Performance by Ms. Irene Aindili and Ms. Hara Karayami, Sydney 2000 Olympic Medalists featuring Spectacular Rhytmic Gymnastic to the music of "Never on Sunday" and "Zorba the Greek"

EU and American Anthems - Ms. Sylvia Tosun singer and composer

Due to her dedicated and extensive volunteer work, The United Service Organization appointed Tosun Miss USO, as well as an Ambassador of Goodwill for an unprecedented two-year term.

She has close connections to Hungary too, through her Hungarian boyfriend Miklos Malek, son of well-known composer and singer, Miklos Malek and Maria Toldy. Ms. Tosun is studying Hungarian and has visited Hungary several times.

Read more about Ms. Tuson >>>

Welcoming remarks by H.E. Ambassador John B. Richardson
Head of the Delegation of the European Commission to the United Nations

"This, the biggest and most complex enlargement in EU history, is also a great commitment for the future, for a Europe of peace and stability, for a Europe of equal opportunities, for a Europe of innovation, for a Europe strong in its diversity, with living traditions and cultures, for a Europe reliable to its allies and trading partners, representing hope and assistance for other, less fortunate nations."

Read more of Mr. Richardson's message >>>

Dr. Gábor Horváth Ambassador, Consul General of the
Hungarian Republic, Grand Europe Ball Dinner Co-Chair

"Today, on May 1, 2004, history is being written, as Hungary and nine other countries have joined the European Union.

This is a milestone of historic significance for Hungary. New opportunities are opening for progress. Not only we are entering into an economic integration with the developed market economies in Europe's West, our accession also exemplifies the commonality of shared values and aspirations.

This is also a milestone of historic significance for the European Union and for the United States too."

Read more of Mr. Horváth's message >>>

...and Ms. Catherine Alapont, President Lapont International-USA, Inc. Founder and Producer of The Grand Europe Ball

"The 12^th Grand Europe Ball, an international event for a decade, moved to New York this year in honor of all of the people and our shared history.

This unique new initiative is to become a regular New York event in the years to come, created to bring together leaders in the diplomatic, business and cultural communities. This metropolis is a cultural crossroads that has long embraced and benefited from European influences."

Read more of Ms. Alapont's message >>>

Ms. Elizabeth Vilmik (center), Gala Committee Chair, Young Professionals Committee Chair with Ms. Erzsebet Karkus and
Ms. Vivian Soren, Manhattan Hungarian Network Directors

"The addition of ten new member states to the European Union today is a heartening and historic event for Europeans. While all residents will benefit from the expanded Union, it is young professionals who stand to gain most from the promise of this moment.

As a young professional of European descent, I have been both honored and thrilled to chair the Young Professionals Committee and the Gala Committee of the Grand Europe Ball. It is a pleasure to host the After-Hour Party for Young Professionals as well."

Read more of Ms. Vilmik's message >>>

Related links and reservations:

The Grand Europe Ball NYC Gala Program (pdf)

Grand Europe Ball NYC and Europe Week

Hungarian Consulate General, NY

Manhattan Hungarian Network