PACIM Family Picnic 2023
2023-08-12 12:00 - 18:00 (America/Chicago) | Vadnais – Sucker Lake Regional Park, Sucker Lake Pavilion #1, 4500 Rice Street, Vadnais Heights, MN, 55127, United States
Join us with your loved ones and friends for a fun-filled day! You can bring your chair or share a table with other PACIM members. Take it easy and enjoy the picturesque Vadnais-Sucker Lake Regional Park. There will be delicious food, music, a performance by Dolina Polish Folk Dancers, a raffle, and games suitable for all age groups. Kids can have a blast at the playground while you can go for a walk on the park’s trails.
Menu

Fresh-roasted Polish kielbasa
Boiled potato-cheese pierogi
Bigos
Pickles
Tasty Polish desserts
Complimentary water and coffee

Menu Options for Purchase

$25 combo for adults — includes kielbasa (1), pierogi (4), bigos, pickles, dessert, beverage*
$55 family meal — consists of two combos plus meals for children under 12
$15 plate of either bigos or pierogi (6) or kielbasa (1); includes beverage* and dessert
$9 child meal (under 12)

*Beer and wine will be available for adults with a recommended $7 donation per serving.
Pre-registered guests are guaranteed food, while walk-ins are first-come, first-served.
We also welcome volunteers to help set up for the event and serve guests. If you can commit to a morning (11 am-3 pm) or afternoon (3 pm-7 pm) shift on Saturday, please email us at office@pacim.org to put in four (4) volunteer hours and claim your complimentary picnic lunch

Consular Office Hours Session
2023-09-23 09:00 - 17:00 | St. John Paul II School, 1630 4th St NE, Minneapolis, MN, United States
The Consulate General of the Republic of Poland in Chicago is organizing a consular office hours session in Minneapolis, MN, on September 23, 2023 (Saturday). The session will take place at the St. John Paul II school at Holy Cross Church, 1630 4th St NE, Minneapolis.
Prior appointments by phone are required for this session. Appointments will be taken on September 12 and 13, 2023.
To schedule an appointment, please call the consulate office at 312 337 8166, extension 1, between 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM or until all slots are filled.
Please see more info on the consulate’s website.

Polish Family Stories Group Meeting
2023-10-02 07:00 - 20:30 | PACIM Office, 93 W Little Canada Rd, Suite 106, Saint Paul, MN, 55117, United States
Topic: Waves of Polish Immigration to the US
Polish immigration to the US dates back to 1608, even before the country’s founding (see article about Poles in Jamestown in the last issue of PolAm).

When did your family come from Poland? Were they part of a wave of immigrants after the partitions of Poland? Were they displaced after the Holocaust and World War II? Did they escape communism in Poland? Did they come after the fall of communism? What stories have you heard about your family’s journey to the US?
Come and share your family’s story with us!
If you cannot attend in person, please email Natasha Walter-Fisk for a Zoom meeting link.

Annual Membership Meeting and Election of PACIM Directors
2023-10-26 18:00 - 20:00 | PACIM Office, 93 W Little Canada Rd, Suite 106, Saint Paul, MN, 55117, United States
The PACIM Annual Membership Meeting and board election has been scheduled for October 26, 2023. An email will be sent to PACIM members, providing additional information on the meeting and the election process.
Your participation is essential in shaping the future of our organization, so be sure to check your inbox for more information and get ready to cast your vote.
Together, let’s carry forward PACIM’s vital mission!
If you are a PACIM member in good standing, you are eligible to vote. You can cast your vote by attending the membership meeting in person or by submitting an electronic or mail-in ballot. If you have provided PACIM with your email address, you will receive an election ballot via email from OpaVote and can cast your vote online. If you haven’t provided your email address, you will receive a paper ballot by mail. The deadline to cast a vote electronically or by mail-in ballot is 6 PM, October 25, 2023. It is important to take note that if a member has already voted online or by mail, s/he will be ineligible to cast a vote again in person.
Please email office@pacim.org if you have not received a ballot by October 19, 2023.
The following people decided to run for the position of PACIM Director:
Edyta Dudek (incumbent)

Edyta is an engineer and a math and computer science educator. Before coming to the U.S., she volunteered for the Catholic Intelligentsia Club in Warsaw. In Minnesota, she served in many Polish organizations: as a Vice President of the Polish Saturday School, a Treasurer of the Polanie Club, a President of the Polish Independence Celebration Committee, a Vice-President, Treasurer, and, from 2021, President of PACIM.

Mietek T Konczyk (incumbent)

Mietek joined PACIM in 2008 and soon after became a member of the board and Director of Technology, a position he held until 2010 when he moved to Colorado. He was re-elected to the board in 2021 and has served as PACIM Secretary since then. He was born and raised in Krakow, Poland. In 1986, he arrived with his family in Minnesota as a political refugee, residing first in Winona, then in Rochester and Saint Paul. He holds a Master of Laws (LL.M.) degree from Jagiellonian University in Krakow and a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Computer Science from Winona State University.

Anna Margl
Anna was born in Poland and came to the USA in 1970. As a long-time member of many US nonprofit organizations, CFO for multiple companies, and one of the owners of a business, as well as a current member of Holy Cross Church, a former member and director of PNA, she would like to contribute to the great work of PACIM and support Polish causes. Currently, Anna is the Treasurer for Minnesota Sinfonia, a board member of GRC, Spiritual Mother for SJV Seminary at St Thomas, a Block Capitan for her neighborhood, a board member of the International Partners in Peace, as well as a member of a few other nonprofit organizations. She considers joining the Board of Directors for PACIM to be a great privilege.
Adam Ramczyk (incumbent)

Adam was born in Lebork, Poland, and immigrated to the USA in 1992 with wife Mirosława and son Kamil. He lives in Blaine and has three children: Kamil, Dominik, and Julia. He is a member of Holy Cross Church and works as a Production Manager at Starkey. Adam has served as PACIM Vice-President.

Alex Zemla
As the assistant of the Polish Museum of Winona, Minnesota, Alex is deeply integrated into the daily operations of the Museum. He organizes various events, including the Smaczne Jablka Apple Fest. He has been actively reaching out to multiple vendors, entertainment hosts, musicians, and sponsors to engage their participation in the Apple Fest. In addition to event coordination, he plays a vital role in various aspects of the Museum’s activities. He contributes to the production of the quarterly newsletter, serves as the primary graphic designer responsible for creating both the Polish Museum logo and Apple Fest logo, manages the gift shop and online store, oversees advertising efforts, maintains the website, handles the main email correspondence, offers guided tours of the exhibits, assists with archival work, and more.

Concert by Adam Han-Gorski with Kenwood Symphony Orchestra
2023-10-28 19:30 - 21:30 | Our Lady of Peace Catholic Church, 5426 12th Ave. South, Minneapolis, 55417, United States
The acclaimed Polish violinist Adam Han-Gorski, will perform on October 28, 2023, with the Kenwood Symphony Orchestra. Don’t miss the chance to experience his stunning performance live. It is a free event. See you there!

SOLOISTS

Adam Han-Gorsky, violin
Ian Snyder, violin

CONDUCTORS
Yuri Ivan

REPERTOIRE

Hector Berlioz
Roman Carnival
Antonín Dvořák
Symphony No. 7
Alexander Glazunov
Grand Adagio
Bach
Double Concerto

Polish Independence Day Celebrations
2023-11-11 - 2023-11-12 | MN
Saturday, November 11, 2023
Independence Run
12:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Starting and finishing up at Stone Arch Bridge and 6th Ave SE, right by the Mississippi River in Minneapolis (Father Hennepin Bluff Park).
The main route (“white”) is 5.4 km (3.3 miles), and the recreational route (red”) is 2.75 km (1.7 miles)
Special Guest: Mr. Paweł Zyzak, the Consul General of Poland from Chicago, is joining the race! He’s in town for the weekend.
Whether you’re a runner, volunteer, or just want to cheer folks on, come on over. If you’ve got white and red (Polish national colors), even better!
Runners, make sure to register here

Schedule

12:00 pm – Confirmation of registration, acceptance of starting numbers
12:30 pm – Polish national anthem, preparation for the start
12:45 pm – Start
1:30 pm – Award ceremony
1:45 pm – Hot drinks and Polish pastries

Armistice Day Celebration
1:00 pm – 5:00 pm
The Local – West End
1607 Park Pl. Blvd, Saint Louis Park
The Polish part of the program, including a speech by the Consul General of the Republic of Poland, will take place at 3:30 p.m.

Sunday, November 12, 2023
Holy Mass for the Homeland on the occasion of Poland’s Independence Day
11:30 am
Holy Cross Catholic Church
1621 University Ave NE
Minneapolis, MN 55413

Meeting of Polish Consul General with the Polish Community
1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Holy Cross Catholic Church
1621 University Ave NE
Minneapolis, MN 55413
Kolbe Hall
The artistic program will be presented by students of the A. Mickiewicz Polish Saturday School and the folk dance group “Dolina.” We warmly invite all Polish organizations, members of the Polish diaspora, and everyone interested to come over to meet with the Consul General.

Meeting with Polish Consul General at PACIM
4:00 pm – 6:00 pm
PACIM Office
93 Little Canada Rd W, UNIT 106
Saint Paul, MN 55117
The PACIM Board, along with members of the Polish-American community, will meet with the Polish Consul General to showcase community achievements and outline future plans. They will also discuss potential collaboration with Polish government agencies in executing community projects and programs. This meeting is open to anyone interested and will be conducted in English. Refreshments will be provided.

Visit by Polish Consul General
2023-11-12 16:00 - 18:00 | PACIM Office, 93 W Little Canada Rd, Suite 106, Saint Paul, MN, 55117, United States
The PACIM Board, along with members of the Polish-American community, will meet with the Polish Consul General, Dr. Paweł Zyzak to showcase community achievements and outline future plans. We will also discuss potential collaboration with Polish government agencies in executing community projects and programs. This meeting is open to anyone interested and will be conducted in English. Refreshments will be provided.
Photo Paweł Zyzak. (2023, June 16). In Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pawe%C5%82_Zyzak

Minnesota Premiere of March '68
2023-11-16 19:00 - 22:00 | JCC Sabes Center, 4330 Cedar Lake Rd., St. Louis Park, MN, United States
Twin Cities Jewish Film Festival, in partnership with PACIM, presents a Minnesota premiere of March ’68 (Marzec 1968), a Polish movie directed by Krzysztof Lang and starring Vanessa Aleksander and Ignacy Lisa as Hania Bielska and Janek Wolicki.

This captivating movie tells the romantic story of a young couple caught up in student protests during the events of March 1968 in Poland and the “anti-Zionist” campaign initiated by the communist government after the 1967 Arab-Israeli war. Their families are on both sides of the March barricade. Will their love survive? Will they be able to overcome the adversities that fate throws at them?

In Polish with English subtitles. Pre-recorded interview with Tom Sawicki to follow the film.

Please note VENUE CHANGE. The event will now be held at JCC Sabes Center. We apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding.

Tickets are $15 in advance / $18 the day of. Free small popcorn is included with the ticket!
RESERVE TICKET

If you or someone you know took part in these historical events or was forced to emigrate from Poland in 1968/69, we invite you to share your memories with the audience after the screening of March ’68. Please get in touch with us at office@pacim.org for more information.

PACIM Soup Festival
2023-11-19 11:00 - 15:00 | Holy Cross Catholic Church – Kolbe Hall, 1621 University Ave NE, Minneapolis, MN, 55413
This year during the traditional Polish Soup Fest we will serve eight delicious Polish soups — borscht (barszcz), chicken noodle (rosół), tomato (pomidorowa), split pea (grochówka), sauerkraut (kapuśniak), dill pickle (ogórkowa), mushroom (grzybowa), sour rye (żurek) — and your favorite bigos (hunter’s stew).
Price for testing of eight different soups and bigos (until supplies last):
$15 for adults
$7 for children under 10
If any soups are left at the end of the event, you will be able to purchase 160z containers for $15.
Preorder 16oz containers for $12.50 until Thursday, November 16, 2023, by mailing checks with the annotation “soup festival” to:
PACIM
93 Little Canada Rd W, Suite 106
Saint Paul, MN 55117
Please add information about the type of soup you want to order.

Choose your soups

Barszcz $12.50 USD

Mushroom $12.50 USD

Dill Pickle $12.50 USD

Tomato $12.50 USD

Zurek $12.50 USD

Sauerkraut $12.50 USD

Chicken $12.50 USD

Split Pea $12.50 USD

Bigos $12.50 USD

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
If you would like to volunteer, please sign up using the following link: sign-up list or contact Donna Linert Sisler at dlinert51@gmail.com, phone 612 251 4511.

PACIM Wigilia Dinner
2023-12-17 16:30 - 21:00 | Holy Cross Catholic Church – Kolbe Hall, 1621 University Ave NE, Minneapolis, MN, 55413
The PACIM Board cordially invites you, your family, and friends to the 2023 Wigilia Dinner. Please join us for an evening of community, tradition, music, and good food.
4:30 pm — Carols (kolędy) and other Christmas activities.
6:00 pm — Traditional Wigilia Dinner.
Dinner includes herrings in oil, red borsch with “uszka,” fried or baked fish, mashed potatoes, sauerkraut with mushrooms, two types of pierogies, cake, and dry fruit compote.
Tickets:
• $50 for PACIM members
• $60 for non-members
• $20 for children 15 and under
• $140 family option (2 adults with children)

Purchase your ticket

Non-Member $60.00 USD

Member $50.00 USD

Child under 15 $20.00 USD

Family: 2 adults with children $140.00 USD

Your name

Who do you want to sit with?

Tickets are also available for purchase by sending a check by Dec 13, 2023, to
PACIM
93 Little Canada Rd W, UNIT 106
Saint Paul, MN 55117
Please indicate the names of people you would like to sit with. The event is open to everyone.
The venue, located at the corner of 17th Avenue and Fourth Street in Northeast Minneapolis, is fully accessible via an elevator entrance in the courtyard between Holy Cross Church and School. Limited handicapped parking spots are available in the courtyard lot, with additional well-lit parking lots surrounding the building.

Silent Auction
2024-01-27 15:00 - 2024-02-10 20:30 | Online at https://www.32auctions.com/pacimbal2024
A Silent Auction traditionally accompanies this year’s Ball. The purpose of the auction is to raise funds for various PACIM activities in the year 2024, such as

Expansion of Polish language classes with more teachers
More Literary, Arts, and Event Programming
Construction of 1944 Warsaw US Airlift Memorial in Columbia Heights
Digitalization of the PACIM Library holdings and PACIM records
Raising the number of PACIM scholarship recipients
Continuing to assist Polish orphans
Helping with PACIM operating expenses.

The auctioned items were donated to PACIM by various organizations, including Polanie Club and The Wasi Foundation, as well as by several individuals. Thank you!
The auction will be conducted entirely online, but we will present the auctioned items during the Ball, and you can also place your online bids at that time. Use the button below to access the auction site.
Please bid generously!
Enter Silent Auction

Bal Karnawałowy 2024
2024-02-10 17:00 - 2024-02-11 00:00 | Midland Hills Country Club, 2001 Fulham Street, Roseville, MN, 55113, United States
The traditional PACIM Carnival Ball is scheduled for the last Saturday of Carnival, February 10, 2024, at Midland Hills Country Club, 2001 Fulham Street, Roseville, MN 55113.

Three-course dinner with the following choice of the main course:

8-ounce Top Sirloin Steak with a wild mushroom glaze
Midland Chicken — lightly floured and pan-seared with buttery white wine source with lemon, artichokes, tomatoes, capers, and Kalamata olives
Walleye Pike — lightly breaded and baked, served with lemon and tartar sauce.

Accompaniments
Yukon Gold whipped potatoes and Amaretto glazed mini carrots.
Midland Hills Salad — romaine and iceberg lettuce with tomato, cucumber, beets, croutons, sunflower seeds, Parmesan cheese, and creme peppercorn dressing. Served with rolls, butter, coffee, and hot tea.
Pączki for dessert!
A glass of wine is included with the dinner. Cash bar.
Program
5:00 PM Cocktails and Silent Auction
6:00 PM Dinner
7:15 PM Presentation of Award to Walter Shimshock (posthumously). Please see the information about him below.
7:30 PM Performance by Dolina Dancers
8:00 PM Bal Opening with Polonaise dance
Dancing until Midnight.
Entrance on the right by the Polish flag.

Silent auction is conducted online. To view auctioned items and to place bids, please visit www.32auctions.com/pacimbal2024
Walter Shimshock
During the official part of the Ball, Walter Shimshock (a.k.a. Władysław Szymczak), an American airman of Polish descent who perished in September 1944, will be posthumously honored. Walter died while participating in a supply airdrop operation for the Warsaw Uprising conducted by the USA Air Force. At the time of his death, Walter Shimshock was a 19-year-old, a third-generation Polish immigrant living with his family in NE Minneapolis and was a parishioner of the Holy Cross Church. The B-17 Flying Fortress, of which he was a crew member, was shot down near Warsaw during a supply flight. Walter survived the crash but was captured by the Germans, tortured, and executed.
In 1987, the Polish town of Łomianki unveiled the Monument to the Memory of American Airmen and established contacts with the families of the fallen soldiers. It fostered friendly relations, leading to the establishment of sister city cooperation with Columbia Heights, MN. Bernard and George Szymczak, the brothers of the fallen airman, were fervent advocates of this idea. At their initiative, in 1991, a cooperation agreement was signed between Łomianki and Columbia Heights. This close relationship between the two cities continues to this day, as demonstrated by the latest initiative of PACIM to erect a twin monument in one of the municipal parks in Columbia Heights.
The monument will be a replica of the one standing in Łomianki, and a renowned Polish artist living in Wisconsin has already been commissioned to create it. The PACIM initiative involves the authorities of Columbia Heights, the Consul General of the Republic of Poland in Chicago, Columbia Heights Sister Cities International, and many private donors. PACIM is collecting funds for this purpose, and the ceremonial erection of the monument is planned for September this year, on the 80th anniversary of the shooting down of the plane and its heroic crew.

Literary Afternoon with Andi Kopek
2024-02-25 13:30 - 15:00 | PACIM Office, 93 W Little Canada Rd, Suite 106, Saint Paul, MN, 55117, United States
We invite you to a literary afternoon featuring Andi Kopek, a Polish-American writer and poet.
Andi Kopek will present his latest book titled “Shmehara,” which has received high acclaim and 5-star reviews from the Literary Titan organization.
This is a unique opportunity to meet the author in person, listen to beautiful poetry, discover interesting stories behind the creation of these poems, and discuss the role of artificial intelligence in art. We will also see unique, dynamic illustrations that have won a series of international awards at independent film festivals in the United States, Chile, Spain, and other countries.
The book will be available for purchase during the evening, and the author will personally sign copies for each person who buys it on-site. This is a one-time opportunity!
A portion of the proceeds from the sale will be donated to the Polish Center for International Aid in Warsaw to support Ukrainian refugees in Poland, providing access to psychological assistance for war refugee children. This help is essential after the traumatic experiences of forced migration resulting from the brutal attack of the Russian army on Ukraine.
The evening will be conducted in Polish, English, and “Ponglish.”
Andi Kopek (a pen name) was born in Poland, in Łowicz. In 1997, he left with his family for the United States, where he worked for many years in the science field. Writing and fine arts have always been his passion, which he continues to pursue to this day.
“Shmehara” is his first book published in the United States. It is a collection of poetry, short narratives, and dynamic illustrations that deeply describe the inner struggle of an individual facing the brutal challenges of contemporary society. The poems are extremely personal; some of them refer to the tragic events of the war in Ukraine, where the author’s family roots come from. Early readers praise the book for its honesty, beautiful verses, and for conveying raw emotions.
Andi Kopek’s work sounds intriguing, and the blend of personal experiences and artistic expression promises a captivating literary evening. 📚✨
Admission is free. Refreshments will be served.

https://pacim.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/AK-Shmehara-Cover-Animated.mp4

Board Meeting
2024-03-14 19:00 - 21:00 | PACIM Office, 93 W Little Canada Rd, Suite 106, Saint Paul, MN, 55117, United States
The regular monthly PACIM Board Meeting will take place in the PACIM office on Thursday, March 14, 2024, at 7:00 PM.

Board Meeting on Zoom
2024-04-04 19:00 - 21:00 | MN
The regular PACIM Board Meeting will be conducted on Zoom on Thursday, April 4, 2024, at 7:00 PM. Please email office@pacim.org for the meeting access information.

Minneapolis St Paul International Film Festival
2024-04-12 - 2024-04-19 | The Main Cinema, 115 SE Main St., Minneapolis, 55414, MN, 55414
Minneapolis Saint Paul International Film Festival features this year two Polish movies:
Green Border – Directed by Agnieszka Holland
Friday, April 12th at 3:50 PM
Sunday, April 14th at 6:50 PM
In the Rearview – Directed by Maciek Hamela
Monday, April 15th at 2:45 PM
Friday, April 19th at 2:10 PM
The Main Cinema
115 SE Main Street
Minneapolis, MN 55414
PACIM members receive a $2 discount when using promo code PACIM43 when buying tickets.
For the full lineup of the festival’s movies and events and to purchase passes and tickets, access https://mspfilm.org/mspiff/

Announcing the Clifford Place Collection Exhibit
2024-06-01 - 2024-06-30 | Vandalia Tower, 550 Vandalia Street, Suite 234, St. Paul, MN, United States
Don’t miss the upcoming exhibit showcasing the Clifford Place Collection of Polish poster art from the communist era. This fascinating collection of over 400 posters was assembled in the 1980s by Teresa and Brian McMahon in the Greenpoint neighborhood of Brooklyn, New York, which was a hub for Polish immigrant artists at that time.
During the exhibit running June 1-30, 2024, around 25 of the posters will be on display along with select original paintings and watercolors. The posters provide a glimpse into an important period when Polish artists used metaphor and symbolism to express themselves despite government censorship.
The exhibit is being held at the Vandalia Tower in St. Paul (550 Vandalia Street, Suite 234) and will be open to the public on Fridays through Sundays from 10 am – 5 pm. Admission is free.
In addition to the on-site exhibit, all 400 posters in the collection will be viewable online at www.cliffordplacecollection.com starting in June.
For more information, contact exhibit organizer Brian McMahon at (651) 399-7221 or brianmcmahonco@gmail.com. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to experience an iconic era of Polish art!
Poster by Wiktor Sadowski, Theatre de la Jeune Lune, Minneapolis

Opening Night of 1970-1980’s Polish Poster Art Exhibit
2024-06-01 16:00 - 18:00 | Vandalia Tower, 550 Vandalia Street, Suite 234, St. Paul, MN, United States

Tekla Klebetnica
2024-06-01 19:00 - 21:00 | Church of the Holy Cross, 1621 University Ave NE, Minneapolis, MN, 55413, United States
Witness a remarkable concert featuring a world-renowned Polish folk-crossover band, Tekla Klebetnica.
Free event. Donations suggested.
Please visit Tekla Klebetnica’s website or contact the organizer for more information.

Polish Festival at Sacred Heart of Jesus Polish National Church
2024-07-13 11:00 - 18:00 | Sacred Heart of Jesus Polish National Church, 2114 5th Street NE, Minneapolis, 55418
Join parishioners of Sacred Heart of Jesus Polish National Church for a celebration of Polish culture with delicious food and lively music! Indulge in traditional Polish dishes, including golabki, pierogi, Polish sausage, sauerkraut/kapusta, hot dogs, rye bread, chips, dessert, pop, Polish beer, and coffee.
Enjoy a variety of games for both adults and children.
Don’t miss great food, fun, music, and games.
All are invited – we look forward to seeing you there!
For more information, call (763) 226-1624.

Slavic Experience 2024
2024-08-03 10:00 - 2024-08-04 22:00 | Park Rec Center, 3700 Monterey Dr, St Louis Park, MN, 55416, United States
The Annual Slavic Experience Festival is back, and this year, it’s bigger and better than ever. For two magical days in August, celebrate food, music, family, art, community, freedom, friendship, and love.
Please visit the PACIM table at the festival to learn about Twin Cities’ Polish community events, projects, and programs.

PACIM Family Picnic
2024-08-24 12:00 - 18:00 | Vadnais – Sucker Lake Regional Park, Sucker Lake Pavilion #1, 4500 Rice Street, Vadnais Heights, MN, 55127, United States
Join us for a fun-filled day at the beautiful Vadnais-Sucker Lake Regional Park!
Enjoy our third annual Family Picnic! Come with your family and friends, bring your own chair, or share a table with fellow PACIM members!
We will have food, music, and games for all ages! There is a playground for the little ones on site, and you can also take advantage of the park’s trails.
But it’s not just about the activities; it’s about the sense of community. Whether you’re a local resident or a first-time visitor, you’ll feel the camaraderie. Share stories, make connections, and create lasting memories.
Menu

Fresh-roasted Polish kielbasa
Boiled potato-cheese pierogi
Bigos
Pickles
Tasty Polish desserts
Complimentary water and coffee

Pre-register and order a meal by Monday August 22, 2024, to get discounted prices:

$20 combo for adults — includes kielbasa (1), pierogi (4), bigos, pickles, dessert, beverage*
$45 family meal — consists of two combos plus meals for children under 12

Pre-registered guests are guaranteed food, while walk-ins are first-come, first-served.
Register here online or mail your order with a check to our office at 93 West Little Canada Rd, Unit 106, Saint Paul, MN 55117, c/o Picnic.
Walk-in meal prices:

$25 combo for adults — includes kielbasa (1), pierogi (4), bigos, pickles, dessert, beverage*
$55 family meal — consists of two combos plus meals for children under 12
$15 plate of either bigos or pierogi (6) or kielbasa (1); includes beverage* and dessert
$9 child meal (under 12)

*Beer and wine will be available for adults with a recommended $7 donation per serving.

Meal option

Adult combo (everything) $20.00 USD

Family ticket (2 combos plus children under 12 meals) $45.00 USD

We also welcome volunteers to help set up for the event and serve guests. If you can commit to a morning (11 am-3 pm) or afternoon (3 pm-7 pm) shift on Saturday, please email us at office@pacim.org to put in four (4) volunteer hours and claim your complimentary picnic lunch.

Meeting with Mayor of Warsaw Rafał Trzaskowski
2024-09-21 11:00 - 12:30 | John P. Murzyn Hall, 530 Mill St NE, , Columbia Heights, MN., MN, United States
We regretfully inform you that the planned meeting with Rafał Trzaskowski, Mayor of Warsaw, scheduled for Sunday, September 21, at 11:00 AM, has been CANCELED. Unfortunately, Mayor Trzaskowski has been called back to Poland to address urgent matters resulting from the historic floods currently affecting the country.
We sincerely apologize for the short notice and any inconvenience this may cause. The situation is beyond PACIM’s control, and we appreciate your understanding during this unforeseen circumstance.

We are honored to invite you to a special opportunity to meet Mr. Rafał Trzaskowski, the Mayor of Warsaw, Poland, on September 21, 2024, at 11:00 AM in John P. Murzyn Hall, located at 530 Mill St NE, Columbia Heights, MN.
This is a unique chance for members of the Polish-American community, as well as anyone interested in getting to know one of Poland’s most prominent leaders, to engage in conversation and learn more about the dynamic relationship between Poland and the U.S. Mayor Trzaskowski is eager to connect with those in attendance and share insights about his work in Warsaw, his vision for the future, and how we can strengthen the bonds between our communities.
Whether you’re of Polish heritage or simply interested in learning more about this inspiring figure, we encourage you to attend and make the most of this rare opportunity!
Rafał Trzaskowski is a Polish politician, diplomat, and academic born on January 17, 1972, in Warsaw, Poland. He is a member of the Civic Platform (Platforma Obywatelska) party. Trzaskowski holds a Ph.D. in political science and has served in various academic and governmental roles.
He began his political career as an expert on European affairs and was elected to the European Parliament in 2009. He later served as Poland’s Minister of Administration and Digitization from 2013 to 2014 and as the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs. In 2018, Trzaskowski was elected Mayor of Warsaw, where he focused on modernizing the city and enhancing social policies.
Trzaskowski gained national prominence in 2020 when he ran for President of Poland, representing the opposition. Although he lost in a closely contested election, he remains a significant figure in Polish politics, known for his progressive views and advocacy for civil rights, environmental protection, and European integration.

Dedication Ceremony of 1944 Airlift Crew Memorial
2024-09-21 13:00 - 14:00 | Huset Park, 530 Mill St NE, Columbia Heights, MN, 55421, United States
The Warsaw Uprising, which began on August 1, 1944, was a major World War II operation by the Polish resistance Home Army to liberate Warsaw from German occupation. It was the largest military effort undertaken by any European resistance movement during the war. The uprising was a desperate bid to reclaim the capital as Soviet forces approached from the east.
One of the critical support operations for the uprising was Operation Frantic 7. On September 18, 1944, this U.S. Air Force mission involved a massive airdrop of supplies to the beleaguered Polish fighters. The mission saw B-17 Flying Fortresses flying from bases in Italy to deliver weapons, ammunition, food, and medical supplies.
PACIM, Sister Cities International Columbia Heights – Łomianki, the Institute of National Remembrance in Poland, the City of Columbia Heights, MN, the Consulate General of the Republic of Poland in Chicago, and many individual donors joined efforts to commemorate the heroic crew of the B-17 Flying Fortress named “I’ll Be Seeing You” that took part in Operation Frantic 7 and was shot down by Germans over the suburbs of Warsaw on September 18, 1944. A rear gunner of the plane was Staff Sergeant Walter Shimshock, a Polish-American resident of Northeast Minneapolis. He was able to parachute from the crashing airplane but was captured and executed by the Germans. A memorial to honor him and other members of the heroic crew will be unveiled in Huset Park In Columbia Heights, MN, on September 21, 2024.
Despite the courage and sacrifice demonstrated by both the Polish resistance fighters and the Allied aircrews, the uprising ultimately failed due to a lack of sufficient external support and the overwhelming strength of the German forces. The city was devastated, and the resistance suffered heavy casualties. However, the valor displayed during the Warsaw Uprising and operations like Frantic 7 remains a poignant symbol of resistance against oppression.
We are also honored to host distinguished guests, including Mr. Rafał Trzaskowski, Mayor of Warsaw, and Ms. Agata Grochowska, Vice-Consul of the Polish Consulate in Chicago. The Polish Institute of National Remembrance (IPN), whose generous support made the monument possible, will be represented by Mr. Mateusz Szpytma, Deputy President, and Mr. Adam Siwek, Director of the Office for Commemorating the Struggle and Martyrdom.
Please arrive by 12:45 PM to ensure a timely start. The event will begin promptly at 1:00 PM with a presentation of colors by the Grand Forks AFB honor guard.
All confirmed attendees who replied to our invitation will have reserved seating in the main tent. Additional seating will be available on a first-come, first-served basis in the adjacent pavilion for others.

Consular Session
2024-10-05 | St. John Paul II School, 1630 4th St NE, Minneapolis, MN, United States
The Consulate General of the Republic of Poland in Chicago is organizing a consular session in Minneapolis on Saturday, October 5, 2024. The session will take place at John Paul II School at Holy Cross Church.
During the session, it will be possible to submit an application for the issuance of a passport document.
Prior telephone registration is required for the session. Registration will be open on September 24 and 25, Chicago time. To make an appointment for a passport session, you must call the Consulate at 312-337-8166, ext. 1, between 10:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m., or until all slots are filled.
Detailed information can be found at the link:
https://www.gov.pl/web/usa/dyzur-konsularny-w-minneapolis-w-stanie-minnesota-w-dniu-5-pazdziernika-2024-roku

PACIM Soup Festival
2024-10-27 10:30 - 14:30 | Holy Cross Catholic Church – Kolbe Hall, 1621 University Ave NE, Minneapolis, MN, 55413
This year, at the traditional Polish Soup Fest, we will serve six delicious Polish soups: tomato (pomidorowa), dill pickle (ogórkowa), barley (krupnik), cabbage (kapuśniak), mushroom (grzybowa), and sour rye (żurek), along with your favorite bigos (hunter’s stew).
Prices for sampling six soups and bigos (while supplies last):
$15 for adults
$7 for children under 10
If any soups are left at the end of the event, you can purchase 32-oz containers for $13.

Free Advanced Screening of A Real Pain
2024-11-06 19:00 - 21:00 | AMC Rosedale 14, 1595 MN-36 Unit 1000, Roseville, MN, 55113, United States
Searchlight Pictures offered PACIM 15 free double passes for the advanced screening of A REAL PAIN, a movie written and directed by Jesse Eisenberg.
A REAL PAIN follows cousins (Jesse Eisenberg and Kieran Culkin) as they travel through Poland to honor their beloved grandmother, a survivor of the Holocaust. This film is a heartfelt exploration of Jewish heritage, mental health, and history told through the perspectives of third-generation immigrants.
For complimentary passes, go to http://www.searchlightscreenings.com/PACIMxARPx1106. The code to redeem the passes is PACIMxARPx1106.

Membership Meeting and Board Elections
2024-11-07 19:00 - 20:00 | Shoreview Community Center – Room 4, 4580 Victoria St N, Shoreview, MN, 55126, United States
The PACIM Annual Membership Meeting and board elections have been scheduled for November 7, 2024, from 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Your voice matters, and your involvement can make a significant difference in the direction and success of our organization. Mark your calendars, prepare your questions, and be ready to cast your votes. Your active participation is what makes our organization stronger.
The following people decided to run for the positions of PACIM Directors:
Marcel Derosier
Phyllis Husted (incumbent)
David Luiken (incumbent)
Iwona Srienc (incumbent)
Dorota Wojtak
If you are a PACIM member in good standing, you are eligible to vote. You can cast your vote by attending the membership meeting in person or by submitting an electronic or mail-in ballot. If you have provided PACIM with your email address, you will receive an election ballot via email from OpaVote and can cast your vote online. If you haven’t provided your email address, you will receive a paper ballot by mail. The deadline to cast a vote electronically or by mail-in ballot is 6 PM, November 6, 2024. It is important to take note that if a member has already voted online or by mail, s/he will be ineligible to cast a vote again in person.
Please email office@pacim.org if you have not received a ballot by November 1, 2024.

Veterans Day Celebration
2024-11-09 11:00 - 12:00 | Huset Park, 530 Mill St NE, Columbia Heights, MN, 55421, United States
Amáda Márquez Simula, Mayor of the City of Columbia Heights, MN, invites you to the Veterans Day Celebration at the 1944 Warsaw Uprising USAAF Airlift Memorial at West Huset Park in Columbia Heights, MN.
Program:
Welcome by the Mayor
Handing Out Roses
Posting of the Colors
Pledge of Allegiance
Singing of the National Anthem
Speech by the Mayor
Recognition of Veterans Present
Moment of Thankfulness
Honoring Veterans with Roses
Closing Song
Thank You and Cookies
Join us in paying tribute to the courage, sacrifice, and dedication of our veterans.

Polish Independence Day Run
2024-11-09 13:00 - 16:00 | Fr. Hennepin Bluff Park, SE Main St and 6th Ave SE, Minneapolis, MN, United States
The Polish Independence Run is an opportunity to celebrate the 106th anniversary of Poland regaining independence. This event is not only a sporting challenge but also a chance to represent the Polish community in Minneapolis and share our joy and pride in a free Poland, even while living beyond its borders.
Let’s run for independence!
Please register using this link or QR code on the poster. You can choose to walk or run to complete a 3 km or 5 km route
We kindly encourage everyone to wear clothing and accessories in Poland’s national colors and dress appropriately for the weather.
See you at the Independence Run on November 9th!
The Independence Run in Minneapolis is held under the patronage of the Polish Consulate in Chicago, IL.
