Sophistication Redefined : The Swiss Ball 2009 (Swiss Society Newsletter)
February 3rd, 2009

The only thing more plentiful than the wine was the elegance at this year's annual Swiss Ball, hosted by Beat F. Reinhart and the Swiss Society of New York. As the weather began to dip on January 31st, 2009 -- the festivities and chatter grew within the Grand Ballroom of the quintessentially tasteful Pierre Hotel.

Even one who has been to her share of balls and galas would be stirred upon entry, greeted by a satin-inspired atmosphere and lit by what would seem innumerable chandeliers. Not one guest was underdressed, and the sheer refinement of it all was, in a word, refreshing.

Post the silent auction and upon seating, the unconventional presentation of the Swiss & American National Anthems inspired awed laughter from the crowd, as Laura Lupinacci and Clarina Bezzola were wheeled out on platforms and dressed as their respective national characters. The version of "Anything You Can Do" that followed will be forever hilariously immortalized.

The crowning point of the evening, however, was the speech given by Dieter Meier. The guest of honor, founding partner of the group Yello and man of myriad talents, addressed the crowd with the charisma Americans have been searching for in a president for a long, long time. The former producer, technology buff, and avid poker player was presented with an award for his achievements and a [replica] Derringer gun.

The remarkable evening closed with what seemed to be endless wine and dancing. And as the band took leave and lights began to dim, a few last guests lingered... no doubt to revel for a touch longer at the elegance the Swiss Society had captured, and to puzzlingly wonder at how so many of them knew how to swing dance.

-- Ashley Avis

-- Ashley Avis