DiaryTuesday,12_30_25. Well kids, here we are, still kids, and on to the next epic only hours away.
But before we move on, The New York Commandery of the Order of St. John of Jerusalem, Knights Hospital, one of the oldest orders of chivalry (you mean to say you never heard of “chivalry?), held its Solemn Ceremony of Investiture. The Order was honored to welcome new members, Patricia Casutta, Helen King, Frank Marangos, David Morris, and Puly Rincon.
The Investiture Ceremony was presided over by H.E. Lieutenant Grandmaster Paul Borg OSJ of Malta and H. E. Grand Hospitaller Dr. Vincent Bonagura OSJ.
In most recent years funds have been donated for projects and a variety of organizations that include CUMAC of New Jersey, Table to Table (refrigerated food trucks), The Women’s Prison association (WPA), America’s Vet Dogs, Westside Campaign for Hunger, The Hour Children, Samaritan’s Purse for hurricane relief in Florida and the Bahamas, Saint John’s Villages, Burundi, Relief for war torn countries around the world. The entire charitable organization operates through bona fide nonprofit entities created under the laws of their respective countries, 3 Grand Priories, 17 Priories, and 22 commanderies in 12 countries.
OSJ New York is so grateful for the patronage of H. E. Grand Dame Ann Van Ness, H.E. Chevalier William Van Ness; Grand Benefactors, Dame Carla Vigue, Paul Vigue, Grand Patrons Dame Michelle Ayres, Douglas Ayres, Dame Carolyn Palmer, Chevalier Robert Lahita, Dame Evelyn Berry, Dame Fulvia McCrie, Chevalier Robert McCrie, Dame Commander Mary Elaine Morris, Chevalier David Morris, Sharon Bush, Bob Murray, Peter Hoffman, Linda Hoffman, Carole Bellidora and David Hayes. A very special thank you to OSJ members and guests who underwrote the events of The Ceremony of Investiture.
While the Knights of St. John were donning their ceremonial robes in the spirit of service, others were polishing their dancing shoes where the countdown to one of New York’s most storied white-tie traditions officially began.
To celebrate the upcoming 70th Annual Viennese Opera Ball, a reception for over 100 guests was held at the New York residence of longtime chairwoman Jean Shafiroff. The evening served as a vibrant prelude to the landmark 2026 gala, which remains a flagship event celebrating Austrian culture, diplomacy, and the enduring friendship between Austria and the United States.
The gathering brought together cultural leaders and patrons of the arts to honor seven decades of Viennese tradition in the heart of New York. A highlight of the evening was a presentation by NYS Assembly Member Rebecca Seawright, who awarded Citations to both the Viennese Opera Ball and Shafiroff for their exemplary contributions to philanthropy and the arts.
The historic anniversary season was ushered in with powerful performances by acclaimed opera stars Elizabeth Sutphen (Soprano) and Brandon Cedel (Bass-Baritone). Toasting to the “spirit of Vienna,” guests enjoyed organically farmed Austrian white wine from Domäne Wachau, generously provided by importer González Byass USA.
“The Viennese Opera Ball represents elegance, culture, and the timeless beauty of the arts,” noted Mrs. Shafiroff, who underwrote the reception. “It is a privilege to celebrate its 70th year as we honor tradition while supporting the next generation of artistic excellence.”
Since its founding in 1955, the Ball has operated as a cultural bridge, connecting modern-day Manhattan with the glamour of 19th-century Vienna. Beyond the ballroom, the organization remains dedicated to supporting charitable causes through the universal language of classical music and opera. The 70th Anniversary Ball is set to return in grand fashion on Friday, May 8th, 2026.
Notable Attendees included: Silvia Frieser, Elizabeth Sutphen, Brandon Cedel, NYS Assemblywoman Rebecca Seawright, Jay Hershenson, Jean Shafiroff, Ramona Singer, Louise Braver, Jennifer Santos, Hayley Monek, Emily Mohr, Diana Bocsha, Devon Birkshire, Paulo Carminati, Melanie Eimesser, Nicole Chessin, Isabelle Harnoncourt, Simona Petrova, Malan Breton, Ted Vassilev, and Stefanie Eimesser.
