Richie Labanowski chosen Polonaise Society's citizen of the year

Goshen - In selecting Richie Labanowski as its 2006 Citizen of the Year, the Hudson Valley Polonaise Society brought attention to the many Polish organizations existing in his community of Pine Island. The award is presented to a Polish American who has given life-long support and unselfish contributions to Polish-American and civic organizations. According to information provided by Hilda Ellis, the publicity chairman of the Polonaise Society, to say that Labanowski is an active member of the Polish community would be an understatement. He belongs to a number of civic, cultural and religious organizations, including the Holy Name Society of St. Stanislaus Church where he has been an active member for years. He participates in church committees and celebrations, as well as decorating the church during the Christmas holidays. He lends his kindness to his church by participating in its cemetery services. He also devotes his time between the Pine Island Ambulance Corps, the Pine Island Senior Citizens, the Father Uszenski Scholarship Committee, the General Pulaski Committee, and the Polish Legion of American Veterans, where he is currently the chaplain and on the Board of Directors. He also is a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps. Labanowski has exhibited his pride in his Polish heritage in many ways. Known for his expertise in polka dancing, he was named a Harvest Moon Ball Champion in 1960. And if you don’t find him on the dance floor, he will be working in the kitchen, or he may be collecting tickets at the door at the many community functions he supports, according to Ellis. The Polish tradition is strong the Labanowski household. He has collected many Polish artifacts and crystal pieces from his trips to Poland, one of which was highlighted by a meeting with Pope John Paul II. He also has participated in various parades ,including the annual Pulaski Day Parade held in New York City. He always finds the time to help others - and always with a grateful “Polish” heart, Ellis wrote. Labanowski will be presented with the Citizen of the Year award at the Hudson Valley Polonaise annual Wigilia supper on Dec. 3.