HOLYOKE, Mass. (WWLP) - Polish pride was on full display in the City of Holyoke Friday to celebrate October being Polish American Heritage Month. Holyoke Public School reviewing infrastructure after student struck by car The annual observance celebrates Poland's proud and resilient history and the many contributions of people of Polish heritage here in the United States. Mayor Joshua Garcia joined members of the local Polish American community for a flag raising ceremony outside City Hall. The president of the Polish American Congress of western Massachusetts told 22News about why he is so proud of his cultural ties. "My parents came from Poland, my first language was Polish. We spoke Polish at home, ate Polish food. I love my Polish heritage," said Joseph Kos. Polish Americans have had a long history in the City of Holyoke, forming an important part of the city's diverse cultural makeup for well over a century. Local News Headlines Michael Cook Sr. found guilty of second-degree murder in wife’s 2019 death Lawmakers celebrate Korea Day at the State House City of Springfield to put up “Say No to Panhandling” signs Springfield Thunderbirds and St. Louis Blues announce 7-year affiliation extension WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com.