While I was in New York last month I would have loved to have attended the Miss/Mrs. Plus America Pageant. I have been curious for a while what goes on behind the scenes of activities like this. Not to mention being able to meet some of the ladies like this weeks beauty of the week Vivian Salvano.
Vivian Salvano was named Mrs. New York Plus America 2010 in July 2009, and is excited to compete for the National title at this year’s Miss Plus America Pageant.
This Brooklyn native is following in the footsteps of her grandmother, Vivian Forzano, who competed in the Palm Beach Senior Pageant at age 72. Vivian’s grandmother wanted to deliver the message that all women are beautiful, regardless of their age. “I not only carry her name, but I also share her belief’s – that all women are beautiful regardless of their age or size” says Salvano, who has chosen the American Cancer Society as her platform. A cause close to her heart, as Vivian’s father, Salvatore Fischetti, succumbed to lung cancer in January 2002.
As Mrs. New York Plus America 2010, Vivian has raised awareness and funds for cancer research by participating in various events and visiting New York City Junior High Schools. Notably, she sponsored a “Bowl for the Cure” event in March 2010 and will participate with the Brooklyn Cyclones in the Take your Base®5K Run/Walk on July 10th, 2010. Vivian’s “Together, we CAN make a difference” campaign has caught-on and is being followed throughout New York City.
Vivian holds an Associate of Applied Science degree in Business Administration from the City University of New York at Kingsborough and serves as a Notary Public for the State of New York. She volunteers as a Lector at Our Lady of Grace R.C. Church in Brooklyn, New York.
When not at work or volunteering, Vivian enjoys spending time with her husband, Joseph, and nephew, Salvatore, who they raise. Bowling and attending Brooklyn Cyclones baseball games are some of their favorite things to do as a family.
Vivian is proud to represent her hometown as the reigning Mrs. New York Plus America 2010. Full Figure Plus is proud to learn about people like Vivian who are spreading such a positive message. I hope the next time I am in the big city I will get to meet Vivian. In the mean time I will just have to learn about things in the pageant world by reading and watching. Good luck in the national contest I hope you bring home the top prize.
Vivian is gorgeous! Love your beauty of the week corner, shining the spotlight on talented plus size women is a great idea!
Sarah,
The great part about the beauty of the week is the ladies themselves keep it going. I am proud of everything they have done.
I have to admit I don’t follow the Plus America stuff as much as I should. I really don’t like the idea of a separate competition for plus size women but I understand the need for it. I haven’t watched the regular sized competitions since I was a kid but if a plus size woman showed up in the running I would definitely tune in and show support. But that’s probably too much to wish for… yet.
Moe,
Don’t feel bad I really don’t follow shows like this much either, but I am interested in what goes on in the background and how the ladies feel about not being able to compete in the regular show. Maybe we can interview some contestants to find out.
I am lucky enough to know Vivian – she is beautiful inside and out. Her presence lightens a room. She has been a queen to me even before she wore the crown!