Editor's Note: These are courtesy translations of local news provided by the U.S. Army Garrison Poland Public Affairs team for the benefit the military community stationed here. Views or opinions are not endorsed by USAG Poland or the U.S. Army.
Toruń Welcomes New Mayor Paweł Gulewski in Grand Inauguration Ceremony
In a momentous event held on May 7, 2024, at the historic City Hall of the Old Town Hall, Toruń welcomed its new city president, Paweł Gulewski, as he and the city councillors for the term 2024-2029 took their oaths of office.
The inauguration ceremony, marking the commencement of the 2024-2029 council's term, was overseen by Jan Ząbik, the senior councillor. Among the distinguished guests present at the Old Town Hall were ministers from the Toruń region, including Arkadiusz Myrcha and Grzegorz Karpiński, as well as Piotr Całbecki, the Marshal of the Kuyavian-Pomeranian Voivodeship, Elżbieta Piniewska, the chairwoman of the Sejm of the voivodeship, honorary citizens of Toruń, representatives of local government, uniformed services, clergy, and the families and relatives of the day. The solemn proceedings commenced with a Holy Mass held in the cathedral, dedicated to the prosperity and well-being of the city and its inhabitants.
The highlight of the ceremony was the official swearing-in of Toruń's new president, Paweł Gulewski. Taking the oath of office, Gulewski pledged his commitment to the city's service, reciting the text of the rota oath. Additionally, outgoing President Michał Zaleski bestowed upon Gulewski the symbolic insignia of office – the key and the seal of the city. "I pass the key to the city gates, let it open the gates to our friends and close them for enemies. Let him sign these documents, which will forever go into the history of the city as those decisions that you personally make," remarked Zaleski, underscoring the weight of responsibility that accompanies the role of the city's leader.
The inauguration of Paweł Gulewski marks a new chapter in Toruń's history, as the city looks forward to the leadership and vision of its newly appointed mayor in the years ahead.
Toruń Hosts Successful Inaugural Edition of 3x3 Streetball Challenge
The inaugural edition of the Toruń 3x3 Streetball Challenge saw an impressive turnout of over 60 amateur basketball enthusiasts, who eagerly participated in the thrilling event. Organized to promote the sport among the city's residents and beyond, the tournament featured 15 teams competing across two categories: U15 and open age.
Held on May 5, 2024, at the pitch of the 10th High School, the event served as a vibrant basketball celebration, highlighting the excitement and camaraderie inherent in the 3x3 format. Teams engaged in spirited competitions adhering to the regulations set forth by the International Basketball Federation (FIBA), as outlined on the website of the Polish Basketball Association. Prizes in the form of cups and medals awaited the victorious teams in both the U15 and open categories.
The tournaments, which are open to all and free to attend, are officiated by referees from the Kujawsko-Pomorskie Basketball Association, ensuring fair play and adherence to the rules. With the aim of encouraging participation from aspiring players, the organizers extend a warm invitation to all those interested in trying their hand at the dynamic 3x3 basketball variant.
Looking ahead, the excitement continues as the next events in the series are scheduled throughout the summer months, offering ample opportunities for basketball enthusiasts to showcase their skills and passion for the game. Mark your calendars for the upcoming tournaments:
- June 22 - 3x3 Basket Challenge
- July 6 - 3x3 Basket Challenge
- August 31 - 3x3 Basket Challenge
As Toruń gears up for these forthcoming competitions, anticipation builds for yet another thrilling showcase of athleticism and sportsmanship on the city's courts.
Toruń Prepares for the 13th Edition of Run Toruń – Embrace Health and Exploration!
Excitement is mounting in Toruń as the city gears up to host the eagerly anticipated 13th edition of Run Toruń, accompanied by the ever-popular "five" race, scheduled to take place on May 12, 2024. Adding to the fervor, a special competition for children and youth is slated to kick off a day earlier.
Set against the backdrop of the bustling Toruń Plaza Shopping and Entertainment Centre, the starting point and race headquarters will buzz with anticipation. The racecourse, meandering through the vibrant cityscape, will encompass the picturesque environs of the Association of Laba. The main race is set to commence promptly at 11:00, promising an exhilarating showcase of athleticism and community spirit.
Since its inception in 2012, Run Toruń has emerged as a hallmark event on the city's calendar, attracting throngs of participants and spectators alike. From humble beginnings, the event has witnessed exponential growth, with the seventh edition boasting nearly 3,000 participants, including 500 children. In 2024, organizers have implemented participant limits for individual races: 5 km running – 580 participants, 10 km – 910 participants, and races for children – 225 participants.
Under the rallying cries of "Explore with Health!" and "Run in the heart of Toruń," the racecourse promises to lead runners through the city's most iconic landmarks, including the monument of Nicolaus Copernicus and the enchanting Philadelphia Boulevard.
Adding to the festivities, on May 11, 2024, participants and their companions are invited to partake in an evening city tour guided by local experts. Each year, the event serves as a magnet for tourists, drawing visitors from far and wide to experience the vibrant energy of Toruń over the weekend.
Beyond the thrill of the race, Run Toruń aims to foster a culture of active living and sportsmanship from a young age. Through a dedicated competition for children and young people from Toruń's schools, organizers seek to promote healthy lifestyles, fair play, and teamwork, while nurturing creativity and camaraderie among participants. The event is not just about crossing the finish line; it's about embracing the journey and celebrating the collective spirit of the community.
As the city eagerly awaits the 13th Run Toruń Plaza on May 12, 2024, from 11:00 to 13:00, anticipation is rife for another unforgettable celebration of athleticism, camaraderie, and the enduring spirit of Toruń.
Piernikalia 2024: A Fairytale-Inspired Student Festival
Prepare to embark on a magical journey as the eagerly anticipated Piernikalia 2024, the largest festival for students and young adults, returns in a brand-new avatar, enveloped in an aura of enchanting fantasy! Set to dazzle attendees with its whimsical charm, this year's festival invites participants to don their most captivating attire and step into a realm of dreams, where every attendee can play the role of a prince from a mystical castle or a valiant princess from a towering fortress.
Piernikalia 2024 promises a plethora of surprises and delights! Alongside beloved classics such as the grass breakfast and playful mud games, attendees can look forward to a host of new and exhilarating experiences, curated to elevate this celebration to new heights of enchantment. From enchanting performances to immersive storytelling sessions, there's something for everyone to enjoy as we come together to create the most enchanting story of the year!
Spanning from May 9th to May 11th, the festival offers three days of non-stop revelry and wonder. For those eager to delve deeper into the magic, a detailed schedule of events can be found on the festival's official website at https://piernikalia.umk.pl/harmonogram/.
As the anticipation builds and excitement fills the air, Piernikalia 2024 promises to be an unforgettable celebration of youth, creativity, and the enduring spirit of imagination. So, gather your friends, unleash your inner storyteller, and join us for a weekend filled with memories that will last a lifetime!
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