As you may remember, the Italian Cultural and Community Center Annual Fashion Show & Luncheon was held at River Oaks Country Club on September 14 and was an overwhelming success for this organization thanks to the hard work by a very enthusiastic and talented group of ladies, lead by the dynamic trio of Erika Myers, Sandra Porter and Gina Gusemano Leck. I was also involved every step of the way but was leaving for Italy, two days after the luncheon was held so I enticed my readers at the time with a social media teaser promising to publish my recap of this very special day from the Homeland……straight from Italy where I have been now for the last three weeks. What could be more appropriate to recap an event showcasing the many cultures of Italy than here in Firenze where I am surrounded by Italian culture. However, I didn’t count on all of the fun, food and vino that went along with engaging in that culture in this magnificent country so I am running out of time.
Here you go, in case you missed it…..my memories of that special day that also happened to honor one of the special people in my life…..Rosie Carrabba, a true jewel!
Last month Houston’s Italian Cultural and Community Center hosted their Annual Fashion Show & Luncheon at the River Oaks Country Club, themed “Celebrating the Jewels of Italy.” Neiman Marcus and Tennenbaum Jewelers put together a stunning fashion show for 300+ guests. Luncheon Honoree Rosie Carrabba was introduced by her son Johnny Carrabba, who gave a moving and often-times emotional tribute to his Mom and his close-knit Italian family that surrounded him his whole life…….his Dad, his Sister, and Grandparents. Johnny pulled no punches as he said having Rosie in-restaurant at Carrabbas on Voss was the “best business decision he ever made” and was he ever right! Rosie also received a special video congratulations from family friend (my brother) Steve Tyrell. The luncheon M.C. was KPRC-TV anchor Owen Conflenti with a special moment for the audience from soloist and student,
Luncheon chairs Sandra Porter and Gina Gusemano Leck put together this fabulous event, along with a select committee of very talented ladies. All luncheon proceeds benefit the center’s scholarship programs for college students studying here and abroad in Italy! See some fun pictures of the event below. All photos by Michelle Watson.
Sandra Porter, Johnny Carrabba, Gina Gusemano Leck
