On Sunday, the Kościański Cultural Center hosted the New Year's Concert, with acclaimed singer Anna Wyszkoni headlining the event. Justyna Chojnacka, the new director of the Kościański Cultural Center, opened and hosted the concert, greeting the audience warmly. Following her welcome, the traditional 'hejnal' of Kościan was played by the local brass band, the Kościańska Orkiestra Dęta Ton.
Next, the mayor of Kościan, Sławomir Kaczmarek, extended his New Year's wishes to the attendees. "I would like to warmly welcome you to our New Year's concert. It is a special occasion to start the new year together with music, joy, and hope. May this evening be a moment of respite and inspiration for the upcoming months. I wish you all much success, health, prosperity, and fulfillment of your dreams this new year," Kaczmarek said. He also requested the audience to stand for a moment of silence honoring the late priest, Czesław Bartoszewski, who had passed away earlier the same day.
After the opening speeches, two young violinists from the State Music School im. ks. dr. Józefa Surzyńskiego performed to enthusiastic applause. Following them, headliner Anna Wyszkoni took the stage, performing several songs, some well-known and others less so. Throughout her performance, she shared anecdotes about herself, her passions, and her family, fostering excellent rapport with the audience. Notably, the concert was sold out, with tickets being highly sought after. The proceeds from ticket sales will, as usual, go to charitable purposes, with this year's funds directed to the 'Give Help' Association, which supports needy children.
Meanwhile, another New Year's concert was held at the same time for the Pakosław community, significantly combining the event with the 'Entrepreneurship and Social Activity Award' ceremony. Over 200 attendees came to celebrate both the achievements of local residents and enjoy musical entertainment. Mayor Piotr Skrzypek noted, "The annual New Year's concerts are excellent opportunities to honor individuals and institutions standing out for their contributions to our little homeland. It is also a chance to thank those who have taken on social roles, initiated events, organized gatherings, and engaged with our community over the past year." He added heartfelt New Year's wishes, calling for renewed energy and commitments for the incoming year of 2025.
The ceremony, hosted by Agnieszka Jeziorska from the Pakosław Public Library, included the announcement of the competition categories: 'Social Organization of the Year 2024,' 'Volunteer/Philanthropist of the Year 2024,' and 'Entrepreneurship Leader 2024.' Jeziorska announced the winners, starting with the 'Social Organization of the Year,' awarded to the "Magnificat" Parish Choir from Pakosław, founded back in 1937 and re-established post WWII.
The choir's director, Regina Dybowska, continues the rich traditions and artistic development of the group. Jeziorska highlighted, "The choir 'Magnificat' enhances not only parish events but also secular occasions, shaping the cultural and musical heritage of our community." The ceremony continued with recognition for individual contributions, where Małgorzata Łakomy received the title of 'Volunteer/Philanthropist of the Year' for her extensive community service through the Women's Agricultural Circle.
For the category of 'Entrepreneurship Leader,' the award went to Marek Stróżyński, who has run his construction firm since 2015. Stróżyński has significantly contributed to local business and community life, engaging young trainees and offering comprehensive building services across the region. Federally, he has collaborated directly with local government bodies on various projects.
This year’s special award was presented to Maria Sierpowska, honored for her dedication to the community as the secretary of the local retired persons association after decades of social work.
The gala concluded with the anticipated concert featuring 'VINCERO,' the Three Tenors—Mariusz Ruta, Bartosz Kuczyk, and Mirosław Niewiadomski—who mesmerized the audience with classical, popular, and entertainment music. "We are honored to host artists who mesmerize audiences worldwide, whether on grand stages or intimate concerts," said Norbert Niestrawski, director of the Pakosław Culture and Recreation Center. His words highlighted both the artistic and community spirit of the celebrations, leaving attendees eager for more events like these.