FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

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

(Washington, DC – October 1, 2004) The National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) is now offering a discounted package of four online language courses at www.niaf.org/italian4us to begin or improve your knowledge of Italian. The courses are offered at all levels and prior knowledge of Italian is not required.

The NIAF language package includes four courses, each with 120 hours of self-paced learning. The four courses include an introductory course in English and beginner, intermediate and advanced courses in Italian. Oral language skills, reading, written comprehension and review exercises are part of the program. Participants can log on to the program at any time from anywhere and work at their own pace. Online tutoring is available on request at an additional fee.

The discounted cost of the four-course NIAF package is $300 instead of the original $630. Click on to www.niaf.org/italian4us and pay by credit card. For additional information, contact: italian4us@niaf.org

The Italians 4US Course Package is produced by ICoN (Italian Culture on the Net), a consortium of Italian universities aimed at electronically promoting language, culture and the image of Italy all over the world. Course authors are scholars and academics in teaching Italian as a second language. Through the educational portal, www.italicon.it , ICoN offers its users an officially recognized three year degree program in Italian language and culture.

The National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) is a non-profit organization based in Washington, DC dedicated to preserving the heritage of Italian Americans. Learn more about our programs and events by visiting www.niaf.org .