Republic of Poland Consul General Regina Jurkowska from Chicago visited the Kosciuszko monument at the Art Museum and the Polish Cultural Garden on a recent visit. Agata Wojno took this photo of Darek Wojno, Executive Director of the PACC, Connie Adams, director of Polish Cultural Garden, Consul Jurkowska and Gene Bak founder and immediate past director of PACC.
May Crowning at St. Casimir Polish Catholic Church
After the bilingual (Polish and English) Sunday Mass at the historic St. Casimir Church in the Glenville neighborhood of Cleveland Ohio, there was a procession outside to the statue of the Blessed Virgin for the May Crowning. Fr. Eric Orzech, pastor of both St Casimir and St Stanislaus Churches, sang a litany in Polish to Mary as they processed. He then led the two traditional May Crowning hymns - On This Day O Beautiful Mother and Queen of the May (Bring Flowers of the Rarest) as the May Queen climbed the ladder and placed the flower wreath on the statue. Then others placed flowers by the statue.
The Polish Constitution of May 3, 1791 was the first constitution to follow the 1788 ratification of the United States Constitution. May 3 was restored as an official Polish holiday in April 1990, after the fall of communism. The Constitution of May 3, 1791 is considered one of the most important achievements in the history of Poland. The May 3 anniversary of its adoption has been observed as Poland's most important civil holiday since Poland regained independence in 1918. Its importance for the Polish people has been compared to that of 4 July to the Americans.
Elizabeth Suhak singing the Polish National Anthem
Why May 3rd is Polish Constitution Day - Our Lady of Czestochowa
During his remarks on Polish Constitution Day, Rev. Eric Orzech told why the date of May 3 was chosen for Polish Constitution Day and it's connection to the feast of Our Lady, Queen of Poland. He spoke of fighting off a Swedish siege and the Black Madonna (Our Lady of Czestochowa) is said to have miraculously saved the monastery of Jasna Góra from a Swedish invasion. The Siege of Jasna Góra took place in the winter of 1655 during the Second Northern War, as the Swedish invasion of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth is known. The Swedes were attempting to capture the Jasna Góra monastery in Czestochowa. Watch the video.
Polish Constitution Day Entertainment
North Coast Mix got the crowd dancing with polkas and there were cultural performances from the PIAST Polish Artistic Folk Song and Dance Ensemble and students from the Henry Sienkiewicz Polish School and the Polish National Alliance - Maria Konopnicka's Polish School and Gorale Polish Folk Dance Group, choreographed by Bernadette Zubel.
John Niedzialek, St. Casimir Parish Council, reports: "As part of the annual St. Casimir Hams for Fams Program, volunteers distributed 132 hams to families at Willson Elementary School and St. Stanislaw Elementary School in Cleveland on April 16.
A big thanks to all those who donated and to Painesville Giant Eagle for also contributing. Happy Easter to all."
Fat Thursday (Tlusty Czwartek) Polish Paczki Party
The Cleveland Polish community gathered at the Polish American Cultural Center in the heart of Slavic Village on February 27, 2025 to celebrate with a Fat Thursday Paczki Party. Fat Thursday, or Tlusty Czwartek, is the last day to eat lots of fatty, sugary food and drink alcohol before Lent. There was a lot of great food and drink and, of course, paczki - in many flavors.
Agnieszka Kotlarsic and Cathy Katrenich
The dance floor was full with the Tom Katrenich Orchestra playing songs such as "Who stole the Kishka?". Watch the video.
It's a beautiful and historic Church in what is now called Slavic Village but was formerly known as Warszawa because of all the Poles who lived there. Glenn Sobola, a longtime parishioner of Immaculate Heart of Mary Church and the director of the Slavic Village Historical Society, gave a presentation on February 27, 2025 on the history of the Church and neighborhood that included a look at the beautiful Church Windows by Munich Studios. It began with a welcome from pastor Fr. Ralph Hudak. Watch the video of the presentation.
After Mass in the beautiful St. Casimir Church on Sunday January 12, 2025, children from Maria Konopnicka's Polish School performed a Jaselka Polish Nativity play. This was followed by a lunch version of the Polish Christmas Eve Wigilia (fish, salads, pierogis, etc.) with traditional Oplatki.
After a Polish Mass on Sunday October 13 at The Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Parish of Lorain, parishioners marched to the park named for Casimir Pulaski who was a Polish nobleman, soldier, and military commander who has been called "The Father of American cavalry" or "The Soldier of Liberty".
Marching to Pulaski Park
Polish groups led the effort to save the park leading to the rededication. Volunteers and local veterans groups held a ceremony to rededicate Lorain's Pulaski Park on Sunday, Oct. 13, 2024.
Polish History Day - Polish History, Sports and Entertainment at The Foundry
The Polish American Cultural Center, JPII hosted Polish History Day at an historic location in Cleveland on Sunday September 29, 2024. The event was held at The Foundry which is located on the historic site of St. Mary's on the Flats Church, the first Catholic Church in the City of Cleveland.
The event included a performance by the PIAST Polish Folk and Dance Ensemble, speakers from the Metroparks and Slavic Village Development.
PIAST Polish Folk and Dance Ensemble
There was a special presentation by Wieslaw Kujda, a rower who competed for Poland in Moscow in 1980.
Gary Kotlarsic and Olympic Rower Wieslaw Kujda
There were displays of Cleveland Polish history and attendees had the opportunity to try the state-of-the-art rowing facilities of the Foundry.
Award-winning Stella Walsh essay by Gustav Kotlarsic
Gustav applied for, and was awarded, a Scholarship from the Polish Roman Catholic Union of America for this essay on Stella Walsh. It begins...
"As someone of Polish descent living in Cleveland, Stella (Walasiewicz) Walsh's story feels deeply personal and incredibly inspiring. Growing up, I heard tales of her remarkable achievements, not just from history books but from the thriving Polish community around me. The Stella Walsh Recreation Center, not far from my home, stands as a testament to her legacy and triumph. Additionally, the plaque in her memory at my local public library serves as a constant reminder of her incredible journey and the profound impact she had both locally and internationally and shows that she was always willing to help her community."
The Cleveland Polish community demonstrated their heritage at One World Day in the Cleveland Cultural Gardens. One World Day has been the official event of the Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation since 1946. First, the Polish community participated in the Parade of Flags.
Polish Cultural Garden in the Parade of Flags at 2024 One World Day
They then hosted visitors in the Polish Cultural Garden.
PIAST members in the Polish Cultural Garden on One World Day
Meteorologist Kelly Dobeck from WOIO Channel 19 is half Polish and half Irish. At One World Day 2024 she visited the ClevelandPeople.com and pointed to the lands of her heritage on the map.
Kelly Dobeck
PIAST Polish Artistic Song and Dance Ensemble for 2024 Pan-American Masters Games
Cleveland was the proud host of the 2024 Pan-American Masters Games from July 12-21, 2024. There were a variety of Special Events for the athletes and other visitors including the World on Stage international concert hosted by the Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation with the Greater Cleveland Sports Commission. In conjunction with the 2024 Pan-American Masters Games, the July 20 celebration featured performances by the PIAST Polish Folk Ensemble.
PIAST Polish Artistic Song and Dance Ensemble Ladies
Hej na Krakowskim Rynku - Amelia, Angelina, Nicole. (song)
Hejnal Mariacki - Nicole Nawojowski (trumpet)
Krakowiak (dance)
To i Hola - Nicole Nawojowski (song)
Old Warsaw Polkas (dance)
Taste of Casimir
The Taste of Casimir festival at the historic St Casimir church featured traditional Polish food, a Polish Beer Garden, Bi-lingual Masses and Church Tours, live Polish music, shopping, raffles and more.
History of the Miraculous St. Casimir Church in Cleveland Ohio
At the annual Taste of Casimir festival at the historic Polish Church in Cleveland Ohio two parishioners, John Niedzialek and Joe Feckanin, shared the history of the Church after Mass. The Church at 83rd and Sowinski in what is Cleveland's Glenville neighborhood, was built on donated land in 1891. It was rebuilt in 1917 to separate the Church and the school. Over 1200 kids attended the grade school in the 1930's. John pointed out some special features of the Church including the beautiful Pieta sculpture which is unique because it includes the figure of St. John along with Mary and the body of Jesus.
They told the story of how the Cleveland Bishop closed the Church along with dozens of other in 2009. A parishioner and former member of the Polish Army who survived Nazi concentration camps named Walter Szylwian was a 96-year-old altar boy. He unplugged Bishop Richard Lennon's microphone in 2009 during the closing Mass at St. Casimir Catholic Church.
Dr. Michael Klymiuk-Wieczerski, a parishioner at St. Casimir called fellow members about a dream that he had the night after the church was closed. He said the Virgin Mary appeared in his dream in the form of Our Lady of Czestochowa and said, "Don't leave me", which he took to mean the church. This event led to the assembly of many faithful from not only St. Casimir, but visitors from even other states to form a prayer vigil each and every Sunday in the rain, snow, and cold for 139 consecutive Sundays.
Miraculously, the Pope ordered the reopening of the Church and the 99 year old altar boy was the first to receive Holy Communion from the Bishop when the Church reopened. Other stories of the Church were also shared including a visit by Cardinal Karol Józef Wojtyla before he became Pope John Paul II. Watch the video.
Why are there two St. Casimir Churches in Cleveland?
At the annual Taste of Casimir festival at the historic Polish Church in Cleveland Ohio parishioner Joe Feckanin explained why there are two St. Casimir churches within a few miles of each other. He told of how St. Casimir is revered by both Polish and Lithuanians. When the Bishop of Cleveland closed St. Casimir Polish Church he renamed the neighboring Lithuanian parish of Our Lady of Perpetual Help as St. Casimir. When St. Casimir (Polish) was ordered reopened by the Pope, there were two St. Casimir's.
Young Polish Immigrant Remembered
Imagine being a teenager from Poland and making the journey to America - Cleveland specifically - in 1916. You settle in with your family and other Poles in what is now called Slavic Village. Your new country enters the war against Germany on April 6, 1917 and even though you are not yet 18 you are proud to enlist and become a Private in Company C of the US Army's 6th Infantry.
A little over a year later your family gets the terrible news that you "died with honor in the service of his country on the fifteenth day of October 1918".
That was my Dad's grandmother's brother Theodore Gurski. My great uncle. The certificate says "We hereby express our grateful appreciation of the patriotic service of Theodore Gurski who gave up his life while in the service of his country with the American forces whose achievements made possible the glorious victory in the Great War for World Freedom and to you we extend our heartfelt sympathy in your bereavement." I wonder how Granny felt when her young brother died so young for a country he had just come to for a better life.
Memorial Day is a solemn occasion to honor and remember the brave men and women, like young Ted, who sacrificed their lives while serving in the military. It's also a time for friends and families to come together and reflect on the significance of their sacrifice. We have other tragic stories from our family's military service over the years but I just stumbled on a tube with these 3 documents and notes about Ted. Your family may have similar stories.
Amidst all the cookouts and gatherings please remember the reason for Memorial Day and the (usually) very young people who gave their lives for our freedom. They were often immigrants or first generation who made the ultimate sacrifice for their new country. Ted was a son, a brother, a nephew and like thousands of others, an immigrant. He was also a distant uncle to someone who is fortunate to be able to safely sit at a computer and post on a website because of his and other's sacrifices.
Polish Constitution Day Parade
The Polish American Congress Ohio Division hosted its 74th Constitution Day Parade on Sunday May 5, 2024.
The Polish Constitution of May 3, 1791 was the first constitution to follow the 1788 ratification of the United States Constitution. May 3 was restored as an official Polish holiday in April 1990, after the fall of communism. The Constitution of May 3, 1791 is considered one of the most important achievements in the history of Poland. The May 3 anniversary of its adoption has been observed as Poland's most important civil holiday since Poland regained independence in 1918. Its importance for the Polish people has been compared to that of 4 July to the Americans.
North Coast Mix got the crowd dancing with polkas and there were cultural performances from the PIAST Polish Artistic Folk Song and Dance Ensemble and students from the Henry Sienkiewicz Polish School.
Rev. Eric Orzech was the MC for the Constitution Day program. He told a story about Polish Freedom Fighters who were sent to Haiti by Napoleon to squelch the Haitians. When the Polish found out that the Haitians were fighting for freedom they joined their forces and helped them. "Fighting for your freedom and ours."
Cleveland Museum of Natural History at Polish American Cultural Center for Solar Eclipse Preview
Those of Polish heritage have always been rightfully proud of the accomplishments of Nicolaus Copernicus. The great Polish scientist is most remembered for providing the first modern formulation of a heliocentric (Sun-centered) theory of the solar system. This could be said to be the starting point of modern astronomy and the beginning of the Scientific Revolution.
So it was fitting that Copernicus would be included as the community learned about and prepares for the upcoming Solar Eclipse on April 8.
On March 16, 2024, at the Polish American Cultural Center JPII, students of the Maria Konopnicka Polish language school and Henryk Sienkiewicz Polish language school had a wonderful time learning about the upcoming solar eclipse from Nick Anderson, Senior Astronomer of the Cleveland Museum of Natural History.
Shrine Church of Saint Stanislaus Annual Polish Festival
The Shrine Church of Saint Stanislaus hosted its annual Polish Festival October 6-8, 2023. This year the Festival coincides with the 150th anniversary of the Parish.
Taste of Casimir Polish Festival at St Casimir Church
Cleveland's number one traditional Polish Food festival came back after missing a few years due to Covid. The Taste of Casimir festival at the historic church featured traditional Polish food, a Polish Beer Garden, Bi-lingual Masses and Church Tours, live Polish music, shopping, raffles and more.
The Cleveland Polish community demonstrated their proud heritage at One World Day in the Cleveland Cultural Gardens. One World Day has been the official event of the Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation since 1946. Over 50,000 people visited the gardens on One World Day 2023.
The Polish community participated in the Parade of Flags which had 1500 people from over 53 countries.
The Polish-American Cultural Center (PACC) in Cleveland, Ohio, named in honor of Pope John Paul II, is a 501(c) (3) tax exempt, non-profit organization dedicated to the promotion of Polish culture, traditions, language, history, literature, arts, music, theater, and education. They held their annual picnic on July 15, 2023.
Corpus Christi is a celebration of the Eucharist that the Catholic Church has celebrated since 1246. The name "Corpus Christi" is a Latin phrase that refers to the body of Christ. Corpus Christi is a public holiday in Poland. It is a day off for the general population, and schools and most businesses are closed. Large groups of people take part in outdoor processions in many villages, towns and cities in Poland.
In Cleveland, many churches had Corpus Christi processions. Following 11:30 Mass, there was a Corpus Christi procession to the outside altars with children distributing rose petals at St. Casimir Church.
Fr. Eric Orzech is pastor of St. Casimir Church (and the Shrine Church of Saint Stanislaus) and is celebrating 30 years as a priest.
Father Eric Orzech at St. Casimir Church
After Mass he led the procession to 4 altars carrying a monstrance containing the consecrated Eucharist.
The Polish Constitution of May 3, 1791 was the first constitution to follow the 1788 ratification of the United States Constitution. May 3 was restored as an official Polish holiday in April 1990, after the fall of communism. The Constitution of May 3, 1791 is considered one of the most important achievements in the history of Poland. The May 3 anniversary of its adoption has been observed as Poland's most important civil holiday since Poland regained independence in 1918. Its importance for the Polish people has been compared to that of 4 July to the Americans.
Mitch Bienia with Parade co-Grand Marshals Marta Kelleher and Tim DeGeeter
North Coast Mix got the crowd dancing with polkas and there were cultural performances from the PIAST Polish Artistic Folk Song and Dance Ensemble and students from the Henry Sienkiewicz Polish School.
Holy Saturday Food Blessing (English and Polish) at St Casimir Church
Swieconka, meaning "the blessing of the Easter baskets", is one of the most enduring and beloved Polish traditions on Holy Saturday during Easter. People bring food that they will be serving on Easter Sunday to the church where it is blessed by the priest.
Father Eric Orzech is the pastor of St. Casimir Catholic Church in Cleveland Ohio and he did the blessing and prayers in both English and Polish.
Father Eric Orzech
There were 3 blessings at the Church on Holy Saturday morning and parishioners, new and longtime, attended.
Paczki Day - and Favorite Paczki in Cleveland - Rudy's Strudel
Ash Wednesday begins the season of Lent which is 40 days of fasting. That used to mean only one meal a day and full fasting on Friday. (It's been greatly relaxed in modern times but Fridays are still meat-free). Rich foods were not allowed. So the Tuesday before Lent, people of Poland used up their eggs, butter, sugar and fruit by treating themselves one last time before Lent began. Ash Wednesday is on February 22 this year. That means February 21st is Mardi Gras or Fat Tuesday - and Paczki Day! Another popular Polish-American tradition is celebrated the week before (February 16 this year) with Fat Thursday or Tlusty Czwartek (pronounced Twoosti Chvartek).
But Paczki (punch-key) Day has become much more than a Polish-American tradition. And nobody does it better than Rudy's Strudel in Parma where lines will form early and continue all day. People will ask for paczkis, not realizing that paczki is already the plural of paczek (punch-ek).
Our website visitors voted for Rudy's Strudel as having their Favorite Paczki in Cleveland.
Rudy was an immigrant from Hungary who started his store in 1948 at 48th and Storer. It was known for strudel and penny candy. He had two daughters who are still good friends of the current owner, Lidia Trempe.
Lidia's father immigrated from Ukraine and her mother from Poland. When Rudy died in 1979 her mother bought Rudy's and brought in some of her secret old-world recipes for Eastern European favorites such as strudel, kolaczki, potica and others and, of course, paczki.
Rudy's is located in the heart of Parma's Polish Village at 5580 Ridge Road in Parma, OH 44129. Rudy's Strudel & Bakery is now 75 years old but pierogi was not on the original menu. Owner Lidia Trempe said it began when a bakery customer saw them cooking pierogi for the family dinner and ordered some. The rest is history.
The pierogis have become so popular that when we asked our website visitors to let us know where their favorite pierogis come from the clear winner was Rudy's.
So we were happy to award the Cleveland 101 Favorite Pierogi 2023 honor to the legendary Rudy's and presented it to Lidia.
Lidia Trempe with Favorite Pierogi award for Rudy's
From Thea Rus. Every nationality group has special to celebrate traditions which has been passed on from grandparents and parents. Being 100% Polish, I learned to love all things Polish. Various traditions were were discussed at length if you lived in the same house with your grandparents for 20+ years.
One of my favorites which I grew to appreciate as I grew was "Oplatki". What a lovely way to show friends and loved ones that you care. Begun millenniums ago in Poland, the Christmas Eve ritual continues whenever Oplatki is shared. Oplatki is considered to be holy wafers but are not blessed.
Also of interest, An Oplatki wafer is usually 6" x 3.5" or so. Imprinted on each one is a Nativity scene (very lovely). Each is so large so pieces can be broken off and shared with everyone assembled. Pieces are broken off, a wish is extended one person to another, and the wafers are then eaten.
A traditional wish might be "I wish you health, happiness, and good fortune, and after this life an eternal crown in heaven" Of course, your wish can be whatever you want it to be. Oplatki can be ordered from:
Christmas Wafers Bakery PO Box 99, Lewiston, NY 14092 christmaswafers.com 716-283-8911
Polish Independence Day 11-11-2022
Ambassador Ray Vargas reports, "The celebration of Poland's Independence Day was well received by many people at the Polish American Culture Center. The program was conducted by the students of the Polish School in the name of Maria Konopnicka. As the audience stood in singing the Polish national anthem, the students of the Polish performed various patriotic songs and poems. Appetizers and sweet desserts along with coffee, tea was served to the guests.
Polish Cultural Garden on One World Day 2022
The Cleveland Polish community demonstrated their heritage at One World Day in the Cleveland Cultural Gardens. One World Day has been the official event of the Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation since 1946. Over 40,000 people visited the gardens on One World Day 2022.
The Polish community participated in the Parade of Flags and hosted people in the Polish Cultural Garden.
Ambassadors to ClevelandPeople.Com are individuals who are outstanding representatives of their culture and heritage. They have demonstrated great dedication to the advancement of their own community and to the greater good of honoring and celebrating other ethnic groups and communities to make our city and region more vibrant.
We are honored to have Raymond Vargas join us as an Ambassador to the Polish community. Ray will be joining Gary Kotlarsic on the team.
Raymond was born in Garfield Heights, Ohio and graduated from John Adams High School. His first exposure to Polish studies was when he enrolled as a youth in the Jitrzenka Polish Language School. The school was established to teach the Polish language, history, culture, singing and dancing. Raymond excelled so well in his studies that he was asked to teach dancing and singing. Shortly thereafter, he was asked to dance with PNA Council #6 which later became the Gorale Polish Folk Dancers.
Again excelling in his Polish studies, he was asked to assist in teaching Polish folk dancing and later was named director of the dance group. While dancing with the PNA Council #6 Dance Group, he was asked to participate with other groups such as Polanie Polish Dance Ensemble of Youngstown, Ohio. During this time he felt the
need to learn more to enhance his Polish studies. He attended numerous seminars and training sessions throughout the US and Poland. He was asked to be a performer with the Czardas Song and Dance Ensemble, but due to his busy schedule, participated for only one season. Ray enjoys giving lectures, classes and assisting other dance groups and organizations in folk arts, traditions, singing and dancing throughout Ohio and neighboring states.
Currently Ray is employed with the State of Ohio as a Training Officer. He is on the Board of Directors of the Polish-American Cultural Center, Director and Choreographer of Syrena Polish Folk Dancers of Cleveland, Ohio, Choreographer of Wiwaty Polish Folk dancers of Erie, PA and Gorale Folk Dancers of Cleveland. He is a Knight of Pulaski in the Polonia Foundation of Ohio. Ray was a board member of the Ohio Chapter of the Kosciuszko Foundation and Youth Coordinator for the Polish National Alliance.
Józef Elsner, teacher of Chopin - Preview of duodrama "Echo in the Woods"
Józef Elsner (1769 - 1854) was a composer, music teacher, and music theoretician, active mainly in Warsaw, Poland. He was one of the first composers in Poland to weave elements of folk music into his works. He is perhaps best known as the principal composition teacher of the young composer Frédéric Chopin.
Maestro Grzegorz Nowak is a Polish conductor. He has served as music director of the Polish National Opera, the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra, the SWR Radio Orchestra in Kaiserslautern, Germany), and Sinfonia Helvetica and festival Musique and Amitié in Switzerland. He is the Principal Associate Conductor of the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra in London. He came from Poland to Cleveland to conduct Elsner's "Echo in the Woods" a duodrama in 1 act (1808). At the time many thought an opera had to be in Italian or German but Elsner brought in the Polish language.
Maestro Grzegorz Nowak
A few days before the concert he spoke at the John Paul II Polish Cultural Center in Cleveland and told about Józef Elsner and his duodrama "Echo in the Woods."
Dorota Sobieska (Cleveland Opera), Andrezj Stec and pianist Jacek Sobieski gave a preview taste of their upcoming performance of Józef Elsner's duodrama "Echo in the Woods" at the Polish Cultural Center in Cleveland's Slavic Village on September 9, 2022.
Polish Constitution Day Parade - Parma Ohio - May 1, 2022
The Polish Constitution of May 3, 1791 was the first constitution to follow the 1788 ratification of the United States Constitution. May 3 was restored as an official Polish holiday in April 1990, after the fall of communism. It is celebrated in Cleveland with events including a ceremony at the Polish American Cultural Center in Cleveland's historic Slavic Village neighborhood and this parade down Ridge Road in Parma.
Polish Constitution Day Festival - Parma Ohio - May 1, 2022
The Polish American Congress - Ohio Division, in collaboration with Polish Village Parma, hosted Polish Constitution Day to commemorate the signing of Europe's first democratic constitution. Before and after the Parade there was a celebration of Polish culture featuring music, food and camaraderie.
National Independence Day (Polish: Narodowe Swieto Niepodleglosci) is a national day in Poland celebrated on November 11 to commemorate the anniversary of the restoration of Poland's sovereignty as the Second Polish Republic in 1918 from the German, Austro-Hungarian and Russian Empires. Following the partitions in the late 18th century, Poland ceased to exist for 123 years until the end of World War I, when the destruction of the neighbouring powers allowed the country to reemerge. It is a non-working day and a flag flying day in Poland.
Polish Cultural Garden on One World Day 2021
Cleveland's Polish community was well-represented at the 75th One World Day in the Cleveland Cultural Gardens on August 29, 2021. They marched in the Parade of Flags and hosted visitors in their beautiful Polish Cultural Garden.
Polish Cultural Garden in Parade of Flags at One World Day
Connie Adams and Richard Konisiewicz in front of bust of John Paul II
New Polish and American Eagle Monument in the Polish Cultural Center Heritage Garden
On April 27, 2021 a new addition was installed in the Polish Cultural Center Heritage Garden. It is a monument featuring the Polish Eagle and an American Bald Eagle joining in flight signifying the bonds between the two countries and cultures. The eagles were sculpted by renowned Polish American artist Andrew Pitynski who passed away just after completing this sculpture. It was forged locally at Studio Foundry. A proper dedication is being planned for later this year.
Polish and American Eagle monument in Polish American Cultural Center Heritage Garden
Eating paczki is the traditional Polish way to indulge before the fasting in observance of Lent begins on Ash Wednesday. Paczki have been known in Poland at least since the Middle Ages.
All ages love paczki!
Councilman Tony Brancatelli, Cleveland International Hall of Fame inductee Irene Morrow, Polish Cultural Garden delegate Connie Adams and others shared their favorite packzki traditions and memories. What are yours?
We asked community leaders of various ethnic heritages to share some holiday traditions of their culture. Cleveland Councilman Tony Brancatelli and Polish Cultural Garden delegate Connie Adams shared these traditions.
October is National Polish Heritage Month. John Niedzialek draws a parallel between some of the current issues in the world and the great Polish General Thaddeus Kosciuszko.
Consulate General of the Republic of Poland in NY at Polish Cultural Garden
Special guests visited the Polish Cultural Garden on August 25, 2020. Adrian Kubicki, Consul General and Mateusz Gmura, Vice-Consul were in Cleveland on official business from the Consulate General of the Republic of Poland in New York.
Eugene Bak, Adrian Kubicki, Consul General of the Republic of Poland, Connie Adams and Vice Consul Mateusz Gmura
The dignitaries were given a tour of the Polish Cultural Garden by Gene Bak, retired Executive Director of Polish American Cultural Center (PACC) and distinguished inductee of the Cleveland International Hall of Fame and Connie Adams, Member of the Board of Directors of PACC and Director of the Polish Cultural Garden.
Polish Cultural Garden on 74th annual One World Day
The Polish Cultural Garden is one of about 30 Cleveland Cultural Gardens. They joined in the celebration of One World Day on August 25, 2019 with activities, resources, pierogi making and more!
Gene Bak speaks about the new bust of St Pope John Paul II
Connie Adams greeted visitors
Ray Vargas demonstrated pisanki making
Polish American Cultural Center activities on One World Day
Ben Stefanski was a community leader and philanthropist especially in his beloved Slavic Village neighborhood. He was a history buff who brought that knowledge to current problems such as crime, poverty and clean water.
He worked on numerous projects including the Cleveland Cultural Gardens, regional leader for the Kosciuszko Foundation, worked and accomplished much for the City of Cleveland under Mayor Michael White, and in his earlier years was with Third Federal Savings and Loan, a national financial institution founded by his family.
Ben passed away on Saturday July 6, 2019.
Ben Stefanski speaks at One World Day 2009 in his beloved Polish Cultural Garden
We were proud that Ben served as Polish Ambassador for ClevelandPeople.com
Saint Pope John Paul II bust dedication - May 18, 2019
A statue of Saint John Paul II was dedicated on May 18, 2019 in the Polish Cultural Garden in Cleveland, Ohio. Dignitaries including Cleveland City Council President Kevin Kelley and Councilman Tony Brancatelli spoke as did the world-renowned sculptor of the bust, Andrzej Pitynski. Bishop Roger Gries and Father Jerzy Kusy blessed the new addition to the Garden.
Opera singer Dorota Sobieska performed as did the PIAST Polish dance ensemble.
Polish Heritage in Slavic Village - Gene Bak and Tony Brancatelli
Cleveland Councilman Tony Brancatelli whose ward includes Slavic Village in Cleveland and Gene Bak, director of the John Paul II Polish American Cultural Center spoke about the significance of the Constitution of May 3rd and Polish history. They also told of the importance of the new Polish Heritage Garden in the community.
2019 Polish Constitution Day Ceremony in the Polish American Cultural Center
The Polish Constitution of May 3, 1791 was the first constitution to follow the 1788 ratification of the United States Constitution. May 3 was restored as an official Polish holiday in April 1990, after the fall of communism. It is celebrated in Cleveland with events including a parade and ceremony at the Polish American Cultural Center in Cleveland's historic Slavic Village neighborhood.
Councilman Tony Brancatelli and Grand Marshall Marion Bajda, a member of Anders Army
PIAST, the Polish Artistic Folk Song and Dance Ensemble
Polish History in the Polish Heritage Garden - Virtual Tour
Dan Hanson walked through the Polish heritage Garden behind the John Paul II Polish American Cultural Center in the Slavic Village neighborhood of Cleveland. He enumerated the 27 different placards that depict Polish history throughout the ages including the Constitution of May 3, John Paul II, World War II, Copernicus, Chopin and others. Interested people and students should visit the beautiful garden to see the highlights of centuries of Polish history.
Importance of Polish Constitution of May 3rd - Ray Vargas
Ray Vargas, chair of the 2019 Polish Constitution Day in Cleveland's Slavic Village, explained the importance of the Polish Constitution of May 3, 1791 in front of a placard in the Polish Heritage Garden at the John Paul II Polish American Cultural Center.
2018
Judge Ray Pianka inducted Posthumously into the 2018 Cleveland International Hall of Fame
"Dla chcacego nic trudnego” is Polish for “Where there’s a will, there’s a way”. Judge Raymond L. Pianka often quoted this Polish phrase when explaining how he was able to accomplish so much for the people of his Cleveland neighborhood, other city neighborhoods, as well as his city.
Rocky was inducted on April 17, 2018 in front of 500 guests at the Cleveland Marriott Hotel Ballroom. Judge Ray Pianka was inducted by Councilman Anthony Brancatelli and his wife Karen and daughter Kirsten accepted the award in his honor.
Kirsten Pianka and Karen Pianka with Tony Brancatelli
The Grand Dedication of the highly anticipated, new Polish Heritage Garden at the Polish American Cultural Center at 6501 Lansing Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio in Slavic Village took place on November 11, 2018. This beautiful gated outdoor garden will present Poland's history century by century with permanent comprehensive placards situated along a circular brick walkway. This special garden is designed for future educational and celebratory events for all Cleveland Polonia and their guests to enjoy.
Cutting the ribbon at the new Polish Heritage Garden
The new Polish Heritage Garden is behind the Polish American Cultural Center. It features a circular grassy area and along the walkway there are 27 placards telling the story of Polish history.
Polish Heritage Garden History of Poland Placard #27 - Solidarity
International Cleveland Community Day at the Cleveland Museum of Art is a celebration of the rich diversity of our region's multiethnic communities, featuring traditional music and dance performances, cultural displays, and ingallery experiences. The Polish community was represented with a banner, information table and performance by PIAST Polish Folk Dance Ensemble.
Independent Poland banner hanging in the Cleveland Museum of Art
PIAST Polish Folk Dance Ensemble at Cleveland Museum of Art
PIAST Polish Folk Dance Ensemble of the Polish Roman Catholic Union of America performed at International Cleveland Community Day at the Cleveland Museum of Art.
The Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation (CCGF) hosted the 73rd annual One World Day on September 16, 2018. A highlight is the Parade of Flags where people in costumes of their heritage carry the flags. The Polish Garden was well-represented in the Parade.
St. John Paul II bust installed in the Polish Cultural Garden in Cleveland
The Polish Cultural Garden in Cleveland has busts of several famous Poles: Copernicus, Henryk Sienkiewicz, Frédéric Chopin, Madame Marie Sklodowska Curie, Ignacy Jan Paderewski and Adam Mickiewicz. They circle a beautiful fountain in the Garden at the corner of East Blvd and St. Clair in Cleveland.
The bust of Polish astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus was recently moved to make way for a new bust of Saint Pope John Paul II which was added to the Polish Garden.
Connie Adams, Gene Bak and Gary Kotlarsic with the bust of John Paul II
Moving the bust of Copernicus in the Polish Cultural Garden
The bust of Polish astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus in the Polish Cultural Garden was moved to make way for a new bust of Saint Pope John Paul II which will be added to the Polish Garden.
Click the white arrow to watch the video of mounting the bust of Copernicus. That is Cleveland International Hall of Famer Gene Bak in the video.
Virtual Tour of the Polish Cultural Garden
The Cleveland Cultural Gardens are a chain of 30 or so gardens in Rockefeller Park in Cleveland each honoring a certain heritage and ethnicity. The Polish Cultural Garden was dedicated in 1934 and new busts have been added over the year. The bust of Polish astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus was moved to make way for a new bust of Saint Pope John Paul II which will be added to the Polish Garden. This brief walking tour shows the busts of Copernicus, Henryk Sienkiewicz, Frédéric Chopin, Madame Marie Sklodowska Curie, Ignacy Jan Paderewski and Adam Mickiewicz.
Click the white arrow to watch the video
World Apostolate of Fatima Cleveland Diocesan Pilgrim Virgin Statue Our Lady of Fatima
The World Apostolate of Fatima Cleveland Diocesan Pilgrim Virgin Statue Our Lady of Fatima visited St. Casimir Church in July 2018 to coincide with the Taste of St. Casimir Polish Festival.
Polonia represented at Cleveland multicultural party
A highlight of the 8th Annual ICC-WIN Cleveland Multicultural Holiday Celebration on Wednesday, December 6, 2017 at the Global Center for Health Innovation in Cleveland was the International Fashion Show featuring almost 100 models from about 30 countries.
Gustav Kotlarsic and Amelia Kotlarsic represented Poland. Gustav wore a traditional "Green Kurpie" costume which consists of a red felt vest with black trim and stylized red and white accents, white pants and brown hat. Amelia wore a traditional "Green Kurpie" costume. Which consists of a vest and skirt with white apron. On her head is a head piece full of colorful ribbons which is characteristic of the Green Kurpie region from North Central Poland.
(Click on the white arrow to watch the video)
Gustav Kotlarsic and Amelia Kotlarsic representing Poland.
Tracing Your Family's Path from a Displaced Persons Camp
The U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, D.C., has created a searchable database of information on the Displaced Persons Camps and the people who passed through them. Earlier this year, the Holocaust Museum partnered with the Ukrainian Museum-Archives in Cleveland to digitize the UMA's extensive collection of DP Camp periodicals produced by Ukrainian refugees from 1945-51. Working with Kyiv-based Archival Data Systems, researchers have scanned more than 75,000 documents archived at the Tremont museum, creating a resource that scholars and others will now be able to access.
Officials from the Holocaust Museum unveiled the new resource and its search tools at a special presentation in Cleveland, a city that resettled thousands of displaced persons. "Solving the Mystery: Tracing Your Family's Path from a Displaced Persons Camp," was presented at the Slovenian National Home.
PIAST Polish folk song and dance group at the Cleveland Museum of Art's International Cleveland Community Day
The Piast dynasty was the first historical ruling dynasty of Poland. The folk song and dance group PIAST is named for them. They are part of the Polish Roman Catholic Union of America (PRCUA) the oldest Polish American organization in the United States. They performed at the 2017 Cleveland Museum of Art's International Cleveland Community Day in the Atrium of the Museum on Sunday October 8, 2017.
On Saturday, September 23, 2017 a concert was held in the beautiful Shrine Church of St. Stanislaus, in honor of the 200 th Anniversary of the passing of General Thaddeus Kosciuszko (1746-1817), a hero in both America's and Poland's fight for freedom.
Konrad Binienda and friends performed the works of Chopin and Mozart to an enthusiast audience that were awed by his piano skills and his accompanist on the violin.
Wieslaw Binienda, Maria Szonert Binienda (parents), Linda Duan, Jiana Peng, Konrad Binienda
On the occasion of the 73rd anniversary of the outbreak of the Warsaw Uprising we pay tribute to the participants of the Warsaw Uprising living in the United States and those who are no longer with us.
Please accept our gratitude for your fight for the independence of Poland and your efforts to liberate Warsaw. Thank you for teaching the next generations of Poles living abroad the lessons of patriotism and for conveying the historical truth about our homeland's past.
Maciej Golubiewski Consul General of the Republic of Poland in New York and the team
We remember!
Polish World War II Heroine turns 90
Cecilia Wilk-Pech (Zagorski) celebrated her 90th birthday and was honored at St. Casimir Church for her bravery in WWII. Cecilia risked her life to save 3 American soldiers shot down over Germany in 1944.
Cecilia Wilk-Pech and husband James with John Niedzialek at St Casimir Church
The Polish Constitution of May 3, 1791 was the first constitution to follow the 1788 ratification of the United States Constitution. May 3 was restored as an official Polish holiday in April 1990, after the fall of communism. It is celebrated in Cleveland with events including a parade and ceremony in Slavic Village.
Click on the links below to see photos and videos of the Parade, Ceremony and People at the 2017 Polish Constitution Day in Slavic Village.
PIAST Polish Folk Song and Dance Ensemble at Cleveland Kurentovanje
The PIAST Polish Folk Song and Dance Ensemble of the Polish Roman Catholic Union of America performed at the 2017 Kurentovanje Festival at the Slovenian National Home. The dancers performed a Pysanky Dance where the young ladies dressed as Easter Eggs - pysanky - and the young men dressed as roosters. They also danced some old Warsaw polkas.
Judge Raymond Pianka was a great friend to Cleveland and he never forgot his beloved Polonia. He will be greatly missed. Our prayers are with him and his family. RIP Your Honor.
Eugenia Stolarczyk inducted into Cleveland International Hall of Fame
Eugenia Stolarczyk was inducted into the 2016 Class of the Cleveland International Hall of Fame on the evening of April 26, 2016. Over 500 people attended the induction ceremony at the Marriott at Key Center. She was inducted by Polish Consul General Urszula Gacek from New York.
Consul General Urszula Gacek inducting Eugenia Stolarczyk
It was a big weekend for Greater Cleveland's Polish American Community. To celebrate the 125th Anniversary of the founding of St. Casimir's Parish, Fr. Eric Orzech, pastor of both St. Casimir and St. Stanislaus Churches invited the Most Reverend Andrzej Wypych, the Auxiliary Bishop of Chicago to be the Celebrant and Homilist at the Sunday, October 16th, 11:30 AM Solemn Mass of Thanksgiving.
Bishop Andrzej Wypych, Fr Eric Orzech, altar servers and children of the Sienkiewicz Polish Language School and Piast Dancers
A short walk through the inside of the Shrine Church of St Stanislaus in Cleveland's Slavic Village neighborhood.
The building itself and the neighborhood, listed as Warszawa Neighborhood District, are both on the National Register of Historic Places. In 1969 Cardinal Karol Wojtyla (the future Pope John Paul II) visited the parish.
Click on the white arrow to watch the video
Polish Cultural Garden on One World Day 2016
The Polish Cultural Garden and Polish community participated in the 71st One World Day on August 28, 2016. They began with the Parade of Flags.
Polish Garden in Parade of Flags
Throughout the day members of the Polish community of Cleveland hosted hundreds of visitors in the Polish Cultural Garden and shared Polish culture.
Living Traditions Folk Ensemble performed dances from Slovakia, Poland and Ukraine at the 71st One World Day in the Cleveland Cultural Gardens on August 28, 2016.
Polish Constitution Day in Cleveland's Slavic Village
The Polish Constitution of May 3, 1791 was the first constitution to follow the 1788 ratification of the United States Constitution. May 3 was restored as an official Polish holiday in April 1990, after the fall of communism. It is celebrated in Cleveland with events including a parade in Slavic Village.
Cleveland Mayor Frank Jackson and PIAST ladies
After the Parade people gathered in front of the Shrine Church of Saint Stanislaus for a program.
The ClevelandPeople.Com Passport Adventurers travelled to Lithuania via the Cleveland Lithuanian Club. They learned about Jadwiga (St Hedwig) who reigned as the first female monarch of the Kingdom of Poland from 1384 untill her death. Her marriage to Wladyslaw-Jogaila enabled the union of Poland and Lithuania, establishing a large state in East Central Europe.
A highlight of the 6th annual Holiday Celebration of Cleveland's Diversity held in the atrium of the Global Center for Health Innovation in the Cleveland Convention Center by the International Community Council-Worldwide Intercultural Network (ICC-WIN) was the multicultural fashion show.
Models: Gustav Kotlarsic and sister Amelia Kotlarsic
Amelia will be wearing a flowered skirt with white apron, decorative beaded vest, white blouse and flowered wreathed with ribbons on the head.
Gustav will be wearing white and res stripped pants, white shirt with red ribbon tie and navy blue vest with large belt with many rings. On his head will be a square hat with a peacock feather.
14 year old Olivia Gutowski performed at the ICC-WIN event. Dressed in a traditional Polish outfit, Olivia played the Hejnal on her trumpet.
Olivia Gutowski
The Hejnal Mariacki is a traditional, five-note Polish anthem closely bound to the history and traditions of the capital, Kraków. It is played every hour on the hour, four times in succession in each of the four cardinal directions, by a trumpeter on the highest tower of the city's Saint Mary's Church.
Legend has it that a sentry on a tower of St Mary's Church sounded an alarm by playing the Hejnal but the trumpeter was shot in the throat and did not complete the anthem. That is why performances end abruptly before completion.
Olivia Gotowski then performed Silent Night on trumpet.
Olivia Gotowski
Gary Kotlarsic receives Freedom Award
The American Nationalities Movement of Ohio (ANM) celebrated their 51st annual Christmas Luncheon and Freedom Award recognitions on December 19, 2015.
Lia Staaf, Gary Kotlarsic, Jane B. Sheats and the band Harmonia were honored.
Gary Kotlarsic has been a volunteer for many Polish organizations including director of the Polish American Cultural Center, John Paul II.
Judge Ralph Perk Jr, Gary Kotlarsic and Judge Ray Pianka
Mariachi Band for Our Lady of Guadalupe and Mexican Immigrant Family
A group of Mexican immigrants from Painesville and Polish parishioner met in front of historically Polish St Casimir Catholic Church in Cleveland to pray for a Miracle from the Polish icon Our Lady of Czestochowah and her Mexican counterpart Our Lady of Guadalupe to keep the family of Carmen Camarillo of Painesville together. Mariachi Santa Cecilia of Painesville performed.
Cleveland Museum of Art October 4, 2015 The Piast dynasty was the first historical ruling dynasty of Poland. The folk song and dance group PIAST is named for them. They are part of the Polish Roman Catholic Union of America (PRCUA) the oldest Polish American organization in the United States.
They performed at the Cleveland Museum of Art's International Cleveland Community Day in the Atrium of the museum.
Sierpien 31 - Dzien Solidrnosci i Wolnosci
August 31 - Day of Solidarity and Freedom
Day of Solidarity and Freedom - a Polish national holiday , established by the Polish Parliament on July 27, 2005 is celebrated every year on August 31, on the anniversary of the August agreements to commemorate the historic Polish uprising for freedom and independence of 1980, which marked the start of the fall of communism and the liberation of the peoples of Central and Eastern Europe.
In 1985, St Casimir Church was dedicated to the Solidarity movement by eleven Solidarity members from Poland.
A Prayer
God, who out of our land banished enemies.
Breaking their power, pride and arrogance,
Return our homeland free and just.
Return Solidarity.
God, who executioners
For centuries rebuked out of our land,
Restore our independent Poland.
Return Solidarity.
God, who in the heart of imprisoned Poles
Poured hope and moral discipline,
Restore us the truth in our pages of history.
Return Solidarity .
At the end, Michal Golab played a famous song during the 1980s, "Ojczyzno ma" while flowers were presented to the last of the eleven original Solidarity members, Andrzej Sobolewski, who was instrumental in installing at St. Casimir a replica of the Gdansk Shipyard Memorial dedicated to those who made the ultimate sacrifice for freedom.
by Margaret Feckanin
St. Casimir Way street sign unveiled
St Casimir Church in Cleveland June 14, 2015 For years, there has been an unnamed street that connects MLK Blvd to Ansel Rd. just a block East of the twin towers of the historic Polish Church, St. Casimir, built in the American Architectural Style called "Polish Cathedral Style". St Casimir parishioner, John Niedzialek, whose family have been members for over a hundred years felt that an unnamed access street should have a name in order for people to easily find it. He worked with city officials for over 2 1/2 years to make " St. Casimir Way" a reality. With the help of caring local elected officials, especially Councilman Kevin Conwell, the project made it through committees, was ok'd by Cleveland City Council and was signed by Mayor Frank Jackson.
After the 11:30 AM Mass on June 14, 2015, a procession marched from the Church to the roadway where a short ceremony took place and the street sign was unveiled. Parishioners were joined by children in traditional costumes, Polish Veterans groups and others.
Gary Kotlarsic and his family from the Cleveland Polish community participated in the International Community Council - Worldwide Intercultural Network's (ICC-WIN) 5th annual multicultural holiday celebration at the Global Center for Health Innovation in the Cleveland Convention Center in Cleveland Ohio. They modeled Polish costumes at the International Fashion Show which featured traditional costumes of dozens of countries.
The 10th Annual Carpatho-Rusyn Vatra was produced by the Cleveland Chapter of the Carpatho-Rusyn Society. The Vatra was held at Carpathian Hall at the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist in Parma Ohio. One of the entertainment highlights was the performance by the young men and ladies from the PIAST of the Polish Roman Catholic Union of America in Cleveland who performed traditional Polish dances in costumes.
By U.S. Senator Rob Portman
Seventy years ago, as American and British forces were liberating France and the Red Army was pressing forward on the Eastern Front, the people of Poland were fighting for their freedom. After five years of Nazi oppression, the Polish resistance in Warsaw launched an insurrection against their occupiers.
For two months and with little support from outside forces, thousands of resistance fighters—men, women, and even children—fought against the far better armed and better supplied German army. As one German officer later remarked, they fought to the very last bullet. Before it was over, more than 16,000 resistance fighters would give their lives. In retaliation for this act of defiance, hundreds of thousands of Polish civilians were murdered by the members of the SS. When the Red Army finally did arrive, what should have been a liberation turned into yet another form of captivity, and for the next 45 years, Poland endured the oppression of Soviet communism.
But the Polish people never forgot the bravery and the sacrifices of those who stood for liberty those 63 days in the late summer of 1944. Many of the survivors came to the United States, where they continued the fight for an independent Poland. Others joined the Solidarity movement, and the memory of the Warsaw Uprising served to inspire everyday people to fight for liberation. When Poland won its independence in 1989, the dream of the uprising was finally realized.
Earlier this year, I had the opportunity to travel to Poland to meet with Polish officials and visit U.S. troops in the country. I also had the opportunity to visit the Warsaw Uprising Museum to see firsthand the moving commemoration of this chapter in Poland’s history. Poland is a staunch ally of the United States, and the Polish people have stood with us in our struggle against terrorism around the world. As the United States and Poland continue to fight for freedom and democracy, the historical ties that bind us are more important today than ever.
Recently, I joined with my colleagues in the Senate to cosponsor a resolution marking the 70th anniversary of the Warsaw Uprising. The bravery of the men and women who took part in the fight against Nazi oppression will never be forgotten. Neither will their sacrifices. Their legacy lives on today.
So too does their cause.
U.S. Senator Rob Portman received the American Nationalities Movement ‘Freedom Award’ at the 2014 annual Captive Nations banquet.
Taste of St. Casimir's
The historic Polish Church held a Taste of St. Casimir's traditional Polish food festival the weekend of August 1-3, 2014.
The weekend included Church tours, live music and dancing and, of course, great Polish food!
Francis Rutkowski receives Freedom Award
The American Nationalities Movement of Ohio presented Francis Rutkowski the Freedom Award at its 53rd Annual Captive Nations Dinner on July 17, 2014 at Wal-Tam's Grand Ballroom in Garfield Heights, Ohio.
Judge Ralph J. (Rocky) Perk Jr and Francis Rutkowski
Cleveland Museum of Art May 3, 2014 Polish Veterans, Dance groups and children in traditional Polish costumes marched in to begin the celebration of Polish Constitution Day on May 3, 2014 at the Cleveland Museum of Art by the statue of Tadeusz Kosciuszko.
Eugene Bak was inducted into the 2014 Class of the Cleveland International Hall of Fame on the evening of May 12, 2014. A sold out crowd of 520 (with a waiting list) attended the induction ceremony in the Grand Ballroom of the Marriott at Key Center. Ben Stefanski inducted Gene Bak.
John Borkowski passed away at the age of 69 in May 2014.
John was the president of the Polish American Congress Ohio Division, former president of Alliance of Poles in America, president of St. John Paul II Foundation and a member and officer of many other organizations in Polonia. He was the leader of the John Borkowski Orchestra for 32 years.
John will be greatly missed by his numerous family and friends in Polonia and beyond.
Ligia and John Borkowski
Polish Constitution Day Celebration
Slavic Village, Cleveland Ohio May 4, 2014 Mayor Frank Jackson and Councilman Anthony Brancatelli marched in the annual Polish Constitution Day Parade in Slavic Village.
The route was from Immaculate Heart of Mary Church to the Shrine Church of Saint Stanislaus.
Shrine Church of Saint Stanislaus May 4, 2014 After the Polish Constitution Day Parade through Slavic Village, the crowd gathered at the Shrine Church of Saint Stanislaus for a ceremony.
Festivities included songs, speeches, memories, history, music (even The Hejnal) and more.
Mayor Frank Jackson, Councilman Anthony Brancatelli and others on the steps of St Stan's
Tribute to newly canonized Saint Pope John Paul II
April 27, 2014 St Barbara Church at 1505 Denison in Cleveland has a large Polish American population. They celebrated the canonization of Pope John Paul II with a special service (in Polish and English) at St Barbara Church.
Mass Mob at St Barbara Church and Canonization of Popes John XXIII and John Paul II
April 27, 2014 St Barbara Church at 1505 Denison in Cleveland has a large Polish American population. Pastor Joseph Hilinski and Rev. Andrzej Panek were joined by 2 other priests at this special Mass celebrated in both Polish and English.
Saint Casimir Church - 8223 Sowinski Ave. Cleveland
March 23, 2014 Social Media (Facebook, Twitter and others) has been used to create Flash Mobs for impromptu dance and other performances, Cash Mobs to help a small business get lots of customers and other "Mobs" to get a larger than usual group of people together for a common purpose.
Parishioner leaders from St Casimir Catholic Church in Cleveland have been active since the Church was originally closed down several years ago. Stanislav Zadnik, Joseph Feckanin, John Niadzialek, Wojtek Flezar and others organized weekly prayer vigils at the Church until it was reopened on July 15, 2012. Zadnik heard of the Mass Mob in Buffalo and spread the word to the others and, after discussing with pastor Rev. Eric Orzech, spread the news of a Catholic Mass Mob at St. Casimir Church at East 82nd and Sowinski.
Typically the 11:30 AM Sunday Mass at St Casimir would attract about 100 people but over 700 attended Mass on March 23, 2014 for the first Mass Mob in Cleveland.
Fr. Orzech processes into the Church
Fr. Orzech spoke about the Polish Lenten tradition called Gorzkie zale, a Catholic devotion containing many hymns that developed out of Poland in the 18th century. The devotion is primarily a sung reflection and meditation on the Passion of Christ and the sorrows of His Blessed Mother.
A memorial mass for Dr. Zbigniew Piotrowski Ph.D. was held at the Shrine Church of St. Stanislaus on Saturday, February 8th. Piotrowski, age 61, passed away on January 29th at the Hospice of the Valley in Youngstown, Ohio with family and friends at his side. In November of 2013, he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.
The memorial mass was arranged by his many friends in the Cleveland Area and it was a "Celebration of his Life". The mass was accompanied by the music of Chopin, religious music, voice, playing of the trumpet, poetry and a touching from the heart eulogy by his son, Marcin Piotrowski, who spoke of his father's "Passion" for whatever he did.
Over two hundred attended this mass which included people from the Youngstown Area and from Poland. Rev. Father Jerzy Kusy was the celebrant and said," Zbigniew lived a full life and now has gone on to a new life-he is still living". After mass, the tribute of Zbigniew's life continued at the Polish-American Cultural Center on Lansing Avenue.
Piotrowski, a world renowned mathematician, for the last 30 years, was a math professor at Youngstown State University. He had over 70 publications in the field of Topology and Real Functions. He also was a visiting professor at universities throughout the world along with being a sought after speaker at conferences in the United states and abroad. Zbigniew was a colleague in research with several world renowned mathematicians. According to his peers, his love and intensity for mathematics was unparalleled.
Zbigniew earned his Ph. D. at the University of Wroclaw, Poland in 1979. In 1981, he came to Cleveland as a visiting professor at Cleveland State University. He also lectured at John Carol University, where many met him for the first time.
Always a Polish patriot, Zbigniew had an intense love for his homeland, Poland. In 1982, he founded with others the Cleveland branch of the Solidarity movement, the anti-communist organization which challenged the regime in Poland. In addition to his Solidarity years, he was a member of several professional organizations and a member of the Polish-American Cultural Center.
Piotrowski is survived by his loving sons, Marcin of Wroclaw and Michal (Marta) of Ningbo, China, grandson Bruno of Ningbo and a brother, Jerzy of Polanica, Poland. He is to be buried close to his parents, Helena and Jozef at the Koscian Cemetery in Poland. Wasko Funeral Home in Campbell, Ohio handled all arrangements.
Zbigniew's intense energy and passion will be missed and can be an example for all to follow in our life's journey.
Dr. Zbigniew Piotrowski
by Joseph Feckanin
Pilgrimage to Stop Deportation of Local Immigrant Father
Ricardo Ramos, an immigrant father of three U.S. citizen children, has been working (and paying taxes) in the nurseries of Lake County, OH for the past sixteen years. Currently, he's facing deportation on January 16th, the same day as his daughter's twelfth birthday.
St. Casimir Church in Cleveland is home to a predominantly Polish American congregation but St Casimir has become the adopted Church of Ricardo Ramos and his family. They learned of the miracles attributed to Our Lady of Czestochowa, also known as the Black Madonna.
On Monday January 13, 2014 about 100 supporters made a 20 mile pilgrimage walk in the cold and rain from Painesville to St Casimir to pray for a miracle in front of the icon of Our Lady of Czestochowa.
Rev. Eric Orzech is Pastor of both the Shrine Church of St. Stanislaus and St. Casimir Church in Cleveland. Father Eric told how they were serving pierogis to the pilgrims at St Casimir but calling them Polish tamales for the day. He called St Casimir Church a place where miracles happen.
Rededication and unveiling of the Adam Mickiewicz bust
Polish Cultural Garden August 25, 2013
Adam Bernard Mickiewicz (1798 to 1855) was a prominent poet, dramatist, essayist, political activist, publicist and translator. He is commonly considered the greatest poet in Polish literature. His bust was restored and in a ceremony on August 25th it was unveiled and re-dedicated.
The event featured dignitaries, speeches and performances from PIAST, the Polish Folk Song and Dance Ensemble of the Polish Roman Catholic Union of America (PRCUA).
Gary Kotlarsic, Ben Stefanski, Irene Morrow, Councilman Anthony Brancatelli and Dr. Sean Martin unveiled the newly renovated and rededicated monument to Adam Mickiewicz
Bernadette Zubel of the Polish National Alliance represented the Polish culture at the 2013 Culture Shock event which was put on by Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C) West and the Parma City School District.
Living Traditions Folk dance from the Southeast of Poland
Living Traditions Folk Ensemble performed a traditional dance from the Southeast of Poland at the 2013 International Folk Festival at Wade Oval in University Circle in Cleveland. Living Traditions Folk Ensemble was created in 2000 to keep alive the dances, songs and culture of Poland, Croatia and the Polish and Croatian Carpatho-Rusyn territories.
Living Traditions dance from Krakow Poland
2 couples dance from Krakow in Poland called the Krakowia from the Living Traditions Folk Ensemble performed a traditional Polish song and dance at the 2013 International Folk Festival at Wade Oval in University Circle in Cleveland. Living Traditions Folk Ensemble was created in 2000 to keep alive the dances, songs and culture of Poland, Croatia and the Polish and Croatian Carpatho-Rusyn territories.
Youngsters from Living Traditions Polish song and dance
Youngsters from the Living Traditions Folk Ensemble performed a traditional Polish song and dance at the 2013 International Folk Festival at Wade Oval in University Circle in Cleveland. Living Traditions Folk Ensemble was created in 2000 to keep alive the dances, songs and culture of Poland, Croatia and the Polish and Croatian Carpatho-Rusyn territories.
Living Traditions All Ages Folk dance at Cleveland Fest
All ages of the Living Traditions Folk Ensemble performed a traditional dance from the Southeast of Poland at the 2013 International Folk Festival at Wade Oval in University Circle in Cleveland. Living Traditions Folk Ensemble was created in 2000 to keep alive the dances, songs and culture of Poland, Croatia and the Polish and Croatian Carpatho-Rusyn territories.
Wladyslaw 'Wladek' Szylwian,
The Hero of St Casimir
Bóg Zaplac and Rest in Peace
100 year old Wladek passed away February 20, 2013.
Walter was the then 96 year old altar boy who pulled the plug on the bishop at the last closing Mass of St. Casimir Church on Nov 8, 2009. At the time he said he did it as his form of protest for an unjust closing. He took great care of the altar at St Casimir each and every day.
Walter was born in Grodno, Poland and served in the Polish Army. He was liberated from the notorious death camp of Bergen-Belsen in 1945 but he lost his beloved wife and family members and could not return home to the Soviet occupied land.
In 1948 he immigrated to America and settled in Cleveland in the St. Clair Polish Neighborhood of Poznan.
The many different cultural performances were a highlight of the grand opening of the Ames Family Atrium in the Cleveland Museum of Art on Sunday October 28, 2012. This included a performance by the PIAST Polish Folk Song and Dance Ensemble.
Gary Kotlarsic at Polish Cultural Garden Table
in Ames Family Atrium
The event featured Congressman Dennis Kucinich who was instrumental in getting honorary US citizenship granted to General Casimir Pulaski from Poland. At the 2012 Pulaski Day celebration at Cleveland City Hall, he gave two copies of the official House of Representatives to local Polonia leaders.
Dr. Marek Dollar, Honorary Consul of the Republic of Poland, was the keynote speaker.
Mike Polichuk, Dennis Kucinich, John Borkowski and Francis Rutkowski
The reopening Mass at St. Casimir Church drew over 1,000 parishioners and supporters.
Was the reopening a miracle? As Father Orzech said, we can leave that for the theologians to decide but "I haven't seen anything like it happen before. Have you?"
Christmas 1981 - A Flame for Freedom in Poland by historian Dr. Paul Kengor.
December 2011 might not be an anniversary on the minds of American Catholics, but it is close and near and dear to the hearts of Polish Catholics. As American Catholics, we ought to pause here, today, to consider why. The reasons are historically and even spiritually inspiring.
It was 30 years ago, December 13, 1981, that martial law was imposed upon Poland by the communist government. Poles were aghast, horrified, frightened. And so was the man in Rome, a Polish native named John Paul II, and so was another man thousands of miles away in Washington, DC, President Ronald Reagan.
When word of the communists’ actions reached the White House, President Reagan was furious. He wanted to help the people of Poland in any way he could. At that very moment, Reagan committed to save and sustain the Polish Solidarity movement as the wedge that could splinter the entire Soviet bloc, as the first crack in the Iron Curtain.
One of Reagan’s first responses was to call someone he deeply respected: John Paul II. On December 14, he told the Holy Father: “Our country was inspired when you visited Poland, and to see their commitment to religion and belief in God. It was an inspiration…. All of us were very thrilled.”
At that point, Reagan had not yet met John Paul II in person. Reagan had been president only for 11 months. Both he and John Paul II had been shot earlier in the year. Reagan told the Pope that he looked forward to a time when the two men could meet in person. The imposition of martial law added a special urgency. Reagan wanted to meet with the Pope to plan ways to cooperate.
Reagan followed up with two letters to John Paul II, dated December 17 and 29, 1981, neither of which was declassified until July 2000. In the December 17 letter, he asked the Pope to urge Poland’s General Jaruzelski to hold a meeting with Lech Walesa and the Poland’s Archbishop Glemp. In the second letter, Reagan explained the counter-measures his administration was taking against the USSR; he also asked the Pope to use his influence with the Polish Church to lift martial law, to gain the release of detainees, and to resume a dialogue with Solidarity; and he requested that John Paul II press other Western countries to join the United States. “If we are to keep alive the hope for freedom in Poland,” said Reagan, “it lies in this direction.”
There is much more I could say about all of this, having written books on the subject, but one item that happened precisely 30 years ago, right now, on December 23, 1981, is especially moving and notable:
On that date, Reagan held a private meeting in the White House with the Polish ambassador, Romuald Spasowski, and his wife, both of whom had just defected to the United States. Michael Deaver, a close Reagan aide, witnessed the meeting. Deaver later recorded:
The ambassador and his wife were ushered into the Oval Office, and the two men sat next to one another in plush-leather wingback chairs. Vice President Bush, and the ambassador’s wife, sat facing them on a couch.
The ambassador had in his hand a pocket-sized note pad with wire rings and lined paper, and he was obviously referring to notes he wanted to give to the president of the United States. Meanwhile, his wife, a tiny, delicate-looking woman, kept her head in her hands the entire time, while George Bush put an arm around her shoulders to comfort her.
The ambassador said, “It is unbelievable to me that I am sitting in the office of the president of the United States. I wish it were under better circumstances.”
He begged the president never to discontinue Radio Free Europe. “You have no idea,” he said, “what it meant to us to hear the chimes of Big Ben during World War Two. Please, sir, do not ever underestimate how many millions of people still listen to that channel behind the Iron Curtain.”
Then, almost sheepishly, he said, “May I ask you a favor, Mr. President? Would you light a candle and put in the window tonight for the people of Poland?”
And right then, Ronald Reagan got up and went to the second floor, lighted a candle, and put it in the window of the dining room.
Later, in what I still recall as the most human picture of the Reagan presidency, he escorted his guests through the walkway and out to the circular drive on the South Lawn of the White House. In a persistent rain, he escorted them to their car, past the C-9 Secret Service post, holding an umbrella over the head of the wife of the Polish ambassador, as she wept on his shoulder.
That candle might have brought to mind those lit after Mass by a young Karol Wojtyla. Then and now, they burned bright for Russia’s conversion.
But Reagan did more than that. That evening, with Christmas only two days away, the president gave a nationally televised speech watched by tens of millions of Americans. He connected the spirit of the Christmas season with events in Poland:
“For a thousand years,” he told his fellow Americans, “Christmas has been celebrated in Poland, a land of deep religious faith, but this Christmas brings little joy to the courageous Polish people. They have been betrayed by their own government.”
He made an extraordinary gesture: The president asked Americans that Christmas season to light a candle in support of freedom in Poland.
This was a remarkable display, one that placed all Americans on the side of freedom for Poland—and against the communists.
I’m sure it was appreciated, too, by a Polish Catholic named Karol Wojtyla.
Thirty years ago, December 1981, the communists tried to turn out the lights in Poland. But like a candle in the White House window, Ronald Reagan and John Paul II and the people of Poland kept a flicker of hope alive.
It may seem like a long time ago, distant to the interests of Americans today. In truth, this was a crucial turning point for the world, for freedom, and for faith. It is a history lesson worth taking to heart, especially this Christmas.
Paul Kengor is professor of political science at Grove City College. His books include The Judge: William P. Clark, Ronald Reagan’s Top Hand (Ignatius Press), God and Ronald Reagan, and The Crusader: Ronald Reagan and the Fall of Communism.
Joseph A. Drobot Jr., President of the Polish Roman Catholic Union of America and Michael Polichuk, President Polonia Foundation of Ohio and National and 1st Vice-Commander of the Polish Legion of American Veterans, U.S.A.
Cleveland Councilmen Joe Cimperman and Anthony Brancatelli, Francis Rutkowski, Chairman Director of the Polonia Foundation of Ohio, Congressman Dennis Kucinich, Joseph A. Drobot Jr., President of the Polish Roman Catholic Union of America, Michael Polichuk, President Polonia Foundation of Ohio and National and 1st Vice-Commander of the Polish Legion of American Veterans, U.S.A., Genny Torrero, President of Polish Legion of American Veterans Ladies Auxiliaries (PLAV),Department of Ohio, Rev. Eric Orzech, National President of the Polish American Priests Association and Kathy Boll, Past National President and Past State President of PLAV Ladies Auxiliaries
Irene Morrow inducted into the Cleveland International Hall of Fame
Irene Morrow was inducted into the innaugural class of the Cleveland International Hall of Fame on May 12, 2010. Valerie Schwonek inducted Irene Morrow.
The Ohio Chapter of the Kosciuszko Foundation was established in August 2007 to promote the Foundation's mission of promoting and strengthening understanding and friendship between the peoples of Poland and the United States through educational, scientific, and cultural exchanges and other related programs and activities. The idea of establishing a Chapter of The Kosciuszko Foundation in Ohio originated from one of its members, Dr. Mary Kay Pieski, who had volunteered since 1995 as a teacher and American staff leader with the Kosciuszko Foundation Teaching English in Poland Program. Many of her colleagues and friends volunteered for this program, experiencing the culture and people of Poland firsthand. Dr. Pieski wanted this exchange to continue long after these teachers returned from their summer in Poland.
The Polish Genealogical Society of Greater Cleveland meets the 1st Tuesday of each month, September through June, at 7 pm. Meetings are comprised of club business, informative presentations, and socialization.
The Polish Genealogical Society of Greater Cleveland connects people interested in researching and preserving their Polish family history. Their tagline is Preserving Our Polish Roots Since 1991. Together they learn about research tools and techniques, share knowledge and discoveries, and celebrate Polish heritage in Cleveland and beyond. We caught up with Ben Kman, President of the Polish Genealogical Society of Greater Cleveland at a Polish Constitution Day celebration on May 4, 2025 in Parma Ohio. He told us about the group and some of its resources as well as the challenges with Poland's long and fluid history. Watch.
"It is estimated that more people saw John Paul II in person than any other figure in history, yet for those who were fortunate to get close to him during his public appearances, it seemed that he was present for them alone." Colombia Magazine
Polish Easter Traditions Photos and Videos of Malowanki, Pisanki, Nalepianki, Skrobanki, Wycinanki and more
Ray Vargas teaching how to make authentic Polish Easter Eggs
Pulaski Plaza, a monument of significance to Greater Cleveland's Polish Community will return to its location on Mall C when the Medical Mart project is completed.
Councilman Brancatelli, who serves on the Landmark Commission, was alerted by Gary Kotlarsic, Chairman of the Cultural & Education Committee of the Polish American Congress, that the monument may be in jeopardy with the construction of the new Medical Mart.
The City of Cleveland's Landmark Commission voted unanimously on December 9, 2010 to preserve the Pulaski Plaza, located on Mall C and its monument in honor of General Casimir Pulaski, a American Revolutionary war hero.
MMPI, the owners and developers of the Cleveland Medical Mart and Convention Center, had made a presentation to the Landmarks Commission on December 9 seeking permission to demolish a portion of the old Convention Center and to remove the top portions of Mall C as part of their development of the site. Councilman Brancatelli motioned to approve their request for demolition with the amendment that MMPI appropriately remove, store then replace the cannon, plaques and plaza to its prominent place on Mall C. The owners' representative of MMPI and the Jackson Administration all agreed to this amendment and it was unanimously passed by the commission.
Poland's history as a state began near the middle of the 10th century. By the mid-16th century, the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth ruled a vast tract of land in Central and Eastern Europe. During the 18th century, internal disorders weakened the nation, and in a series of agreements between 1772 and 1795, Russia, Prussia, and Austria partitioned Poland among themselves.
Poland regained its independence in 1918 only to be overrun by Germany and the Soviet Union in World War II. It became a Soviet satellite state following the war. Labor turmoil in 1980 led to the formation of the independent trade union "Solidarity" that over time became a political force with over 10 million members. Free elections in 1989 and 1990 won Solidarity control of the parliament and the presidency, bringing the communist era to a close.
A "shock therapy" program during the early 1990s enabled the country to transform its economy into one of the most robust in Central Europe. Poland joined NATO in 1999 and the EU in 2004.
Read more about the Polish and other Ambassadors. If you are interested in being considered to be an official ClevelandPeople.com Ambassador to the Cleveland Polish community, please contact us.
