IL PENSIERO “THE THOUGHT”
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THE ONLY ITALIAN NEWSPAPER PUBLISHED IN THE STATE OF MISSOURI
An Italian American Publication
NUMERO 7
St. Louis, Missouri 63123
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12 PAGES
LUGLIO J U L Y
Love on The Hill The Romantic Comedy Filmed in St. Louis
Nina DeLuca built a successful life far from her St. Louis roots. As a popular food influencer living in Los Angeles, she has amassed hundreds of thousands of followers by telling stories through food, even if some of those stories are more fantasy than reality. But when her older sister Elena calls with troubling news about their mother Cecilia’s declining health and the struggling state of the family’s beloved restaurant, Felicita, Nina reluctantly returns to The Hill, the tight-knit Italian-American neighborhood she left behind years ago. Back home, Nina finds a family stretched to its breaking point. Elena is overwhelmed caring for her son Ray, managing the restaurant, and navigating their mother’s deteriorating condition. Felicita, once the heart of the neighborhood, is now nearly empty. At the same time, professional baseball pitcher Beck Miller is experiencing a spectacular fall from grace. After a viral altercation involving a rival team’s mascot costs him both his fiancée and his shot at the major leagues, Beck lands with the independent-league Gateway Grizzlies, living in a friend’s basement and wondering how everything went so wrong. When Nina and Beck collide over a
box of cannoli at Angelo’s Deli, sparks fly immediately. Their first impressions are less than favorable—she sees an arrogant athlete with a temper, while he sees a sharp-tongued influencer who knows nothing about baseball. Yet as their lives continue to intersect through Ray, the local baseball community, and the traditions of The Hill, both discover they may have more in common than either expected. As Nina reconnects with her family,rediscovers the meaning behind the food she once loved to cook, and confronts the sacrifices she made to chase success, Beck faces his own reckoning about ambition, ego, and what truly matters. Together, they begin to learn that sometimes the road forward starts by returning home— and that love can be found in the most unexpected places, if you’re willing to take a chance. Filming took place at various locations on The Hill between June 8 and 26, including Eovaldi’s Deli, Piazza Imo, Cunetto’s House of Pasta, Pizzeria da Gloria and Oliva on The Hill.
Summer on The Hill: Three Patios Worth Visiting By Courtney Finn
There’s no better way to enjoy a St. Louis summer than with delicious Italian food and a seat on the patio. Whether you’re meeting friends for happy hour or enjoying a celebratory dinner with family, The Hill offers plenty of charming outdoor dining options. Here are three local favorites to add to your summer list. Anthonino’s Taverna offers one of the neighborhood’s most inviting patios, where guests can enjoy everything from toasted ravioli and pizza to their awardwinning Greek-Italian specialties in a relaxed setting. Just down the street, Milo’s Bocce Garden combines classic Italian cuisine with a lively outdoor atmosphere. Its spacious patio and bocce courts make it a favorite gathering place for families, friends, and visitors looking to enjoy a leisurely summer evening. For a more intimate experience, Charlie Gitto’s on The Hill features a beautiful patio that’s perfect for date nights or celebrating a special occasion. Surrounded by lush landscaping, it’s an ideal spot to enjoy timeless Italian dishes and warm hospitality. This summer, take advantage of the longer days and dine outdoors while Continued on page 5
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7/4 - Independence Day 7/19 - National Ice Cream Day 7/26 - Parents’ Day
WHAT'S THE WEATHER? St. Louis, MO
Italy
Average Temp: HIGH: 90° F LOW: 72° F
Average Temp: HIGH: 88° F LOW: 70° F
July is the hottest & stickiest month of the year with occasional heavy downpours.
July is hot and sunny across Italy, so it is peak season for coastal areas and islands!
August: July 17 September: August 14 October: September 11 November: October 16 December: November 13
PLEASE RECYCLE THIS NEWSPAPER
EVENTS TO ATTEND Celebrate 250 Luglio 3-4 Gateway Arch National Park starting Friday at 4 p.m.
Let Them Eat Art Luglio 10 Maplewood, MO from 5:30 - 9:30 p.m.
St. Louis Filmmakers Showcase Luglio 17-26 Hi-Pointe Theatre starting at noon. Tickets available now.
Peach Festival Luglio 18 Downtown Kirkwood starting at 8 a.m.
2026 Independence Day Fireworks Show
Red Lantern City Night Market
Luglio 11 Sublette Park starting at dusk.
Luglio 18 Central West End outside Saigon Cafe from 4-11 p.m.
IMPORTANTE
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The signed articles appearing in Il Pensiero “The Thought” are the opinions of the individual authors, who do not represent the general point of view, nor do they express the views of Il Pensiero. We accept the collaboration of people expressing the most wide range of opinions. Opinions expressed in Il Pensiero “The Thought” are not necessarily those of Il Pensiero and Il Pensiero does not accept responsibility for advertising content. Any images supplied are at the owner’s risk.
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LA COLONNA DEL NOSTRO CORRISPONDENTE:
GUS TORREGROSSA
IL PENSIERO
Staff Photographer
Virginia, Bill and Patricia Brush
Chief Robert J. Tracy and Brenda, Fr. Jack Siefert, Margaret Daly and Gus Torregrossa
Gus Torregrossa and Julie and Joe Weinbauer
Tori Torregrossa, Bill Jennings and Mary Maxwell
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Continued from page 1 supporting the locally owned restaurants that continue to make The Hill one of St. Louis’s most beloved neighborhoods.
Pesto Rosso By Christina Musgrave
This bold and vibrant pesto rosso is made with sun-dried tomatoes, almonds, and plenty of olive oil—blended into a silky, savory sauce that clings perfectly to rigatoni. It’s quick, flavorful, and feels special with minimal effort. A splash of balsamic vinegar adds a subtle tang, while red pepper flakes bring just the right amount of heat. This is a pantry-friendly pasta that’s perfect for busy nights but elegant enough for company. Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 10 minutes Total Time: 20 minutes Yield: Serves 6
Il Pensiero Ingredients 1 lb rigatoni pasta 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (oil drained) 1 cup extra virgin olive oil ½ cup unsalted almonds ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese 3 cloves garlic 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar ½ teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon black pepper ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes Directions 1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook rigatoni until al dente, about 7–8 minutes. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining. 2. Make the pesto rosso: While the pasta cooks, combine sun-dried tomatoes, olive oil, almonds, Parmesan, garlic, balsamic vinegar, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes in a food processor. Blend on high until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed. 3. Toss and serve: Use a spider strainer to transfer cooked pasta directly to a large serving bowl. Spoon in the pesto and toss to coat. Add reserved pasta water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. 4. Serve immediately, topped with extra Parmesan if desired. Tips/Notes: • You can substitute pine nuts or walnuts for almonds, if preferred. • Store extra pesto in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week — it’s great on sandwiches or stirred into roasted vegetables. tastingwithtina.com
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A Taste of Tuscany, Right Here in St. Peters, Missouri By Courtney Finn
If you’re searching for your next favorite neighborhood pizza spot, look no further than Sonny’s Tuscan Style Pizza in St. Peters. Since opening its doors, Sonny’s has quickly become known for serving handcrafted pizzas inspired by the bold, fresh flavors of Tuscany in a warm, welcoming atmosphere. The menu offers something for everyone, from build-your-own pizzas with unique bases like pesto, bianco, and oil & garlic to signature creations such as the Hot Honey Inferno, Margherita Classica, and Carnivore’s Dream. Beyond pizza, guests can enjoy toasted ravioli, wings, fresh salads, sandwiches, and other Italianinspired favorites. Gluten-free crust and vegan cheese options are also available, making it easy to accommodate various dietary needs. Located at 429 S. Church Street, Sonny’s proudly calls itself “Your New Neighborhood Slice”—and it’s easy to see why. Whether you’re dining in with family, grabbing takeout, or meeting friends for dinner, you’ll find delicious food, friendly service, and a true community feel. Open daily from 4–10 p.m., Sonny’s is a welcome addition to the St. Peters dining scene. Buon appetito!
un annuncio
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Submit content to info@ilpensiero.net before July 17, 2026 to be featured in the August issue. We look forward to receiving your announcements! Thank you
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Misericordia Society Wishes you a happy, relaxing July!
BIRTHDAYS
Michael Sabaski Mike Santangelo Gus Torregrossa
A Special Note: Carina Marino Buona vacanza!
Happy Birthday, America! 250!
and the Il Pensiero staff
2026 Sig
nature Events
ON THE HILL
SEPT.
6
SEPT.
Giro della Montagna @ The steps of St. Ambrose | 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
26
Neighborhood Yard Sale
OCT.
Italian Heritage Parade & Festa
11
DEC.
5
@ throughout The Hill
@ Berra Park | 12:30 - 5 p.m.
Christmas on The Hill @ The Hill Neighborhood Center | 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
For more info: www.hillstl.org/events
Upcoming E v en t s We ’ re S u ppor t ing : Giro della Montagna Sept. 6 | 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Hosted by: The Hill Business Association
Italian Heritage Parade & Festa
Oct. 11 | 12:30 - 5 p.m.
Hosted by: The Hill 2000 Neighborhood Association
Italian Summer Cocktail Italian Fizz Ingredients 1 ⅓ ounces bitter Campari 2 ounces soda water ⅓ ounces sugar cane syrup ⅓ ounces fresh lime juice
Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice, shake, and pour into a tall cocktail glass over ice. Garnish with lime wedges, pink peppercorns, and enjoy!
misericordiastl.com
An Italian Summer, Captured in Color
There is something undeniably magical about an Italian summer. It’s found in the slow mornings spent sipping espresso on a quiet terrace, the warmth of golden sunlight spilling over centuriesold cobblestone streets, and evenings that seem to stretch on forever beneath rosy skies. It’s effortless, romantic, and timeless—a feeling that lingers long after
the season ends. Inspired by those unforgettable moments, the Italian Summer Collection is a trio of soft, luminous shades designed to capture the beauty and ease of la dolce vita. Lola is a delicate, airy pink that evokes crisp linen dresses, fresh morning light, and peaceful café mornings. Understated yet elegant, it’s the perfect everyday shade for those who appreciate Continued on page 7
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Continued from page 6 quiet luxury. Lydia offers a sophisticated smoky lavender gray that reflects the cool charm of historic Italian streets at dusk. Modern and refined, it brings an elevated, versatile look that transitions effortlessly from day to night. Completing the collection is Rosa, a rich pink berry inspired by vibrant outdoor markets overflowing with fresh fruit and the warm glow of a sunset enjoyed with a glass of rosé. Romantic and full of life, it’s a statement shade that still feels timeless. Together, Lola, Lydia, and Rosa create a palette that is soft, sophisticated, and endlessly wearable. Whether you’re planning a European getaway or simply bringing a touch of Italian romance into your everyday routine, the Italian Summer Collection delivers effortless beauty with every manicure. This season, let your nails tell a story of sun-soaked days, golden evenings, and the quiet magic of an unforgettable Italian summer. Learn more and shop the Italian Summer Collection at kferraracolor.com.
oc Q3 S cer in STL
7.16 | 7.25
Food & Beverage Anthonino’s Taverna Dewey’s Pizza Pastaria Olive & Oak
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Read With Alexandra (RWA) By Alexandra Marino-Durmišević
“Love and Gelato” By Jenna Evans Welch
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While t he digi t al edi t ion of o u r J u l y iss u e w ill be pos t ed on J u l y 1, deli v er y
of prin t ed copies q ill be sligh t l y del¥ y ed as w e t ra v el t o Sicil y We apprecia t e y o u r u nders t anding and looÙ for w ard t o sharing ano t her grea t iss u e w i t h y o u Have any Sicily recommendations? Please send to: info@ilpensiero.net. Thank you!
I broke my own rule this month by watching the movie before reading the book. If you are looking for a cute movie on Netflix, check out “Love and Gelato.” It’s very rare, but in this case, I enjoyed the movie much more. The storyline is good, but the young adult audiobook fell flat for me. Lina is 16 years old and has never known her father. Her mother studied abroad in her youth and got pregnant in Tuscany. Lina’s mother, who has cancer, urged her to go to Italy and meet her father as her dying wish. Lina goes and discovers a diary that her mother left behind during her time there. She finds out much more about her mother that she never knew before and gains a parent that she needs now more than ever. I will see you next month! I will have spent a lot of time in Sicily reading August’s book to share with you. GRAZIE MILLE
Futbol Artichoke Appetizer
Ingredients:
2 cans of artichokes 1 cup of mayonnaise 1 cup of Parmesan cheese Instructions: Chop up artichokes and add the ingredients and mix together. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes or until bubbly. Serve with your choice of cracker. Perfect for a soccer-inspired party!
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Denver-Based Decorative Materials Expands with New Steamboat Springs Showroom Colorado’s Premier Luxury Tile and Stone Specialist Strengthens Mountain Market Presence
Decorative Materials, a luxury tile showroom serving clients nationwide from its Colorado locations since 1988, announces the opening of its newest showroom in Steamboat Springs. This expansion reinforces the company’s position as a leading destination for luxury tile, natural stone, and custom surfaces. The new Steamboat Springs showroom joins Decorative Materials’ established locations in Denver, Aspen/ Basalt, Vail/Edwards, Telluride, and Crested Butte, creating a comprehensive network of luxury tile showrooms throughout Colorado’s most prestigious markets. “Steamboat Springs has long been on our radar as a community that values craftsmanship, quality, and distinctive design,” said Kaitlyn Budzynski, Marketing Director at Decorative Materials. “Our clients in the Yampa Valley have been traveling to our Denver showroom and other locations for years. Opening a local showroom allows us to provide the personalized, handson service that defines the Decorative Materials experience right in their own backyard.” As a leading tile and stone resource in Denver, Decorative Materials serves architects, interior designers, custom home builders, and discerning homeowners across the United States. While the company’s showrooms anchor Colorado’s luxury design market, Decorative Materials works with clients nationwide on high-end residential and commercial projects from coast to coast. The Steamboat Springs location features the same curated collections that have made Decorative Materials the preferred luxury tile store Denver designers recommend: natural stone slabs including marble, quartzite, travertine, limestone, and granite; high-end porcelain tile in large format, wood-look, and stone-look styles; artisan ceramic including zellige and hand-painted terracotta; glass mosaics and metal tile; encaustic and concrete tile; and custom bathroom furniture including bespoke vanities. The showroom also showcases exclusive offerings from Italian designer Salvatori, available only at Decorative Materials—the sole Salvatori dealer in Colorado. This exclusivity has made Decorative Materials a destination Colorado tile store for clients seeking rare, luxury materials unavailable elsewhere. The majority of Decorative Materials’ business comes from clients who visit the Colorado showrooms in person, with many traveling from across the state and
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neighboring regions. However, the company also serves remote clients nationally and has completed projects around the world, providing virtual consultations, material sampling, and shipping coordination for clients who cannot visit in person. In Colorado, Decorative Materials serves projects throughout the Greater Denver metro area, Boulder County, Eagle County, Pitkin County, Summit County, Routt County, and the Yampa Valley—from Denver’s urban luxury condos to mountain modern estates in Aspen, Vail, and Telluride. “We’re not just a tile store,” explained Kirsten Schmit, President at Decorative Materials. “We’re design partners. Our consultants work alongside architects and designers from initial concept through installation, sourcing rare materials, solving technical challenges, and ensuring every project achieves its vision. Whether clients are local or working with us remotely, we provide the same level of personalized service and expertise.” Decorative Materials differentiates itself through what the company calls “approachable luxury”—combining museum-quality materials with accessible, expert consultation. Unlike big-box retailers or online-only suppliers, Decorative Materials provides hands-on guidance, custom sourcing capabilities, and fullproject support that luxury projects demand, regardless of location. The Steamboat Springs expansion reflects growing demand in Colorado’s luxury construction and renovation markets. The region has seen increased investment in high-end residential properties, resort developments, and commercial hospitality projects—all requiring the specialized tile and stone expertise Decorative Materials provides. Local Steamboat Springs architects and designers have expressed enthusiasm about the impact of the new Architectural + Design Library on their design process and client experience. The showroom will host regular continuing education events for trade professionals, designer lunch-and-learns, and community engagement initiatives. The new location continues Decorative Materials’ tradition of supporting the design community with both product excellence and education. The company regularly partners with organizations including the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) and architectural firms to advance design standards. For clients seeking a luxury tile showroom in Denver or any of Decorative Materials’ Colorado locations—or for those working remotely from anywhere in the country—the company offers personalized
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design consultations, material sampling, custom sourcing for unique projects, and coordination with fabricators and installers. About Decorative Materials Founded in 1988, Decorative Materials is a premier luxury tile and stone showroom with locations in Denver, Aspen/Basalt, Vail/Edwards, Telluride, Crested Butte, and Steamboat Springs, Colorado. Serving clients nationwide and internationally, Decorative Materials specializes in natural stone slabs, luxury porcelain and ceramic tile, artisan mosaics, and custom bathroom furniture. The company serves the architecture and design trade as well as discerning luxury homeowners, with the majority of business centered in Colorado while also supporting projects across the United States and around the world. Decorative Materials is the exclusive Colorado dealer for Italian designer Salvatori and offers curated collections unavailable at traditional tile stores. For more information, showroom hours, or to schedule a design consultation at any Colorado location or virtually, visit decorativematerials.com.
Author Joe Reina’s New Book, “A Love Affair in Tuscany,” is a Gripping Story That Follows a Young Man’s Fight to Leave a Life Held by the Mafia’s Grip in Post-WWI Italy
Joe Reina, an entrepreneurial businessman turned author who currently resides in Scottsdale, Arizona, has completed his new book, “A Love Affair in Continued on page 10
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What to Watch My Family Genre: Drama 2 Seasons Release Year: 2026 Starring: Eduardo Scarpetta, Vanessa Scalera, Massimiliano Caiazzo Available on Netflix A terminally ill father prepares his chaotic family to care for his two young kids and face life without him — but they must put old quarrels to rest. courtesy of Netflix
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Pagina 10 Continued from page 8 Tuscany”: a stirring historical fiction that follows a young Italian man whose attempts to escape his life in Mafia-controlled Sicily butts up against the looming threat of a Second World War. Author Joe Reina came up through the ranks in the apparel industry from salesman to manager, store owner, business mogul, and real estate developer. An avid reader of history, he took the lessons from the past to navigate the economic ups and downs of the mid-twentieth century. His businesses entailed international travel and enabled him to explore a good part of the world. That exposure helped satisfy his lifelong desire to experience the pleasure of meeting people worldwide and then sharing his travels with his family and friends. “In the aftermath of World War I, Italy grappled with severe economic turmoil,” writes Reina. “The war left the nation with massive debts, rampant inflation, and widespread unemployment, leading to social unrest and political instability. The period between 1919 and 1920 saw a surge in socialist and communist movements, particularly in the industrialized North. However, these movements failed to gain a foothold in the agrarian South, especially in Sicily, where the pervasive influence of the Mafia stifled progressive change. In Sicily, the Mafia had entrenched itself deeply into the fabric of society, controlling local businesses and wielding influence over politicians and law enforcement, and maintained its power through intimidation and violence. Employment opportunities were scarce and often dictated by Mafia affiliations, leaving the general populace impoverished and uneducated. “Amidst this backdrop, Benito Mussolini capitalized on the chaos. In 1922, following the March in Rome, he was appointed Prime Minister by King Emmanuel. Mussolini’s Fascist regime promised order and national rejuvenation. His rise marked the beginning of a totalitarian state that would suppress dissent. Yet, even in these oppressive times, exceptions emerged. Giuseppe Insalaco, a young student from Ragusa, Sicily, was one such exception. Born to Virginia and Francesco, who worked as a cook and housekeeper, and a gardener and handyman respectively for a local Mafia Don, Giuseppe’s early life was marked by hardship. The family’s compensation included hand-me-down clothing and leftover food. Their meager earnings allowed Giuseppe to attend school throughout the 1920s. Giuseppe worked in a Mafia-controlled restaurant, balancing labor with his studies. “His dedication culminated in his graduation from secondary school in 1924, where he delivered a compelling valedictorian speech. Among the attendees was Antonio Manila from Medici University of Florence, who was so impressed by Giuseppe’s oratory, that he offered him a scholarship. Arriving in Florence, Giuseppe was captivated by the city’s Renaissance beauty. At the university, he met his roommate, Angelo Fresta, a fellow Sicilian from Palazzo Adriano. Unlike Giuseppe, Angelo came from a family of educators, providing him with a more comfortable upbringing. The two quickly formed a
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strong friendship. Florence, with its thriving economy bolstered by tourism, stood in stark contrast to the impoverished South. For Giuseppe, the city represented not just an educational opportunity, but a chance to escape the constraints of his past and envision a future unshackled by the Mafia’s grip.” Published by Covenant Books of Murrells Inlet, South Carolina, Joe Reina’s new book will captivate readers as they follow Giuseppe’s first steps into a brand new world of opportunity despite Mussolini’s ever-expanding grip over all of Italy. Expertly paced and character-driven, “A Love Affair in Tuscany” is sure to leave readers spellbound, weaving a beautiful tale of one man’s journey to find himself in a time of political chaos. Readers can purchase “A Love Affair in Tuscany” at bookstores everywhere, or online at the Apple iTunes store, Amazon or Barnes and Noble. Covenant Books is an international Christian owned and operated publishing house based in Murrells Inlet, South Carolina. Covenant Books specializes in all genres of work which appeal to the Christian market. For additional information or media inquiries, contact Covenant Books at 843507-8373.
Recent Release, “Sicilian With A French Accent: Deliciously Simple Cuisine,” from Fulton Books Author Linda Cascio McNamara, Blends Culinary Traditions with Memoir
Linda Cascio McNamara has completed a new book, “Sicilian With A French Accent: Deliciously Simple Cuisine” — an homage to the author’s mother while celebrating the cuisines of two cultures. It highlights the simple elegance of preparing food with wholesome ingredients and an abundance of love. Cataloging her late mother’s gastronomic treasure-trove of family recipes became the impetus to create this volume, an homage to the beloved woman whose voice still echoes in her mind. Beyond her distinguished teaching career, Linda’s experience includes practice as a Holistic Wellness Consultant, work as a certified Event Planner, and decades as a West Highland White Terrier “Mom”. “Sicilian With A French Accent: Deliciously Simple Cuisine” by Linda Cascio McNamara invites readers to enjoy the family anecdotes, culinary tips, and personal insights honed from the author’s nuanced background, skills, and experience. It is an appropriate volume for cooks at every level of expertise, and a faithful and growing audience of food aficionados will discover cherished traditions and new flavors. Author Linda Cascio McNamara shares, “For me, the sharing of food represents love in every culture. No matter
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who does the cooking or what is prepared, we connect, celebrate, and come together at the table.” Published by Fulton Books, Linda Cascio McNamara’s stirring work celebrates the simple elegance of Sicilian and French cuisine. The proceeds of sales of her books are donated charitably in her mom’s memory. Readers who wish to experience this uplifting work can purchase “Sicilian With A French Accent: Deliciously Simple Cuisine” at bookstores everywhere, or online at the Apple iTunes Store, Amazon, Google Play, or Barnes and Noble. Please direct all media inquiries to Author Support via email at support@ fultonbooks.com or via telephone at 877210-0816. About Fulton Books: Fulton Books is a full-service book publishing company that offers a variety of services to authors of all genres. For more information, visit fultonbooks.com.
Recent Release, “The Pallazano Mystery,” from Covenant Books Author Joe Reina, Weaves a Gripping Tale of Ambition, Corruption, and Murder During the Jazz Age
Joe Reina has completed a new book, “The Pallazano Mystery: Whisky, Whispers, and White-Collar Blood,” a riveting exploration of the Roaring Twenties that captures the era’s glittering excess and moral decay. Set against the backdrop of Prohibition, speakeasies, and bootlegging empires, the narrative transports readers into a world where organized crime syndicates wielded unprecedented power, where gangsters built fortunes on illicit liquor trades, and where the line between law enforcement and lawlessness blurred beyond recognition. The story unravels a web of secrets, corruption, and calculated violence that defines an unforgettable chapter in American history. Drawing on his entrepreneurial background and lifelong fascination with historical narratives, Joe Reina brings authentic insight to this suspenseful work. His previous novel, “The Goat Sleeps in the Kitchen,” chronicled his Sicilian mother’s remarkable journey as an early twentieth-century businesswoman—a testament to his ability to capture the resilience and complexity of immigrant experiences. That same historical acumen now serves “The Pallazano Mystery,” where Reina’s meticulous research and storytelling prowess combine to illuminate a turbulent era. His travels across the globe and decades spent navigating business ventures have equipped him with a nuanced understanding of ambition, risk, and the consequences of unchecked power. In “The Pallazano Mystery,” readers Continued on page 12
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Continued from page 10 will encounter compelling characters navigating the treacherous landscape of Prohibition-era crime, where fortunes are made and blood is spilled in equal measure. The novel explores profound themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the human cost of avarice—asking what happens when the pursuit of wealth eclipses morality. As stock markets soared and speakeasies thrived, darker forces moved beneath the glimmering surface. Reina masterfully reveals how the illusion of endless prosperity masked systemic instability, and how one mysterious death threatens to expose the tangled relationships between criminals, politicians, and those desperate to protect their secrets. “The Pallazano Mystery allowed me to explore the paradoxes of the Jazz Age—a period of extraordinary cultural innovation shadowed by reckless abandon and moral erosion,” said author Joe Reina. “I wanted readers to understand not just the glamour of the Roaring Twenties, but the fragile foundations upon which that era’s wealth and excess were built, and the human drama that unfolded when those foundations cracked.” Published by Covenant Books, Joe Reina’s enthralling work offers readers an immersive journey into one of American history’s most transformative and contradictory decades. This gripping narrative will captivate history enthusiasts and fiction lovers alike, leaving them eager to uncover the truth behind the Pallazano mystery. Readers who wish to experience this pulse-pounding work can purchase “The Pallazano Mystery” at bookstores everywhere, or online at the Apple iTunes Store, Amazon, Google Play, or Barnes and Noble. For additional information or media inquiries, contact Covenant Books at 843507-8373. About Covenant Books: Covenant Books is an international Christian owned and operated publishing house based in Murrells Inlet, South Carolina. Covenant Books specializes in all genres of work which appeal to the Christian market. For more information, visit covenantbooks.com.
NIAF and the City of Capri Sign Transatlantic Cultural Partnership Memorandum of Understanding Establishes Framework for Cultural, Educational, and Economic Exchange Between Italy and the United States The National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) and the City of Capri have
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signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) establishing a long-term partnership dedicated to preserving and promoting the rich cultural legacy shared between the island and the United States. The signing ceremony took place on the island of Capri on June 2–3, 2026, under the auspices of the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, with the support of the Port Authority of Naples, as part of the Campania Divina regional initiative. The MOU was signed by Mayor Paolo Falco, assisted by Assessor Salvatore Ciuccio, and NIAF Board Chairman John F. Calvelli, assisted by NIAF President & CEO Robert Allegrini. The agreement reflects a shared commitment to deepening cultural, educational, and economic ties between Capri and the Italian American community, with a particular focus on expanding tourism beyond peak season and strengthening the island’s international institutional connections. The MOU commits both parties to a program of joint cultural events and initiatives that highlight the history and traditions of Capri within the Italian American community; educational exchange programs developed in partnership with local institutions to transmit Italian heritage to future generations; and economic collaboration connecting Italian American business leaders with Capri’s entrepreneurial community to foster investment and opportunity on both sides of the Atlantic. The partnership will remain in effect for three years, renewable by mutual agreement. “This partnership reflects exactly what NIAF was founded to do — build bridges between the Italian American community and the country our families came from. Capri is one of the most iconic expressions of Italian culture in the world, and we are proud to ensure its history and traditions remain alive and vibrant for generations to come,” said NIAF President & CEO Robert Allegrini. The ceremony also featured the presentation of the inaugural Capri-NIAF Award, conceived by Germana Valentini and crafted by sculptor Dante Mortet — the artist behind NIAF’s awards for its Anniversary Galas, whose bronzes have commemorated figures from Al Pacino to Ennio Morricone. The award recognizes individuals who have advanced the promotion of Italian culture, and was presented to Giuseppe Iuele, a Capri-born restaurateur who emigrated to the United States in 1983 and built one of New York’s most celebrated Italian dining destinations, La Masseria. His journey — rooted in Capri, realized in America — embodies the story of generations of Italian Americans who carried their culture with them and made it flourish. The award was accepted by his daughter Gabriella. The event was organized by Carmen Pisano, the municipality’s coordinator of major events. In a further tribute to the bonds between Capri and the Italian American community, Mortet took a cast of the hand of Ida Di Pinto — a 100-year-old Capri native who emigrated to the United States and returned to the island to mark her centenary — to create the first sculpture in a new series, Le mani di Capri (The Hands
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of Capri), a work that will chronicle, hand by hand, the shared culture of craft and creativity between Capri and New York. “I have lived two lives,” Di Pinto said, “one here and one in America.” About the National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) The National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) is a Washington, D.C.-based nonprofit founded in 1975. NIAF is the largest representative of the more than 20 million Italian American citizens in the United States, dedicated to celebrating and advancing the inspiring achievements and uplifting values of Italian culture and presence in America, and to strengthening ties between the United States and Italy. For more information, visit NIAF.org.
NIAF Supports Landmark Mural at the Port of Naples Honoring the Italian American Emigrant Journey “In Sanguine Foedus. Nuovo Mondo” Unveiled at the Historic Departure Point for Millions of Italians Bound for America
The National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) proudly supported, through its Grants Program, the creation of *In Sanguine Foedus. Nuovo Mondo*, a monumental mural unveiled on May 22, 2026, at the Port of Naples—the historic gateway from which millions of Italian emigrants departed for the United States. Created by Francesco Andoli and Germana Valentini and painted by Neapolitan artist Vittorio Valiante, the 1,000-square-meter mural honors the lives of Italian emigrants through portraits based on historical photographs and archival research. Interactive QR codes allow visitors to explore the personal stories behind each face. The project will continue with a companion mural planned for Little Italy in New York City, creating a symbolic connection between Naples and the United States. NIAF Vice Chair International Joseph D. Gulino, Esq., represented the Foundation at the unveiling, and Chairman John Calvelli and President and CEO Robert Allegrini recently visited Naples to view the mural. “This mural is a powerful testament to the enduring bond between Italy and the United States, and to the millions of men and women whose courage built a nation,” said Allegrini. “NIAF is honored to support work that ensures their stories are never forgotten.” As the United States marks its 250th anniversary, NIAF reaffirms its commitment to preserving the shared history and cultural ties between Italy and America.