FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

OCT. 21, 2001

CONTACT: Mark Rauterkus or Josh Pollock

412-481-2497
debate@FreeTeam.Org
www.FreeTeam.Org

Citizens and Candidates gather in OAKLAND's Lecture Hall to CELEBRATE DEMOCRACY for two nights

PITTSBURGH-The Halls of the Carnegie Library Lecture Hall are expected to fill this week when with Pittsburghers and people throughout the region turn out for a first of its kind event in Pittsburgh to celebrate democracy.

"In troubled times like these its critically important to reflect on our lives, our purpose and the institutions that have sustained us for more than 200 years," said event organizer and formal Pittsburgh Mayoral Candidate Mark Rauterkus. "In order to go forward, we have to be keenly aware of who we are and rekindle our relationships with the institutions that have made us great."

Sponsored by The New Colonist, a web magazine about city life at www.newcolonist.com, the event will include talks on the subject of democracy from politicians and civic leaders, as well as an opportunity for candidates for city and county offices to debate issues important to the future of Pittsburgh and the region.

"The event will provide an opportunity for Pittsburgh to celebrate Democracy in a place that's best suited to foster the democratic process -- a city," said New Colonist Editor Eric Miller. "Not suburbs or rural areas or shopping malls or the internet can bring the diverse people and forces together and facilitate democracy the way Pittsburgh can--- the way a city can. It's important for Pittsburghers to come out and celebrate their city and democracy."

The event will take place from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Oct. 22 and 23rd at the Carnegie Library Lecture Hall in Oakland. The event is free to the public. For more information, please call 412-481-2497.

The New Colonist is America's Premier web magazine on city living found at http://www.newcolonist.com. Special information about the event as well as follow-up information can be found at http://www.newcolonist.com/pittsburgh.html.