probably written 1892-4).

September 22, 1964 - Bonnie Hunt (Born) Bonnie Lynn Hunt is an American actress, comedienne, writer, director, television producer and daytime television host. Hunt, who was born in Chicago, Illinois, is the daughter of Alice, a homemaker of Polish descent, and Bob Hunt, an electrician of Irish descent. September 23, 2001 - Dr. Stanislaw Blejwas (Died) Dr. Stanislaw Blejwas was a history professor and the chairman of Polish studies at Connecticut University and the President of the Polish American Historical Association. Dr. Blejwas was a respected expert in the field of Polish American Studies.

J.L. Latsios Paving Co. Inc. Building strong, long lasting parking lots and driveways in Delaware, Chester, Montgomery Counties and the Philadelphia area.

www.LatsiosPaving.com 610-459-4500 Visit Us on the Internet at: PolishAmericanCenter.com

August / September, 2009, Polish American News - Page 8

70th Anniversary of the Invasion of Poland and the Beginning of World War II Why Remember?

Why reflect on the past when some say it’s best to forget and move on? Sometimes the past is too important to ignore, especially when it involves unspeakable crimes of unimaginable destruction, crimes of cold, calculated genocide, and crimes that have not been accurately or fully reported for posterity. Crimes that can never be repeated again.

Untold Suffering Such importance surrounds the events of the outbreak of World War II and the ruthless onslaught of Hitler and his Nazi regime into Poland on September 1, 1939. No country can claim greater suffering under Nazism than Poland, the land where six million innocent civilians were methodically, viciously exterminated in camps and during raids on villages and towns across the country. Half of these victims were Christians and half were Jews, all were Polish citizens. Few know that, in Poland, Christians were the first to be imprisoned and executed in the name of ethnic purity. Later in the war, Hitler launched his “Final Solution” to eradicate Jews both in Poland and throughout Europe.

Prevent Future Crimes Against Humanity Poles have reason to feel betrayed by the lack of recognition of their heroic resistance efforts and their own immense suffering at the hands of both Hitler’s Nazi troops and Stalin’s Soviet Communists. To add insult to injury, some have even accused Poland of failure to do more in the face of Nazi terror to assist Polish Jews, part of Polish society for 800 years. Casting judgment upon previous generations serves no purpose except to aggravate the very attitudes and feelings that made Nazi success possible in the first place, namely, prejudice, hatred and refusal to appreciate another’s heritage or point of view. What is more important is to acknowledge past victimization and focus on political, diplomatic and military vigilance to prevent future holocausts.

Half-Century of Foreign Oppression It is especially important for Polish Americans to recognize the torments endured by Poles both during the war years and after agreements like Yalta and Potsdam. It is a little-known fact that, after Poland’s invasion by Hitler’s Nazi forces, the Polish people were singled out to be enslaved and killed and their cities and towns were threatened with destruction. Hitler’s purpose was to annihilate Poland and its people. Although he did not achieve his ultimate goal, Poland’s invasion ushered in a period of foreign oppression that altered the lives and fortunes of Poles for over half- a-century.

Poland’s Unique Position Unfortunately, because of Poland’s geographical centrality and large Jewish population, Hitler’s Nazi forces established within Poland’s borders several concentration camps where millions were brutally gathered to suffer and die. Victims, especially political prisoners, were gathered from all over Europe. Majdanek concentration camp revealed records of prisoners from fifty countries. Due to the camps’ locations, the Polish people are often implicated in Hitler’s murderous purposes, even to the point of being regarded, by some, as collaborators. Regrettably, we hear little about the fact that the law in Nazi-occupied Poland, and nowhere else, required the immediate execution of any Pole who protected or assisted Jews in any way, even by offering a glass of water. This death sentence was extended to entire families and sometimes even villages, whether or not all participated in assisting Jews. To decide between the life of a family member and a neighbor is truly a terrible choice, for which there was and is no simple solution. We must be careful about passing judgment on previous generations, whose individual circumstances we simply cannot know or understand completely. For our part, we must honor the Polish people who fought so valiantly to resist the unscrupulous Nazi oppressors and those who risked their lives by harboring Jewish friends and neighbors secretly in their homes. More Jews were saved in Poland than in any other occupied country.

Heroic Victory Over Communist Domination To make matters even worse, despite extensive Polish underground efforts to stop the Nazi war machine, the Poles were further betrayed, after the War, by being handed over to continued oppression for the next forty five years under Soviet Communist domination. While the rest of the world rejoiced in victory over the Nazi reign of terror, Poland and other Eastern European and Balkan nations were pawned off to appease the Soviet hunger for territory in compensation for Communist collaboration in Hitler’s defeat. Except for survivors and their families, few are aware of the Russian Communists’ brutal deportation of 1.7 million Poles to Siberian concentration camps during the War. Nevertheless, the indomitable Polish spirit remained unshaken and, through the Solidarity movement, provided the moral and political leadership required to overthrow Communism in Eastern Europe. It has been extremely gratifying over the past two decades to observe Poland’s emergence from oppression, first political and now economic, and to assume its rightful stature among the industrialized nations of Europe.

“On August 22, 1939, (Hitler) authorized the killing ‘without pity or mercy of all men, women, and children of Polish descent or language.’ On September 1, 1939 the Poles became the first people to experience the systematic terror of the Holocaust.” (William A. Donohue, President, Catholic League for Religious and Civil Rights, in The New York Times, April 23, 1999) During the war, six million Polish citizens were killed. Three million were Polish Christians, three million were Polish Jews. Without question, the Jews were specifically singled out for total extermination, but in Hitler’s plan to establish additional fertile “living space” (Lebensraum), the Poles were also in line to die, many after a period of enslavement. No one, neither Jew nor Christian, deserved the immense hardship they were subjected to. We must remember their loss equally, because every life is precious. “The Poles experienced an enormous tragedy during the German occupation of their country. The genocidal policies of the Nazis resulted in the deaths of about as many Polish Gentiles as Polish Jews, thus making them co-victims in a ‘Forgotten Holocaust.” (Richard C. Lukas, Forgotten Holocaust, Hippocrene Books, 1990.)

Many places in Poland were reduced to rubble in the devastating aftermath of World War II as is illustrated in the photo above.

Read the Polish American News Online at:

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The Poland-at-Arms exhibit highlights the fact that Poland was the first to fight against Hitler’s Nazi invaders during World War II. The exhibit has informed hundreds of thousands of people about the tragic events that took place in Poland beginning on September 1, 1939.

August / September, 2009, Polish American News - Page 9

This historic photo pictures Hitler’s Nazi German troops demolishing the Polish Customs Station as they entered Poland for the initial attack on September 1, 1939.

Hitler instructs his troops as they leave for the invasion of Poland with the following words:

Hitler’s German Nazi Troops attack Poland on September 1, 1939. Cities are bombed in air attacks, seaports are blockaded and hundreds of thousands of Nazi troops invade cities throughout Poland.

“Be hard, be ruthless. Act more quickly and brutally than others... This is the most humanitarian method of warfare because it frightens people... And now forward - against the enemy!” When You're in Philadelphia's Historic District Visit The

Living History Group Preserves Memory of World War II Vets The World War II Polish Living History Group is a non-profit, volunteer organization that honors the men and women of the Polish armed forces who served during the War. Their mission is to educate the general public about the magnitude of the Polish contribution to the Allied victory through speaking engagements and displaying artifacts at historic sites, air shows

Polish American Cultural Center Museum Exhibit Hall 308 Walnut Street Featuring Polish History and Culture

Open 10 AM to 4 PM FREE ADMISSION January through April Monday to Friday

Zachary Mateja, a World War II Living Historian presented a display on the life of a Polish soldier during the Polish Festival at Sacred Heart Parish in Swedesburg, PA held the weekend of July 24 through 26, 2009.

and other sites.

Polish American Cultural Center

308 Walnut Street Philadelphia, PA 19106

(215) 922-1700

May through December Monday to Saturday

Gift Shop is Open During Regular Exhibit Hall Hours Closed on Holidays

Internet: PolishAmericanCenter.org

Some of the lesser-known facts they share with audiences include: • Poland never surrendered to the Nazis or Soviet Communists •

Polish aircraft were not all immediately destroyed; flyers took to the air and shot down more Nazi aircraft over Poland than they lost

•

Airmen who escaped Poland formed the 305 (Josef Pilsudski) Bomber Squadron and launched raids in Allied aircraft over occupied Europe

•

Polish fighter pilots shot down more Nazi aircraft during the Battle of Britain than any other squadron

•

Members of the 10th Dragoons Regiment, after defending Poland valiantly, escaped to France where they assisted until the French surrendered and then fled to England where they helped form the Polish 1st Armored Division

•

Polish mathematicians first cracked the Nazi Enigma Code used for secret communications

In addition to providing this and much more information about Polish participation in the War, the group seeks to gather and preserve the personal stories of war survivors and their families. To submit information to the group, and to learn more about its activities, visit www.wwiipolishlhg.org.

A Great Selection of Books Stop by Monday through Saturday between 10 A.M. and 4 P.M. and see the great selection of books about the Invasion of Poland and the beginning of World War II, as well as many other topics, available at the Polish American Cultural Center Museum gift shop, 308 Walnut Street, in historic Philadelphia. Books can also be shipped anywhere in the United States. For more information, call 215-922-1700.

Polish American Cultural Center Museum Gift Shop Open Monday to Saturday, 10 A.M. to 4 P.M. Consider that special gift for a family member or friend To view merchandise and complete an order form visit the Gift Shop at: PolishAmericanCenter.com or call (215) 922-1700 to request an order form by mail. Purchases are shipped U.P.S. or Priority Mail. All Major Credit Cards are accepted.

Listen to Re-Broadcasts of the Daily and Weekend Polish American Radio Programs 24 hours -a-day - 7 days-a-week at:

PolishAmericanRadioProgram.com

August / September, 2009, Polish American News - Page 10

An Inspiring Motorcycle Pilgrimage

Patricia Whitelaw-Hill Named Executive Director of the National Polish Center in Washington, DC The National Polish Center, the only national organization representing Polish Americans with its own building in the nation’s capital, has named Patricia Whitelaw-Hill as its Executive Director. The Center’s mission is to encourage and facilitate economic and cultural cooperation between the United States and Poland and promote appreciation of Polish heritage in America. Ms. Hill’s extensive non-profit and fundraising experience, exceptional communication and facilitation skills, strong leadership, teamwork and administrative experience and in-depth knowledge of Poland and Polish Americans will contribute significantly as the Center moves forward to strengthen and grow its program.

Many individuals have heard about walking pilgrimages, but not many know there are also motorcycle pilgrimages. Twenty four Polish motorcyclists in Chicago, IL, formed such a group. They believe faith and motorcycles work together, with a love for their religious beliefs and a joy in riding their motorcycles. What a great way to have a pilgrimage! On Friday, July 17, 2009, these individuals left Chicago for their third Annual Pilgrimage. Their first stop was the National Shrine of Our Lady of Czestochowa in Doylestown, PA, followed by stops in Philadelphia, Atlantic City, Washington DC at the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, West Virginia, and final arrival home in Chicago, Saturday, July 25. Their journey took them 2400 miles with good sunny weather as well as rainy conditions. They certainly proved that faith and motorcycles work well together!

With experience in Poland from the communist era through Poland’s entry in the European Union, Ms. Whitelaw-Hill brings significant skills and experience to the position. A graduate of the University of Maryland (B.S. in Communications) and Georgetown University (M.S. in Linguistics), she has been awarded a Fulbright Grant, a U.S.I.S. English Teaching Fellowship in Albania, a scholarship to Georgetown University Graduate School and a Fellowship at the Linguistic Society of America Summer Institute. A former Peace Corps volunteer, she taught English as a foreign language (TEFL) in Albania, Romania, and Cameroon and was an English as a Second Language teacher trainer and program director in Washington, DC, Poland, Korea, and the former Yugoslavia. Fluent in French, with professional working proficiency in Polish, Macedonian, Serbian, and West African Pidgin, Ms. Hill began her professional career as Staff Assistant to Congressman Brock Adams in the U.S. House of Representatives. Ms. Whitelaw-Hill most recently served as the Executive Director of the National Society Colonial Dames 17th Century in Washington, prior to which she supported her husband in his diplomatic duties as ambassador at the American Embassies in South Korea, Poland, and Macedonia. In this role, she led Embassy community outreach initiatives, including, in Poland: Honorary President, American Friends in Warsaw; President, Spouses of Heads of Mission; and, Board Member, Litewska Children’s Clinic. Ms. Hill also represented the American Embassy at official functions.

Enjoy the Music of the Polish American String Band PolishAmericanStringBand.com

Save the Dates! Saturday, August 22 - Concert throughout the day at Great Adventure Park, New Jersey Thursday, August 27 - Free concert at the Mummer’s Museum, 2nd Street & Washington Avenue in Philadelphia, 8:00 P.M. Saturday, September 12 - String Band Parade in North Wildwood, NJ, 5 P.M. Sunday, September 13 - Concert at the National Shrine of Our Lady of Czestochowa. in Doylestown, PA 1:00 P.M. For additional information, call 267-608-7969, or email [email protected]

The Fifth Annual Summer Concert of the Philadelphia Chapter of the Kosciuszko Foundation with Silent Auction and Reception Recital featuring: Ania & Piotr Filochowski, Violinists Accompanied by Charity Wicks, Piano Friday, August 14, 2009 • 8:00 pm Ethical Society Building 1906 S. Rittenhouse Square, Philadelphia, PA For ticket information, please contact: Alfred J. Wolanin, III: 267-987-5347

Dr. Christopher Krowicki Comprehensive Family, General & Cosmetic Dentistry Convenient Evening and Weekend Hours • Emergency Care

“Proudly serving Polonia in the Tri-State Area” Exton Dental Health Group, 101 J.R. Thomas Drive Exton, PA 19341 • 610-363-2300 Dr. Krowicki is fluent in both English and Polish

White Eagle “Bialy Orzel” Newspaper

This is a bi-weekly publication of the White Eagle Media LLC. The free publication is in the Polish and English language and is available at the Polish American Cultural Center Museum, 308 Walnut Street, in historic Philadelphia. If you live outside of Philadelphia and wish to subscribe to the White Eagle, call 1-800-668-0667.

Keller Williams Real Estate

Mark Godwin, Real Estate Agent 215-757-6100 ext. 456 Featured “Must See” Property: 2351 Duncan Street Excellent condition, completly upgraded, move in ready In recognition of donations to the

Polish American Cultural Center Museum Exhibil Hall in Memory of

Jadwiga Bogucka Edward Dzialo Stephen J. Milanek Helen Pawlowski Severino D. Verna, Jr.

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News from Polish American Communities Across the United States News - Sports - Religion - History - Recipes - Folklore - Polka - and More!

Published Monthly - Only $18.00 per year

Call (toll free) 1(800) 422-1275 or visit us on the web at:

www.PolAmJournal.com e-mail: [email protected]

August / September, 2009, Polish American News - Page 11

Looking Ahead Mark Your Calendar for the Following Events Thursday, October 1, 2009, Proclamation Ceremony for Pulaski Day and Polish American Heritage Month, 12:00 Noon, Polish American Cultural Center Museum, 308 Walnut Street, historic Philadelphia, PA., Everyone is invited. Admission is free. Saturday, October 3, 2009, Pulaski Dinner Dance, Cocktails 5 P.M. - Dinner 6 P.M., Associated Polish Home Ballroom, 9150 Academy Road in Northeast Philadelphia. For reservations call Polish American Congress at (215) 739-3408. Sunday, October 4, 2009, Pulaski Observance Mass, 9:30 A.M., Cathedral of SS. Peter & Paul, 18th and the Parkway, Center City Philadelphia, PA., followed by the Pulaski Tribute Program, 10:30 A.M. at the Kopernik Monument, Torun Triangle Park, 18th and the Parkway, Center City Philadelphia, PA. Sunday, October 4, 2009, Pulaski Parade steps off at 12:30 P.M. from 20th and the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. Free seating at Logan Circle in the area of television coverage on WPVI TV-6. For more information about the 2009 Pulaski Day Parade, call the Polish American Congress office in Philadelphia at (215) 739-3408, Monday through Friday, between 9 A.M. and 5 P.M. For additional information, visit PolishAmericanCongress.com. Dr. Stephen Skorczynski will be the Grand Marshal of Philadelphia’s 2009 Pulaski Day Parade. This year’s parade theme is “Marking the 230th Anniversary of the Death of General Pulaski and Commemorating the 70th Anniversary of the Invasion of Poland and the Outbreak of World War II.” In 2009, Polonia also marks the 76th Anniversary of the Pulaski Day Parade in Philadelphia.

PAC Youth Committee Update Get the YOUNG PEOPLE involved!

The Polish American Congress would like to encourage you to consider enrolling your children in one of the Philadelphia-area youth groups listed below. They welcome participants from all area public and parochial schools. St. Adalbert Polish Language School (Saturdays) Classes are held in the School Building, Allegheny Avenue and Chatham Street, in the Port Richmond section of Philadelphia. Students from 1st to 8th grade. For info call Maria Koleda at (610) 368-1604. Adam Mickiewicz Polish Language School (Saturdays) Classes are held in the Associated Polish Home, 9150 Academy Road in Northeast Philadelphia. Students from lst to 8th grade. For info call Debbie Majka at (215) 627-1391. St. John Cantius Polish Language School (Fridays) Classes are held in St. John Cantius Hall, Almond and Orthodox Streets in Philadelphia from 5 to 8 P.M. For info call Janina Dybas at (215) 671-1161. Our Lady of Czestochowa Polish Language School (Saturdays) Classes are held at the National Shrine of Our Lady of Czestochowa in Doylestown, PA. For info call Monika Siuda at (215) 760-7876. Polish Scouts of America “Harcerstwo” (Saturdays & Sundays) The scouts welcome boys and girls between 6 and 20 years of age. For info call Kasia Przybycien at (215) 634-0827. Sloneczniki Children’s Folk Dance Group (Wednesdays) Classes are held in the school cafeteria, 4th & Jefferson Streets, Swedesburg, PA. For info call Anthony & Kathy Boccella at (610) 539-3699. For more information about youth activities in the Philadelphia area, call the Polish American Congress Youth Committee, Monday through Friday between 9 A.M. and 5 P.M. Call (215) 922-1700.

Tune in to the Daily

Polish American Radio Program

Serving Southeastern Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware 7 days a week since 1925

Monday to Friday 11:00 A.M. to 12 Noon - 1540 AM Local News, Music, Special Features and News from Poland in the Polish Language with Hostess Barbara Ilnicka

Thursday 11:45 A.M. - 1540 AM Pauline Fathers Radio Program

from Czestochowa in Doylestown, PA in the Polish Language

Saturday Morning 11:00 A.M. to 12 Noon - 1540 AM Polka Time & Variety Program In English hosted by Michael Blichasz

Sunday 12:00 Noon to 12:30 P.M. - 1540 AM Fr. Justin Radio Program Sunday 12:30 P.M. to 2:00 P.M. - 1540 AM Polish Language Variety Program with hostess Barbara Ilnicka

Internet re-broadcast from anywhere in the world!

On the Internet Right Now! 24 hours a day - 7 days a week PolishAmericanCenter.org or PolishAmericanRadioProgram.com

Place Your Salute in the October Edition of the Polish American News

Dear Members and Friends: The celebration of Polish American Heritage Month during October and the annual Pulaski Day Observance will soon be upon us. Each year the Polish American Congress coordinates several activities to celebrate Polish American Heritage Month in our area. At this time we are asking you to help support these efforts by placing your Heritage Month Salute in the October edition of the Polish American News. As you know, the majority of the events sponsored by the Polish American Congress are not fundraisers. They are held to commemorate important events, celebrate our heritage, work with our youth and keep our people united. All of these events, however, cost a tremendous amount of money, and to help make them a reality, we need your financial support at this time. Your salute in our newsletter will help us not only sponsor our October Newsletter, but will also help us with other events throughout the month. Kindly respond by using the form below. We need your help to make Polish American Heritage Month a success. Kindly reply today. Special Edition Newsletter Committee

Polish American Congress Special Heritage Month Newsletter

Salute New Branch Office: 1110 North Olden Avenue, Trenton, NJ For more information and a list of other locations,

visit us on the Internet at: www.PSFCU.com Special Greetings from

Richard L. Krzyzanowski, Esq. Krzyzanowski Foundation

Enclosed is the donation for the Special Heritage Month Newsletter Salute in the amount of $ List the following name under the Polish American Heritage Month Salute: Name: Business: $50.00 Organization: $50.00 Individual: $25.00 Must be returned by September 10, 2009 Make your check payable to: Polish American Congress Return to: PAC Special Edition Newsletter 308 Walnut Street Philadelphia, PA 19106

August / September, 2009, Polish American News - Page 12

Polish American Social Services “PASS” PolishAmericanSocialServices.com

Polish American Social Services “PASS”

2009 Programs & Benefits Check Up!

Main Office:

www.BenefitsCheckUp.com

308 Walnut Street • Philadelphia, PA 19106

For those who have access to a computer and the Internet, www.BenefitsCheckUp.com has been created by the National Council on the Aging to allow seniors and their family and friends to learn about benefits available to them. After using this site, if you have further questions or need assistance, call PASS at (215) 923-1900.

United Social Services Outreach Program

Open Monday to Friday • 9 A.M. to 4 P.M. Telephone: (215) 923-1900 Outreach Services in and around the Philadelphia area If you, a family member, or friend have a question concerning social services, call PASS and discuss your needs with a representative. All calls are CONFIDENTIAL and PASS will either give you the information you need, handle your service directly, or refer you to the proper agency that can assist you. Clients wishing to visit the main office at 308 Walnut Street, or one of the outreach sites, are asked to call in advance so that a Social Service Representative can tell you what documentation you will need to bring with you to process your request. You can view an outline of several programs available to senior citizens and individuals of all ages on the PASS Internet site at PolishAmericanSocialServices.com. For additional information, call PASS, Monday through Friday, between 9 A.M. and 4 P.M. at (215) 923-1900.

Emergency Fund “PASS” is a member of the Emergency Fund Coalition at PCA. Social Service representatives can assist with food, fuel, medication and other emergency needs. For information call PASS at (215) 923-1900.

English Language Courses Anyone interested in improving their English Language ability can contact the Community Learning Center at (215) 426-7940, Nationalities Service Center (215) 893-8400 or the Mayor’s Commission on Literacy (215) 686-5250.

Summer, 2009

Immigration News

The following is a list of programs and benefits being offered in the Philadelphia area. Please share this information with family, friends and neighbors.

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services reminds employers and new employees that a revised edition of the I-9 Form is now being used. This form, which serves as employment eligibility verification, went into effect on February 2, 2009. For regular updates in immigration news, check out US Citizenship and Immigration Services’ web site at: www.uscis.gov.

Important Summer Notice Remember to check in on senior citizens during hot summer days to make sure they are keeping cool. Seniors are affected differently by the heat and it can be very dangerous. During hot days, PCA has a heat emergency hotline at 215-765-9040!

Check Before You Travel Effective June 1, 2009, all U.S. Citizens are now required to present a passport book, passport card, or a Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative Document when entering the United States. Please note: Children under age 16 will be able to continue crossing land and sea borders using only a U.S. birth certificate or other form of U.S. citizenship such as, a naturalization certificate. For more information about these changes in travel rules, check out: www.Travel.State.Gov, or www.GetYouHome.gov.

Utility Assistance There are several programs available to help seniors and others with the costs of utilities. Check out the following programs: Philadelphia Water Revenue Bureau offers two programs to assist customers. The Senior Citizen Discount Program, offers a 25% discount on each water bill for those 65 and older. Maximum income is $28,900. The other program is called WRAP, the Water Revenue Assitance Program. Income guidelines range from $1,579 per month for one individual to $3,216 per month for a family of four. LIHEAP - applications for heating season 2009-2010 are scheduled to be sent out this year at the end of September, 2009 with the program opening in November, 2009. If you receive such an application and have questions call PASS at (215) 923-1900. PECO CAP - offers a discount on kilowatt hours, balance forgiveness and shut off prevention. Income limits are as follows: One person $15,612 annually, $31,812 for a family of four. Call CAP directly at 1-800-774-7040. PGW CRP - offers low income customers to better afford and maintain their gas service. CRP customers pay a budget amount based on their gross household income. Income limits are as follows: One person $16,245 annually, $33,075 for a family of four. Call PGW at (215) 684-6100.

Rent Assistance TURN Tenant Union Representative Network - Emergency Rental Assistance Program offers help with security deposits and one month’s back rent. Call (215) 940-3900 for funding availability. The Emergency Shelter Assistance Program of DPW (215) 560-1976. Real Estate Tax/Rent Rebate Program. Call PASS at (215) 923-1900.

Employment Polish American Social Services is continuing its employment outreach program to Pennsylvania residents. For assistance in resume preparation or a job search, contact PASS at 215-923-1900. If your current place of employment has a job opening, contact PASS and provide a detailed job description and contact information. Check out PASS’s Employment Information link at PolishAmericanSocialServices.com.

First-Time Home Buyers First-Time home buyers are reminded that the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development is offering an $8,000 credit, which can be used as an additional down payment, or to cover closing costs for those making settlement by December 1, 2009. For additional information, visit HUD’s Internet site at: www.HUD.gov, or call Polish American Social Services at (215) 923-1900.

Loans If you are thinking about borrowing against your home for home improvements or for debt consolidation or need money, consider the following: 1) speak to a housing counseling agency for free advice before you sign any legal papers for a loan 2) consider loan options 3) consider REVERSE Mortgages. For a list of housing counseling agencies or loan options or more information call PASS at (215) 923-1900.

Real Estate Taxes The Real Estate Tax/Rent Rebate Program for year 2008 is now being administered in 2009. The program has been extended till December 31, 2009. New applications are available. Homeowners can get back as much as $650 on last year’s real estate taxes while renters can get back up to $500. The income limit is $35,000 annually for homeowners and $15,000 for renters to qualify. It is important to know that only half of your Social Security or SSI counts toward the income guideline. Age requirements are 65 or older, living with a spouse that is 65 or older, widow or widower between the ages of 50 to 64 or permanently disabled between the ages of 18 and 64. For more information call PASS at (215) 923-1900.

August / September, 2009, Polish American News - Page 13

Polish American Social Services “PASS” PolishAmericanSocialServices.com

Medical Services / Insurance Philadelphia Health Centers - There are ten health centers located throughout Philadelphia. Services are free to Philadelphia residents. For a list of centers with hours of operation call PASS at 215-923-1900. Health Link Medical Center in Upper Southampton will provide free medical and dental services for working individuals living in Bucks and Montgomery Counties. Income guidelines apply. Patients are seen by appointment only. Call Health Link directly at (215) 364-4247. CHIP and Cover All Kids The Children’s Health Insurance Program and its now expanded guidelines under Cover all Kids, allows children and teens affordable comprehensive health care coverage. No family makes too much money to participate in this coverage. For more information call PASS (215) 923-1900.

Adult Basic is a medical insurance program for people ages 19-64 who do not have any medical insurance. It is offered by Independence Blue Cross Caring Foundation and costs $35.00 a month. Income guidelines apply. This program is offered in Philadelphia and surrounding counties. For more information you can call PASS at (215) 923-1900 or the Blue Cross Caring Foundation at 1-800-464-5437 or www.caringfoundation.com. There usually is a waiting list for the program.

Medicare Medicare Part B is the part of Medicare coverage that covers doctor’s visits and many other medical services. The cost of this program is usually deducted from Social Security checks every month. There are also copays and deductibles that are involved. There is assistance for those with limited income and assets to help cover these costs. In Pennsylvania it is called “Healthy Horizons.” Incomes for these programs range from $923 to $1,103 a month for an individual and assets range from $2,000 to $4,000 or less. For more information call PASS at (215) 923-1900.

Medications and Prescription Plans PACE PLUS is a new name being used for the PACE / PACENET PROGRAMS, The Pharmaceutical Assistance Contract for the Elderly. The new name reflects how this program works with Medicare Part D. It can provide better coverage for those that have both PACE/NET and Medicare D. This program has two qualifying income categories that helps pay for prescription drugs. Seniors, age 65 or older with incomes as follows: for PACE, a single person $14,500; a couple $17,700. For PACENET, a single person between $14,500 and $23,500 or a couple between $17,700 and $31,500. For more info and to get an application call PASS (215) 923-1900.

The Pennsylvania Patient Assistance Program Clearinghouse This program works with Pharma (Pharmaceutical Manufacturers) to get prescription drugs for those unable to pay. Income guidelines approximate $20,000 for a single person, $25,000 for a married couple and $30,000 for an adult and two or more dependents. Call 1-800-955-0989.

“PASS” works closely with the Philadelphia Corporation for Aging to provide information and assistance to the elderly. For information regarding services available in Philadelphia and Southeastern Pennsylvania, call PCA’s helpline number at (215) 765-9040 or PASS (215) 923-1900.

w w w. P C A C a r e s . o r g

Job Seeker and Job Training Outreach Sponsored by:

Polish American Social Services “PASS” 308 Walnut Street • Philadelphia, PA 19106 Telephone: (215) 923-1900 • Fax: (215) 922-1518 Internet: PolishAmericanSocialServices.com

Do You Have A Resume? PASS encourages job-seeking clients to prepare an outline of their work experience, or a resume, before they apply for any type of employment. A written resume helps job seekers present their job qualifications to a prospective employer. A PASS staff associate can review your current resume, update it, or develop a new one with you to prepare you for your job interview. This service is available at the office of Polish American Social Services, 308 Walnut Street in Center City Philadelphia. Call to make an appointment for this free service at (215) 923-1900.

What If I Am Satisfied With My Current Resume? If you are already satisfied with your resume, live in the State of Pennsylvania and want to share your availability with potential employers, mail your resume to PASS and your resume will be shared with prospective employers. Mail your resume to:

Polish American Social Services Employment Outreach 308 Walnut Street Philadelphia, PA 19106 Fax to: (215) 922-1518 Email to: [email protected]

For more information call PASS, Monday through Friday between 9 A.M. and 4 P.M. at: (215) 923-1900.

Attention Employers! People seeking employment often contact PASS. The staff will be pleased to alert job seekers of Job Openings that have been reported. If your place of employment is about to or has posted a position, kindly let “PASS” know about that opening. Call Monday through Friday, between 9 A.M. and 4 P.M. (215) 923-1900, or send the job opening information to: Attn: Employment Information Polish American Social Services 308 Walnut Street Philadelphia, PA 19106 Kindly include qualifications needed, starting salary and where to go for an application and interview.

Vehicle Registration Retired Pennsylvania senior citizens with an annual income of $19,200 can qualify for a discount on their Motor Vehicle Registrations. Call PennDOT Customer Service line at 1- 800-932-4600 or PASS at (215) 923-1900.

Food Stamps You may qualify for food stamps if your income is $1,387 monthly for one person, and $2,827 monthly for a household of four persons. How much you get in food stamps depends on your income, your household size and your expenses. Savings don’t matter any more. You can get food stamps even if you have money in the bank or other property. The food stamp application asks about your savings but only to find out if you qualify for emergency food stamps. You do not have to prove how much money you have in the bank. Senior citizens, concerned about applying for food stamps can ask for a telephone interview. For more information about applying for food stamps, contact the Food Stamps Hotline at (215) 430-0556, or PASS at (215) 923-1900.

In recognition of a contribution from

In recognition of a contribution from the

The Michael J. Kosloski Foundation In loving Memory of Leo Kosloski

Fourjay Foundation

For Polish American Social Services programs

For Polish American Social Services programs

Visit: PolishAmericanSocialServices.com

August / September, 2009, Polish American News - Page 14

Polish American Cultural Center Exhibit Hall Sponsors Business Directory

Assisted Living

Funeral Directors

Harmony Place Assisted Living at Parke Ridge

Slabinski Funeral Home, Inc.

“A Caring Community for your Loved One”

8420 Roosevelt Blvd. Philadelphia, PA 19152

215-708-2200

Auction Services Robert Zogorski Real Estate Real Estate Auctions 1845 Lititz Pike, Lancaster, PA 17601 Toll Free: 800-294-9390 * www.rzre.net Serving Pennsylvania

Auto Body Shop Syrena Auto Body Shop 6201 Oxford Avenue • Philadelphia, PA (215) 535-6606 691 Bethlehem Pike • Montgomeryville, PA (215) 361-1900

Contractors FATHER & SON BUILDERS “The Name You Know and Trust” Fully Licensed and Insured Free Estimates - Financing Available Specializing in Custom Kitchens & Modern Bathrooms Serving Philadelphia and Surrounding Areas Greg Matyjaszek - 215-634-7800

J.L. Latsios Paving Co. Inc. Building strong, long lasting parking lots and driveways in Delaware, Chester, Montgomery Counties and the Philadelphia area. www.LatsiosPaving.com 610-459-4500

Engineering Services Tantala Associates, LLC 4903 Frankford Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19124

215-289-4600 • www.tantala.com Albert M. Tantala, Sr., P.E. Peter J. Tantala, P.E. Albert M. Tantala, Jr., AIA Michael W. Tantala, P.E.

Financial Institutions POLONIA BANK

With 5 Offices in the Philadelphia Area to Serve You 2646 E. Allegheny Avenue, Philadelphia 215-427-3333 2133 Spring Garden Street, Philadelphia 215-665-9363 8000 Frankford Avenue, Philadelphia 215-338-7777

2628 Orthodox Street, Philadelphia 215-535-8450 3993 Huntingdon Pike, Huntingdon Valley, PA 215-938-8688

Third Federal Bank

2614 Orthodox Street Philadelphia, PA 19137 215-744-2700

Edward C. Tomaszewski Funeral Home, Inc. Two of Port Richmond’s Most Modern and Spacious Chapels at One Location 2728-30 E. Allegheny Avenue Philadelphia, PA 19134 215-739-6624

Insurance

Jerry Gregorowicz The Selzer Company Insurance - Business & Personal 975 Easton Road, Suite 100 Warrington, PA 18976 215-491-1660 Ext. 107

Joseph T. Sekula Funeral Home, Inc. Florence B. Sekula, Supervisor 2634 E. Allegheny Avenue Philadelphia, PA 19134 215-739-7900

113 Prospect Drive Wilmington, DE 19803 • 302-479-0070

Jagiellonian Law Society 1370 Chews Landing Road Laurel Springs, NJ 08021

Leon A. Mankowski, Esq. 2624 E. Allegheny Avenue Philadelphia, PA 19134 215-739-8521

215-736-2521 Polish American Congress Eastern Pennsylvania District 308 Walnut Street Philadelphia, PA 19106 • 215-739-3408

George R. Szymanski, Jr. Attorney • Adwokat

Polish American Heritage Association of Delaware County St. Hedwig’s Society, Chester, PA P.O. Box 1164 - Brookhaven, PA 19015 302-798-2842

When You Need Personal Legal Attention Accidents• Injuries • Criminal Defense • Social Security Disability • Wills & Estates • Free Initial Consultation 2538 E. Allegheny Avenue Philadelphia, PA • 215-426-4680

Polish National Alliance, Lodge #650 2201 N. Bent Lane Aston, PA 19014 • 610-876-4565

1370 Chews Landing Road Blackwood, NJ • 856-232-9828

Polish Police Association of Philadelphia P.O. Box 16381 Philadelphia, PA 19114 • 215-677-1774

Life Insurance Organizations

Polish Women’s Alliance, St. Rita’s Society

2401 Pennsylvania Avenue 15B-33 Philadelphia, PA 19130 • 215-769-8530

Polish Beneficial Association A Fraternal Life Insurance Society Serving Pennsylvania, New Jersey, & Delaware Main Office: 2595 Orthodox Street Philadelphia, PA 19137 • 215-535-2626

St. Adalbert Polish Language School 2645 E. Allegheny Avenue Philadelphia, PA 19134 • 215-739-3500 Classes Are Held On Saturday Mornings Second Street Polish Society P.O. Box 37107 Philadelphia, PA 19148

Polish Falcons of America A National Fraternal Insurance Organization Main Office: 615 Iron City Drive Pittsburgh, PA 15205 • 412-922-2244

The Society of Our Mother of Consolation P.O. Box 331 Wilmerding, PA 15148

Polish National Alliance America’s Largest National Fraternal Organization

Physicians & Surgeons Ewa Matczak, D.M.D.

National Office: 6100 N. Cicero Avenue Chicago, IL 60646 • 1-800-621-3723

Satellite Offices: 2636-38 E. Allegheny Ave. Philadelphia, PA 19134 1-800-558-8792 or 215-425-3807 6966 Broadway, Cleveland, OH 44105 1-800-318-8234 6011 South 27th St., Greenfield, WI 53321 414-281-6281 • www.prcua.org

Funeral Directors

Organizations Copernicus Society of America P.O. Box 305 Fort Washington, PA 19034 • 215-646-2470

Mayfair: Roosevelt Blvd. at Unruh 215-332-7650

2701 E. Allegheny Avenue 215-427-3500 2548 E. Lehigh Avenue 215-739-7219 10663 Bustleton Avenue 215-673-3500 8729 Frankford Avenue 215-624-8400 2900 Comly Road 215-698-9400

1-800-458-5467 • KulinskiMemorials.com

Chester T. Cyzio, Esq.

Main Office: 984 N. Milwaukee Avenue Chicago, IL 60642 • 1-800-772-8632

Washington Savings Bank

Speaks Polish • Mowimy Po Polsku Custom Designing, Cemetery Lettering, Statues, Stone Cleaning, Vases & Vigil Candles Serving all faiths in NJ, PA, and NY cemeteries!

1500 Walnut Street, Suite 2000 Philadelphia, PA 19102 Telephone: 215-568-6220 Fax: 215-564-2859

Frankford: 4625 Frankford Ave. 215-289-1400

For locations in Bucks & Mercer Counties, please call 215-579-4000.

Kulinski Memorials Monuments & Markers • Over 50 Years of Service

Legal Services

Polish Roman Catholic Union of America

Woodhaven: Knights & Woodhaven Rds. 215-824-0151

Memorials

Council of United Polish Societies Chester, PA

Bridesburg: Orthodox & Almond Sts. 215-743-6673

Fishtown: York & Memphis Sts. 215-423-2314

LOGO Sportswear

3084 Aramingo Avenue Philadelphia, PA 19134 • 215-739-2787 Office Hours by Appointment

National Fraternal Benefit Society

Theresa Korneluk Reilly, M.D. Eye Physician & Surgeon 2418 E. Allegheny Avenue Philadelphia, PA 19134 • 215-634-6660 Office Hours by Appointment

John S. Taras, M.D. • Hand Surgery The Philadelphia Hand Center, P.C.

The Benjamin Franklin House 834 Chestnut Street, Suite G114 Philadelphia, PA 19107

Polish Women’s Alliance of America National Fraternal Benefit Insurance Organization

For Appointments, call (800) 971-HAND The South Jersey Hand Center, P.C. Marlton & Cherry Hill

Branches in States Across America Main Office: 6643 N. Northwest Highway - 2nd Floor

Chicago, IL 60631 • 847-384-1200

Relocation Services

or Toll Free - 888-522-1898

Isaac’s Relocation Service

You are invited to become a

4309 G Street • Philadelphia, PA 19124

Polish American Cultural Center Exhibit Hall Sponsor

Looking for Movers and Drivers Paid training program/immediate openings/excellent starting pay To arrange for an interview, call (800) 949-3574 Ext. 940

Roofing

Call Theresa Romanowski at:

215-922-1700 PolishAmericanCenter.com



Union Roofing

Siding, Windows & Doors

Free Estimate • 10 Year Guarantee

See Our Discount Coupon Ad in Paper

215-464-6425

August / September, 2009, Polish American News - Page 15

“October” Polish American Heritage Month Committee National Headquarters: Polish American Cultural Center Museum 308 Walnut Street • Philadelphia, PA 19106 • (215) 922-1700 Internet: PolishAmericanCenter.com



Janosik and Michas Dancers Perform at Lincoln Memorial

August, 2009

Continue Your Plans For A Successful Celebration Dear Heritage Month Committee Members and Supporters: The Polish American Heritage Month Committee, once again, urges organizations, cultural groups, churches and schools to sponsor one or more activities during October to highlight the history, traditions and culture of the Polish people. This year marks the 29th anniversary of this national effort to promote innovative cultural celebrations by Polish American communities across the country. To help you plan meaningful activities in your community there is a list of “Things To Do During Polish American Heritage Month” on the Internet at:. PolishAmericanCenter.com. This year’s national theme, “United We Celebrate Together”, brings attention to the fact that we celebrate our Polish Heritage while living with many nationalities in the greatest country in the world. We encourage you to highlight the work of local Polish American organizations and recognize the contributions of local community leaders. Our ancestors began local groups to maintain their heritage in America, and because of them, proud Polish Americans continue to celebrate that heritage in hundreds of communities across America, especially in parish schools, Polish language schools, and in classrooms where teachers feature the importance of the Polish American contribution to America’s ethnic mosaic. The Polish American Heart Beats Proudly. Since everyone enjoys a good time, let’s unite our efforts and share our heritage, faith, music, food and hospitality with the rest of America! Kindly review the list of “Things to Do” and plan your October events as soon as possible. A copy of this year’s coloring contest artwork is available on our internet site: PolishAmericanHeritageMonth.com. If you need additional information, contact the committee at the telephone number and address listed above, or you can email us at: [email protected].

Polish Soldiers’ Day at Polanka’s

The Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument and the serene reflecting pool were the backdrops for the annual wianki celebration, sponsored by the Polish American Arts Association of Washington, D.C., which took place on June 20 in Washington, D.C. Philadelphia’s Janosik Polish Folk Dance Ensemble, the Michas Dancers from Virginia Beach, and the Brothers-in-Law Plus Band provided the entertainment for the evening’s festivities. Wearing authentic Krakowiak costumes, Janosik, under the direction of Monique Legaré, performed the elegant national dances of the Polonez, Krakowiak, Kujawiak, and Mazur as well as dances from the regions of Kurpie, Slask, Podhale, and Nowy Sacz. The Michas Dancers, under the direction of Mike Levinsky, wore the popular Rzeszów costumes and performed crowd-pleasing numbers from the regions of Rzeszów, Wielkopolska, Kaszuby, and Lowicz. Both directors led a Grand Polonez which included at least 75 audience participants. A wianki dance presented by the Michas Dancers was a beautiful prelude to the actual wianki procession of white-robed maidens and the ceremonious laying of their wreaths at the reflecting pool. The Brothers-in-Law Plus Band provided traditional and contemporary folk music during the entire celebration. The culmination of the evening featured a song-fest of beloved Polish folk songs.

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On Sunday, August 2, 2009, the Polish Army Veterans, Post 12, held their annual Polish Soldiers’ Day at Polanka’s, 3258 Knights Road in Bensalem, PA. Participating in the program were, (left to right): Edward Turzanski; Guest Speaker, General Leszek Soczewica; Attache for Poland’s Army in the USA, Michael Blichasz; President, Polish American Congress, Eastern PA District, Honorable Joseph DiGirolamo; Mayor of Bensalem, PA, and Honorable Gene DiGirolamo; Pennsylvania State Representative, District 18.

St. Hedwig’s (Chester, PA) All Class Reunion Saturday, October 10, 2009 Phoenix Ballroom at Reliance Fire Company 1661 Mill Road • Boothwyn, PA 19061

3:00 P.M. MASS at St. Hedwig’s Church Banquet - 4:30 P.M. Open to any Alumni of St. Hedwig’s For tickets or more information, contact: Mickey (Jarusinski) Schad at (302) 798-2842 First Come, First Serve. Reserve Your Tickets Today!

Polish Museum of America America’s First Ethnic Museum 984 North Milwaukee Avenue Chicago, IL 60622

773-384-3352 • http://pma.prcua.org Founded in 1935, the Polish Museum of America is one of the country’s first and largest ethnic museums. Polish and Polish-American history is promoted through music, artworks, and historical and cultural displays.

www.PolandByMail.com

August / September, 2009, Polish American News - Page 16

Bulletin Board

The Polish American Congress Encourages All to Support Our Area Activities! Monday, September 14 to Saturday, September 19 - St. Hedwig Parish Polish American Festival, Along the Riverfront in Wilmington, Delaware, 5 to 10 P.M. Live music, entertainment, carnival rides, games, food and refreshments. Info call 302-594-1400 or visit their Internet site: www.Polish Festival.net.

Saturday, August 8 and Sunday, August 9 - Walking Pilgrimage, starting from St. Adalbert Church, Port Richmond section, Philadelphia, to the Shrine of Our Lady of Czestochowa, Doylestown, PA. Info call Fr. Thaddeus Gorka 215-739-3500. Sunday, August 9 - Polish National Alliance Council 171 Polish Festival, “Dozynki”, Schnecksville Fire Co. Pavilion, Rt. 309, Schnecksville, PA, North of Allentown. Gates open 11 A.M. Polish Mass 12 Noon. Music by Eddie Derwin & The Polka Natural Band plus the Reverse Polish Band. Refreshments available. Info call Michael Pierzga 610-759-2775.

Saturday, September 19 - Our Lady of Czestochowa Polish Language School Registration, National Shrine of Our Lady of Czestochowa, Ferry Road, Doylestown, PA, 9 A.M. Info call Monika Siuda 215-760-7876. Saturday, September 19 - Adam Mickiewicz Polish Language School Registration, Associated Polish Home, 9150 Academy Road, Northeast Philadelphia, 10 A.M. to 12 Noon. Classes will resume Saturday, September 26th. Info call Debbie Majka 215-627-1391.

Friday, August 14 - The Philadelphia Chapter of the Kosciuszko Foundation Fifth Annual Summer Concert, Ethical Society Building, 1906 South Rittenhouse Square, Philadelphia, PA, 7:30 P.M., featuring Ania & Piotr Filochowski, Violinists and Charity Wicks, Pianist. Info/reservations call Alfred Wolanin 267-987-5347.

Saturday, September 26 - Annual Festival, Sacred Heart Church, 148 Church Street, Phoenixville, PA, 12 Noon to 7 P.M. Music, games of chance, silent auction, Polish and American food, childrens’ activities, and much more. Rain or Shine! Info call Kathleen Moffa 610-935-0939.

Polish American Citizens Club of Camden County, New Jersey

Sunday, September 27 - Polish Falcons of America Day, National Shrine of Our Lady of Czestochowa, Ferry Road, Doylestown, PA. Mass 12:30 P.M. All are welcome to attend. Info call 215-345-0600.

95th Anniversary Family Picnic Saturday, August 15, 2009 (Rain or Shine) Soupy Island, Red Bank Avenue at the River National Park, New Jersey • 1 to 6 P.M.

Second Street Polish Society Summer Polish Party “Zabawa nad Morzem”

Polish and American Food • Covered Pavilions 2 Swimming Pools • Merry-Go-Round • Slides

Featuring Polka Family Band Food & Refreshments Available Directions - From Walt Whitman Bridge, South on Interstate 295, to Exit 22 No Tickets sold at the gate! For information call Dan Steiner at 856-468-1215, or Bob Wisniewski at (856) 779-7484.

Saturday, August 15, 2009 Echo’s, Walnut & Old New Jersey Avenues, North Wildwood, NJ 5 to 9 P.M. • Info call (215) 462-2243 For Additional Information about South Jersey Shore Hotels & Motels, Restaurants, Attractions & Rentals, visit:

Saturday, August 15 - Second Street Polish Society Summer Polish Party, “Zabawa nad Morzem”, Echo’s, Walnut & Old New Jersey Avenues, North Wildwood, NJ, 5 to 9 P.M. Info call 215-462-2243. Sunday, August 16 - Polish Soldiers’ Day, National Shrine of Our Lady of Czestochowa, Ferry Road, Doylestown, PA. Mass 12:30 P.M., activities throughout the day. All are welcome. Info call 215-345-0600. Saturday, August 22 - Polish American Heritage Association of Berks County Picnic, Lower Alsace Picnic Grove, Roosevelt & Columbia Avenues, Stony Creek Mills, a suburb of Reading. Music by the O’Such Rhythm and Music Trio band and a buffet will be served at 2 P.M. Info/reservations call Nancy 610-779-5409.



Your Internet Guide to the South Jersey Shore With Links to: Cape May • Wildwood • Stone Harbor Avalon • Sea Isle • Ocean City

St. Hedwig’s Parish Polish American Festival Along the Riverfront in Wilmington, Delaware Monday, September 14, 2009 to Saturday, September 19th 5 P.M. to 10 P.M.

Sunday, August 23 - Polish Apostolate Day & Polish Women’s Alliance of America Day, National Shrine of Our Lady of Czestochowa, Ferry Road, Doylestown, PA. Mass 12:30 P.M. All are welcome to attend. Info call 215-345-0600. Saturday, September 5, Sunday, September 6, Monday, September 7, (Labor Day Weekend), and Saturday, September 12, and Sunday, September 13 - Annual Polish American Festival, National Shrine of Our Lady of Czestochowa, Ferry Road, Doylestown, PA. 12 Noon to 8 P.M. Music, food and fun for the entire family! All are welcome. Info call 215-345-0600. Sunday, September 6 - Polka Dance, Thaddeus Kosciuszko Club (TK), East Hector and Apple Streets, Conshohocken, PA. Music by Music Box Band, 3 to 7 P.M. Free parking. Info call 610-828-9352. Sunday, September 6 - Polish American Day, Evergreen Club, 415 Hartz Road, Fleetwood, PA. Music by Stanky and the Coal Miners Band, 1 to 7 P.M. Ethnic food. Info call 610-944-7501 or visit www.evergreenclub.org. Saturday, September 12 - St. Adalbert Polish Language School Registration, School Building, Allegheny Avenue & Chatham Street, Port Richmond section of Philadelphia, 9 A.M. Info call Maria Koleda 610-368-1604. Sunday, September 13 - St. Valentine Parish Family Picnic, Pulaski Park, 875 Mill Road, Andalusia, PA., 1 to 6 P.M. Music. Info call Fran Bonikowska 215-632-1816. Everyone is invited. Sunday, September 13 - 41st Annual Country Fair, Little Servant Sisters, 1000 Cropwell Road, Cherry Hill, NJ. 11 A.M. to 7 P.M. Entertainment by The Dennis Ostopowicz Polka Band, The Ambertones Polka Band, PKM Dancers and Disc Jockey Andy Citkowicz. Polish food, games and fun for the entire family. Info call 856-424-1962. All are welcome to attend! Rain or Shine.

Visit us on the Internet at:

PolishAmericanCenter.com

Parking, Admission & Entertainment are FREE Under the giant tents enjoy Polish & American Food,

The Best Polka Bands The festival also features carnival rides, games & the midway Complete details on the Internet at: www.PolishFestival.net For more information call: (302) 594-1400 The Board of the Polish American Congress welcomes all proud Polish Americans to join the PAC

2009

Polish American Congress District Membership (For New Members)

2009

Name ________________________________________________ Address ______________________________________________ City _____________________ State _________ Zip _________ Email ________________________________________________ Please Check One: Individual Membership $25.00 ____ Family Membership $30.00 ____ I understand membership will include a one-year subscription to the Polish American News. Please return the above form with your payment. A membership card will be sent to you promptly.



Polish American Congress 308 Walnut Street Philadelphia, PA 19106

For more information call the PAC at (215) 739-3408 Internet: PolishAmericanCongress.com