What do you think of Italians?

I'm not Italian, nor even related to any, but down here they are very much valued & appreciated. Of course there's the mafia & so forth, but Italians have contributed a great deal to our country over the decades since World War Two. They're well known here for their energy & enthusiasm, their strong work ethic & devotion to their families. They put on huge festivals every year (the Carnivale, I think it's called). I've worked with Italians for most of my working life, I've had an Italian Barber all of my working life, an Italian motor mechanic, an Italian plumber. I attended a Ballroom Dance School for many years owned & run by Italians - got the Bronze medal at the national titles (FATD, like in our Strictly Ballroom movie). I partied hard with Italians in those years. Italians really know how to party. Historically, some of the best statesmen, philosophers, scientists, inventors in the world came from Italy. They are fantastic cooks. I've heard they make excellent lovers. I don't think you have anything to be ashamed of for coming from Italy. Whereabouts in Italy are you from? Stereotypes are a terrible form of blanket criticism. People should stop looking at a group of people & labeling them & instead should focus on the good qualities of the individual. What stereotypes about Italians have others made you aware of or brought to your attention?