H.E. Sir Michael J. Citak: A Legacy of Nobility, Leadership, and Rich Ancestry
In the worlds of journalism, literature, and philanthropy, few individuals have hope to leave as profound a mark as H.E. Sir Michael J. Citak. Known for his unwavering commitment to truth and justice within his circle of friends and business associates, prolific abstract expressionism paintings, and creativity that knows no bounds from stage, screen and beyond, Sir Michael’s life is enriched by a deep connection to a noble lineage, symbolized by titles bestowed upon him by the Grand Duke of Pomerania and Livonia. Yet, his story is also a tapestry of diverse ancestral roots, weaving together the histories of Ireland, Italy, Poland, and beyond. These cultural influences have helped shape his mission and identity, both as a leader and as a steward of the environment and heritage.
A Tapestry of Ancestry: Roots in Ireland, Italy, Poland, and Beyond
Sir Michael J. Citak’s lineage is a blend of rich and varied heritages, each contributing to the man he is today. On his mother’s side, Sir Michael traces his ancestry to Ireland and Italy, two nations known for their deep cultural traditions, strong family ties, and a rich history of resilience and creativity. These influences have instilled in Sir Michael a profound respect for cultural heritage and a deep appreciation for the arts, his mother for many years used her talents to oversee the office of her family’s machine shop, decorate cakes, co-raise Michael and his older sister Michele with her husband Theodore, and now they’re both happily retired and living in Florida.
On his father’s side, Sir Michael’s ancestors hail from Poland and other European countries, bringing with them a legacy of perseverance, faith, and dedication to community. This side of his lineage also includes a minute Native American heritage from his father’s mother, adding yet another layer of depth to his cultural identity. The combination of these diverse backgrounds, and Sir Michael’s father’s work ethic has instilled in Michael a unique perspective on the world, one that values both tradition and progress, history and innovation, and a little Polish ingenuity.
The Grand Duke of Pomerania and Livonia: A Visionary in Exile
While Sir Michael’s personal lineage is a rich mosaic, his noble titles connect him to an even broader historical narrative. Fascinated in his youth by stories of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round table, Sir Michael grew up in the regular suburban town of Wallingford Connecticut, surrounded by family and friends, and even at one time considered entering the realm of politics, before he packed up and headed south to Florida with his Mother and Father, after a divorce from his husband, a fresh start. Years would pass, depression would kick in and Michael found himself at a crossroads, end it all or continue fighting the good fight. Thankfully for us, Sir Michael is still with us, and is thriving mentally. Physically, that’s another story for another time.
It was around December 2023 when Sir Michael learned of The Grand Dukedom of Pomerania and Livonia while he was searching online one day doing research for a book. It was online where Michael met the current Head of the Grand Dukedom of Pomerania and Livonia, Prince Ludwig, Hereditary Grand Duke of Pomerania and Livonia, and his heir, his brother Prince Ferdinand. Prince Ludwig granted Sir Michael his noble titles after a brief endowment to the Dukedom, and is man of deep conviction and visionary leadership, qualities Sir Michael looks for in fellow partners and associates.
Born far from the lands of his ancestors, the current Grand Duke spent much of his life unaware of his noble heritage. However, after uncovering historical documents and learning about his lineage, he embarked on a mission to preserve the cultural and environmental legacy of Pomerania and Livonia, regions now integrated into modern-day Poland, Germany, and the Baltic states.
The Grand Duke’s vision is not one of reclaiming lost territories but of reviving the spirit of the ancient Dukedom through cultural preservation and environmental stewardship. Central to this mission is the reforestation of lands that once belonged to Pomerania and Livonia, now part of the National Forest. The Grand Duke’s efforts aim to restore the natural beauty of these regions while keeping alive the heritage of his ancestors.
Environmental Stewardship: Reforestation of Ancestral Lands
One of the Grand Duke’s most significant initiatives is the reforestation project within the National Forest that currently occupies the ancient territories of Pomerania and Livonia. When individuals like H.E. Sir Michael J. Citak join the Dukedom, The Grand Duke dedicates some of their resources to this noble cause. This commitment includes planting trees within the National Forest, contributing to the restoration and preservation of the environment.
The honorary titles of nobility, such as those held by Sir Michael are hereditary and can be passed down to their next of kin, and are accompanied by dedicated plots of land within this National Forest. These plots symbolize not only a connection to the ancient lands of Pomerania and Livonia but also a tangible commitment to environmental stewardship. Through these efforts, the Grand Duke and his supporters aim to leave a lasting legacy of ecological renewal, ensuring that the lands of their ancestors continue to thrive for generations to come.
A Knight of Honor and Integrity
In addition to his princely titles, Sir Michael J. Citak was also honored with the title of Knight by the Grand Duke. This knighthood recognizes Sir Michael’s embodiment of the highest ideals of chivalry—honor, integrity, and service to others. While some may view these titles as symbolic, they carry profound significance for those aligned with the Grand Duke’s mission of preserving both cultural heritage and the natural environment.
As a Knight and Prince under the Grand Duke’s restoration efforts, Sir Michael has embraced his role with a deep sense of responsibility. His commitment to these ideals is reflected not only in his noble titles but also in his contributions to journalism, literature, the arts and philanthropy.
A Prolific Painter, Writer, Photographer, Actor and Thought Leader
Beyond his noble titles, Sir Michael is celebrated for his contributions to the creative world.
From acting in plays and musicals, to feature films like Steve Niles Remains (2011)
Portraying Derek, Ghostface™, and puppeteering Chucky™ in the indie slasher Horror Movie The Movie (2013), which airs on YouTube, with over 1.5 million views to date.
His photograph “Lilies of the Valley” was shown in the Louvre Museum in Paris during See/Me Art Gallery’s showing of The Fifth Annual Exposure Award for Microphotography.
His abstract expressionism depiction of The Last Supper hangs in the halls of Port St. John’s First Baptist Church, and his works have been seen in Art Galleries and private collections since 2015.
In 2018 Sir Michael gifted two space themed paintings to the COO of Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex.
In 2023 Sir Michael lent his artistic skills to Batuu Pride, a Queer Star Wars fandom benefitting LGBTQIA+ charities through fan art & bounding, and donated designs. Proceeds from their sales went to support the It Gets Better Project.
Besides Sir Michael’s artistic expression on canvas and threads, his literary works extend beyond journalism, exploring genres like children’s literature, screenplays, novelizations, lyrics and poems. Those items are sold on Amazon.
Above all else, Sir Michael’s writing is marked by its clarity and depth, consistently reflecting his commitment to truth—a commitment that also defines his work with Trust News Media.
Philanthropy and Service: Building a True Legacy
Sir Michael's influence is also profoundly felt through his philanthropic endeavors. A dedicated philanthropist, he has championed causes that align with his values, including education, LGBTQIA+ rights, and the arts. His creation of the Perennial Pride Organization in 2024 which is in its infancy research and development phase will hope to one day aim to advocate for year-round LGBTQIA+ inclusivity and celebration, a cause that Sir Michael holds near and dear to his heart, as he’s a member of the community. This, a manifestation of his belief in continuous and meaningful action against prejudice and bigotry.
In the field of education, Sir Michael, through his donation of art and money has helped fund initiatives at the Ella Baker School in Manhattan and educational programs in Africa in 2015.
A peacock inspired abstract expressionist piece was donated to Frames for Futures in 2015 for their Art Exhibit & Silent Auction, whose proceeds from the event went to Children in Placement, a charity that assists mistreated children in finding safe and permanent homes to grow up in.
And in 2024, while joy-scrolling on Threads, Sir Michael met Ryan Kelley who was promoting the site onesimplewish.org. Sir Michael loved the idea of granting wishes, and donated in honor of his lifelong friend Alex who passed away from cancer in 2016, and had previously worked at Disney’s Magic Kingdom. Happy tears were shed that day.
While Sir Michael knows that not everyone is able to share their wealth with others, it’s his hope that they find other ways to spread their love, as not everything needs to be tied to money.
It’s these acts of service empower Sir Michael to lead with an open heart and mind. His support for the arts has been instrumental in preserving and promoting creative expression, ensuring that artists and students alike have the resources they need to continue their important work. These efforts of service to others resonate with the Grand Duke’s mission to preserve and protect cultural heritage, further solidifying Sir Michael’s connection to the Dukedom.
A Personal Mission of Truth and Justice
At the core of Sir Michael’s life’s work is a personal mission statement that has guided him through every endeavor: the pursuit of truth, always. This mission is the foundation upon which Trust News Media was built, and it continues to inform every aspect of the organization’s operations. Whether in his writing, his philanthropy, or his leadership, Sir Michael’s commitment to truth is unwavering.
In an age where misinformation and bias often obscure the truth, Sir Michael J. Citak hopes to stand as a beacon of integrity and honor. His life's work is a testament to the enduring power of truth and the importance of standing firm in one’s convictions, even in the face of adversity.
A Legacy of Truth, Nobility, and Environmental Renewal
As we look to the future, the legacy of H.E. Sir Michael J. Citak—Prince of Pomerania and Livonia by the grace of the Grand Duke, will undoubtedly continue to shape the world of journalism, literature, and beyond. Through his connection to the Grand Duke’s mission of reforestation and cultural preservation, Sir Michael is helping to ensure that the lands and heritage of Pomerania and Livonia endure for generations to come.
Whether seen as symbolic or substantial, the impact of Sir Michael’s work and the Grand Duke’s vision is undeniable. Together, they are building a legacy separate and together that honors the past while investing in the future—a legacy that nurtures both the environment and the values that define us.
And that’s how it stands.
This article reflects the values of truth, honor, and integrity that H.E. Sir Michael J. Citak himself has instilled in Trust News Media, echoing the gold standard of journalism exemplified by the late Walter Cronkite.
Reporting by: TrustNewsMedia.com Staff
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