Dr. Richarda Russ, president and CEO of the Polish Orphans Charity, welcomed guests to the 2009 Ball Pologne with an acknowledgment of the "wonderful tradition we have built together."

But she emphasized the new direction the efforts of the Polish Orphans Charity this year.

"Since both Poland and Canada are engaged in bringing peace to this country at a very steep price - we wanted to stress our concern for the orphans victims of war in Afghanistan", she said. "I hope that as a result of this evening we will bring few smiles on children faces in this far-away country."

Reporting on the financial success of the charity, Dr. Russ presented cheques for $10,000 each to the City of Radom, Poland and to the Hon. Habibullah Quaderi, Consul General of the Republic of Afghanistan.

Dr. Russ also reported that the charity was again able to award 10 scholarships to artistically-gifted orphans for an additional $10,000. They were presented last July in a ceremony in the city of Radom.

"We have also helped orphans in Greece, Italy, Argentina and Mexico. We have donated funds to the Hospital For Sick Children in Toronto, where the Polish Orphans Charity plaque is proudly displayed in the Surgical Ward. We also give annual support to the Sick Children Hospital in Warsaw, Poland. Together, we have accomplished a lot."

"I would also like to take a moment to express my deep gratitude to all the volunteers whose dedication made this evening possible. Thank you all, my friends!"

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