MAJOR FIRE IN JACKSON HEIGHTS BUILDINGS SECTION SMOKES NORTHERN BOULEVARD

SMOKE PLOWS DOWN LOCAL STREETS

A major fire has struck late this afternoon Jackson Heights large building near 75 street and 37 Avenue. No news out of local stations such as 1010 wins yet.

ANTONIO GUADAGNINO, AN ASTORIA ACCOUNTANT WINS KIDNEY CANCER BATTLE

I Owe My Life to da Vinci and My Excellent Team at Mount Sinai

In September 2011, my childhood dream of going to my favorite city in the world Florence (Firenze), Italy came true. While long ago, my elementary school teacher taught me about the magnificent culture and history of the masters of the Italian Renaissance and of Florence, I did not know one year later Michael A. Palese, MD, and the wonderful staff at The Mount Sinai Hospital would be saving my kidney and my life with the robot named after the world’s true genius, Leonardo da Vinci.
My name is Antonio Guadagnino, and I am a CPA with a demanding tax practice in Astoria, Queens. I have a great family, many good friends, and an all-around great life. On August 6, 2012, while working with a client at my desk, I suddenly had a severe pain on my left side which quickly put me in the emergency room. There, the doctors discovered that I had a large stone in the right tube going to my bladder, a tumor in my left kidney the size of a small lemon (5.5 cm), and a smaller (2 cm) growth in the right kidney.

Mount Sinai Provided Advanced Treatments When Others Did Not

I was in a race against time trying to get the right kidney cancer treatment. I saw three different local urologists who told me that all they would be able to do is remove my entire left kidney. Fortunately, after doing research, I was led, I believe with God’s intervention, to Mount Sinai and Dr. Palese, Director of Minimally Invasive Urology at Mount Sinai and a leading expert on robotic kidney surgery.
I drove to Mount Sinai in the afternoon rush like a New York City cabbie, making it in record time. I had made a future appointment but inquired if the doctor was in and available. After seeing my face and listening to my story, I was shown into Dr. Palese’s office. He looked at my films, comforted me, and was honest regarding the procedures that could be done, including robotic surgery.

Robotic Kidney Surgery at Mount Sinai Saved My Kidneys

On October 4, 2012, I went in for the surgery with a positive attitude, confident that I had the best people qualified to help me. Weeks after the surgery, I saw Dr. Palese and he told me the good and the not-so- good news. He was able to save my entire kidney by using the da Vinci robot because fortunately the tumor was on the bottom of the kidney. Unfortunately, the tumor was cancerous, but it was removed and Dr. Palese said I was cancer-free and no additional treatments were required. Praise God!
We knew my other kidney (right side) had a 2 cm tumor which was probably non-cancerous. Dr. Palese and I agreed to remove it sooner, rather than later, to avoid the possibility that it might grow into something dangerous in the future. On July 2, 2013, I had the second da Vinci robotic procedure. Fortunately, this tumor was on top of the kidney, and Dr. Palese was also able to save the entire second kidney. He also determined that the tumor was non-cancerous.
I was sent home within two days, and I experienced a much faster recovery this time. I was better prepared, mentally positive, and in better shape physically thanks to my friend and fitness trainer Erin Alexander at Matrix Fitness Club. I learned the best thing to do after surgery is to keep moving, to get up and walk as soon as possible.
Now, I am happy and eager to share my story. I admit when first I heard that I had cancer I thought to "keep it in the family" (an Italian thing maybe), but I had a burning feeling inside me to tell my wonderful story of the blessing I have received.
If this testimony gives someone out there experiencing a similar situation hope and inspiration then that genuinely brings me joy, and I will feel the entire challenge has served a greater purpose.

With Kidney Cancer Behind Me, I’m So Thankful

Leonardo da Vinci was a great Renaissance artist and genius, full of talent and gifts. Well, there are modern day Renaissance gifted people that exist, and I personally experienced this at Mount Sinai in the wonderful, compassionate, talented people who work with their minds and hearts. Bravo!
I would like to thank Dr. Palese, the entire staff of great people at Mount Sinai’s Department of Urology, and my friends and family who encouraged me throughout my cancer ordeal and continue to do so.
"And His name, through faith in His name, has made this man strong … Yes, the faith which comes through Him has given him this perfect soundness in the presence of you all." (Acts 3:16)
Most importantly I thank my Savior, Redeemer, and Lord Jesus Christ for giving me the blessing to continue my life and being positive and grateful for the life I have to be lived!
Sincerely,
Antonio Guadagnino

WALDBAUMS AT 31 ST AVE, BRING IN YOUR CALCULATOR

Astoria Heights, If you are going to Waldbaums on 31st Avenue, be prepared because whatever you see on a weekly circular or a price sign might not be what you get. " After various incidents at this food store location, I intend not to go there anymore with a clear mind. I may go to purchase only single items at a time, not multiple deals where you get fooled. I do not like the way they price their sales at Waldbaums lately. All these stupid gimmicks that lie to you because many times the computer system does not have what you see. The morning front desk lady, who had a loud words confrontation with manager Robert last week( the screams were heard in the entire large store ) tried to put another on me when she said certain things that did not make sense before she went to see the signs. Then after refunding the wrong price, she made a big fuzz about a 1.00 coupon THAT COUPON IS REFUNDABLE  by Quaker Oats on a purchase of any two Quaker Oats items. Another morning manager was sitting quietly listening but not offering any of his thoughts. Computerwise and servicewise, the store is lowly rated by me. Even the smell of old fruits turns my stomach upside down as I try to avoid that area of the store. The Department of Agriculture is not as strict as the Department of Health, therefore I can understand that. But the jipping on the Waldbaums computer system needs to be stopped. If they can't handle those crazy with many covenants specials, then stick to simple pricing on a one item basis only. It is not fair to the shoppers and perhaps others to lose out by fake advertising."

DEFENSIVE DRIVING CLASS AT ST FRANCIS SCHOOL OF ASSISI IN ASTORIA

Recording Secretary MARY DELELLIS
Corresponding Secretary MARIE DESANTIS
Treasurer  FRANCO GIORDANO
Public Relations  TONY MAZZARA
DIRECTORS  John Coco, George Delis, William Dionisio
Robert Gordon, Stephanie Gordon. Antonio Guadagnino
Roberto Latanzio, George Rivera, Luciano Sbuttoni
Cris Skivas, Peter Pirovic
The Astoria, Homeowners, Tenants 
Business Civic Association is sponsoring a:
DEFENSIVE DRIVING COURSE
FRIDAY, MARCH 14th, 2014
5:30 P.M.
(End time to be determined by course instructor – Usual course duration 6 hours)
The St. Francis of Assisi School Basement
21-17 45th St., Astoria, NY
• REDUCE 10% OFF YOUR AUTO
INSURANCE RATES.
• REMOVE UP TO A 4-POINTS OFF OF
YOUR DRIVING RECORD.
COST: $40.00
*** PIZZA & SODA INCLUDED ***
CALL RUDY TO RESERVE YOUR SPOT:
(917) 992-4089

ASTORIA HOMEOWNERS TENANTS BUSINESS TO HOST DEFENSIVE DRIVING CLASS

DEFENSIVE DRIVING COURSE
MARCH 14th, 2014 - 5:30PM - Cost $40.00
St. Francis of Assisi School Basement, 21-17 45th Street, Astoria

GIVE US YOUR NAME  AND PHONE NUMBER AND PAYMENT
IN ORDER TO RESERVE A SEAT.
CONTACY RUDY SARCHESE AT
RSARCHESE@AOL.COM OR CALL 917-992-4085

SAVE ON YOUR AUTO INSURANCE AND REDUCE YOUR POINTS.
JOIN US IN ASTORIA ON MARCH 14TH.

AHTB ASSOCIATION TO MEET AT ST FRANCIS OF ASSISI SCHOOL BASEMENT

Please attend this very special meeting on

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 11™, 2013 at 7:30 P.M.
The St. Francis of Assisi School Basement
21-17 45th St., Astoria, NY

SPECIAL GUEST SPEAKERS:

ARAVELLA SIMOTAS
New York State Assemblywoman
Assemblywoman Simotas will update us on state assembly
and community related issues.

DEPUTY INSPECTOR KEVIN MALONEY
The New Commanding Officer of our 114 th Precinct
The New Commanding Officer, Deputy Inspector Kevin Maloney,
will present his new vision on how to keep our community safe.
In addition there will be an update on other community issues.

Your participation and involvement is the goal to make this 
community a better place in which to live.
PLEASE JOIN US !

ASTORIA HOMEOWNERS TO HOST FREE NYPD VIN ETCHING EVENT AT ST FRANCIS OF ASSISI SCHOOL YARD ON SATURDAY OCTOBER 12TH (10AM TO 4PM). MAKE YOUR RESERVATIONS NOW.

ASTORIA IN A ONE WEEK EARLY SUMMER BONANZA

Astoria, New York
It started on Monday with high temperatures in the mid 70's, yesterday around 80 and the next five days expected highs to be between 75 and 85. Today we should reach 83 degrees. The beauty about this is that we won't see any rain until Monday. That's when high temperatures could dip back into the 60's. Enjoy this warm and comfortable weather while it last. The next warm week like this should return in the Spring of 2014. Winter is not far away.

MOTOR BIKERS RULE THE ROAD, BUT NOT THEIR LIVING LOCATIONS SAYS CIRABISI

* THE NYPD AFRAID OF PURSUING MOTOR BIKERS
* MOTORBIKES POLICE CHASE COULD LEAD TO LAWSUITS SAYS POLICE CHIEF INSPECTOR
New York City
A motor biker gang has beaten up an Asian driver who has a struck one of their own and left the scene because he feared for his and family safety. No wonder, even the New York Police Department guys under the command of Ray Kelly can watch and not do anything because they are afraid of pursuing motor bikers. Yes, those unruly barbarians. Big guys with tattoos and large beards, aggressively clothed with a mean look with nasty eyes. No wonder, we are seeing more and more of them on the roads of the City of New York. " Driving in this city is crazy. Not only you have to deal with aggressive taxi drivers and unyielding pedestrians but you also have motorcycles zooming at supersonic speeds." says a resident in the Astoria section of Queens. The NYPD of the 114th Precinct of Cirabisi and company are good only at catching gullible guys with no seat belts ( an easy win win ticket for the men in blue uniform). Stephen Cirabisi, the top guy at the 114th Precinct in Astoria says a pursuit of the motor biker could lead to injury,damage and possibly a costly lawsuit to the NYPD. But, with the help of residents who can identify these wild unruly beasts of the road, he can have his men get to them in a trap at their living locations, thus causing no damages and no lawsuits against the NYPD and the city.

THE AHTB CIVIC ASSOCIATION SCHEDULES MEETING FOR SEPTEMBER 11th

Astoria, New York
The Astoria Homeowners,Tenants & Business Civic Association will host a meeting on Wednesday September 11th, 2013 @ 7:30 pm. It will take place at St Francis of Assisi School Basement on 21-17 45th Street in Astoria. New York State Senator Jose Peralta and Deputy Inspector of the 114th Precinct Stephen Cirabisi will be the special guest speakers.

PISTILLI REALTY FOUNDER, MICHAEL PISTILLI, FUNERAL TOMORROW SATURDAY AUG 31ST

Astoria, New York
Michael Pistilli, a realty owner and founder of Pistilli Realty has passed away this week. He leaves two sons, Joseph and Anthony. The funeral will take place at our Lady of Mt Carmel at 9:30 am.

ASTORIA'S MARIO LALICATA IN HOT WATER WITH WOULD BE TENANTS

Astoria, New York
Mario Lalicata has been accused of taking money for apartments that are not available to rent. He, also, has not returned, or has returned fractional amounts to the people who paid him, as per the acccusation. Craig's List is one of the tools, mentioned in the accusations that Lalicata used, to get these would be tenants looking for a new place in Astoria. "Apartment searching could be a stressful thing and finding someone like a Scammy Mario in your way could make someone really miserable. Taking your hard earned money away for a non valid reason and not returning it is very stressful." Deputy Inspector Cirabisi was alerted at the Police Precinct Meeting back in the spring. He had pointed out that the District Attorney was on the case. Lalicata has a date with the judge on August 27th.

ASTORIA'S ITALIAN FEDERATION LEAVES LANDMARK LOCATION DUE TO LESS POLITICAL FUNDING

Astoria, NY
It was 29-21 21 Avenue, back in 1971, the site of the Italian American Federation when a group of Italian-Americans of Queens, including Vincent Iannece, decided to form a club to help the Queens community. Yesterday, movers were taking out the last of the furniture, equipment and memory and transporting it just about 10 blocks west to 20-12 21 Avenue. " With less funding from the local politicians and budgetary constraints, the directors of the Federation had to relocate and, with the help of the same landlord of the old location, have found this new location near Astoria Park." FPG said. The new office will open on August 13th. Patronato Inca Usa ( 718-267-1994 ), an agency to help Italian immigrants apply and receive their pension from overseas, will relocate too. " We wish the Italian Federation of Queens Club continued success in helping the residents of the community."

BERLUSCONI CONDANNATO

Astoria, NY
La sentenza e' Chiara. Silvio Berlusconi e' stato condannato questa settimana dalla Giustizia ( La corte suprema italiana ). << Questa e' la prima volta che il Cavaliere ha veramente preso una condanna che gli costera' la sua vita politica. E' una cosa che ci si aspettava. Paragonato Berlusconi a Giulio Cesare, anche allora Cesare si trovava nelle stesse brutte acque. Cesare fu condannato ad abbandonare il suo esercito in Gallia e ritornare a Roma. >> dice FPG. << Auguriamo a Berlusconi un buon esodo nel concludere questa situazione nei migliore dei modi.>>
Questo BlogSpot continua a monitorare la situazione in Italia.

ASTORIA HOMEOWNERS, TENANTS, BUSINESS CIVIC TO HOST MEETING AT ST FRANCIS OF ASSISI

ASTORIA HEIGHTS,
The Astoria HTB Civic Association will meet on Wednesday June 12th 2013 at 7.30 pm at the St Francis of Assisi School Basement in Astoria at 21-17 45th Street. Special Guest Speakers will be:
MS. DELILA HALL, DOT Deputy Borough Queens Commissioner
MR IDO SHARGAL, Queens Director of the Mayor's Community Affairs Unit
MR PETER VALLONE, JR, NYC Councilmember,
MR STEPHEN CIRABISI, 114th Precinct Deputy Inspector.
All members as well as residents of the community are invited. Please join us and bring a guest.

BOSTON SUSPECTED SECOND BOMBER AND POLICE KILLER ARRESTED

New York City
Boston is breathing better after a manhunt for 19 year old Dzhokhar A. Tsarnaev has ended with his capture by law enforcement this evening. His older brother Tamerlan was gunned down overnight in a gun and explosives battle with police, something unheard of in rural streets of the United States. Security Globe is a blogspot that supports law enforcement against terrorism as well as companies that have products to prevent terrorism. A company, Implant Sciences, maker of the Quantum Sniffer, is located in the Boston area.

ASTORIA IN THE COLD AND RAIN FOR EASTER SUNDAY

New York City
Easter Sunday on the last day of March was spent in the chilly air mass that continues to hold trees from blossoming in New York City. That is way different from last year when the Easter ambiance was similar to late May thanks to an early spring. << Fortunately, our Easter ( Orthodox )  will be celebrated in early May and we will enjoy beautiful weather>> said a Greek professional resident of Astoria, Queens. This year Greek Easter is more than a month apart from Easter Sunday. It is usually on the Sunday after and rarely on the same Sunday. << I expect temperatures to slowly warm up after this latest cold snap that could send temperatures down to freezing in New York City on Monday and Tuesday nights. I plan to start sowing by end of the week as I believe that this Early April cold and frost mass will be the last of Winter 2012-2013.>> said FPG.

ASTORIA COMMUNITY TO MEET AT PISTILLI'S GRAND MANOR

Astoria Heights, New York
The Astoria Homeowners, Tenants & Business Civic Association to meet tomorrow Thursday March 7th, 2013 at 7.30 pm. The meeting will be held at the Pistilli Grand Manor side entrance located on 45th street between Ditmars Blvd and 23dr Ave, just across the street from the Berry Fresh Farm Supermarkets inside the La Guardia Center. Special Guest Speakers include Congressman Joseph Crowley, Anthony B Aldorasi and Deputy Inspector Stephen Cirabisi of the 114th Precinct. In addition there will be an update on other comminty issues. Please join us and voice your concerns and opinions to the community of Astoria and vicinity.

ITALIAN ELECTIONS RESULTS LEADS TO 3 MEGA PARTIES

BREAKING NEWS: TERZO TRIUMVIRATO SUGGERITO PER L'ITALIA
NEW YORK CITTA', STATI UNITI D'AMERICA
Il terzo triumvirato con Berlusconi, Bersani e Beppe Grillo ( detto anche il grillo parlante ) sarebbe una bella idea per l'Italia. In una nazione dove non c'e ordine e controllo, un triumvirato potrebbe
aprire la porta ad una nuova disciplina politica per una nazione che ha sofferto abbastanza dal dopoguerra fino ad oggi.

PETER LOUIS BEAUTY PRODUCTS DEBUT ON MERCADOMAGICO.COM

PETER LOUIS BEAUTY PRODUCTS DEBUT ON MERCADOMAGICO.COM

Manhattan, New York
Peter Louis shampoos and cremes are now displayed on the new website Mercadomagico.com. The website is only 3 weeks old as it started operations just after Christmas. Peter Louis is a hair salon on 57th street and Lexington Avenue. Mercadomagico.com is a division of Neomagic (NMGC).