Alicia Renee Luciano is being recognized by the
Foundation, not only for her achievement as Miss New Jersey, but for criticism
of ethnic stereotyping during this year's Miss America Pageant.
Ms. Luciano appearance helps to offset Robert DeNiro's award.
Miss Luciano recently gained national attention when she was the only contestant to be asked about her views on the controversial cable television series "The Sopranos." She is being recognized by the Foundation for her achievements as Miss New Jersey and her criticism of ethnic stereotyping during this year's Miss America Pageant. The NIAF Youth Gala will feature celebrity appearances and a simultaneous video transmission of the NIAF gala from the International Ballroom of the hotel. The weekend includes the gala as well as programs and conferences for young people (ages 30 and under) on Friday, October 25 and Saturday, October 26. The NIAF Youth Weekend begins with the conference "Children of the Greats," stories by some of the most famous Italian Americans of the past including Scott Paterno, son of legendary Pennsylvania State football coach, Joe Paterno. Immediately following the conference, an Education Awards Luncheon will showcase several of the Foundation's scholarship and grant recipients. Actor Michael Badalucco of ABC's "The Practice" is the master of ceremonies. On Saturday morning, October 26, the NIAF will host a youth networking
breakfast followed by a youth conference from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM in the
International Ballroom West on the Concourse level of the hotel.
Later that afternoon, U.S.Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia is the featured
speaker at the conference, "A New Perspective on Retaining Your Heritage"
from 2:30 PM to 4:30 PM in the Georgetown Room. All lectures are free and
open to the public.
For more information, contact: Rich Santoro, manager of NIAF Youth
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