The latest issue of NIAF’s Ambassador magazine is hitting mailboxes across the country. In this issue, Ambassador takes a look at what Frank Sinatra’s career meant and continues to mean to Italian Americans. Other stories include an interview with author Justin Catanoso about his new book, “My Cousin the Saint: A Search for Faith, Family and Miracles”; a feature about Army Staff Sergeant Brian Mancini, who was injured in Iraq last summer, and his wife, Ashley Mancini as they work to build a new life; and exciting information about NIAF’s upcoming National Convention and 33rd Anniversary Gala on October 17-28, 2008.

Directed by Peter Miller and funded partially with a grant from NIAF, this documentary brings the story of Nicola Sacco and Bartolomeo Vanzetti to a modern audience. A compelling and moving documentary, it is told through the letters that the accused wrote from prison. Actors John Turturro and Tony Shalhoub read the words of Vanzetti and Sacco respectively and give audiences the feeling that the two men are very much alive, if not physically then spiritually. The film was released in 2007 by Willow Pond Films and is available on DVD.

“The Italian Legacy in Washington, D.C.” is a hefty addition to any library or coffee table. Forwards by Nancy Pelosi, Romano Prodi, Massimo D’Alema, Adrian M. Fenty, Bruce Cole, and Giovanni Castellaneta kick off this exploration of the Italian influence on D.C. art and architecture. Further essays explore the relationship between Italy and Washington within the realm of art and the world of design.

“Classic Rewinds” is the latest CD released by Italo-Australian singing sensation Alfio. The album is a tribute to some of the greatest Italian American artists of our time. This Limited Edition CD contains performances of 16 classic songs from great artists such as Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Perry Como, Bobby Darin, and Jon Bon Jovi. As an added bonus, the album features three of Alfio’s original compositions including a tribute song inspired by Luciano Pavarotti called “Voce Pura.”