The Federazione Abruzzese del Michigan, Clinton Township, community of Italian Americans

Junior Miss Abruzzese Queen

Olivia Mariella Simone

It would be an honor to represent the Abruzzese community as the 2017 Junior Miss Abruzzese Queen. My Italian –American Abruzzese heritage is very special and meaningful to me. My paternal grandparents were both born and raised in the town of Secinaro in the province of L’Aquila. My nonna and nonno have shared many of the Secinarese traditions with me and my family throughout my life. I have had the privilege of visiting Secinaro and the surrounding areas twice in my life. The beautiful Appenine Mountains, the wonderful food and the warm and gentle people fill my memories of Abruzzo. I plan to spend more time there in the future. As the Junior Miss Abruzzese Queen, my goal will be to share my Abruzzese heritage with other young people. I will promote the region by sharing my love of Abruzzo with others who may not be familiar with this area of Italy so rich in beauty and history.
I have tried to excel in academics while having a balance with extracurricular activities. I am currently a sophomore at Troy High School with a GPA of 3.7. I am a member of the Troy Colts Marching Band Color Guard and an active member of the Troy High Symphonic Band. I have studied flute privately for more than six years and have received division 1 ratings for Solo and Ensemble competitions for the last four years. I have been involved with two high school musicals including roles in “Shrek The Musical” in my freshman year and more recently in “Guys and Dolls”. I am currently on the Troy Colts Varsity Women’s Lacrosse Team. I enjoy athletics and the performing arts and hope to continue these activities throughout out high school.