FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:   Elissa Ruffino (NIAF) 202/939-3106 or elissa@niaf.org

EVENT: THE 11th ANNUAL NIAF YOUTH RETREAT in New York City
sponsored by The National Italian American Foundation (NIAF)

WHEN: Friday, August 6, 2004 7:00 PM to 11:00PM
Saturday, August 7, 2004 10:00 AM to 9:00PM
Sunday, August 8, 2004 10:00 AM to Noon

WHERE: Grand Union Hotel
34 E. 32nd St.
New York, NY

Media Contact: Elissa Ruffino at 202/ 939-3106 or elissa@niaf.org

Find out “What it means to be a young Italian American in the 21st century” at the 11th – annual NIAF Youth Retreat for Italian Americans held in New York City, August 6-8, 2004. The NIAF Youth Retreat is a weekend for Italian Americans to discuss, reflect and celebrate what it means to be of Italian American heritage.

The retreat brings together young adults, ages 18 to 35, who share a common interest in Italy and Italian American issues, for a weekend of cultural, educational and social activities.

An evening welcome reception and dinner will be held Friday, August 6th. On Saturday, participants will attend a lecture by John Mitrano on “Generation X Italian Americans,” a lecture by Professor William Connell of Seton Hall University, and a trip to the Ellis Island Immigration Museum. The itinerary also includes a walking tour of Little Italy.

The NIAF weekend is open to all Italian Americans and Italian enthusiasts. Come alone or bring a friend or relative who shares your enthusiasm for Italian culture. Dress is casual. The retreat package begins at $85 and can include two nights hotel, transportation to events, and meals. For reservations, contact Brock Olivo at bolivo@niaf.org or call 202/ 939-3107 before August 5, 2004.

The National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) is a non-profit organization, based in Washington, DC and dedicated to preserving the heritage of Italian Americans. Visit our website at: www.niaf.org