THANK YOU
For being here with us today and making this day even more beautiful. We are deeply moved that you traveled so many miles to celebrate with us. Every moment spent together this evening is the most precious gift you could have given us.
Today was the day! On January 4, 2025, at the Church of Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Niechobrz , Julie and Krzysztof promised each other a lifetime of love and became husband and wife. After the beautiful and heartfelt ceremony, friends and family gathered at the breathtaking Dubiecko Castle to celebrate this once-in-a-lifetime moment. There were warm hugs, joyful tears, and heartfelt toasts to the Newlyweds’ happiness and love!
A true multitasking master – Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, Master of Science in Reproductive Physiology, and full -time caretaker of her two cats, Lenka and Flora. She currently works at the University of Wisconsin as a second-year resident in Laboratory Animal Medicine, where she oversees a wide variety of research animals – from tiny mice to rather large… pigs. She ensures that all animals are well-cared for and that research follows proper guidelines. If someone breaks the rules, they’d better steer clear of her! Julie is also ambitiously learning Polish – she already knows 800 words but admits, “Mastery is still a long way off.” She loves ice cream, cakes, and mashed potatoes. In fact, potatoes might just be one of the reasons she fell for Krzysztof – on their second date, the sight of his plate piled high with potatoes sealed the deal.
A man with an insatiable curiosity about the world. He can speak seven languages but has only one answer when asked about his favorite color – blue. A passionate lover of pasta and potatoes, Krzysztof teaches Polish at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. His students, often children of Polish immigrants, quickly learn that Polish is not just “a nightmare of difficult spelling” but also a fun and enriching experience. He’s also a co-organizer of the Polish Film Festival, where he introduces Americans to both serious and lighthearted gems of Polish cinema. In his spare time, he helps Julie with the cats, Lenka and Flora, who have completely won him over. Though he initially claimed that “cats are fine,” he’s now their enthusiastic playmate and biggest fan.
In their free time, Julie and Krzysztof love challenging each other – from learning ballroom dancing to trying their hand at golf or tennis, these are just a few of the adventures they take on together. They’ve already explored a significant part of the world and have no plans to stop. But the most important journey of all – THEIR JOURNEY THROUGH LIFE – is just beginning.
Nestled in a scenic valley along the San River, Dubiecko Castle is a place where history and nature blend in a truly unique way. When Julie and Krzysztof were searching for the perfect venue for their dream wedding, they found everything they were looking for right here.
The origins of Dubiecko Castle date back to the 16th century when it was commissioned by Stanisław Mateusz Stadnicki, a member of the influential Stadnicki family, bearers of the Szreniawa coat of arms. The Stadnickis were one of the most prominent noble families of their time, and the construction of the castle was meant to emphasize their status and provide defense during a turbulent period. Strategically located along the San River, Dubiecko held both military and political significance.
While the castle never served as a royal residence, its inhabitants maintained close ties with Poland’s rulers. The Stadnicki family had strong
connections to the royal court, and their descendants actively participated in political and cultural events that shaped the history of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth.
In the 17th century, the castle passed into the hands of the Krasicki family, marking a new era in its history. Its most famous resident was Ignacy Krasicki, a renowned poet, satirist, and bishop, often referred to as the „Prince of Poets.” Known for his fables, which are compared to Aesop’s works, and for his bold satires reflecting life in 18th-century Poland, Krasicki found inspiration for his literary talents in the natural surroundings of Dubiecko.
In the following centuries, the castle was owned by va-
rious aristocratic families, including the Konarski and Raczyński families. Each contributed to its legacy, enriching both the architecture and the surrounding landscape.
After the first partition of Poland in 1772, Dubiecko’s lands came under Austrian rule. The castle, a symbol of Polish heritage and tradition, became a natural center of resistance against foreign powers. Despite the hardships of the partition era, it hosted secret patriotic gatherings and independence activities.
During uprisings such as the November Uprising (1830–1831) and the January Uprising (1863–1864), conspirators met within the castle walls to plan actions against the occupying forces. Legend
has it that the castle’s underground tunnels and hidden chambers were used to store weapons and secret documents. Although many of these tunnels have since been sealed, the spirit of those events still lingers in the air.
In the 19th century, the castle also became a hub for local intellectuals, who organized Sunday schools for peasants within its grounds. These schools taught Polish language, history, and basic knowledge, playing a crucial role in preserving national identity during periods of Russification and Germanization.
The Hidden Treasure
Dubiecko Castle still harbors some mysteries. One legend tells of a hidden treasure left behind by one of the castle’s owners during the partitions. Although no one has found it yet, perhaps someone in the future will uncover this secret, adding yet another chapter to the extraordinary history of Dubiecko.
The castle’s surroundings feature an expansive English -style park filled with ancient trees, winding pathways, and romantic corners. While strolling through the park, visitors may encounter a majestic hundred-year-old oak, standing as a silent witness to the castle’s storied past. According to legend, the tree was planted in the 19th century by one of the castle’s owners as a symbol of the family’s strength and endurance. This natural monument beautifully bridges the past and present, reminding us of the passage of time.
“There’s room for improvement,” the cats comment.
Breaking news: Julie and Krzysztof have been awarded the prestigious title of Best Cat Parents. Lenka, a dignified representative of American Shorthairs, and Flora, a young and sprightly Maine Coon, shared their thoughts on this accolade in an exclusive interview.
“Yes, the food bowls are full,
the scratching posts are decent, and the laps are reasonably comfortable. But the best? Really?”
Lenka begins, meticulously grooming her paw.
Flora nods in agreement.
“Playtime is too short! Krzyś should know that waving a feather toy for ten minutes is not enough.”
“And he said we’re just okay. JUST okay,” Lenka adds, with an
air of indignation.
Krzysztof admits that, at first, he wasn’t a fan of cats, but he’s now mastered the art of assembling scratching posts and conducting evening petting sessions. Together with Julie, they promise to do better. Next year, they’re determined to compete for the title once again. Maybe the jury will be kinder this time.
Did you know that falling in love is like a chemical cocktail that shakes up your body and brain, just like a good drink at the bar?
It all starts with that magical moment when it feels like the world stops spinning. But it’s not magic—it’s DOPAMINE, the happiness hormone, kicking into gear. Every glance or smile from your special someone makes you feel on top of the world. Then there’s NORADRENALINE, which makes your heart race and sends chills down your spine. And wait— there’s more! Along comes another player: SEROTONIN. Its levels take a nosedive, leaving you thinking about that person 24/7, almost like you’ve developed an obsession. Don’t worry, it’s totally normal!
But infatuation is just the beginning. When you enter the romantic love stage, your body pulls out the big guns: OXYTOCIN , also known as the bonding hormone. It’s what makes every hug, kiss, and cozy evening together deepen your connection on a whole new level. And then VASOPRESSIN joins the party, reinforcing loyalty and devotion. It’s like your body is laying the groundwork for a lasting relationship.
There’s even a third stage: attachment. After a few years of intense emotions, love evolves into something calmer but just as meaningful. That’s when ENDORPHINS , your natural antidepressants, take center stage. They make you feel safe and comfortable around your one and only. It’s like a warm blanket on a chilly winter evening—no fireworks, but plenty of warmth and contentment.
Here’s a fun fact: falling in love is actually pretty stressful for your body. In the early stages of a relationship, levels of CORTISOL , the stress hormone, spike. That’s why you might find it hard to sleep or think about anything other than your special someone. This wild chemical ride in your body is what makes love so incredible and completely incomparable to anything else. And that’s the beauty of it.
Wedding announcements in newspapers have a rich history, rooted in the traditions of both social customs and the evolution of print media, particularly in the United States.
Beginning in the mid -1800s with „society pages,” newspapers featured milestones like engagements and weddings, primarily for the social elite. During the Victorian era, these announcements symbolized status and respectability. By the 20th century, as newspapers became more accessible, families from diverse backgrounds embraced the tradition, often including formal details such as the couple’s names, wedding date, location, and descriptions of the bride’s attire or reception.
Following World War II, wedding announcements became especial-
ly popular in the United States. With the post-war marriage boom, newspapers frequently featured detailed announcements, often with photographs of the bride in her wedding gown. Small-town and local newspapers often dedicated significant space to wedding announcements, reflecting the importance of community and personal milestones.
However, by the late 20th century, their prominence waned due to the rise of digital communication, privacy concerns, and declining newspaper circulation. Today, couples often share their news online but may still use newspapers to honor tradition, especially in smaller communities. Some blend both, publishing in local papers while also sharing digitally.
Throughout our newspaper you will see the announcements and marriages from Julie’s family. Look for them on the following pages!
The symbolic moment of children leaving the family nest is sealed with an official blessing from the parents, requested by the newlyweds. In some regions, this moment involves the couple kneeling on a bedsheet, traditionally meant to be used on their wedding night.
WYKUPINY
In this tradition, the groom must „buy out” his bride from her family home by offering money, sweets, or vodka to her parents or bridesmaids. In some parts of Poland, this involves placing a bottle of vodka on each corner of a table, while in others, traditional bargaining takes place. This ritual symbolically demonstrates how much the bride is valued by her future husband.
WYPROWADZINY
The wykupiny ends with a lively procession led by a band. Often, musicians accompany the groom as he arrives at the bride’s home, playing accordions and singing rhyming folk songs. This vibrant departure marks the moment the couple leaves the family home and officially begins the wedding celebration.
WEDDING
The road to marriage is never easy, and wedding gates are a tradition that underscores this idea. On their way to the church, the couple must pass through gates, paying a toll with vodka. Traditionally, these gates were made of strings, colorful paper, and flowers to momentarily halt the bridal procession.
At the wedding venue, the newlyweds are greeted by their parents with bread and salt. The bride is often asked what she prefers: bread, salt, or her groom. The correct response is, „Bread, salt, and my groom, so he can work for it.” The person who finds vodka instead of water in their glass during this ritual is said to hold the power in the marriage.
After the first toast, the couple throws their glasses over their shoulders – the more shards of glass, the happier the marriage will be. Following this, the groom may carry his bride across the threshold of the reception hall.
This traditional song encourages the newlyweds to kiss. During a toast, guests chant ”Gorzka wódka, gorzka wódka, trzeba ją osłodzić” (”Bitter vodka, bitter vodka, it needs to be sweetened”,) prompting the couple to kiss. The length of the kiss is often „measured” by the guests counting down from ten.
OCZEPINY
At midnight, it’s time for oczepiny (unveiling). Historically, this involved removing the bride’s floral wreath, cutting her hair, and adorning it with a czepiec (a traditional marital headdress), marking her transition from maidenhood to marriage. Today, this custom has become a playful wedding game. The bride throws her veil behind her, and the single women at the wedding compete to catch it. The woman who catches it is said to be the next to marry. Similarly, the groom throws his bowtie or tie. During this game, the newlyweds are blindfolded so fate decides who catches the veil and bowtie.
In the past, the couple baked their wedding bread (known as kołacz or korowaj) themselves and served it to their guests. Today, professionally made wedding cakes are more common, but the symbolism remains the same – sharing the dessert with guests ensures that the sweetness they give away returns to the couple, accompanied by abundance and prosperity.
An article in the Transcript-Telegram about the wedding of Gertrude Langevin and Louis J. Majka –Julie’s paternal grandparents.
1957
An announcement of their engagement and the upcoming wedding.
ONE OF THE OLDEST AND MOST SIGNIFICANT CERTIFICATES
1921 NEXT TO IT →
Wilfred Langevin, a 25-year-old teamster from Chicopee, married Flora Loiselle, an 18-year-old silk weaver from Holyoke ( Julie’s paternal great-grandparents ). The wedding took place on September 5, 1921, in Holyoke, Massachusetts, at the Immaculate Conception Church.
The Immaculate Conception Church holds a special place in Julie’s family history. Her great-grandparents, Wilfried Langevin and Flora Loiselle, were married there, starting a long-standing family tradition tied to this sacred place. Julie was baptized and received her First Communion in this church. Additionally, Aunt Jean and Uncle Bob were married there, and Julie’s father served as an altar boy.
”Home Alone” is one of the most recognizable Christmas comedies in the world, but in Poland, its popularity has reached an exceptional level. In the United States, it’s seen as one of many family holiday movies, but in Poland, it has become an essential part of Christmas, as iconic as decorating the Christmas tree.
Did ”Home Alone” Win Over the Hearts of Poles?
The phenomenon of ”Home Alone” in Poland began in the 1990s when the film was first broadcast there. It was a time when foreign productions – especially those with Hollywood flair – held a special charm and drew crowds to their TV screens. Polish audiences, weary of the grayness of everyday life, fell in love with the story of a clever boy who defends his home from clumsy burglars. The humor, heartfelt moments, and festive Christmas atmosphere quickly made ”Home Alone” a staple of the holiday season.
Another factor was the tradition of families gathering to watch television during Christmas.
Back then, the entire family would sit together in front of a TV set. The fact that ”Home Alone” aired every year during the Christmas season made it a symbolic highlight of the holiday schedule. It’s safe to say that ”Home Alone” is more than just a movie – it’s a symbol of childhood, family Christmases, and a rare moment of relaxation amid the holiday rush.
Although the story is set in a typical American town, there are subtle nods to Polish culture. One example is Gus Polinski’s polka band, specializing in the lively music genre that, despite its Czech origins, became hugely popular among Polish-Americans in the United States. Polka music remains an important part of celebrations, festivals, and weddings, particularly in areas like Milwaukee, where Polish-American traditions are still very much alive.
In the film, polka accompanies cheerful conversations in the band’s truck, and the musicians are portrayed as warm-hearted, generous people
American weddings are often preceded by the creation of a wedding registry – a list of gifts the couple would like to receive. Guests can choose a present from this list, ensuring no unwanted surprises. The gifts can often be purchased directly from the stores selected by the couple. Information about the registry is usually included with the invitation, alongside the RSVP request for confirming attendance.
Before the big day, the couple, their families, and closest friends gather for a „rehearsal dinner.” This combines a wedding rehearsal with a dinner, during which ceremony details are discussed, and the occasion is celebrated with loved ones. It’s a chance for families to get to know one another, for heartfelt toasts to be made, and for the couple to thank their family and their bridesmaids and groomsmen for their support.
eager to help Kevin’s mom return home. It’s a tribute to the Polish -American community and its cultural contributions in the U.S.
1 | The McCallister house exists – The famous house is located in Winnetka, Illinois, and continues to draw crowds of tourists, especially during the holiday season. Krzysztof visited it too (see photo above).
2 | The film was made in record time – Production lasted just nine months, which is incredibly fast by Hollywood standards.
3 | Poland isn’t the only country that loves Kevin – The film is just as popular in France, where it has also become a Christmas television classic.
4 | For Poles, Christmas Eve without Kevin doesn’t exist – In 2010, Polsat, the TV network that traditionally airs ”Home Alone” during the holidays, announced they would stop showing it. The backlash and numerous complaints forced the station to bring Kevin back to Polish screens.
A hallmark of American weddings is the presence of bridesmaids and groomsmen. The bridesmaids, dressed in matching gowns, support the bride during preparations and the ceremony, offering emotional and logistical help. Groomsmen, on the other hand, assist the groom by keeping his spirits high and handling various tasks. The most important roles in these groups are the Maid of Honor and the Best Man, who often deliver touching or humorous toasts at the wedding. This tradition emphasizes the role of friends and family in the couple’s big day.
Many American couples opt for a first look – a private moment before the ceremony where the bride and groom see each other for the first time in their wedding attire. This intimate moment allows them to share their emotions without the presence of guests. Often captured by photographers, these heartfelt moments become cherished memories.
A significant part of American weddings is the dances with parents, symbolizing the couple’s farewell to their childhood homes and the start of a new chapter. The Father-Daughter Dance features the bride dancing with her father, often moving guests with the display of their bond. The Mother-Son Dance gives the groom a moment to share with his mother, expressing pride and love. The music for these dances is often carefully chosen and deeply personal, making these moments truly special.
Unlike the Polish oczepiny, where the groom tosses a bowtie, in the United States, the groom removes the bride’s garter and tosses it to the unmarried men. This playful tradition often brings laughter and humor, with the man who catches the garter being next in line to marry, according to tradition.
A unique feature of American weddings is the Anniversary Dance. Married couples are invited to the dance floor, and the DJ or band gradually calls out the couples who have been married the longest. The last couple standing, with the longest marriage, is celebrated for their enduring love. This is a touching moment that honors the longevity of marriage.
At the end of the wedding, the guests bid farewell to the couple during the send-off. This is often accompanied by the tossing of rice, rose petals, or confetti for good luck. Other popular traditions include releasing lanterns or hosting spectacular fireworks displays. This final goodbye marks the symbolic beginning of the couple’s journey together.
1953
Newspaper mention in The Adirondack Record-Elizabethtown Post of the wedding of Julia Belmore and Ernest Girard – Julie’s maternal grandparents
Article in The Springfield Republican about the wedding of Florence May Smith and Ernest A. Girard – Julie’s maternal great-grandparents
1915
Roy Belmore, a 23-year-old farmer from Lake Placid, and Eva A. Salem, a 19-year-old resident of Lake Placid (Julie’s maternal great-grandparents), were married on November 6th in Lake Placid, NY.
Louis Majka, the son of Jan and Agnes (Wajda) Majka and Julie’s grandfather, served in the U.S. Army. He was a World War II veteran and a member of the 11th Armored Division, 41st Armored Regiment, Tank Battalion. He fought in the Battle of the Bulge as part of the Third Army under Lieutenant General George Patton. Although specific details such as dates and exact locations are somewhat unclear, we are confident that Louis’s ability to speak Polish played a critical
role in ensuring our family’s survival.
During a reconnaissance mission on the outskirts of a town (research suggests this was likely in Belgium), Louis and a few other men from his unit encountered a situation. The area consisted of some trees, a clearing, and the town itself, but they couldn’t clearly determine who was present there or what was happening. A woman came riding by on her bicycle, but she didn’t speak English. However, she knew a little Po-
lish! Louis was able to ask her if any Germans were in the area, to which she replied, “Yes, there are many Germans with a nest of machine guns waiting for you in the town.”
Armed with this vital information, Louis and his group returned to camp, gathered reinforcements, surrounded the town, and successfully captured the German soldiers without firing a single shot. For his bravery and quick thinking, Louis was awarded the Bronze Star Medal.
A Polish Immigrant in Chicago: Krzysztof’s grandmother’s brother, Piotr (later Peter) Kalandyk, was a forced laborer in Nazi Germany during World War II. In 1950, he immigrated to the United States as a displaced person (DP) and settled in Chicago’s “Polish Triangle.” He worked there as a truck driver for a railroad company.
A Family Fortune: One of Krzysztof’s ancestors, Jakub Kalandyk, who lived five generations ago, hailed from Korczyna near Krosno. He owned about 125 acres of land near Rzeszów, where his family still resides today.
A Cousin in Delaware: Krzysztof recently discovered that a distant cousin of his mother, Anthony (Antoś), lives in Delaware – the same state where President Joe Biden resides. Anthony, a retired IT worker, visited Poland in 2023 and amusingly observed that “eating is a national sport for Poles.”
Family Ties to Nevada: Krzysztof’s cousin, Grzegorz (known in the U.S. as Greg), lives in Las Vegas and works as the lab manager of computer engineering at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Interestingly, Greg was born just one day after Krzysztof, though he is six years older.
Roots Near Krosno: Julie’s great-grandmother, Agnieszka Wajda, came from Odrzykoń near Krosno. Her father, Jan Wajda, and his wife, Maria Półchłopek (Julie’s great-great-grandmother), also had strong ties to Krosno.
A Great-Grandfather from Grądy: Julie’s great-grandfather, Jan Majka, was born in Grądy near Dąbrowa Tarnowska. His parents, Szczepan and Marianna, were also from this small village.
Julie and Krzysztof share family connections to the Podkarpacie region of Poland. The Krosno area was home to both Krzysztof’s ancestors and members of Julie’s family. It’s fascinating to see how their family histories intersect in such a similar part of Poland!
THEY’RE HERE WITH US!
12:00 PM Wedding Ceremony at the Church of Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Niechobrz
1:00 PM Bus ride to Dubiecko
2:30 PM Arrival at Dubiecko
2:45 PM Cocktail hour at the castle
Newlyweds’ photo session
3:30 PM Newlyweds’ photo session with family and friends
4:00 PM Newlyweds’ grand entrance
Well wishes from Polish guests
4:15 PM Dinner with dessert
6:00 PM First dance
Dance floor opens
8:00 PM First supper
8:30 PM Dancing begins
10:00 PM Second supper
10:30 PM Dancing continues
11:30 PM Fireworks display
12:00 AM Last chance to eat, drink and dance!
12:30 AM Farewell Bus departure from Dubiecko
Share your memories from today’s wedding. Scan the QR code to upload the photos and videos you captured. Thank you for being a part of our story!
1. The city where Krzysztof proposed to Julie.
4. How many cats do the Bride and Groom currently have?
6. Julie’s maiden name.
7. The Bride’s favorite TV show.
8. The university where they both work.
12. A Scandinavian city they visited together.
DOWN:
2. Julie’s field of study.
3. The cat Julie had when she met Krzysztof.
5. Their shared love for this vegetable brought them together.
9. The castle hosting this wedding
10. Krzysztof’s undeniable favorite color.
11. The thing that brought them together (and it’s not love).
13. From today, an important month in their lives.
14. Julie has one brother. How many does Krzysztof have?