Instead of hiking boots, high heels; instead of scout neckerchiefs, bow ties; and instead of tan scout shirts, elegant evening gowns and tuxedos emerged from the depths of closets. On Saturday, April 26, 2025, the Cleveland Hungarian scout community held its traditional 68th Debutante Benefit Ball at the Woodside Event Center in Broadview Heights, Ohio. Preparations were in full swing starting from Wednesday’s rehearsal.
The hosts for the evening were Zsófia Vágvölgyi, who spoke in Hungarian, and Vajk Pigniczky who presented the program parts in English. This year, two first-time debutantes were presented: Teréz Csajka and Krisztina Csiszár, who were escorted to the dance floor by their fathers before being introduced to their dance partners. The opening waltz was choreographed by Ilona Solomon, with returning debutantes joining in.
After the waltz, the Cleveland scout groups and district leaders were introduced, along with the evening’s guest of honor, Imre Lendvai-Lintner, the honorary lifetime president of the Hungarian Scout Association in Exteris (HSAE). He received the “Lifetime Achievement” White Stag Award from the American Hungarian Friends of Scouting. Also attending the dinner was the newly elected president of the HSAE, István Vajtay, and his wife Gabriella, as well as Hungary’s Consul General in Chicago, Dr. Balázs Mártonffy, who expressed his appreciation for the scouts’ dedication to preserving Hungarian language and culture. After Father Richard Bóna’s blessing, the three-course dinner was served, with guests choosing from salmon, beef, or vegan entrées.
The atmosphere was elevated by the musicians of Hepcat Revival. Those not dancing or mingling at the bar could have fun with playful props in a photo booth with a golden backdrop, creating filmstrip-style photo series. This surprise feature was a huge hit. Perhaps only the raffle prizes, valued in the thousands of dollars, garnered more excitement – 21 prizes in all.
Around 11 PM, the Cleveland Hungarian Scout Folk Ensemble performed their traditional Hungarian court dance. The choreography by Bendegúz Pigniczky was taught to the dancers by László Tihanyi and Zsófi Vágvölgyi. Before midnight, late-night snacks were served – not the traditional stuffed cabbage but freshly fried potatoes with a variety of sauces. The ball concluded with dancing to folk music, featuring melodies from Moldavia, Szatmár, and the ever-classic Mezőség region.
It was a joy for everyone to spend an evening together with Cleveland’s Hungarian community, stepping away from everyday life. These are cherished, unforgettable memories for everyone in attendance to hold onto.
See pictures from the Ball at the following links:
2 – Nyitó-másod párok és családok / Debutantes and their families
3 – Nyitó tánc és bál kezdés / Ball opening and dance
4 – Vacsora és díj osztás / Dinner and awards ceremony
5 – Palotás tánc és párok / Hungarian court dance and couples
7A – Táncmulatság / Dance party
7B – Táncmulatság / Dance party
8 – Vendégek és asztaltársaságok / Guests and their dinner parties
