FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:   Elissa Ruffino (NIAF) 202/939-3106202/939-3106 or elissa@niaf.org

(WASHINGTON, DC – OCTOBER 10, 2002)

Attribute to: Frank J. Guarini, chairman, National Italian American Foundation (NIAF)

The Columbus Citizens Foundation has the full support of The National Italian American Foundation (NIAF), the national organization for Italian Americans that is based in Washington, DC. NIAF firmly believes that any member of “The Sopranos” should not be invited to the Columbus Day Parade because the program perpetuates a negative and inaccurate image of Italian Americans. NIAF is committed to promoting the best of Italian American culture and heritage. As a result, NIAF is profoundly disappointed with Mayor Bloomberg’s poor choice of invitees. Why would Mayor Bloomberg invite “The Sopranos” cast members to this important event rather than any one of the thousands of successful Italian Americans who project a positive image?

We support the Columbus Citizens Foundation’s efforts to preserve their right to determine the content and tone of the Columbus Day Parade.