For those of us who must so frequently justifiably criticize the sources of 
the torrent of Negative Stereotyping, it "nourishes the soul" to be able to 
send a complimentary message to those who are deserving.

Michael Amante can be reached at << fan@michaelamante.com >>
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  Mr. Michael Amante
  fan@michaelamante.com

  I just wanted to send you this note as one paisan to another.  I am a third
  generation American-Italian, middle-aged woman with four sons, a daughter 
  and grandchildren.  I do not belong to any Italian group per se, but I have
  written many letters of protest on the stereotyping of American-Italians as
  gangsters based on my own feelings of being insulted. I receive the Annotico
  Report, which gives an update of news on American Italians, Italy and
  Italianitá.  There was a reference to your Albany Times-Union interview and 
  I  had planned to send you a note at some point, but when I saw you on the
  Indiana public TV fund drive in between Visions of Italy, I felt I must now
  comment.

  I don't know you and may not have the right to be, but I'm proud of you as 
  an American-Italian for refusing to take roles if they negatively depict
  American-Italians/Italians in gangster stereotype roles.  You are wise 
  beyond your years.  Naturally, this is very difficult as you are trying to build
  your career in any way that you can, and it is easier said than done to turn
  down large income roles that are dangled before you because of monetary
  concerns.

  Don't stoop to the depths of the American-Italian turncoats in show business
  who have like Judas Goats--lead the lamb to the slaughter by portraying
  Italians negatively.  But, instead continue to retain that strong sense of
  integrity toward your heritage and duty toward your family that you so
  strongly display.

  I haven't heard you sing professionally, but you did let out a few melodious
  notes on public TV and when I heard you sing, I realized how talented you 
  are and that God has given you a wonderful gift a beautiful Italian tenor voice.
  Keep up the good work.

  Good luck and may God bless,

  Joan Invergo Kaftan
  Chicago, IL 60638
  jkaftan@mwe.com
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Sicilian Culture: The Food, People, History, Culture, Wine, Language, 
Folklore & Traditions!
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