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

or Susannah Griffiths 202/965-6470 (Vespa)

(WASHINGTON, DC — April 2, 2003) The National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) is pleased to announce its participation in Vespa Washington’s premiere party, celebrating its recent opening and the First Annual Classic Vespa Show. The invitation only event, featuring Vespa motor scooters from past to present, will be held Thursday evening, May 1 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Vespa Washington boutique located in upper Georgetown.

Thursday’s event kicks-off Vespa Washington’s First Annual Classic Vespa Show, which takes place on Saturday, May 3 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., and is open to the public. The event pays tribute to Vespa and its years of success as Italy’s most popular motor scooter. Featured on the day of the event will be vintage Vespas dating back to the early 1960s, as well as current models. Enthusiasts will be able to have their picture taken on the popular scooters, as well as enjoy music, a karaoke contest, and interactive games and prizes.

“We are delighted to have the NIAF and the Italian Embassy welcome us to the area,” said Vespa Washington’s founder and President Phil Mitchell. “What better place to be able to trace the roots of a cultural icon like a Vespa, than the nation’s capital.”

Three years ago, Piaggio, the world’s leading manufacturer of Italian motor scooters such as Piaggio, Vespa, Gilera and Derbi brand motorbikes, introduced two new Vespa models compliant with U.S. emission standards. After 15 years, this milestone marked the motor scooters long awaited return to the U.S.