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    Runway Hits

    Male call

    Clifford Pugh
    Nov 11, 2009 | 11:26 am
    News_Una Notte in Italia Nov. 2009_Darryl Hamilton
    Darryl Hamilton
    Daniel Ortiz

    A few years ago, Family Services of Greater Houston hit on a good idea for its annual "Una Notte in Italia" fundraiser: A fashion show featuring male celebrity models.

    It was a big hit and has been ever since. So why mess with a good thing?

    Wisely, organizers kept what works, with a rollicking fashion show Saturday night at the InterContinental hotel featuring a hit parade of Houston men in sharp suits from Festari for Men.

    Debbie Festari, the evening's honorary chairwoman, and Bob Boudreaux kept a running commentary as the men worked the runway -- some more confidently than others.

    Among the naturals: Jeweler Franco Valobra twirled strands of pearls and threw several to his favorites in the audience; ballroom dancing champion Lester Smith shed his jacket and did a lively salsa down the runway; Domenico Luciano, principal dancer for Dominic Walsh Dance Theatre, performed a few Michael Jackson moves.

    The audience of 500 whooped and hollered for their favorites. Several were showered with money and silly string.

    At the end, the disco hit, "It's Raining Men" blared on the stereo system as Meredith Cullen, Inaki Orozco, Humberto Quintero, Monsour Taghdisi, Christoper Mendel, Sten Gustafson, Dr. Michael Brown, Charles Reimer and other models made one last runway walk to wild applause. Afterwards the balroom was transformed into a late night disco and tequila bar.

    Seen in the crowd: Milletteand Haag Sherman, Melissa and Michael Mithoff, Courtney and Bo Hopson, Ericka and Jeff Bagwell, Suzanne and Paul Getty, and Veronica and Michael Roa.

    Co-chairs Rachel Brown and Robin Reimer were thrilled that the event raised more than $350,000.

    Carolyn Farb

    News_Una Notte in Italia Nov. 2009_Dr. Carolyn Farb
      
    Daniel Ortiz
    Carolyn Farb
    unspecified
    news/society

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    Voices Reclaimed

    Stories of strength shine at Houston Aphasia Recovery Center luncheon

    Joel Luks
    May 6, 2025 | 9:30 am
    Houston Aphasia Recovery Center luncheon 2025
    Photo by Chloe Kissner
    Mary Genung, Cameron Shepherd, Lauren Tucker, and Sloan Andrews.

    The sound of triumphant voices filled The Junior League of Houston as more than 250 supporters gathered for the Houston Aphasia Recovery Center’s (HARC) 15th Annual Let's Talk Luncheon. Marking a milestone year, the event celebrated resilience and recovery while raising more than $250,000 to support individuals living with aphasia.

    Houston Aphasia Recovery Center luncheon 2025
      

    Photo by Chloe Kissner

    Mary Genung, Cameron Shepherd, Lauren Tucker, and Sloan Andrews.

    Co-chaired by Madison Henderson and Allie Leman, the luncheon offered a heartfelt program anchored by Texans TV personality Drew Dougherty, whose approachable humor kept the afternoon lively. A highlight was the emotional performance by the HARC Herald Choir, alongside testimonials from participants whose lives have been reshaped through the organization’s mission.

    Inside the venue, vibrant floral arrangements by Freedom Floral and HARC-themed cookies by Hayley Cakes and Cookies added festive flair, while a bustling raffle and silent auction with items from Brennan’s Houston, Katie Kime, Tootsies, Raintree Boutique, La Petit Market, Ciro’s Italian Grill, and Bella Madre Jewelry offered a little something something for guests to shop for a cause.

    In the crowd were Melanie Strake, Challie Strake, Scot Ison, Ginny and Alex Jackson, Jeanie and Don Sweet, Terry and Jeff Weiner, Anna Reckling, and David Underwood Jr.

    fundraisershouston aphasia recovery center
    news/society
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