Saluti da Torino: A Chic Afternoon Celebrating Italian Culture in Houston
There’s just something about our Italian way of celebrating that makes life feel a little more sparkly — and the Italian Cultural & Community Center’s annual luncheon Saluti da Torino delivered exactly that kind of magic. On October 14, a sold-out crowd of more than 300 stylish supporters filled River Oaks Country Club, ready to toast la dolce vita and raise funds for a cause near and dear to so many Houstonians.
This year’s event chairs — the always-fabulous Franelle Rogers and Cheryl Arolfo Byington — along with Honoree Franco Valobra and Honorary Chair Rosanette Cullen, were all smiles as the day topped $205,000 raised for the ICCC’s mission. One of the center’s most meaningful fundraising efforts. Providing life-changing study-abroad scholarships to local college students who want to immerse themselves in Italian language, culture, art, and history. Bravissimo!
A Festive Surprise Opening
Honoree Franco Valobra, known for his love of both Italian heritage and a good time, shook things up by reimagining the luncheon format. Instead of speeches to kick things off, guests were treated to a surprise performance that instantly transported the room to Italy. Vocal duo Miguel Delabarca and Maria Daniela performed beloved classics — “Anema e Core” and “Roma nun fa’ la stupida stasera” — prompting applause and cheers from the energetic crowd.
KPRC 2’s Owen Conflenti led the program as Master of Ceremonies, joined by remarks from Consul General Mauro Lorenzini and ICCC Executive Director Erika Myers, who shared how these generous funds fuel the cultural center’s growth and education programs.
A Standing Ovation and a Little Friendly Competition
When Valobra was introduced, his long list of achievements earned him a well-deserved standing ovation. But instead of a traditional acceptance moment, he kept things playful — turning his spotlight into an energetic round of True or False trivia about Italy. Winners took home bottles of fine Italian wine… to continue the celebration.
The laughter and cheers? Very Italian. Very fun.
Fashion Takes the Stage
You know I was watching closely as Elizabeth Anthony presented the latest from Italian luxury designer Fabiana Filippi — a preview of Spring 2026 that was effortless, refined, and oh-so-chic. Think neutral tones, luxe knits, beautiful textures and that signature understated glamour Italians do best.
Before the runway moment, guests enjoyed a stunning performance by Soprano Alexa Stracener and Concert Pianist Lucrezia Slomp, setting an elegant mood for the stylish presentation.
A Day Filled with Bella Moments
A silent auction stacked with Italian wines, a dazzling necklace raffle courtesy of Valobra Master Jewelers, and plenty of mingling among friends kept the energy high from start to finish.
Spotted celebrating: Nancy Valobra, Gina Leck, Patti Murphy, Simone Piga, Debbie Festari, Karen Remington, Joy McCormack, Sydney Faust, Daniel Irion, Kirk Kveton, Carol Sawyer, Ann Ayre, Lu Caltagirone, Vicki Rizzo, Leisa Holland Nelson, Sandra Porter, Robert Sakowitz, Regina Rogers, Heidi Turney, Saula Valente, Blanca Jolly, Lesha Elsenbrook, Denise Monteleone, Tina & Dan Silvestri, Sandra Celli Harris, Lisa Holthouse, Mignon Gill, Joella & Steve Mach, Laurie Krohn, Constable Alan Rosen… and yes, even your very own Roz Pactor (ciao, bella! 👋).
Photos by Michelle Watson and Daniel Ortiz.