The 55Th Annual

THE 55TH ANNUAL

2 0 1 4

ABOUT POLISH ASSISTANCE

Polish Assistance provides financial support to needy persons of Polish origin who are facing unforeseen hardships. Beneficiaries receive assistance in meeting daily expenses, usually to supplement low social security payments or to cover extraordinary medical bills. Recipients also include homeless, those in need of medical treatment, and handicapped people who are unable to care for themselves. Polish Assistance also continues its involvement in many Polish causes. To accomplish this, Polish Assistance solicits donations through dues and a series of fundraising activities, such as the Bal Polonaise. Our organization was founded in 1956 by Count and Countess Jan Dembinski, together with the support of their friends: Aniela Mlynarska Rubinstein, her husband Maestro Arthur Rubinstein and the cosmetics queen Helena Rubinstein. Initially, the activity of Polish Assistance consisted of small grants and loans to individuals in need. It proceeded to own and operate three homes in New Jersey for elderly Polish immigrants of limited means. Under the aegis of the presidency of Teresa Sulimirski and subsequently Jadwiga Palade, the focus of Polish Assistance changed from providing group homes for elderly Poles to direct assistance for individuals. Since its inception, Polish Assistance has eased the lives of many people. Eminent participants in former balls include Princess Grace of Monaco, Princess Stanislas Radziwill, Princess Lucie Shirazee, Count Adam Zamoyski; numerous ambassadors and statesmen, including Zbigniew Brzezinski; and famous actors like Douglas Fairbanks Jr., Basil Rathbone, and Joan Fontaine. More recent honorees include Operatic Diva Martha Eggerth Kiepura, Tenor Piotr Beczala, Count Wladyslaw Poninski, President of the Association of the Polish Knights of Malta. We have also honored such renowned authors as Jerzy Kosinski, “The Painted Bird” and “Being There”; Lynne Olson and Stanley Cloud, “A Question of Honor”; and David Ensor, CNN Correspondent, “Warsaw Rising: The Forgotten Soldiers of World War II”.

Polish Assistance, Inc. 15 East 65th Street, New York, New York 10065 212-570-5560 e-mail: [email protected] website: www.polishassistance.org

Polish Assistance, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt, non-profit charitable organization. Donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowable by law. A copy of the annual report and registration filed may be obtained by contacting Polish Assistance, Inc. at 15 East 65th Street, New York, NY 10065, (212)570-5560 or [email protected]. State specific notices. If you are a resident of one of these states, you may obtain information or annual report and registration directly from the state agency. Registration with a state agency does not constitute or imply endorsement, approval or recommendation by that state. Florida: A copy of the official registration and financial information may be obtained from the Division of Consumer Services by calling toll-free within the state (800) 435-7352. New Jersey: Information filed with the attorney general concerning this charitable solicitation may be obtained from the Attorney General of the State of New Jersey by calling (973) 504-6215 and is available at www.njconsumeraffairs.gov/ocp.htm#charity New York: A copy of the most recent annual report is available from the State of New York Department of Law, Charities Bureau, 120 Broadway, New York, New York, 10271.

to benefit Polish Assistance, Inc.

The Plaza Hotel, New York City Saturday, February 8, 2014 Programme

THE GRAND POLONAISE The Bal Polonaise commences with the dancing of the Polonaise. This procession to music traditionally opened and closed special celebrations, whether they were coronations, honoring dignitaries or other royal and noble functions. The origin of the dance dates from 1573 when Henry, Duke of Anjou (later King Henry III of France) was elected to the throne of Poland. The ladies and gentlemen of Polish nobility passed in this ceremonial parade before him in Krakow to the sound of stately music. Mrs. Jadwiga Krajewska Palade and The Honorable Ryszard Schnepf The Honorable Ewa Junczyk-Ziomecka and Chevalier Cesare L. Santeramo, K.C.S.J. The Honorable Aldona Wos and Mr. Louis DeJoy Lady Blanka A. Rosenstiel and Mr. Marek Chodakiewicz Mrs. Nancy Nareski and Mr. William J. Nareski II Mrs. Katarzyna Beczala and Mr. Piotr Beczala Mrs. Katherine Kolasa and Dr. Christopher Kolasa Dr. Ann Pyz and Dr. Tadeusz Pyz Dr. Ava Meyerhoff Sierecki and Dr. Mitchell Sierecki Mrs. Eva Skibicki and Mr. Christopher Skibicki Nina Mlodzinska de Rovira and Mr. Marcelo Dos Santos-Remizov Mrs. Mariola Gorska Haggar and Dr. Joseph G. Haggar Countess Dagmar de Brantes and Edward J. Westlow Esq. Mrs. Janina Boral and Dr. Andrew Boral Miss Lindsay Davis and Mr. Russell Skibicki

GUEST OF HONOR Lady Blanka A. Rosenstiel

WHITE EAGLE AWARD RECIPIENT Mr. Witold S. Sulimirski

AMICUS POLONIAE AWARD Mr. William J. Nareski II

MASTER OF CEREMONY Chevalier Cesare L. Santeramo, K.C.S.J.

MUSIC Alex Donner and his Orchestra Congratulations and Best Wishes

GUEST OF HONOR Lady Blanka A. Rosenstiel  WHITE EAGLE AWARD RECIPIENT Witold S. Sulimirski  AMICUS POLONIAE AWARD RECIPENT William J. Nareski II  2014 BAL POLONIASE CHAIRS Mrs. Katherine Kolasa Dr. Ann Pyz Dr. Ava Myerhoff Sierecki Mrs. Eva Skibicki

Thank you

I personally appreciate and thank you for your continued involvement and outstanding dedication to our organization.

With great respect and affection

Jadwiga Krajewska Palade Message from Co-Chairs of the 55th Annual Bal Polonaise Distinguished Guests and Dear Friends, It is with great pleasure that we welcome you to our 55th Bal Polonaise fundraiser. Warmest greetings to our dignitaries, loyal friends, long time attendees, as well as to our first time guests. Tonight, for the 55th time, we uphold the finest Polish traditions and honor Poland and the United States of America.

As we pay tribute to our honorees and celebrate each other, let us not forget the Mrs. Katherine Kolasa founders of Polish Assistance and of the Bal Polonaise — Maria Dembinski, Aniela “Nela” Rubinstein, and Helena Rubinstein. They were all very strong women of influence whose dedication to help those less fortunate was continued by Teresa Sulimirski, and now is carried on by our current President, Jadwiga Palade. We would be remiss not to recognize Jan Dembinski, Arthur Rubinstein, and Witold Sulimirski, who for many years were also at the helm of the Polish Assistance. We are especially honored to acknowledge Wanda Wolinski who was a member of the First Ball Polonaise Committee and who continues to be a member of the Board of Directors of Polish Assistance. In addition, Dr. Robert J. Campbell II K.C.S.J. is attending his 53rd ball. We wish them both Sto Lat! There were so many over the years who have carried on the mission of the Polish Assistance and they deserve recognition and our special gratitude. We thank the current Board of Directors for their dedication to this important cause. We extend a Dr. Ann Pyz very special thank you to Jadwiga Palade, whose drive and determination is an inspiration to us all. Special recognition goes to current Board members, namely Nina Mlodzinska de Rovira, Nina Thiessen, Blanka Rosenstiel, and Cesare Santeramo, whose photos we saw in the earliest copies of the Souvenir Journals reminding us of their enduring dedication to Polish Assistance. We welcome the newest Board of Directors’ members: Ewa Meyerhoff, Malina Stadnik, Eryka Volker, and Greg White. We encourage all of you to get involved. Eryka Volker is a well- known activist in the Polish community and has been involved in charity work for over 25 years. She has great insight into the needs of those who are less fortunate. Her work on behalf of the needy has been profiled in many newspaper articles as well as on local TV. Ewa, Malina, and Greg bring business expertise. Please join us in recognizing and expressing a special thanks to everyone who has worked very hard to make our 55th Bal Polonaise a success. We dedicate a special Dr. Ava Meyerhoff Sierecki page in the Souvenir Journal to them, and we appreciate their efforts. We thank our spouses for their support — Dr. Christopher Kolasa, Dr. Tadeusz Pyz, Dr. Mitchell Sierecki and Mr. Christopher Skibicki. Ava Meyerhoff Sierecki wishes to recognize her mother, Ewa Meyerhoff, and Eva Skibicki wishes to recognize her mother, Jadwiga Palade. It is with their encouragement that we carry on the mission of Polish Assistance. Thank you for your generosity. Please bid generously and buy raffle tickets. By supporting Polish Assistance and by attending Bal Polonaise, you allow us to provide aid to the needy and the elderly people of Polish origin in New York, New Jersey, and Florida. Mrs. Eva Skibicki

Best wishes for continued success

to Jadwiga Krajewska Palade

We are very proud of you and your accomplishments and you are the essence of a Woman of Influence

Eva, Christopher, Russell and Lindsay Karolina and Niklas Message from Jadwiga Krajewska Palade President Polish Assistance, Inc.

Ladies and Gentlemen, On behalf of the Board of Directors, it is my great pleasure to welcome you to the magnificent Grand Ballroom of the Plaza Hotel. Today, we celebrate the 55th Annual Bal Polonaise to benefit Polish Assistance so it may continue to offer financial assistance to those in need in the Polish community. This year our Guest of Honor is Lady Blanka Rosenstiel. Lady Blanka has been involved in Polish Assistance for many years and currently is a member of the Board of Directors. Her insight and experience in running many organizations is invaluable to us as we expand our organization and its activities. The White Eagle Award is presented to Mr. Witold S. Sulimirski. Witold's contributions to Polish Assistance are simply too many to list. Over the years he has served as Chairman, President, Treasurer, and Director of Polish Assistance. Although he recently retired from public life, we are grateful for his many contributions and are honored to consider him a friend. Chevalier Cesare Santeramo, K.C.S.J. will present the award to the General Consul Ewa Junczyk-Ziomecka who will accept it on behalf of Witold. We thank her for her willingness to be part of such a special tribute. The Amicus Poloniae Award is presented to Mr. William Nareski II by His Excellency Ryszard Schnepf, the Ambassador of the Republic of Poland to the United States. Mr. William Nareski II is the Chief Executive Officer of Centorr/Vacuum Industries and the Chairman of the Kosciuszko Foundation’s Board of Trustees. He is also the gold sponsor of the 55th Bal Polonaise. We offer our thanks and gratitude to Bill and his wife Nancy for their generous support over the years. A very special recognition and deepest gratitude go to our Chairladies of the ball: Mrs. Katherine Kolasa, Dr. Ann Pyz, Dr. Ava Meyerhoff-Sierecki, and Eva Skibicki. They donated the beautiful flower arrangements on your tables. My very special thanks to all of you, our distinguished guests, sponsors, donors, advertisers, dear friends and generous supporters of the Polish Assistance and its noble mission. We are also very grateful for the continued support of our distinguished guests representing the Republic of Poland and members of local Polish organizations. Without you, our organization would not be able to exist and help those who are less fortunate. I encourage all of you to become more involved in taking Polish Assistance to the next level. There are many opportunities to help in our organization. In the end, the more funds we raise, the more we can help by distributing financial aid to the needy in the Polish community. I wish to recognize and give a very special thanks to the volunteers under the direction of our office manager, Patricia Roman, who worked tirelessly to make this a very special evening. I also wish to acknowledge and thank our Board of Directors, especially my daughter, the Treasurer of the organization, and my family who are committed to the success of our organization by performing the noble work of helping the needy. Please enjoy the evening and good luck in the silent auction and raffle drawing. Lady Blanka Rosenstiel

Congratulations to Lady Blanka Rosenstiel, the Honorary Consul of the Republic of Poland, the Founder and President of The American Institute of Polish Culture (est. 1972) and The Chopin Foundation of the United States (est. 1977), for her tireless promotion of Polish history and culture in the United States for over 40 years.

Lady Blanka's vision and dedication to presenting countless educational and diverse cultural programs has never wavered. The organizations she founded educate American society about Polish American contributions, award scholarships to young talented students, and bring together Polonia and all citizens of the world to embrace and appreciate the Polish arts, history and science.

We wish Lady Blanka continued success, health and happiness for many years to come.

It is a true pleasure and honor to work with her.

The Board of Directors of The American Institute of Polish Culture Beata Paszyc, Executive Director Lynne Schaefer, Executive Assistant www.ampolinstitute.org

The Board of Directors of The Chopin Foundation of the United States Jadwiga "Viga" Gewert, Executive Director Barbara Muze, Marketing/Development Manager www.chopin.org

GUEST OF HONOR Lady Blanka A. Rosenstiel Honorary Consul The Honorary Consulate of the Republic of Poland Founder, President, Chairman American Institute of Polish Culture, Inc. Founder, President Chopin Foundation of the United States

Mrs. Rosenstiel was born in Warsaw, Poland. After World War II, she studied art in Brussels, Belgium. In 1956 she moved to the United States and decided to make it her home. In 1967 she married the late Lewis S. Rosenstiel, Chairman of Schenley Industries, a great humanitarian and philanthropist. Widowed in 1976, she resides in Miami Beach during the winter season and at her Blandemar Farm in Charlottesville, Virginia in the summer.

Her avid interest in the arts, dedication to helping young artists, and desire to promote Poland's heritage while fostering culture in her American homeland, prompted Mrs. Rosenstiel to establish, in 1972, The American Institute of Polish Culture, Inc. (AIPC) in Miami. The Institute shares with American society the rich heritage of Poland. It also serves as a center of educational facilities and resources for the encouragement and promotion of the scientific and aesthetic endeavors of Americans of Polish decent.

In 1977, Mrs. Rosenstiel established the Chopin Foundation of the United States, a national organization dedicated to helping young American musicians, and promoting Chopin's music in the United States. In 1998 she helped to establish a permanent Kosciuszko Chair of Polish Studies at the University of Virginia. Each year the Institute awards scholarships in the field of journalism, communication or public relations to talented students of Polish origin. In 1998 Mrs. Rosenstiel was appointed an Honorary Consul of the Republic of Poland. She became the first Polish Consul in the history of Florida.

Mrs. Rosenstiel has been awarded the following titles and honors: Community Television Foundation of South Florida, Inc. - PB Award, 1975, 1976, Outstanding Citizen's Award of Dade County, FL, 1975, Polish American Congress, Florida Division - Certificate of Appreciation, 1975, Biscayne College Award, 1976, International Fine Arts College of Miami - Doctor Honoris Causa, 1976, Alliance College of Cambridge Springs, PA - Doctor of Humane Letters, 1978, American Council of Polish Cultural Clubs National Award, 1978, National Advocates Society and National Medical and Dental Association - National Humanitarian Award, 1981, St. Mary's College - Orchard Lake, MI - Ambassadors Award, 1981, Miami Ballet Society Humanitarian Award, 1983, National Parkinson Foundation Humanitarian Award, 1983, American Council of Polish Cultural Clubs Award, 1984, Lady of the Sovereign Order of St. John of Jerusalem, Knights of Malta, 1984, Am-Pol Eagle - National Citizen of the Year Award, 1985, Florida International University - The Society of Founders Award, 1989, Greater Miami Youth Symphony Award, 1994, Orchard Lake Schools - Honorary Benefactor and Alumna, 1994, Admirals of the Fleet of Florida - Woman of Distinction Award, 1995, Ellis Island Medal of Honor, 1995, Cavalier's Cross of Polonia Restituta Order, 1996, Jose Marti Medal, 1998, Polish Commander Cross of the Order of Merit, 2004. Executive Board of The Polish Apostolate Committee presented Lady Blanka Rosenstiel The Pride of Polonia Award in 2007 for her unique contributions to the Polish people.

We are very honored that Lady Blanka Rosenstiel is a member of the Polish Assistance Board of Directors.

WHITE EAGLE AWARD RECIPIENT

Mr. Witold S. Sulimirski Retired Chairman Board of Directors President Distinguished Member Polish Assistance, Inc.

Mr. Sulimirski is a native of Poland and a graduate of Cambridge University. Professionally, he spent more than thirty years with the Irving Trust Company (now Bank of New York) with assignments in Beirut, London, and Frankfurt. After retiring early in 1989, he remained active in international finance as Chairman of the Slovene owned LBS Bank and of Intercap Investments, and was a founding Chairman of AmerBank, the first foreign-owned bank in Poland.

From 1992 through 1994, he was Executive Director of the American Investment Initiative in Poland, which at the behest of the White House, promoted and facilitated American investment in the country. In Warsaw, he served on the supervisory boards of Bank Pekao SA., Bank Gdanski, BIG Bank Gdanski, National Investment Funds "Piast" and "Octava", BRE Asset Management, and of the Privatization Center Foundation, in addition to serving as an advisor of the Foundation for Polish Science.

Witold joined The Kosciuszko Foundation in 1976. He was elected to the Board of Trustees in 1980 and became its Chairman in 1997.

For over twenty years he held a position of a Treasurer of the Polish Institute of Arts and Sciences of America.

Witold has served on the boards of several international chambers of commerce and was a long-time member on the board of the Middle East Policy Council and Commissioner of the US-EU-Poland Action Commission at the Center for Strategic and International Studies.

For more than twenty years he was on the Board of the Polish Association of Knights of Malta, now based in Krakow.

Witold, his wife Teresa, and their daughter Ela have been long standing members of Polish Assistance. Under Witold’s leadership and guidance, Polish Assistance evolved from assisting those who fled the country for political reasons to assisting the needy in our Polish community.

We are very appreciative for his service to Polish Assistance and are honored to bestow the White Eagle Award to him.

Witold is unable to be with us this evening. Accepting the award for him is his friend, The Honorable Ewa-Junczyk Ziomecka, General Counsul of the Republic of Poland in New York.

AMICUS POLONIAE AWARD

William J. Nareski II

Chief Executive Officer Centorr/Vacuum Industries, Inc. Chairman The Board of Trustees of the Kosciuszko Foundation

William Nareski is the Chief Executive Officer and controlling shareholder of Centorr Vacuum Industries, Inc. His distinguished career includes both operational management and corporate development positions. His direct line experience includes engineering, sales, marketing, and finance. Mr. Nareski has an M.B.A. from Harvard University and B.S. and M.S. degrees in Electrical Engineering from Rensselear Polytechnic Institute. Bill is very active in Polish American organizations and activities. Currently, he is Chairman of the Kosciuszko Foundation. He has also served on the Board of Directors of the American Center for Polish Culture in Washington DC. Bill has supported Polish Assistance for many years. Additionally, Bill participates in many business, social, and athletic groups which include the Young Presidents Organization, World Presidents Organization, Darien Winter Club, Harvard Club, Roton Point Club, Wilson Point Yacht Club, and New Hampshire Red Line Hockey Club. On the personal side, Bill has been married to Nancy Nareski for 41 years. They met as sophomores in college and dated for five years before their marriage. In total they've been together for 46 years. They have three children, Nicolas (37), Ursula (35) and Katharine( 29). They also have twin grandsons (5), Maxwell and Zachary by their daughter Ursula and her husband Jarret Lewis. Nancy and Bill split their time between Darien, Connecticut, New York City, and Nashua, New Hampshire. The primary family residence is in Darien, Connecticut where they are very lucky to be located only 1 1/2 miles from the home of their grandsons. Bill spends most work weeks in Nashua, New Hampshire where he is CEO of Centorr Vacuum Industries. They also have an apartment on the Upper East Side of New York City, where they try to spend as much time as possible. Bill's interests include ice hockey, boating, antique automobiles, and motorcycles. His primary athletic passion is ice hockey where he plays in several competitive leagues. He owns a 40 foot Viking Express Cruiser which he enjoys with his wife and family cruising the Northeast from Provincetown to Atlantic City. The beauty of classic automobile styling has not escaped him and he is currently restoring a 1957 Jaguar XK 140 Drop Head Coupe. One of Bill and Nancy's favorite types of vacation is spending a week on a Harley-Davidson touring a scenic region of the United States. Polish Assistance is very grateful to Bill and Nancy for their continued support. At Helena Rubinstein’s penthouse in New York City. The Presidents of Polish Assistance, Inc. with our deepest gratitude and respect… our Women of Influence

Maria Dembinska, Founder (1956-1992) The Polish Assistance evolved from a literary club called “Zielony Balonik” (Little Green Balloon), formed in 1953, by a group of Polish émigré poets, writers, and artists. Three years later, under the leadership of Count and Countess Jan Dembinski, this group formed the Polish Assistance to aid the many displaced elderly Polish émigrés arriving in New York City. They convinced many of their influential friends to establish a charity to help these individuals. Maria Deminski’s life was dedicated to charitable and philanthropic activities. From the early days of Polish Assistance up to her last days, she was tirelessly and continuously devoted to the goals of our organization. Just a few days before her death in May 1992, she opened the Polish Assistance Foundation in Poland. After the fall of communism, the focus of Polish Assistance changed from providing group homes for elderly Poles to direct assistance for individuals. In recognition of her lifelong social contributions she was decorated with the Polish Golden Cross of Merit, Polonia Restituta, and the Cross of Merit of the Knights of Malta.

Teresa Sulimirski, President Emeritus (1992-2006) Teresa has a long history of association with Polish Assistance which began when she was a young bride of an up and coming banker. In the mid-sixties, her husband’s foreign banking assignments moved the family to Lebanon, England and Germany. Upon her return to the States in 1975, Teresa re-immersed herself in the activities of the Polish Assistance. She eventually became the President upon the death of Maria Dembinska, who left behind a legacy that was seemingly unsurpassable. Teresa stepped up fund raising efforts by initiating a tradition of a less formal annual dance in addition to the annual Bal Polonaise. She was the driving force moving the Polish Assistance into the new millennium. After years of dedication, she retired to spend more time with her husband, children and grandchildren. She has created an enduring legacy and improved the lives of countless beneficiaries.

Jadwiga Palade, President (2006-current) At the urging of Countess Dembinska, Jadwiga became a member in 1972. She has served as a Director, Vice President, and from 2006 to present as President. Jadwiga graduated from the AGH University of Science and Technology (Akademia Gorniczo-Hutnicza) in Krakow. Her talents became evident in the 1990’s as she managed the Polish Assistance’s three retirement homes in Ocean Grove, New Jersey. Using her experience as a successful owner of an export company, Jadwiga is concentrating on running Polish Assistance as efficiently as possible and on fundraising to allow the organization to increase assistance to more needy individuals. She upholds the tradition of the Bal Polonaise which continues to be a premier social event on the New York calendar. Jadwiga continues her tireless dedication to balancing the social aspect of the ball with the ever increasing need to raise funds to help more of the less fortunate. Since her retirement from the business world, she divides her time between homes in Florida, Poland, and the Bahamas. Special Tribute to Women of Influence—our Founders In addition to Countess Maria Dembinska these women were there from day one…

Aniela Młynarska Rubinstein, (1908-2001). Nela was the widow of the pianist Arthur Rubinstein and a patron of charities and the arts in New York. She was a co-founder of the Bal Polonaise, and as its frequent chairwoman helped make it a successful fundraiser. Starting in the mid-1950's, the annual gala contributed to relief programs for Polish refugees. She was involved in the Polish Assistance from the beginning and was a promi- nent supporter of the organization throughout her life. She also supported numerous Polish charitable organizations, and aided the Four Stars recital series in Paris and the Rubinstein piano competition held every three years in Israel. Nela, as she was known, was born in Vilnius, Lithuania, the daughter of Emil Młynarski, the founding conductor of the Warsaw Philharmonic and later director of the Warsaw Opera. He was conducting when a 13-year-old prodigy, named Arthur Rubinstein, made his Polish debut.

Nela studied dance in Dresden with Mary Wigman, the German expressionist pioneer. One day in Warsaw, her father took her backstage to meet Rubinstein after the concert. She was known for her wonderful cooking, her memorable parties, her great charm, her elegance, and her beauty. She spoke seven languages, was immensely musical, sculpted, painted, and even embroidered with talent. In 1983, Alfred A. Knopf published ''Nela's Cookbook,'' to the delight of her family and friends. It was later translated into Polish.

Helena Rubinstein. It was at Helena’s Park Avenue penthouse that the first dance for the benefit of Polish Assistance was held in 1956. As a matter of fact, the first three Polish Assistance balls were held in Helena’s Park Avenue triplex. As the story is told, when her offer to purchase the penthouse was originally turned down because she was Jewish, she turned around and bought the entire building. Princess Gourielli was a Polish American business magnate. She was the founder of Helena Rubinstein, Inc. cosmetics known today as HR. “There are no ugly women, only lazy ones” is her famous mantra that still inspires the cosmetic industry. From the early days, Helena was involved in the Bal Polonaise, and inspired many of her friends to attend the balls and support Polish Assistance’s cause. One of her original invitees was Dr. Robert Campbell, K.C.S.J. who, having missed only two balls, is attending his 53rd ball. Helena Rubinstein died in 1965 in New York City. Her legacy continues through the Helena Rubinstein Foundation and her cosmetics line HR.

(please note that the two Rubinstein families were not related)

HORS D’OEUVRES Grilled Skirt Steak, Chimichurri, Plantain Crisp Potato Latkes, Caviar & Sour Cream Beef Bulgogi Roasted Apple and Duck Confit Ravioli, Fig Balsamic Glaze Mozzarella Cup with Gaeta Olive, Sundried Tomato Chutney Crispy Filo Wrapped Asparagus, Curry Snow Pea and Shiitake Skewer, Wasabi Aioli Truffled Foie Gras Croustade, Rhubarb Chutney Duck Banh Mi Roll Peruvian Potato Cup, Truffled Comte Fondue



APPETIZER COURSE Burrata, Radicchio and Bosc Pear Salad Candied Hazelnuts, Sherry Vinaigrette

ENTRÉE COURSE Horseradish Crusted Tenderloin, Demi Glace Blue Cheese Whipped Potatoes, Brown Butter Brussels Sprouts

DESSERT COURSE Chocolate Apple Tart Mint, Ganache, Chantilly

COFFEE SERVICE French Roast Coffee Brewed Decaffeinated Coffee A Selection of Black and Herbal Teas Sweeteners Whole and Skim Milk

Alternative Options Available Upon Request

2012 Bal Polonaise February 18, 2012 Grand Ballroom The Plaza Hotel New York, New York

Honorary Chairman and Guest of Honor Mr. William J. Nareski, II White Eagle Award Recipient: Mrs. Mariola Gorska Haggar Amicus Poloniae Award Chevalier Cesare L. Santeramo, K.C.S.J. Ball Chairs: Mrs. Irena McLean Laks Mrs. Danuta Plocienniczak

Imagine facing a severe health crisis Imagine not being able to work Imagine the loss of all income Imagine running out of options

Polish Assistance helps needy persons of Polish origin who run out of options

Photos by Jacek Mikolajczyk www.discoverphoto.com

Polish Assistance Mission Statement

To provide financial assistance to needy persons of Polish origin; to assist such needy persons in adapting themselves to new economic and social conditions, and to help them to become better integrated in community life; to lend assistance to them in case of illness and distress and voluntarily to help them in any other possible way in case of need; to provide an information center to aid in the fulfillment of the fore- going purposes.

The Board of Directors of Polish Assistance and the recipients of our aid wish to thank the organizations and individuals who have been supporting us throughout the years

Sto Lat!

BAL POLONAISE 2014

GUEST OF HONOR Lady Blanka A. Rosenstiel Honorary Consul The Honorary Consulate of the Republic of Poland Founder, President, Chairman and Chief Executive American Institute of Polish Culture Inc. Founder, President Chopin Foundation of the United States

HONORARY COMMITTEE Professor & Mrs. Zbigniew Brzezinski Former U.S. National Security Advisor His Eminence Edward Cardinal Egan Archbishop Emeritus of New York The Honorable Ryszard Schnepf Ambassador of the Republic of Poland to the United States The Honorable Ewa Junczyk-Ziomecka General Consul of the Republic of Poland in New York

Mr. & Mrs. Piotr Beczala Mr. Frank Milewski World-renowned Opera Star President, New York Downstate Division, Polish American Congress Professor Mieczyslaw B.B. Biskupski Mr. & Mrs. William J. Nareski II President, Polish Institute of Arts and Sciences in America CEO, Centorr Vacuum Industries, In c. Barbara Fox Lady Bordiga Mr. Jack Radgowski Chevalier Robert J. Campbell, M.D., K.C.S.J. Founder and CEO, Central Semiconductor Corp. Bozena Kaminski Eva Rubinstein President, Polish & Slavic Center Inc. Mrs. Michael G. Sendzimir Mr. & Mrs. Dariusz Knapik Mr. & Mrs. Witold S. Sulimirski CEO, Victoria Consulting & Development LLC The Honorable Aldona Wos M.D. Mariusz Kwiecien Secretary of the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services World-renowned Opera Star Mr. Louis DeJoy

BAL POLONAISE CHAIRS Mrs. Katherine Kolasa Dr. Ava Meyerhoff Sierecki Dr. Ann Pyz Mrs. Eva Skibicki BALL COMMITTEE

Dr. & Mrs. Andrew and Janina Boral Dr. & Mrs. Alexander and Bozena Massey Countess Dagmar de Brantes Count and Countess Harald and Barbara Mrs. Danuta Garlitski Paumgarten-Hohenschwangau-Erbach Ms. Carolina Gasiorowski Mr. Stanley J. Pelc Countess Izabela Grocholska Mr. & Mrs. Krzysztof Plocienniczak Dr. & Mrs. Joseph G. and Mariola Haggar Ms. Monika Plocienniczak Mrs. Luna Kaufman Dr. Tadeusz Pyz Dr. Christopher Kolasa Ms. Patricia Roman Countess Jadwiga Krasicka Dr. Mitchell Sierecki Ms. Katherine Krzoska Mr. Christopher G. Skibicki Mr. & Mrs. Christopher Kurczaba, Esq Mr. Russell Andrey Skibicki Mr & Mrs Howard Laks Edward J. Westlow, Esq Dr. Bozena Leven Mr. Mark Wojtusiak Ms. Alicja K. Malecka

Barbara Piasecka Johnson

Polish-born American humanitarian, philanthropist,

art connoisseur and collector

She will be remembered for her generous spirit and philanthropic nature.

Bal Polonaise 2014 Silent Auction to benefit Polish Assistance Please bid generously. Any bid in excess of estimated value is tax deductible. (Check with your accountant)

Partial list – please see items on display in the Centennial Foyer Polish Assistance would like to thank each person and company that donated items to the silent auction and raffle. Your generosity will help ensure the success of the Polish Assistance mission of helping those in need in the Polish community.

"Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Golf" Join Greg White, Polish Assistance Board of Directors Member, for a round of golf at Liberty National Golf Club overlooking the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan Skyline of New York. Member must be present. Expiration Date 12/31/2014. Donated by Greg White. Minimum bids: 1 player - $500, 2 players - $750, 3 players - $1000. Upon mutually agreeable date.

Round of Golf at Jasna Polana 18-hole round of golf for one foursome at Tournament Players Club Jasna Polana complete with complimentary green fees on Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday. Note this certificate does not include cart fees. Situated on 230 acres of breathtaking countryside in the heart of Princeton, N.J., TPC Jasna Polana continues to redefine the private club experience – boasting an award-winning championship golf course designed by the legendary Gary Player. Expiration Date 12/31/2014. Donated by the Barbara Piasecka Johnson Foundation Estimated Value: $920 Minimum bid: $500 One week Vacation on the Ocean in Nova Scotia It is in a region called the Canadian Maritimes (very much like Maine) and known as the lobster capital of Canada. It is accessible by ferry from Maine or a short airplane ride from NY to Halifax. Link to the website: www.sandylanevacations.com and the cottage is Ocean's Playgound Cottage. Striking Panoramic Ocean Views. For picture perfect privacy by the sea look no further than Ocean’s Playground Cottage. With 10 secluded acres and over 1,000 feet of ocean frontage, this delightful cottage is an oasis of peace and tranquility. Type: Oceanfront Bedrooms: 3 Sleeps: 6 Bathrooms: 2 Internet: Yes Any week in the summer as long as the dates can be confirmed before April as it books up quickly. Donated by Drs. Mitchell and Ava Sierecki Estimated Value: $1,100 Minimum bid: $500

Vacation in the Berkshire Mountains—Stockbridge Massachusetts Four bedroom house located in Stockbridge, Massachusetts, which is a short walk to town, hiking, and bird watching. In the winter there are several skiing mountains within a short drive. In the summer, there are plenty of cultural things to do in the area such as the Tanglewood Music Festival, the Berkshire Theater Festival and Jacob's Pillow Dance Festival. Donated by Mrs. Ewa Myerhoff Estimated Value: $1200 Minimum bid: $500

One Week stay in Northeast Georgia Mountains in the foothills of the Great Smokey Mountains Located in the foothills of the Great Smokey Mountains between Helen and Lake Burton, GA, this nicely appointed, 4- bedroom, 3-full bath home is located on the signature hole of the Innsbruck Golf Course. Available April 2014 through November 2014 with advance notice & subject to availability. Donated by Andrea and Jack Grayson Estimated Value: $1,500 Minimum Bid: $500

Two night stay at the Hotel Bristol, Warsaw Poland 2 night stay at the Hotel Bristol, Warsaw. www.hotelbristol.pl (inclusive of buffet breakfast in Marconi Restaurant, use of swim- ming pool, sauna, steam bath and exercise room). Situated in the heart of Warsaw, on the famous Royal Route, Hotel Bristol has served as the city’s most remarkable landmark and distinguished destination since 1901. The hotel enchants with majestic neo-renaissance facade and romantic interiors, filled with Art Deco elegance from the beginning of the 20th century and luxury finishes. Valid until December 28, 2014. Donated by: Hotel Bristol Estimated Value: $600 Minimum bid: $250 Drawings of Figures on Horseback (Jezdziec) by Leon Sliwinski ( 1916-2001) Signed charcoal, coloured crayons and wash . Each framed separately. Leon Sliwinski drawings have sold at different auction houses in Europe between $300 to $3,500) Donated by Eva and Christopher Skibicki. Estimated Value: $600 Minimum bid: $300 Framed Sketch of Arthur Rubinstein Donated by Donated by Robert J. Campbell M.D. and K.C.S.J. and Cesare L. Santeramo K.C.S.J. Estimated Value: priceless Minimum Bid: $100 Dine at Atelier Amaro, Poland's First Michelin Starred Restaurant Chef Wojciech Modest Amaro offers a voucher for 5 "moments" (260 PLN) accompanied with selection of Polish alcohols. www.atelieramaro.pl. Wojciech Modest Amaro is one of the most outstanding chefs in Poland and the author of the bestselling "The Polish Cuisine of the 21st Century". Located at Agrykola 1, Warsaw Donated by: Atelier Amaro Estimated Value: 260 PLN plus alcohol Minimum bid: $75 Dine in Lwow Tradition in Warsaw 200 PLN gift certificate Kamanda Lwowska . Enjoy Old Lwow traditional cusine in the heart of Warsaw at Foksal 10. Let the food and the music take you back in time. Donated by: Kamanda Lwowska Estimated Value: 200 PLN Minimum bid: $50

Dine at Karczma in Brooklyn $40 gift certificate to Karczma Polish Restaurant is located in the heart of Greenpoint, Brooklyn. Enjoy a fine meal in a very special setting. Donated by: Urszula & Slawek Letowski and Krzysztof Drzewiecki Estimated Value: $40 Minimum Bid: $15

Dinner for Two at The Manor Restaurant, Orange, New Jersey $200 The Manor Restaurant Gift Certificates to be used towards Dinner for Two in the Lobster Buffet or in the A la Carte Dining room www.themanorrestaurant.com Donated by: The Manor Restaurant Estimated Value: $200 Minimum Bid: $50

Beauty in the Basket - Inglot cosmetics Donated by Inglot Cosmetics Estimated Value: $300 Minimum Bid: $50 Champagne Wishes and Caviar Dreams For someone special on Valentine's Day. Donated by: Eva Skibicki Estimated Value: $60 Minimum bid: $25

Wine Basket Donated by: Katherine Kolasa Estimated Value: $200 Minimum bid: $75 Tiffany 1837™ Bar Pendant A timeless favorite, inscribed with the year Tiffany was founded. Pendant in sterling silver on a 16" chain. Donated by Eva Skibicki Estimated Value $125 Minimum bid: $30

Artistic 19"x 8" Silver Plated Oblong Bodoni Tray by Simplydesignz Modern Metals Donated by Mariola Gorska Haggar Estimated Value: $50 Minimum bid: $25 Salt of the Earth Sampling of gourmet salts including Wieliczka Salt. Gourmet chefs, in homes and in restaurants, have learned to appreciate and distinguish between the distinctive qualities of the many varieties of gourmet salts and the way these salts enhance the flavors and finish of foods. Donated by: Russell Skibicki Estimated Value: $50 Minimum bid: $25 Bal Polonaise 2014 Raffle Items to benefit Polish Assistance Winners need not be present

Two tickets for the Bal Polonaise 2015 Donated by Polish Assistance, Inc.

Be my Valentine Gift Basket Donated by Ball Chairs

Drawing by Leon Sliwinski (1916-2001) Signed and dated Donated by Jadwiga Palade

Bright Smiles Office Teeth-Whitening Treatment. Smile with confidence Donated by Dr. Ann Pyz Michelle Clough Design Flight Of Fancy Box with Hot Air Ballon Motif Donated by Michelle Clough Design www.MichelleCloughDesign.com by appointment 646-497-0463

Chocolate Lovers Paradise Donated by Russell Skibicki Painting by Stanislaw Grebski Donated by Eryka Volker Movie Night donated by Lindsay Davis Polish cookbooks and much more—please see display in the Foyer

Raffle and Silent Auction Information and Rules

 Minimum bids are listed on some items. Bids must be in increments as noted on each Silent Auction bid sheet.

 The winning Silent Auction bid will be the last, highest and correct bid on each sheet. The Auction Committee will decide on any discrepancies.

 ALL SALES ARE FINAL. ITEMS ARE NON-TRANSFEREABLE. Items may not be exchanged or returned to the story or individual that donated it, except where specified.

 Retail values noted below each item are donor’s estimates and are not warranted for tax purposes or for general value. Any bid in excess of estimated value is tax deductible. (Check with your accountant)

 All auction items must be used within one year or by dates specified. All guarantees are between buyer and donor.

 Gift Certificates from restaurants do not includes sales tax & gratuity in their value.

 Payment by the successful bidder may be made at the end of the auction. Payment may be made with check, cash or credit card.

 The buyer is responsible for items after purchase. No items may be removed until payment in full is received. All items must be removed the evening of the event.

 An announcement closing the bidding will be made and no further bids will be accepted on items. Winning bid- ders may pick up their items at the checkout station. Please wait until a volunteer will retrieve your items for you.

Mariola Gorska Haggar and Dr. Joseph G. Haggar

Salute Polish Assistance, Inc. For upholding the finest Polish traditions



Congratulate Guest of Honor Lady Blanka Rosenstiel White Eagle Award Recipient Witold S. Sulimirski Amicus Poloniae Award Recipient William J. Nareski II



Best Wishes and Many Thanks to Co-Chairs of Bal Polonaise 2014 Mrs. Katherine Kolasa Dr. Anna Pyz Dr. Ava Meyerhoff Sierecki Mrs. Eva Skibicki

CREDITS AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS Polish Assistance wishes to give special recognition and thanks to Mrs. Katherine Kolasa, Dr. Ann Pyz, Dr. Ava Meyerhoff Sierecki, Mrs. Eva Skibicki Flower Arrangements by International Garden  Eva Nicole Skibicki Souvenir Journal  Ms. Emily Reifel Social Sales Manager and Staff of CPS 5 Events at the Plaza  Alex Donner and his Orchestra Music  Chevalier Cesare L. Santeramo Master of Ceremonies  U.S. Merchant Marine Academy Color Guard  Mr. Jacek Mikolajczyk Photography  Ms. Patricia Roman Office Manager, Polish Assistance  All our Devoted Volunteers List In Progress

In loving memory of

my mother

Aniela Młynarska Rubinstein

Eva Rubinstein

2011 and 2012 Amicus Poloniae Awardees

Doctor Robert Jean Campbell,K.C.S.J. and Chevalier Cesare L. Santeramo, K.C.S.J.

Salute

Polish Assistance, Inc.



Guest of Honor Lady Blanka Rosenstiel



The 55th Bal Polonaise Chairs Mrs. Katherine Kolasa Dr. Ava Meyerhoff Sierecki Dr. Ann Pyz Mrs. Eva Nicole Skibicki



2014 Amicus Poloniae Awardee Mr. William J. Nareski, II

And Our Dear Friend White Eagle Recipient Mr. Witold S. Sulimirski Eva Nicole Skibicki

With love

to our Woman of Influence

Christopher Russell and Lindsay Karolina and Niklas

Congratulations to

Polish Assistance, Inc. Its President Mrs. Jadwiga Palade, The Honorees, The Chairladies of the 55th Annual Polonaise Ball

and Especially to our lovely Wife and Mom Katherine Kolasa From Christopher, Matthew, Thomas and Natalie Kolasa

Mariola Gorska-Haggar

Our Dearest Wife and Mother, You are the greatest influence in our lives. There should be more people like you! With deepest love and admiration for your values, success in business and for your philanthropic work,

Your loving husband Joseph and son George

Congratulations to My Dear Friends

Doctor Robert Jean Campbell, K.C.S.J.

and

Chevalier Cesare L Santeramo, K.C.S.J.

past recipients of the

Amicus Poloniae Award

and to

Mr. William J. Nareski II

This year’s awardee

Mme. Sachi Liebergesell

Congratulations to

Guest of Honor Lady Blanka A. Rosenstiel

Amicus Poloniae Awardee Recipient William J. Nareski, II

White Eagle Award Recipient Witold S.Sulimirski

From

Cynthia Zirinski

Salutes

My Dear Friends

Doctor Robert Jean Campbell,K.C.S.J.

and

Chevalier Cesare L. Santeramo, K.C.S.J.

past

Amicus Poloniae Awardees

Polish Assistance Honoring “Women of Influence”

Barbara Fox Lady Bordiga

Congratulates

POLISH ASSISTANCE, INC.

and

CHEVALIER CESARE L. SANTERAMO, K.C.S.J. and CHEVALIER ROBERT JEAN CAMPBELL, K.C.S.J.

For their tireless contributions to the success of the Bal Polonaise

Polish Assistance

Congratulates

Her Excellency Maguy Maccanio Doyle

Former Consul General of Monaco to New York City position she held since 1997

On her appointment by His Serene Highness Prince Albert II of Monaco to the post of the

Ambassador of the Principality of Monaco to the United States

As a founding member of the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation-USA, she currently serves as its Vice President

Congratulations to Polish Assistance From

Polish American Congress New York Downstate Division Frank Milewski President

177 Kent Street, Brooklyn, NY 11222

Congratulations to the Honorees

Continued Best Wishes to

Polish Assistance, Inc

Edwin Gorski, Esq

A privilege to know you The Polish Institute of Arts and Sciences of America Polski Instytut Naukowy w Ameryce Congratulates Polish Assistance on 55th Ball Polonaise

You are invited to visit our townhouse, which is located at 20 East 30th Street, New York, 10016 and our website: www.piasa.org

PIASA 72th Annual Meeting (a multidisciplinary conference) will be held in Warsaw, Poland, 19-22 June, 2014 For details please visit www.piasa.org or contact us at [email protected]

Continued Best Wishes to

Polish Assistance, Inc

From

POLONIA BAKERY Traditional Polish Baked Goods

204 Monroe Street Tel. 973.471.3485 Passaic, NJ 07055 [email protected]

Congratulations Karolina and Niklas



Sarah, Pat, Mariola, Val, Christine, Sandra, Patricia Thank you for years of friendship and support Eva

To see images and order photos from tonight’s event Please go to

www.discoverphotostudio.com

Discover Photo LLC1 Court Street 4th Floor New Britain, CT 06053 860-874-6646 [email protected] Congratulations from

TERESA’S RESTAURANT

80 Montague St Brooklyn, NY 11201

Tel. (718) 797-3996 Zapraszamy Polish Assistance, Inc

Founder: Maria Dembinski

Honorary Members

Dr. Robert J. Campbell, K.C. S.J. H.S.H. Grace of Monaco Arthur and Aniela Rubinstein

President Emeritus Teresa Sulimirski Board of Directors Jadwiga Krajewska Palade, President * Nina Thiessen, M.D.,Vice President * Chevalier Cesare L. Santeramo, K.C.S.J., Secretary * Eva Nicole Skibicki, Treasurer * Ewa Meyerhoff Nina Mlodzinska de Rovira Lady Blanka Rosenstiel Malina Stadnik Eryka Volker Gregory White Wanda Wolinski * denotes Executive Committee Member

BECOME A MEMBER

NAME ______DATE ______

ADDRESS ______

TELEPHONE ______EMAIL ADDRESS______

I want to become a member of Polish Assistance, Inc. with annual dues of:

 $1,000 - BENEFACTOR  $500 - $999 SPONSOR  $100-$499 PATRON

 $50-$99 DONOR  $45 - SUPPORTING MEMBER  $25 - STUDENT

Enclosed is a one-time contribution of $ ______

Please make checks payable to and mail to:

POLISH ASSISTANCE, INC. 15 East 65th Street New York, NY 10065 (212) 570-5560 [email protected]