LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION commemorating the May 3, 2009, tribute to Anthony
F. Pastena, Sr. in recognition of his many accomplishments and the
renaming of the street at the location of Withers Street and Graham
Avenue to be officially named in his memory

WHEREAS, Individuals who distinguish themselves in service to their
community, significantly enhancing the quality of life of others, merit
the highest commendation of this Legislative Body; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-
standing traditions, it is the intent of this Legislative Body to
commemorate the May 3, 2009, tribute to Anthony F. Pastena, Sr. in
recognition of his many accomplishments and the renaming of the street
at the location of Withers Street and Graham Avenue to be officially
named in his memory and in memory of the service he unselfishly gave to
his community; in addition, a plaque will be placed in a conspicuous
site for all to see; and
WHEREAS, Anthony F. Pastena, Sr. dedicated his life to the betterment
of his community by way of participation and leadership in social,
civic, and religious affairs; and
WHEREAS, The events planned for Sunday, May 3, 2009, are a fitting
tribute to Anthony F. Pastena, Sr., a wonderful community leader who was
also dedicated to his family and his country; at 2:00 pm the renaming
ceremony will be held in front of Our Lady of Snow Hall, Graham Avenue,
Brooklyn, New York, and refreshments will be served after the obser-
vance; and
WHEREAS, A true Brooklynite, Anthony F. Pastena, Sr. was born, raised,
and died in Williamsburg Brooklyn; he worked diligently for many years
to bring to his community both honor and glory; and
WHEREAS, In 1941, Anthony F. Pastena, Sr. entered the United States
military service to defend our country during World War II; after
returning home, he immediately joined the American Legion and became
Commander thereof in a short time; and
WHEREAS, Anthony F. Pastena, Sr. was an active member of the Knights
of Columbus; a member of the San Sabino Society; an active member of the
Order Sons of Italy; and served as President of St. Mary of the Snow
Society for approximately 16 terms which was equal to about 32 years;
and
WHEREAS, Furthermore, he was active at the Senior Citizens center and
served as head of the Conselyea Street Block Association; known as
Brooklyn's greatest advocate, he belonged to almost every community
organization for the betterment of the neighborhood; and
WHEREAS, In 1976, Anthony F. Pastena, Sr. was Co-Chairman of the
Badame-Sessa American Legion BiCentennial Parade and Celebration; this
was one of the biggest parades ever in the community, comprised of over
56 community organizations, four marching bands, a replica of the
Battleship Missouri, and was observed by over 15,000 viewers; and
WHEREAS, With him throughout were his loving wife, Raffaela Pastena,
and their three wonderful sons, all of whom felt privileged to be a part
of his life and rejoiced in his achievements; and
WHEREAS, The significance of Anthony F. Pastena, Sr.'s contributions
to the Italian community in New York and around the country, and to his
heritage, is immeasurable; this Legislative Body is pleased to have this
opportunity to recognize his legacy and to bring it to the attention of
the people of the great State of New York for the edification and
emulation of others; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the May 3, 2009, tribute to Anthony F. Pastena, Sr. in

recognition of his many accomplishments and the renaming of the street
at the location of Withers Street and Graham Avenue to be officially
named in his memory; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to the family of the late Anthony F. Pastena, Sr.