U.S. Ambassador to Poland Victor Ashe and U.S. Embassy staff hosted an American Independence Day celebration at Biedermann Palace in Lodz on June 30, in celebration of 232 years of U.S. independence. More than 200 Polish leaders of public and religious life, representatives of business and educational institutions and other members of the public attended the event. Ambassador Ashe remarked that "Today, America's ties with Poland are stronger than ever." Mayor of Lodz Jerzy Kropiwnicki also addressed the crowd. Also present for the event were Voivode Jolanta Chelminska, Marszalek Wlodzimierz Fisiak, members of parliament, and local authorities.