NOW THAT’S ITALIAN
Italian Cultural and Community Center’s Annual Fashion Show And Luncheon
By Jennifer Roosth Photography by Michelle Watson
Erika Myers and Owen Conflenti
THE SETTING: A beautiful, sold-out crowd of more than 300 guests recently gathered at the River Oaks Country Club, for the Italian Cultural & Community Center Annual Fashion Show and Luncheon. They were delighted to see a runway packed with chic Italian fashions from Neiman Marcus and a dazzling display of raffle prizes, including glittering baubles from Tenenbaum Jewelers. È stato fantastico!
Rose “Rosie” Carrabba and Johnny Carrabba
THE STYLE: Themed Celebrating the Jewels of Italy, the event offered amusements for guests, including an Italian aria performed by soprano Bailey Bower, a silent auction, Prosecco sipping, and the fashion show, which Jeanne Ruberti produced.
Hannah Swiggard and Chiara Casiraghi
Honoree Rosie Carrabba was introduced by her proud Italian son, restauranteur Johnny Carrabba. He had the audience laughing and crying as he voiced his admiration for all the roles Rosie plays as wife, mother, grandmother, restaurateur, and Houston icon. Rosie thanked the audience and her son, while the crowd roared with laughter at her humor and humility, before a video tribute from her friend Steve Tyrell.
Sandra Porter and Gina Gusemano Leck
THE PURPOSE: Sandra Porter and Gina Gusemano Leck chaired the event. KPRC TV 2’s Owen Conflenti served as master of ceremonies, and the Italian Center Executive Director Erika Myers was already wondering aloud how the organization would top this event next year. All luncheon proceeds benefitted the center’s scholarship programs for college students studying here and abroad in Italy. Bellissimo!
Chris Hendel and Katherine Warren
