ADVISORY/Grand Opening of Vespa Kansas City to Showcase Italy's Legendary Motor Scooter

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    WHAT: Vespa(R), the definitive symbol of romance and freedom,
makes its debut in Kansas City this Friday. The Vespa Kansas City
boutique features Vespa motor scooters, Vespa apparel and unique
vehicle accessories in an environment that celebrates the fun and
uniqueness of Vespa. Vespa Kansas City's grand opening marks another
milestone for co-owner Kurt Starks, who plans to make the scooter
available to consumers across the Midwest.

    WHEN: Friday, May 2, 2003 -- 10 a.m.

    WHERE: 9555 Nall St.
    Overland Park, KS 66207

    ADDITIONAL INTERVIEW/
    PHOTO OPPS: -- Interview owners of vintage and new Vespas about
why they ride scooters: learn how practical, economical and fun Vespas
are to ride, getting 45-60 miles per gallon, making commuting to work
and finding parking a breeze
    -- Interview Vespa Wichita and Vespa Kansas City co-owner Kurt
Starks, whose first customer in Kansas City was former Kansas City
Royal George Brett, about his vision to make Vespas available to
consumers in every area of the Midwest
    -- Photograph "non-traditional" scooter enthusiasts on a Vespa
    -- Photograph and interview regular group scooter riders about the
social aspects of owning a Vespa

    BACKGROUND: Manufactured by Piaggio in Tuscany, Italy, the Vespa
was designed in 1946 by Enrico Piaggio as a solution to transportation
following the destruction of World War II. Combining the best elements
of aeronautics automobiles and motorcycles, it instantly became an
icon of design and economy. In 2000, after a 15-year hiatus, the
fabled Italian scooter returned to the US to entice new generations
with its efficient, entertaining and still nostalgic nature.

    CONTACT: To RSVP for the grand opening or to line up an interview
with the Vespa Kansas City dealer, please contact:

    Staci Miller
    SJ Communications
    P: 818/385-0167
    Staci@SJCommunications.com