I think people need to go into it with realistic expectations. I went to the first of those "meet and greet" occasions in Philly in 2001. It was a "dessert social" -- I can't remember how it was advertised, but I distinctly got the impression that Andrea would be available for fans to meet personally. As most of you know, that hasn't been the case at any of the NIAF affairs so far. They have all been staged events--Andrea is given an award or certificate, he says a few words, and then he's out of there. In Philadelphia they gave him a replica of the Liberty Bell! Of course it's always pleasant to see him in a somewhat informal situation, but I remember how disappointed I was at that first one.
I do think it would be possible to arrange an orderly "meet and greet" with some sort of receiving line. The "greets" could be brief, the line could keep moving and everyone would be happy. Perhaps it would take a little longer, but I think it would be more rewarding than those award ceremonies.
That is all anyone really wants from Andrea anyway--just a couple of words, a photograph, a handshake, a kiss...
Possibly this NIAF affair will be different, and maybe this time would be a real "meet and greet." If that turns out to be the case, I'll probably regret not going. I hope the fans get lucky this time!
So if you decide to do this, remember that you will be getting a good seat, probably eating some good food, and supporting a worthwhile organization. Here is their Mission Statement:
The National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and promoting the heritage and culture of Americans of Italian descent, the nation’s fifth largest ethnic group.
As a unified and effective Washington voice for this community, NIAF:
-Provides educational and scholarship opportunities, as well as programs and activities, to help our young people
-Promotes the history, heritage and accomplishments of Italian Americans
-Serves as a liaison between the Italian American community and the U.S. Congress, the White House and government agencies, while also promoting the appointment of qualified Italian Americans in the government
-Protects the character and ensure a realistic portrayal of Italian Americans in the media and the arts
-Serves as a liaison between Italy and the United States by promoting cultural, educational, economic, and political cooperation
-Serves as a clearinghouse of information on Italy and on Americans of Italian descent
The NIAF was founded in 1975 as a non-profit organization in Washington, DC. It is entirely non-partisan. http://www.niaf.org/about/mission.asp