The year 2018 marked the centennial of Poland regaining her independence, inspiring Poles around the world to commemorate this important anniversary. On November 17th, the Honorary Consulate of the Republic of Poland, The American Institute of Polish Culture , the Chopin Foundation, and the Polish-American Club (PAC) joined together to celebrate in Miami.
A gala dinner took place at the Miami Magyar Ház/Hungarian Center for over 100 guests. The event started with a cocktail hour which was a great way to network and meet new people. With Douglas Evans as the evening’s emcee, guests enjoyed a delicious dinner during which Lady Blanka Rosenstiel welcomed guests – Beata Paszyc, Director of AIPC, said a few words about the Institute’s activities; Jadwiga Gewert, Executive Director of the Chopin Foundation, spoke about the organization’s upcoming plans; and Greg Okon, President of PAC, talked about the Club’s revitalization efforts. Dr. Marek Chodakiewicz, who flew in from Washington DC, where he is a professor at the Kosciuszko Chair of Polish Studies at the Institute of World Politics, spoke about Poland’s history and the resilience of the Polish people.
The real treat of the evening was a concert by world renowned pianist, Kevin Kenner, who beautifully played pieces by Polish composers, such as Szymanowski, Paderewski and Chopin. He also spoke eloquently about each composer and his work, and on a personal note, about his own love and admiration for Poland and her people.
It was a lovely evening honoring the rich heritage of Poland, remembering its history, and the perseverance of Poles throughout the centuries.
