First Central Savings Bank Opens 7th Branch

Photos Tony Barsamian

First Central Savings Bank, a vibrant and thriving financial institution, celebrated the grand opening of its seventh branch on Saturday, March 18, The latest in its growing number of branches is located at 37-28 Ditmars Blvd. in the heart of Astoria, providing the community with the highest level of customer service.

The festivities began with a blessing ceremony presided over by Metropolitan Passios of Tiana, Father Politis from St. Irene and Monsignor Boccio from Immaculate Conception Roman Catholic Church in Astoria. In attendance to show their support were also prominent legislative officials who expressed their good wishes to First Central Savings Bank and to Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Joseph Pistilli. Greetings were heard from state Senator George Onorato, City Councilmember Peter Vallone Jr., and Assemblymember Michael Gianaris. Congressmember Carolyn Maloney expressed her congratulatory message via telephone and was represented by George Napolitano. Also present were prominent community leaders, including United Community Civic Association (UCCA) President Rose Marie Poveromo, SHAREing & CAREing Founder and President Anna Kril and Community Board 1 District Manger George Delis. Gazette Publisher Tony Barsamian served as master of ceremonies for the event.

(l. to r.) Louis Orgera, First Central Savings Bank vice chairman, Christine Lolas, First Central vice president, Michael Pistilli, City Councilmember Peter Vallone Jr. and Joseph Pistilli. In rear, Branch Manager Yanni Stroumbakis.

"Through sound banking practices and financial strength, First Central Savings Bank has enjoyed unprecedented growth. We are committed to taking care of our customers and building strong bonds with our community" Pistilli said as he presided over the ribbon cutting ceremony. "First Central Savings Bank has a dedicated Board of Directors made up of local business people who understand what the community really needs-honesty, integrity and excellence in service. Going the extra step to make our customers satisfied is our first and foremost priority."

First Central Savings will hold a special event to honor Greek Independence Day on March 25 from 2 to 5 p.m. at its branch at 3501 30th Ave. Artworks by students of St. Demetrios and St. Catherine will be displayed and cultural dancers in ethnic costumes will perform traditional Greek fold dancing.--Lena Varis

(l. to r.): State Senator George Onorato, Assemblymember Michael Gianaris, First Central Savings Bank Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Joseph Pistilli, Branch Manager Yanni Stroumbakis, Metropolitan Passios of Tiana and City Councilmember Peter Vallone Jr. (L. to r.): Michael Pistilli, Andrew Latos, Joseph Pistilli and Peter Latos. Brothers Andrew and Peter Latos are with the law firm of Latos and Latos on 30th Avenue. (l. to r.): State Senator George Onorato, Athena Onorato and their godson, Phillip Barsamian (front) pose with Speedo the Clown. Speedo made many balloon creations for the children in attendance. Monsignor Boccio of Immaculate Conception Roman Catholic Church. Vice President Pilar Michaelides and Julian Wager, Gazette Community Relations.