By Debbie Cohen
Models strutted the latest fashions recently at Russo’s on the Bay in Howard Beach at the third annual Fashion Show hosted by the Lefferts−Liberty Kiwanis Club. Eight models, including two children, struck a pose for a good cause and all proceeds from tickets and raffles will go to benefit the children of the south Queens community.
Three sponsors provided casual, career and dressy clothes, evening gowns and children’s clothes for the models. Christine’s Original in Howard Beach and Dress Barn on Union Turnpike provided the casual, career and evening wear for the adult models. Mondo Di Bimbi, also in Howard Beach, provided the children’s clothes.
Kiwanis Co−Chairwoman Rosemary Ciulla−Frisone also became a model for the evening, wearing gowns and pantsuits. Her modeling, however, paid off.
“It has been rewarding to help the needy families and children in our community,” she said. “We raised a total of $2,600 — 100 more than last year and that’s great.”
Kiwanis Chairwoman Mickey Alvino will be the club president−elect as of next year, according to Frisone, who also said she would change gears to be Alvino’s executive assistant.
The two pint−sized models — Heather and Amir, both 9 — looked liked a newly married couple when Amir came out in a linen stripped suit and Heather wore a white, silk communion dress with a bolero as they held hands, posing and twirling down the aisle. Heather also modeled a multicolored dress from the “Hannah Montana” clothing line and Amir wore a yellow Perry Ellis shirt and yellow plaid shorts.
A senior named Virginia modeled pantsuits and dresses along with casual wear. Other models included three other women and one teenager. Some of the evening gowns, which were shown, included a silk peach gown, an ivory gown with silver beads and a black halter gown. Sponsors, like last year, offered discount coupons to everyone who attended the show.
Alvino said the show was a success, with everyone having fun, good food and giving to a good cause.
“Next year, we hope to raise even more,” Frisone said. “Making a difference in children’s lives is what matters.”
