Why are we having this conversation?
Because shallow hal (Hollywood) always depicts Americans of Italian descent as mobsters . Its why I have no love for Robert Di Niro or Joe Pesce, etc for selling out.
Its why cops are accused of being on the take because when shallow hal does a cop movie cops are always depicted as on the take: to wit Shades of Blue etc etc etc.
Growing up in my Italian neighbor was like having a very large extended family. It was love, good food, exchanging recipes, early mass on Sunday and helping your neighbors when in need and importantly taking pride in being Americans.
It demanded its children be honest, ethical, truthful and obedient...don't lie because the punishment will be worse. It was lessons that taught that drink a little wine for celebration was good but abuse of alcohol was not. and it was bragging about every neighborhood kid that was advancing in society.
To heck with Hollywood
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