Clifton Merchant Magazine - August 2021 by Clifton Merchant Magazine

From the Editor

Remember

2011? We Do. Read On. by Tom Hawrylko

Ten years gone past in a heartbeat. This month’s magazine takes us on a tour of the not-so-distant past. For the next 57 pages, we use our archives to recall with photos and a timeline some milestones and everyday events of 2011. For me, one of the proudest milestones of my publishing career can be found in the May, 2011, edition. That’s when the Clifton’s 2011 Police Unity Tour team members from left front, Steve Berge, Derek family of 20-year-old USMC Cpl. Guy Fogg, Michael McLaughlin. Standing from left, Brian Fopma, Gary Giardina, Tulp, a US Marine who was Killed In AcJohn Kavakich, Randy Colondres, Robert Bais, Tom Hawrylko, William Bais. tion on April 30, 1969, gave me access to dozens of the letters he wrote home. Ten years ago, this magazine shared Love Stories, Wrapped in twine and sorted by date, those letters aland celebrated the lives of people who thrived, thanks to lowed me to “hear” the voice of Guy as he told of the matMedicine and Miracles. We explained how products were ter-of-fact days of his life in the fields of Vietnam. Thanks Made in Clifton and read of the achievements of the Class to those letters and interviews and photos provided by his of 2011. We tracked down Mustangs from the classes of family, Guy Tulp’s words, deeds and service will live on 1941 to 2001 and we shipped out to Camp Clifton. We forever on our pages and in our archives. marked the 10 year milestone of 9/11 and celebrated the Back in 2011, my son, Joseph was the top writer here. diversity of this ever-evolving city. For Veterans Day, we He was just 25, but a skilled writer who helped fill our shared stories of service and in December, readers enpages with a keen sense of story telling. These days, Joe joyed the memories and traditions of fellow Cliftonites. is in the medical publishing field and doing great stuff. So turn the pages and enjoy the journey back to 2011.

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Editor & Publisher Tom Hawrylko Art Director Ken Peterson Design Intern Jovo Bjelcevic Associate Editor & Social Media Mgr. Ariana Puzzo Business Mgr. Irene Kulyk Cliftonmagazine.com • August 2021

Talking up savings in January, 2011: Bart D’Ambra of Clifton Savings, Ann Kursar, VP, Valley National Bank, investment advisor Joe Bionci, Jeff Angelo of American Coin, Richard Bzdek of North Jersey Federal Credit Union.

Above, Wine, food, music, cigars. That’s what folks enjoyed at the 12th Annual Winemaking Competition presented by Corrado’s on Jan. 28, 2011 at The Venetian in Garfield. At right, CHS Athletic Trainers Meaghan Conti and Tom Cutalo with Student of the Month, Michelle Lima.

Jan. 1 2011: Richard Berdnik, Clifton resident and a former Detective Lieutenant with the Clifton Police Department for 28 years is sworn in as the 49th Sheriff of Passaic County. Berdnik defeated Republican Felix Garcia in November 2010 by a 57,069 to 42,770 margin. Jan. 1, 2011: Pasquale Orsini, former principal of Bloomfield High School, was named as acting principal for CHS. Orisini replaced principal Jimmie Warren, who was on paid leave following sexual harassment claims brought by the parent of a student.

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Jan. 1, 2011: Clifton enters an agreement totalling $196,000 to handle health department services for Little Falls from July 1 through June 30, 2013. Services included clinics, immunizations, pool inspections, screenings, restaurant inspections, garbage complaints and hazardous materials response.

Jan. 2011: Bellin’s Swim Club and Teddy’s Restaurant are history. The properties were leveled at the Passaic border on Main Ave. The Zoning Board approved a 6,800 sq. ft. retail building and 3,000 sq. ft. restaurant for the space.

William J. Bate and Coach Emil Bednarcik.

Jan. 5, 2011: US Rep. Bill Pascrell, Jr. was sworn in for his eighth term as Congressman on Jan. 5. Since 1996, the Democrat has represented the 8th Congressional District, which covers parts of Essex and Passaic Counties. Pascrell was also reassigned to the House Ways and Means Committee and appointed to the House Budget Committee.

Jan. 7, 2011: The Map of Clifton fifth edition is published within Clifton Magazine.

On Jan. 27, 2011, Clifton residents woke up to as much as 19 inches of snow, with snow drifts towering much higher. Hannah and Luke Kulesa are pictured on top of one of the drifts in front of Able Hardware on Van Houten Ave.. The pile reached some 20 feet tall, reaching the bottom of the front sign after plows cleared the lot.

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Jane Stepien moves her business Hair Expressions from Downtown Clifton to 730 Broad St. She is seen here fourth from right with staff, family, friends, and council members Peter Eagler and Jim Anzaldi to help cut the ribbon in mid-January, 2011.

At left, Matthew Tyahla opened his self-titled restaurant on Bloomfield Avenue in January, 2011. Above, Suzanne Sia and Michael Savastano (right) recently became members of the Passaic-Clifton Chapter of UNICO National, an Italian American service organization whose members engage in charitable works, support higher education and perform patriotic deeds.

Jan. 21, 2011: Bliss Lounge, at 955 Allwood Rd., offers the popular night spot to raise funds for the members of the Clifton Police Unity Tour. The nightclub was owned by Joey Barcellona and closed in 2017 after it lost its live music permit. Known past performers at the nightclub included Trey Songz, Snoop Dogg, Rick Ross and 50 Cent.

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Jan. 29, 2011: Clifton Optimist and forever nice guy William J. Bate passes away at the age of 76. Bate served as a dedicated public servant for more than five decades. A born and raised Cliftonite, Bate served on the Clifton City Council, as a Passaic County Freeholder, and in both the New Jersey Assembly and Senate.

The Mustang 2011 Academic Decathlon Team, from back row: Kishan Patel, Hasan Siddiqui, Zachary Christensen, Sana Ajaj, Palash Mehta, Atul Johri. Front row: Gretchen Alonso, Catherine Watson, Sarah Mowaswes, Rushi Pate, Bhavin Shah, Alexis Budhi, Hiada Saberi, Jessica Gonzaga.

Feb. 2011: Clifton firefighters ski at the Hidden Valley Club in Vernon to raise money for The Burn Center at Saint Barnabas. It was the 24th Annual New Jersey Firefighters Ski Race.

Feb. 1, 2011: The City Council approves repurposing a vacant lot on Lake Avenue where once stood the former American Legion building. The Botany lot was a vacant eyesore since the city purchased it in 2007. The long-anticipated move determined that the lot would become six units of housing.

Feb. 6, 2011: The 13th annual Family Super Bowl Party was held at the Boys & Girls Club on Feb. 6. The Green Bay Packers defeated the Pittsburgh Steelers 31-25, as kids and adults alike watched the game and enjoyed games, sports and food in an alcohol and gambling free environment. The event is sponsored by Clifton Against Substance Abuse, Clifton Merchant Magazine and over 21 individual and companies, each who contribute $100 to be a member of the so called “21 Club.” Cliftonmagazine.com • August 2021

Top of page in 2011, Abel and Madeline Alicea with their children Seth, 14, Gabriella, 10, and Jason, 2. Stacey and Steven Crampton, John Traier and Mark Peterson, Wes Krygsman, a CHS 2003 alum, with his wife, Julie Passaro Krygsman, a 2001 CHS grad. Below, Chris and Eddie Machovsky, John and Janice Moers, Christina and Yuri Turchyn.

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More of our Valentine’s featured couples from left: Helen and Mychail Newmerzyckyj, Jackie Paz and Lou Schimmel, Dan and Suzannah Brown, Chris and Roe de Vinck, Janis and Len Thomas.

Feb. 15, 2011: The City Council approves the leasing of Schultheis Farm on Grove Street to City Green, Inc. The five-year agreement allowed use of the 7-acre site as a community farm and children’s learning garden.

Feb. 20, 2011: Councilwoman Mary Sadrakula was the source of much news in the month of February. Sadrakula held the first of her open forums for Clifton residents at the City Hall conference room. She is the first member of the Council to hold this type of forum since Councilwoman Lorraine Bremmer did in 1990. On Feb. 15, the Superior Court found there to be a conflict of interest after she refused to leave the room in a December 2010 meeting as her peers discussed the appointments of Arlene Bayeux and Joseph Koribanics to the Zoning Board. Sadrakula had been a vocal opponent of a proposed temple by applicant Congregation Shomrei Torah of PassaicClifton Passaic in her Dwasline neighborhood. As s a result, the two Board members had limitations placed on them by the judge. Then in March, Sadrakula had her attorney inform the city of Clifton that she would like the city to pay for her legal fees. On Feb. 20, Sadrakula was arrested and charged with aggravated assault and simple assault after a confrontation with her sister, Lorraine Sadrakula. County officials became involved after a 911 tape was released of the event, in which Sadrakula referenced her Council position and assured the officer that everything was ok.

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The Theater League of Clifton and the Clifton Arts Center host a joint fundraiser with the Feb. 13, 2011 production of Miss Valentine. The cast, from left front: Gloria Kolodziej, Rachel Gutierrez, Cassandra Lee, Allison Green, Gabriella Pinales, Denise Dickens, Kristen Hariton, Elizabeth Eisenmenger. At rear, Amie Kolodziej, Kurt Irizarry, John Traier, Geoffrey Waumans; not pictured: Frank Salensky. Miss Valentine is a charming story about the originator of Valentines (Esther Howland) and a group of her fellow classmates at Mount Saint Holyoke probably the first group of young women that attended college in our history.

Clifton’s Zippo Man, Michael Grimaldi, who released his second book, ‘And You Thought Zippo Only Made Lighters Vol. 2.’

March 2011: U.S. Census figures show Clifton has breached the 80,000 population mark, with a total of 84,136 individuals residing in the city limits. The 6.9% increase also featured changing demographics: those of Latino origins increased to 26,854 from 15,608.

From left, PBA President Stephen Berge, FMBA Committee Co-Chairs Jeff Bracken and Frank Yodice and Firefighter John Bisaccio. Bottom from left, PBA Committee Chair Randy Colondres, PBA State Delegate Michael L. McLaughlin and FMBA President Robert DeLuca. The 20th Annual Fraternal Beefsteak is on Feb. 18 at the Clifton Boys and Girls Club.

March 2011: The Corrado’s family franchise continues to grow and expand, as the Clifton-based shopping center opens a third Corrado’s Market in Fairfield on Rt. 46.

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March 9, 2011: A battle over hot dogs begins after Clifton institution Rutt’s Hut files suit against the renamed Mutt’s Hut, which was known as Adam’s Bagel & Deli prior to the name change in January.

Cliftonmagazine.com • July 2021

Readers met Norm Dikdan, aka the Spirit in the Sky. He said “Life equals 5 daughters, 2 daily glasses of milk and 63 years of marriage.” They also met Glenn Gero who stayed in shape rowing on the Passaic River.

Billy Gibson (on the March, 2011 cover) and after beginning his treatments with retired Clifton Police Lt. Pat Ciser.

Dr. Thomas Del Casale and Dr. Michael Basista of Immedicenter. Brooke Van Beveren, a 2005 CHS alum, survived Hodgkins Lymphoma. Councilman Joe Kolodziej shared his story about surviving a fire and at right, Eva Dunai at The Salt Cavern.

August 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Downtown Clifton dentists Dr. Fredrick J. Paternoster with his father Dr. Angelo Paternoster. Bob Smith five years after his lap band surgery. Eye surgeons Dr. William Lesko, his daughter, Dr. Cecily Lesko, and Dr. Stuart Wunsh. At left, Erin Cluney, with her friend Billy Maurer. Mike Porter Jr. from a photo taken at the July 1, 2006 City Council swearing in ceremony. Chandler Parsons, with his grandfather, Don, a 1946 Clifton High graduate and former standout on the hardwood.

Cliftonmagazine.com • August 2021

At left, Jennifer Henkel, center, with some of her students at Wee Care Child Care Center on Maplewood Ave. At CHS above from left: Amanda Zaccone, Mario Godoy, Choreographer Lois Manzella-Marchitto, Producer Elizabeth Eisenmenger, Mike Sunbury, Brian Bender, Gabby Cabacab.

March 16, 2011: The NJ Supreme Court vindicates Clifton Savings Bank in a unanimous ruling in a suit brought by Lawrence Seldman. Seldman challenged stock option and restricted stock awards granted to directors of Clifton Savings Bank pursuant to Clifton Savings Bancorp’s 2005 Equity Incentive Plan. A majority of Clifton Saving Bancorp’s shareholders previously approved the plan.

August 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

On March 12, 2001, Self Reliance (NJ) Federal Credit Union, at 237 Dayton Ave., hosts the opening and blessing of its branch in Clifton’s Historic Botany Village. From left, Val Bogattchouk, CEO, Father Oleh Zhownirovych, Holy Ascension Ukrainian Orthodox Church, Ken Wanio, Board Director, Father Andriy Dudkevych, St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Church, Mayor James Anzaldi and John Penkalski, President of the Historic Botany Village Special Improvement District. Self Reliance is now Nova UA Federal Credit Union. The Seventh Annual Passaic County Student Film and Video Festival is set for April 16, a juried exhibition of student and independent filmmakers’ work. The film festival is the brainchild of Scott Alboum, pictured at left with camera. After graduating CHS in 1995, Alboum earned a Masters Degree in film production at the University of Miami and taught film making at a Georgia college, where he got the idea for the festival.

Cliftonmagazine.com • August 2021

Made In Clifton: Top right, on the production floor at Wagner Rack, owners Wendy Prior and Ron Wagner Jr. Peter and John Zielonka with Arnold Sisco, their longest term employee. They presented him with a plaque for 10 years of service. Above, at Blickman, stainless steel is readied for processing in furniture for the medical field. At right Marc Friedlander with Cliftonite Miguelina Perez, who has worked for MTS for nearly 20 years. Owner Harry Benedikt holds a cobalt chrome hip ball while machinist Jessie Rodriguez displays the other samples.

August 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Cliftonmagazine.com • August 2021

Arlene Agresti, Judy Bassford, Blase Billack, Lucy Danny, Paul Graupe, Rosemary Pino.

March 29, 2011: The Clifton Board of Education approved a budget of nearly $141.8 million. It represented an increase of approximately $75 for the average assessed home. The budget included an additional $1.4 million in state aid, after Clifton lost $7 million the year prior. April 1, 2011: CHS Principal Jimmie Warren resigns as he prepares to fight claims of sexual harassment stemming from a December 2010 incident in which he was alleged to have made unwanted advances on the parent of a CHS student. A Grand Jury in Passaic County indicted Warren in May 2011 on a single charge of official misconduct. The jurors declined to indict him on any charges alleging sexual misconduct.

April 2, 2011: Athenia Steel Park opens in a ceremony featuring exhibition matches with teams from the Clifton Stallions Soccer Club, the Clifton Junior Football League, and the Clifton Junior Lacrosse League.

April 27, 2011: Judith Bassford, Arlene Agresti and Lucy Danny claim a seat in the BOE race. Election Day was delayed at School 11 after the facility was evacuated due to a handwritten bomb threat found in the classroom. A police investigation found the threat to be false and written by an 11-year-old. April 27, 2011: Clifton author Michael C. Gabriele unveils his new book, “The Golden Age of Bicycle Racing in New Jersey” at a reception at the Nutley Museum.

Getting ready for Memorial Day, 2011: Bill Van Eck is part of the crew of volunteers who set up the display of over 1,300 American flags on the campus of city hall, which appears five times a year. The idea is to honor a veteran for their time in service and to remember them in perpetuity.

May 2011: New BOE policies result in administrative and coaching changes at CHS. A policy adopted in July 2010 to combat double dipping led to the resignation of three popular coaches: Football coach Ron Anello, soccer coach Joe Vespignani, and girls’ track coach Florence Calise.

Coaches Ron Anello, Joe Vespignani, and Florence Calise.

May 2011: BOE Commissioner Jim Daley is reappointed president, while Commissioner Gary Passenti is named vice president, at the Board’s reorganization meeting following the April elections.

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November 19, 1968 (in a letter from USMC Cpl. Guy Tulp to his brother Gary) Gary, I’m going back to the bush as we are going on a new operation starting tomorrow. When I get paid in the field I want to mail a check of $200 to you and want you to do my Christmas shopping. Now listen, I want you to get everyone something nice, and especially Tracie and yourself. Don’t let Tracie know as she’ll want to do the shopping for you. Talk to Mom and get her to help. Bye for now, Your brother, Guy

May 2, 2011: Speculation arises about the future of the Passaic YM-YWHA after a meeting is held to discuss the sale of the large building located at 199 Scoles Avenue. In existence since 1932, the Jewish Y had been located there since 1976. In Sept. 2010, letters were sent to its members notifying them that the facility was slated to close by the end of the Summer of 2011. Today, there stands the Clifton Sports & Fitness Club. May 6, 2011: The May issue of Clifton Merchant Magazine is available throughout the city. The issue honors Clifton’s veterans, both whose names are inscribed on the Downtown monument and those who returned. Featured on the cover was Guy Tulp, whose letters home from Vietnam have allowed his voice to live after his death in the jungle of that country. May 23, 2011: Cliftonites donated 1,800 inches of hair at the 6th Annual Locks of Love Cut-a-thon at Christopher Columbus Middle School. May 30, 2011: Cliftonites honor the Fallen on Memorial Day with its annual 11 am services at the War Monument, Main Memorial Park.

August 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Standing in front of an oil painting of Guy done in 1979 by Sharon (Rist) Tahan, are brother Bob, mom Josephine, and nephew and namesake Guyler Tulp, who is the son of Gary, at right.

Above, WWII Veteran Bill Guarino and his wife, Jane. From left is Carl Rodriguez, Carla Dunphy, Nancy Hiscano, his wife, Ruth. Below, Charles Lewis, a WWII Army Veteran, Joseph Hawrylko during WWII, U.S. Army Rifleman. Bernie Ficacci in Vietnam in 1962. George Ballkjy, US Army Sgt. in an undated service photo.

Cliftonmagazine.com • August 2021

Rosalind Benigno with her son Dennis who sustained a traumatic brain injury in 1984 as a CHS student. That tragedy led to the family’s founding of the Coalition for Brain Injury Research.

Top left, Honorary Chair of the Geraci League St. Joseph’s Day Feast Michael Corradino with Chair Nina Corradino. Above, Clifton Rec girls softball team. At right, Bob D’Arco, Bob Foster, Executive Director of the Clifton Boy’s & Girl’s Club, accepts a $2,000 check from Passaic-Clifton UNICO member and Bliss Lounge owner, Joe Barcellona.

Former Councilwoman Gloria Kolodziej accepted a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Clifton Optimist Club on May 22, 2011 while Coach Jack Whiting received the Community Service Award. Clifton Police Sgt. Billy Gibson was the Judge Joseph J. Salerno Respect for Law recipient and former NFLer and 1986 CHS grad Dave Szott was the 2011 Friend of Youth. Longtime CHS Project Graduation chair Maryann Cornett with her son Joe, who graduated CHS in 2009.

August 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

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The 2011 CHS Top 10, sitting from left, Marija Kamcera, Ruchi Shah, Kevin Lorenc, Divya Patel and Priya Shah. Standing Sylan Wong, Emily Komarczyk, Vetri Velan, Jessica Gonzaga and Jessica Kunadia.

Above: Some 2011 CAST students who broadcast the daily news at CHS. Left top, with their Sunshine Collection at the center, kneeling, from left, CHS students Charles Buckso and Vetri Velan. Rear from left is Atul Johri, Ruchi Shah, Kirti Nahar and Marija Kamceva. On June 18, 2011, dozens of Boys & Girls Club of Clifton members (at left) joined community gardeners, volunteers and Amway staff to plant an organic garden and participate in healthy eating activities. Clifton was one of five Clubs in the USA selected to participate in Amway’s Positive Sprouts program.

August 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

June 26, 2011: The second annual St. Philip The Apostle Council 11671 Knights of Columbus Tank Pull Challenge takes place on Clifton Avenue, between St. James Place and Olga B. Terrace. Participants raised $55,000 for the Wounded Warrior Project. Those in attendance included local groups, as well as celebrities from the Real Housewives of New Jersey.

June 2011: Clifton Police Lt. John Burke is one of 3,000 torch bearers for the Special Olympics. Burke carried the flame through Downtown Clifton as it traveled the state with competitors on the way to the NJ Finals in Princeton. June 5, 2011: Freddy Dingo of Dingbatz opens the doors of his bars for a fundraiser concert to support the New Jersey Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. The Clifton-based band, The Unknown, helped coordinate the event and later performed with The Dirty Stayouts. June 17, 2011: A fundraiser to benefit Clifton Police Detective Tom Campbell is held at the Boys & Girls Club. In 2001 he was diagnosed with a rare disease called Autoimmune hepatitis, which causes irreversible damage to the liver and surrounding organs.

Memorial Day 2011: Albin Zwiazek, Frank Smith and Albin Sr.

June 20, 2011: Hannah Anolik (bottom right), a 13-year-old eighth grader at Woodrow Wilson Middle School, meets US Senator Frank Lautenberg. She testified on Capitol Hill about Type 1 Diabetes for Children’s Congress 2011. Children’s Congress takes place every two years. VFW Post 7165 honored Alvin Kipnis (with suspenders) on June 26, 2011, as Outstanding Citizen, Mark Zidiak, EMT of the Year, Lt. Patrick Tanski, Firefighter of the Year and John Biegel III, City Employee of 2011.

Cliftonmagazine.com • August 2021

July 2011: Russell Triolo, CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of Union County, is named executive of the year by the Garden State Chapter of The Professional Association of Boys & Girls Clubs. He is an alumnus of the Boys & Girls Club of Clifton and a 2009 Hall of Fame inductee. July 5, 2011: The City Council approves Matthew Watkins as City Manager by a 6-1 vote. Watkins was previously the City Manager in South Brunswick for 12 years and, at that point, had worked in government for three decades.

Red Knights NJ 19 Founders at Rutt’s Hut. Steve Lambiase, Greg Pavan, Stan Novak, Woody Campbell and Ernie Berthold. They ride for David Porter, inset and the Fifth Annual David’s Day on July 9 at the Clifton Masonic Lodge. David’s Day is a celebration of the life of David Nicholas Porter, who lost his 14 month battle against cancer (Wilms’ Tumor) on Aug. 25, 2006.

July 11, 2011: The First Annual John Greco Memorial Golf Outing is held at the Knoll Country Club. Greco was a teacher at CCMS and lacrosse coach at MSU, who unexpectedly passed away in November of 2010. July 26, 2011: Cliftonite Sohail Mohammad is named a Passaic County Superior Court Judge. Mohammad became the first Indian-American and second Muslim to sit on a bench in New Jersey. Mohammad became a citizen in 1986 and graduated from Seton Hall Law in 1993.

August 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Matthew Watkins, John Greco, Sohail Mohammad. Below, some of the Mustangs we caught up with, then and now, Paul Epstein (’61), JoAnn Morici (’41), Walter Voinov (’71).

Former Clifton Mustang standout Nikki Krzysik played for the Philadelphia Independence of the WPS in the championship game on Aug. 27. Chris Opperman and One More Once were among the musicians profiled for the August music edition.

Aug. 2011: Clifton Merchant’s editor and publisher Tom Hawrylko marks the 20th anniversary of Ukraine’s independence on our pages. Hawrylko wrote an essay on his church community. He hoped that readers of our magazine would find it reflective of their own American experience and the pride that they have in their unique origins. Aug. 2011: One More Once, a jazzy, big band, were among the muscial groups profiled in August. The group notably included a number of CHS alums, including many who were part of the Showband of the Northeast. Mustang alum included: Joe Verderese (CHS ’99), Glen Levitsch, (CHS ’01), Ryan Krewer (CHS ’97), Luis Imparato (CHS ’02), Shane Zwievel (CHS ’87), and Karen Verderese (’96).

Aug. 2011: The Athenia Veterans Post begins hosting classic car shows on Mondays throughout the summer in the lot across the street from its Huron Avenue building. Aug. 2011: CHS senior Eric James was one of 2,250 young men and women selected to attend the Naval Academy Summer Seminar program for students who are considering enrolling in the US Naval Academy.

Aug. 5, 2011: Mustang memories and music were the themes for the August edition. Our magazine took a look back at Camp Clifton, like we do again in this edition, and its legacy... (turn to page 32) Cliftonmagazine.com • August 2021

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Cliftonmagazine.com • August 2021

By Julie Generalli Dominick

Around the blazing council fire light We have met in comradeship tonight Round about the whispering trees Guards our golden memories And so before we close our eyes to sleep Let us pledge each other that we’ll keep Camping friendships strong and deep Till we meet again... 32

August 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

In 2011, at the Grande Saloon, alumni campers Tom DiDonna, Karen Dominick, writer Julie (Generalli) Dominick, Robert Lipala, Keith Oakley, Ray Kalas. Bottom left, a 2009 photo from a Camp Clifton reunion in which old friendships and campfires were rekindled.

The tradition at Camp Clifton was to end each campfire with a song pledging to keep our summer friendships alive, the words to which are on the facing page. We laughed about how corny those lines sounded when we were teens, but decades later — and for generations of campers — those verses have kept us connected. Photos and comments from former campers — generations of whom have remained friends and some have even married! — tell the story. Camp Clifton holds a special place in the hearts of many of us. I was a camper and later a counselor at the Clifton Boys Club camp from 1967-1971. Today, 50 years later, I still remain closely connected to those who have a shared history of carefree and blissful days of summers’ past. In 1961, the Clifton Boys Club purchased Camp Ranger in Jefferson Township and opened the camp for boys in 1963. Four years later, Clifton girls were offered the chance to attend a two-week session. By 1968, another girls’ session was added due to popular demand. A bargain at $110 a session, my parents and many others took full advantage and signed all six of us up.

Top: Kathy DeLuca and campers receiving instructions.

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Cliftonmagazine.com • August 2021

While this story originally appeared in 2011, here are some new photos, from top left: Sue Gogick Gruchacz, Mark Strulowitz, Lisa Shapiro, Staci Kurzer Wilson, Lainie Reisman. From bottom left: Camp Clifton Sign and 1976 Sioux Cabin campers.

Friendships—Like Families—Forged “You were the reason my sisters and I went to camp,” Patricia DeLora told me about a decade ago. “Our moms met at a UNICO meeting and the next thing I knew, we were out buying trunks with locks on them.” Sisters Joanne, Patricia and Linda DeLora also attended the first girls’ session and instantly bonded with me and my own three sisters, Roseanne, Janet and Vicki Generalli. We became so close to the DeLora family that many people thought we were related. “Maybe that’s because you call my mother Aunt Toot and I call your mother Aunt Gen,” Patricia laughed. A decade ago, I had a chance to reminisce with Patricia, who resided in Bloomfield with her husband, Dr. Richard Podkul, and their children, Lauren and Alex.

August 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

“Remember when the counselors kept playing the soundtrack to Romeo and Juliet over and over? Your sister Roseanne drove us to see the movie at the Clifton Theater on Main Avenue in 1968.” Romeo and Juliet remained on Pat’s and my top 10 movie list. The counselors left lasting impressions on us all. “I remember my [counselor-in-training] Diane Quinn because she was beautiful, so nice,” Pat mused. Diane’s mother was the first camp nurse and is remembered fondly by many. Kathy DeLuca, whose family name is synonymous with the Boys Club and Camp Clifton, recalled her first days at camp and time spent in the camp infirmary. “In 1967, I went to see my brothers Vic and Ray on visiting day,” said Kathy, who was only 9-years-

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John M. Traier has been a Certified Public Accountant since 1982. He is the principal of John M. Traier & Associates, LLC. His specialty is helping clients thrive as they navigate life changes and business changes at age 50 and beyond. Cliftonmagazine.com • August 2021

old, “and everyone loved me. I was just a kid, and they begged me to stay. I went to visit and never went home. Little did they know, I had chickenpox. Our entire cabin had to be quarantined. I ended up staying in the camp infirmary for my first week up there.” Kathy and I fondly remembered the camp cook, Ben Pierce, who was most likely the first African American man that we knew. Kathy recalled asking Ben every night, “What’s for dinner?” He would answer, “Food.” Kathy: “What kind of food?” Ben: “Good food!” Kathy and I would eventually become bunkmates and good buddies. Together, we earned the right to take an overnight trip on the Appalachian Trail, a requirement necessary to earn the coveted red feather that would make us Red Squaws, following in the camp tradition of Native American lore. “When we became Red Squaws, they made us put cloves under our tongues after the council fire ceremony and we weren’t allowed to talk for the rest of night,” recalled Kathy. Looking back, I realize the counselors were no fools. What a great way to keep us quiet. The Golden Years Kathy DeLuca Pugliese became a certified teacher, who ended up living in Clifton with her daughters, Jacqueline and Victoria, and working as a bar manager in Woodridge. Her brother Victor became the mayor of Maplewood, where he and his wife Janey lived. In 2010, he was inducted into the Boys Club Hall of Fame for his contributions to camp and the Boys Club. By then, DeLuca had been active in politics and civic affairs for a long time. Vic DeLuca attended Camp Clifton from 1966 to 1969 and started working as a kitchen boy. In 2011, he remembered the historic moment in July of 1969 when the first men walked on the moon. “We had all the kids in the dining hall to watch this historic event on an old, cruddy black and white television. The picture was so bad, From top: Camp Clifton’s Doc Fedor at Pool, Camp Clifton’s Kitchen in 1972, and campers at breakfast in August 1971.

August 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Cliftonmagazine.com • August 2021

Top row from left: Bob Lipala with Rocky, Sue Lindemann Burman Amy Lindemann Castillo, Beth Lindemann Bagley, Joe Crivelli, Rich Day, Robin Benjamin and Amy Karbane. Bottom row from left: Matthew Miktus, Kathy Concilio, Josh Gross, Joe Balega and a counselor with youth.

all we saw was moon snow. Godzilla could have been walking on the moon, for all we knew,” Vic remembered. He shared his first camp cabin with Bob Lipala, another Hall of Fame inductee. Bob, known to campers as “Magoo,” worked in every capacity at camp before becoming the camp’s director. “Those years – 1967 to 1969 – were the Golden Years at camp. A time of peace, love and happiness,” said Bob at a mini-reunion held in July of 2011 at the Grande Saloon with camp alumni Keith Oakley, Ray Kalas, Tom DiDonna and Karen Dominick. Upon seeing Bob for the first time in decades, Karen exclaimed, “It’s Mr. Camp Clifton!” Surrounded by plenty of grass, woods and water, Camp Clifton was a welcome respite for city kids.

August 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

For The Love Of Nature “I went to camp to catch frogs, turtles and snakes,” Bob said. “I would finish my work in the kitchen, walk down to the lake, catch these creatures and bring them up to the nature shed.” Not surprisingly, Bob would become the nature counselor, a position he loved. Looking over an old copy of the camp newsletter, Wocanda’s Whisper, Bob mused at his own writings from so long ago. “Those words were obviously not from someone looking for a paycheck or a 9-5 job. They were from a way of life, a special way shared by all the campers. It was a ‘happening’, a ‘Woodstock of campers.’ Feelings were meant to be alive and shared – coldness and detachment seen as problems to be overcome.” Years later, Bob still knew a great deal of

Cliftonmagazine.com • August 2021

From left: Ray McNulty with Scott Wagner and Debbie Yassen with Grace Gentile Biener. Below: Gary Carter, Erik and Kenny at Camp Clifton in 1981.

Camp Clifton’s history and credited the Board for having the foresight to get funding to buy the camp in 1961. “I’m grateful to have experienced and shared all of those feelings in my lifetime – even if it was a long time ago. There was a special outpouring of love then, and love is its own reward.” Lifelong Club Membership In 2011, Bob was the treasurer of the Men’s Club of the Clifton Boys & Girls Club and lived in Lake Hopatcong with his wife Rosemary and their children, Nick and Sara. He and his family still appreciated nature and rented a cabin in Stokes State Forest every Father’s Day. Another fellow Boys Club Hall of Famer is Tom DiDonna, whose connection to Camp Clifton is roundabout. Tom claimed, “The club board members took a chance with me. I was a goofball, always in trouble. When I stopped terrorizing kids at the Boys Club, he gave me a job at camp.” He recalled being paid $100 for the entire summer of 1969. At the time, Tom was working at Good Deals, a supermarket located where Corrado’s Market is today, and had to take a leave of absence to work at camp. “Your brother Ernie [Generalli] was in my cabin. He gave me a run for my money.” Being a wise guy himself, Tom knew how to handle tough kids. Tom came to Clifton after living in Paterson and at one time, lived in the house next to Juliano’s Pizza, the building that is now the Grande Saloon. “My mom was a single parent and the Boys Club provided a safe place for me to grow up.” Tom met his wife Karen at Good Deals and in 2011, they still resided in Clifton and had two daughters. He was a delivery driver for DHL for 18 years. Tom also coached Clifton Stallion soccer. “Everywhere I go, I hear people say, ‘Hey Coach!’ It’s a good feeling knowing you made a difference in a kid’s life.” Keith Oakley’s connection to the Clifton Boys Club

August 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

is generational and legendary. His mom, Mary, was the secretary at the club and his dad worked at the club in many capacities. His brother Wayne and sister Cindy also attended. Keith liked to brag: “I was one of the first kids to see Camp Clifton when the Boys Club bought it, and one of the last adults on the property when it was sold.” Keith taught Native American lore at camp, which he learned from visiting the National Museum of the American Indian in NYC as a teenager. “I wanted to learn traditional lore and how to make crafts so the experience would be more authentic.” His ultimate honor as a youngster was when he was inducted as an honorary Golden Chief wearing a full headdress and war paint standing near the campfire. In 2011, he was more recently inducted into the Boys Club Hall of Fame. Keith became an active alumni member, as well as a father of four and a grandfather. He worked for Air Chek Window Depot in Clifton for years before retiring. As for Ray Kalas, I think he came to the Saloon out of curiosity. He did go to the Boys Club and worked at camp for a short time. He and I had a five-minute romance in CHS and it was great to see him again, looking healthy and fit.

Lifelong Personal Connections One of Ray’s camp memories included waking up to Paul McCartney’s “Uncle Albert” as it was blasted through the PA system early in the morning. He moved to Morris Township with his wife and has a daughter. Ray taught as a Communications professor at the County College of Morris. So many campers, so many cherished memories. The more alumni that I spoke to, the more stories I heard … Mrs. Oakley playing Santa Claus at the winter reunions. Counselors sneaking out to the Milk Barn for ice cream. Bags and bags of caramel M&M’s, which were donated to the camp because they ‘melted in your hand.’ Henry Sabot asking: “Do you want to go on a bear hunt?” Russ Triolo singing “The End” by Jim Morrison. Dave Rainone throwing my sister Vicki in the lake because she was afraid of its orange murky water. Singing “Miss Ol’ Leary put a Lantern in the Shed” in the dining hall as loud as possible. The DeVries family, the Vladicheck family, the beautiful MacVicker sisters, Severin Palydowycz, Wally Joblanski, John Mullan, Steve Sneizak. The list goes on… Sitting across the table from my camp friends at the Grande Saloon in 2011, I realized that you couldn’t find six more different people. Yet, once we began to share our camp memories, it was clear that there was a connection between us that had been sealed around a burning campfire many years earlier. We will always be connected – to a time and a place that was so special to each one of us and to the many others lucky enough to have sat around that same campfire. ‘Till we meet again.’ Cliftonmagazine.com • August 2021

August 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Cliftonmagazine.com • August 2021

Nancy Maurer Muddell with her former School 8 students in 2011, and when she taught them in 2001. The September magazine had them discussing life since 9/11 and their memories of that fateful day at School 8.

At the September 2010 Van Houten Ave. Street Fair, an unidentified man with Tony Sanchez of Weichert Realtors, street vendor Fredric Powasnick and Freddie Dingo of Dingo’s Den.

Principal Michael McGinley, coaches Alfred Bido, Steve Covello.

Sept. 2011: Michael McGinley is named CHS Principal.

Sept. 2011: CHS 2007 graduate Charlie Hornstra was selected as a prestigious Fulbright Scholar. Hornstra opted to travel to Malaysia in November to work as an English Teaching Assistant. Sept. 2, 2011: In observance of the 10-year anniversary of 9/11, Clifton Merchant’s cover story is about Nancy Maurer Muddell. Muddell was a teacher at School 8 and discussed the special bond that she still maintained a decade later with some of the students in her class that day.

Sept. 21, 2011: Members of Boy Scout Troop 22 of Allwood Community Church, leaders pictured at left, were honored at the International Peace Festival in Wassaic, NY for the Peace Pole that they created here in Clifton.

August 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

The Hamilton House Museum received some gifts: Trustee Arlene Bayeux shows a donated candlestick and Bicentennial commemorative coin minted in 1976, said to be modeled on the image of Mayor Frank Sylvester, in office 1974 to 1978.

In summer 2011, Jim Marrocco installed a 31 kW solar system which covers about 45% of the 8,100 square foot roof of the Marrocco Memorial Chapel. “I’ll be cutting my annual energy bill by about 95%.” Cliftonmagazine.com • August 2021

Residents shared stories of their journeys to Clifton. On the cover from left, Fr. Leonardo Jaramillo, Yazan Alzubi, Magdi Eldomiaty, Arlene McCarren. Second row: Jhonny Ospina, Earl Kelchner, Kathy Hlat, Unidentified. Third row: Taras Petryshyn, Unidentified, Rene Pinzon, Dave D’Arco. Fourth row: Sue Faria, Kim Oeffler, Victor Vignale, Gladys Fusiek.

Clifton’s Annual Halloween Parade and Harvestfest, scheduled for Main Ave., was snowed out on Sunday, Oct. 30 for the first time in history but Cliftonites still did their trick or treating on Oct. 31.

Oct. 1, 2011: Jack Kuepfer and the late Myrtle Petty were honored for their service to the community with dedications at the Historic Morris Canal Park and Nature Center on Broad St. Kuepfer was the leading force behind the establishment of the Morris Canal Park and the area was named in his honor during the Jack Kuepfer Fall Festival. Former Historical Commission President Myrtle Petty was a tireless Clifton Rec volunteer and her legacy was honored with a tree planting. Oct. 9, 2011: The Clifton Arts Center’s 3rd annual Tea & Conversation is at the Upper Montclair Country Club with guest presenter Carol Higgins Clark. The sometimes actress and bery active author recently published Mobbed. It is her fourteenth Regan Reilly mystery. Clark is the daughter of bestselling suspense writer, Mary Higgins Clark.

August 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Mustangs from the legendary 1946 team visited the 2011 team to offer their support. With Coach Steve Covello, the 2011 Mustangs are Mo Ramadan, Ryan Hariton, Chris Rogers, Dondre McClain, Patrick Ferrara, Mike Naideck. The 1946 Mustangs include Lou Poles. Tony Eardley, Dominick DiPaolo, Jim Haraka, Robert Pityo, Bob Boettcher, Andy Sventy.

Cliftonmagazine.com • August 2021

Downtown Clifton Board director Patrick DeLora of DeLuxe Cleaners, Angela Montague, Executive Director of Downtown Clifton Economic Development Group, Inc. with Mike and Pete Cetinich of the band Brookwood, who performed at the Oct. 22 street fair.

Oct. 19, 2011: St. Joseph’s Regional Medical Center opens its state-of-the-art Critical Care Building on the Paterson campus. It was the largest master facilities construction initiative in St. Joseph’s history.

Oct. 21, 2011: The Theater League of Clifton stages Witness for the Prosecution through Oct. 30 at the theater in School 3, Washington Ave. This Agatha Christie tale is of a man on trial for murder—a trial featuring surprise after surprise. Cast members include: Arthur Harold, Chris Robertson, George Kuch, Jenn Evalise, J. Michael Baran, Penny Surgent. Also: Johanna Infante, Don Flynn, John Fraissinet, Dianna Fuller, Matt Herrmann, John Pasqua, Carl Bergmanson, Chris Sienkiewicz and Irene Yalicki. Mustang Pride hosts its second Walkathon on Oct. 15 at Clifton Stadium but organizers expected groups and individuals to get involved much before that. Mustang Pride is a recognized 501C3 charity which focuses on providing some of the extras that our school budgets can no longer support. “Our first two goals are to renovate the auditorium at CHS and to have field turf installed at Clifton Stadium,” said spokesperson and organizer AnnMarie Genneken.

August 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

On Oct. 8 and 9, 2011, Hot Grill owners Carmen LaMendola and his daughter Cristina, the current owner, with Domenick Sportelli, marked the 50th anniversary of their landmark eatery on Lexington Ave. with a donation to the Boys & Girls Club. On Oct. 16 2011, at City Hall, Coalition for Brain Injury Research founder Dennis Benigno, at right, leads a walk with fellow Hazel St. neighbor Jim Haraka.

Cliftonmagazine.com • August 2021

Nov. 4, 2011, Clifton Magazine publishes its issue honoring the lives of local veterans. The 100-page issue profiles veterans through the decades. They shared their stories and, in some cases, told what brought them to Clifton. The 2011 Veterans Parade was held on Nov. 6.

Nov. 17, 2011, at the Athenia Veterans Hall on Huron Ave., the Optimist Clubs of Clifton and Passaic sponsor a Hot Dog Night before the annual Thanksgiving football game, then in its 82nd year of rivalry. Captains of the Clifton Mustangs and Passaic Indians football teams from left front: Mark Gardinet, Chris Rogers, Juan Hoyos, Patrick Ferrara, William Lugo. Top row: Tim Brown, Ryan Hariton, Shaheem Curry, Mo Ramadan.

Nov. 2011: Spencer Savings Bank, with two locations in Clifton, collects more than 1,500 pounds of food through its 2011 Annual Thanksgiving Food Drive in support of local community organizations. Nov. 2011: Coordinated by music teacher Rebecca Beres, WWMS netted 2,736 food drive items through the month of November. The school donated the items to St. Peter’s Haven and other charities. Nov. 18, 2011: The Boys & Girls Club Alumni Beefsteak inducts members through the decades into the Hall of Fame. The inductees included: Angelo Crudele, Terry LaCorte, Doc Fedor, Jack Marshall, Gary Mekita, Keith Mekita, Sean Gunby, Eddie Robatham, Dawn Morrison, Matt Prawetz, Cal Goodell, and Vanessa Matthews. Nov. 24, 2011: The Mustangs claim the Clifton Passaic Optimist Cup after defeating the rival Passaic Indians in the 83rd annual Thanksgiving Day game by a score of 55-29. At halftime, Marching Mustang Band Director Bob Morgan was honored for 40 years of service. Morgan graduated from CHS in 1966 and returned to become band director in 1972, holding the title for longer than anyone else in the history of the program.

August 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

At the 2011 Thanksgiving Day feast, Chip O’Neil of IHOP, with his son Kevin, and Clifton Firefighter Tony Latona.

Nov. 24, 2011: The O’Neil family and Clifton FMBA 21 make sure that the 16th Annual Thanksgiving Day feast goes off without a hitch. Volunteer Clifton Firefighters, the Route 3 IHOP and F and B Catering, offered a free Thanksgiving Day dinner to residents who will be alone, or who might not be able to afford one at all. This annual feast was started by Deputy Fire Chief Tom Lyons in 1994.

Cliftonmagazine.com • August 2021

On Nov. 6, 2011, Clifton Recreation presented a costume contest at City Hall in lieu of the annual Halloween Parade that was snowed out and originally scheduled to be conducted along Main Ave. on Oct. 30.

The North Jersey Regional Chamber of Commerce held a Morning Mixx networking event at Uno’s Chicago Grill on Nov. 22. The event, coordinated by Brian G. Tangora of the NJRCC, was sponsored by Corbo Jewelers of Styretowne Shopping Center. Pictured from left: Steve Corbo, Gloria Martini, Michael Corbo, Kim Duesler, Brian Tangora and Pat Gavin.

Various candidates on election day Nov. 8, 2011, Democratic Freeholder Bruce James, Freeholder candidate TJ Best and Surrogate candidate Bernice Toledo. Republicans Freeholder candidates are Bob Ceberio and Frank Fusco with Lawrence Tosi running for Surrogate. Also up for election are Assemblywoman Sheila Y. Oliver, Democrat Thomas Giblin, Senator Nia Gill.

At left, The Complete and Unabridged Works of William performed Nov. 18, 19, 20 at CHS: Stephen Paige, Kenneth Fowler, Gregory Gwyn, Adam Madrigal, Bhavin Shah. Vincent Colavitti, Jr. was sworn in as Chief on Nov. 14.

August 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

The Boys & Girls Club Alumni Beefsteak was held on Nov. 18, and the club inducted those pictured to its Hall of Fame. By decade, they were: 1950’s: Angelo Crudele and Terry LaCorte; 1960’s: Doc Fedor and Jack Marshall; 1970’s: Gary Mekita and Keith Mekita; 1980’s: Sean Gunby and Eddie Robatham; 1990’s: Dawn Morrison and Matt Prawetz; 2000’s: Cal Goodell and Vanessa Matthews.

Cliftonmagazine.com • August 2021

Larissa Diduch, Marianna Hoholuk, Natalie Czuczak, Anna Diduch, Mila Kotys and Christina Kedl organized a Christmas Bazaar at the Ukrainian Center at 240 Hope Ave. in Passaic on Dec 11, with 30 vendors selling crafts, wares and foods.

Sharing memories and traditions, from left: Fabian and Melisa Calvo with their children Damian and Nicolas. Tom Hawrylko with his mom Julie in 1981. Justin Mozolewski, his mom Janet and their friend and Scout Nick Cristello pulling the crackers. Also sharing memories: Christina Yosco with her cousin, Christopher. Barbara Dougherty, next to her children in a 1972 holiday season photo. Top row is Karen, Craig and Keith. In front is Kevin.

August 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Cliftonmagazine.com • August 2021

Our December magazine featured neighbors talking turkey, Mustang football and Holidays. From left, Melody and Craig Stepneski. Sandra and Jorge Aquino with their daughters Melanie Jai and Angelica. Betty Boyle and her daughter Linda Bandurski.

Clifton’s Rotary Club celebrated 60 years in Dec. 2011. From left: Treasurer Patrick DeLora, past President Angela Montague, Vice President Paul Lawrence and Secretary Olyum Seeker. Healing the Children is a family affair with the Alectoridis family, who also own and operate Rainbow Montessori School in Clifton. From left: Courtney and Lesly, Jacki, Carlos and Nick.

Dec. 2011: Chris Liszner, Lizz Gagnon and Dona Crum encourage Cliftonites to help them support the troops over the holidays. Their group, Clifton Cares, spent the year collecting hundreds of boxes of items that were needed by soldiers on the frontline. The group shipped them across the globe, to those serving in Iraq and Afghanistan. Dec. 2011: Passaic Superior Court Judge Garry Rothstadt overturns a 2009 Zoning Board ruling that blocked the construction of an access roadway at Paxton Street to a development at Garret Pointe. The housing complex sat in an abandoned quarry just off of Valley Road, with most of the homes sitting on the opposite side of the CliftonWoodland Park border. Residents living on Paxton contended that a roadway through the quiet neighborhood would disrupt the quality of life.

August 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Dec. 2011: The Ladies at the Hamilton House support Special Olympics through the Scarf Program, knitting and donating ‘mufflers’ that were gifted to athletes, coaches, families, volunteers and supporters of the Special Olympics.

P&A Auto Parts, headed by Joe Cupoli and Bill Freedman, teamed up with NAPA of New Jersey, NAPA Filters and member businesses of NAPA Auto Cares to collect money for the Tomorrow’s Children Fund, which benefits pediatric cancer research and care at Hackensack Medical Center.

The CHS Madrigals learn and perform selections of music from the Renaissance and into other classical eras. They include Sopranos Monika Jurgowska, Rebekah Kusher, Christina Lazcano, Angelia Mocera, Lianna Palladino, Shreya Patel, Nasia Robles, Victoria Rodio, Jennie Sekanics. Altos Sindy DeLa Cruz, Jenepher Estrella, Kylie Gonzalez, Kaitlin Kloock, Alyssa-Ray Leon, Susan Liberti, Kelsey Mc Ginley, Nicole Wedel. Tenors Peter Adamo, Larnie Jackson, Bhavin Shah, Nemesio Carmel Tubil. Basses: Jonas Avancena, Darryl Baniaga, Adam Madrigal, Michael Sconz.

outstanding leadership in their activities, while also providing significant support to the Chamber of Commerce.

Dec. 8, 2011: Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza helps Clifton Cares raise some dough by donating 20% of a check’s value (excluding tax and tip) to the local group. Dec. 10, 2011: Clifton Candyland at City Hall had kids riding the Polar Express and caroling with the Madrigals.

Weichert Realtors of Clifton 33rd Annual Toy Drive: Andrew Tisellano, Maureen Setteducato and Tony Sanchez.

Dec. 2, 2011: Fordham University History Professor Jack Houston presents a candlelight tour of the Hamilton House, sharing traditions from the Civil War era and the CHS Madrigals provided entertainment. Dec. 6, 2011: The North Jersey Regional Chamber of Commerce hosts its sixth annual Star Award gala at the Westmount Country Club, Woodland Park. The gala honored former Clifton City Manager Al Greco and President of Nationwide Bail Bonds Ron Olszowy. The Star Award recognized companies and individuals who demonstrated

Dec. 14, 2011: The BOE approves the move of WWMS Principal Andrew Piotrowski. The BOE’s 8-0 approval came less than a year after Piotrowski was named as the middle school’s principal. Piotrowski’s new post would be to fill a vacant vice principal position at CHS. The decision was met with backlash, not unlike how CCMS students the previous year protested his transfer. Dec. 15, 2011: The Dutch Hill Residents Association hosts its Christmas/Holiday Party at Mario’s Restaurant.

Dec. 17, 2011: “The Practice of Art: Physicians as Artists” concludes its display at the Clifton Arts Center. The display was an exhibit of doctors using different mediums to create original art. Dec. 24, 2011: The 42nd Annual Tour de Clifton brings with it an outpouring of community spirit and lots of oldfashioned fun. For about six hours, between 3 and 9 pm, Santa did his annual circuit of the city. Like every year, the jolly man from the North Pole was escorted by the wailing sirens of police and fire vehicles. Cliftonmagazine.com • August 2021

August 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Cliftonmagazine.com • August 2021

Story by Ariana Puzzo Photos by Jovo Bjelcevic

Opening Doors. Changing Lives. S T . P E T E R ’ S H AV E N A T 3 5

As St. Peter’s Haven prepares to celebrate its 35th anniversary, the food pantry and family shelter remain an essential piece of our city’s support system. The Haven is celebrating 35 years of service with an in-person Gala on Sept. 17 at the Brownstone. The event will take place in a COVID Precaution open air tent. Over the years, the Haven has striven to reach out and help members of our community when they are at their most vulnerable. Currently, the Haven is organizing a Backpack and School Supply Drive for the summer. The Haven is also facilitating a Clifton-wide Food Drive for the 2021-2022 school year.

August 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Donald Fischer, Rev. Jorge Gutierrez, Rev. Hank Dwyer.

“

“I always try to encourage people if they can – rather than spend $5, give me the $5 and I’ll triple it without paying the sales tax,” said Kevin Donahue. “I have access to food at a much better price.” As Executive Director Kevin Donahue reHelping unload the regular delivery from other food sources from left, flected on the Haven’s efforts in recent years, Ashly Ordaz, Sara Sorce, Paige Sorce, Grzegorz Iwanicki, Alex Schimmel, he acknowledged that despite the coronavirus Gustavo Orales, Doreen Balbuena, Juliann Miskowsky, Kristen Nicolien, pandemic, their efforts remain strong and viBrianna Norris. tal. “The people from Clifton are generous and At the time, the vestry was going back and forth about support us, and we could not do it without them,” said whether they should tear down the original Church recDonahue, 45. “My thanks to all of the people who help tory to add parking. So, Fischer brought the article to their make this work.” attention. “He made the point, ‘Why tear down a perfectly good Early Haven History house that can be refurbished when there are homeless The idea for St. Peter’s Haven originated in the 1980s families in the vicinity?’” said Fueshko, 65. with Clifton resident Donald Fischer. In those days, Through the help of a matching grant from HoffmanFischer served as the organist, treasurer, and vestry memLa Roche, they approved the founding of St. Peter’s Haber of St. Peter’s, which was a landmark on Clifton Ave. ven in 1985. The following year, on Oct. 30, 1986, St. The concept came to him after reading a local article. Peter’s opened its first shelter for homeless families. “In 1984-85, Donald Fischer was the senior warden,” Today, the Haven’s scope is even broader. The transisaid Pamela Fueshko, the current warden of St. Peter’s tional shelter includes a one-family, four-bedroom home Episcopal Church. “He read in the newspaper about an and a two-family house with a three-bedroom and twoelderly couple living on the banks of the Passaic River bedroom unit. The three apartment units can accommobecause they didn’t want to go to separate shelters.” date as many as 18 people at a given time.

Cliftonmagazine.com • August 2021

S T . P E T E R ’ S H AV E N A T 3 5 For Fueshko, there is a certain pride in watching the Haven develop over the years. Fueshko has spent her entire life involved with and a member of the church. Over the years, she has watched as Clifton’s needs have evolved. “I think the biggest change is the increased need for the food pantry,” said Fueshko. “The food pantry originally started to help the family in Haven 1.” Then, it was the addition of the In September 2020, NOVA UA Federal Credit Union awarded Kevin Donahue, Executwo-family dwelling on Burgess tive Director of St. Peter’s Haven, a check to help with the purchase of food. Pictured Place that they purchased in 2002. from left, Nicholas Kosciolek, NOVA Treasurer, Donahue, Val Bogattchouk, NOVA The house was named Ella’s CEO, and George Oliarnyk, NOVA’s Vice Chairman. House, recognizing the parishioner, Ella Brooks, whose sizable The Haven also receives generous donations from Scout donation made purchasing the two-family home possible. Troops, the Clifton Elks Club, and the Illuminations Club It also helped further the mission of St. Peter’s Haven. at the Four Seasons at Great Notch. “All other shelters in the area split families up,” said Donahue, who stepped in as executive director in 2017, Fueshko. “St. Peter’s was intent and still is on keeping also noted the support of individuals who drop off donahowever the family unit is intact.” tions at the end of the day on their way home from work. Most families stay in the transitional shelter for about While all forms of donation are appreciated by the Haven, 90 days. By doing so, the Haven helps families remain Donahue encouraged monetary donations. off the street as they regroup and seek a more permanent That can mean giving him a dollar donation to spend residency. rather than going to the store yourself and spending it. “[We shelter] married couples, single parents, grand“It’s like buying toilet paper at a gas station versus parents with grandchildren,” said Fueshko. “Our efforts Costco,” said Donahue. “I’m usually able to buy three to are to keep the family intact while we assist them in getfive times the amount of products with my dollar than you ting back on their feet.” can at retail with your dollar.” “I always try to encourage people if they can – rather Maintaining A Strong Presence than spend $5, give me the $5 and I’ll triple it without Over the years, Fueshko has found that any misconpaying the sales tax,” he added. “I have access to food at ceptions about the Haven and its work have disappeared. a much better price.” However, these misconceptions did exist at one time. Despite his relatively new tenure, Donahue is familiar “In the early stages before the Haven opened, [some with the non-profit sector. He has worked at multiple nonpeople were] concerned about quick turn-arounds and deprofit organizations during his adult years. teriorating the neighborhood, but that has never been the What brought him to St. Peter’s Haven is that he is case,” said Fueshko. from Nutley, making it of local interest. The effort put forth by those involved over the last “One of the issue areas that sort of keeps me engaged is 35 years have spoken for itself. Similarly, the support of the cause of the homeless,” he said. “I saw that St. Peter’s volunteers, as well as local businesses and organizations, Haven … has now grown to three units of shelter … and have helped the Haven. that really speaks to me.” Among the businesses that have offered continuous Donahue went on to emphasize that there should not be support are the local and surrounding Stop & Shop stores, people living on our streets. The support of the Haven’s food Target in Clifton, Trader Joe’s in Clifton, and ShopRite. pantry is where he sees true differences get made.

August 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Cliftonmagazine.com • August 2021

S T . P E T E R ’ S H AV E N A T 3 5 “People can be one paycheck away from homelessness or living on the street,” said Donahue. “The food pantry can go a long way in terms of providing a week’s supply of groceries.” “By saving that money, there’s cash in their pocket to use for other expenses.” On June 18, 2011, St. Peter’s Haven Food Pantry celebrated 25 years of helping those in need with Donahue also noted an appreciation night for the many volunteers who help run the facility that currently provides asthe changes that he sistance to 2,800 people on a six week rotation. Back row, from left: Milton Millis, Barry Rochester, has witnessed over the Kathy Aldheit and Debbe Breen. Front: Evelyn Post, Linda DiLeone, Elizabeth Zapata and Presipast four years. One of dent Pamela Fueshko. the clearest trends is the increased number Then, the case workers would go out to the streets and try of people visiting the food pantry to seek emergency food to assist people who were homeless. The immediate needs assistance. they sought to offer were food, water, hygienic supplies, The number, he said, was climbing before the pandemand appropriate clothing for the colder months. ic with a couple of new families each month. However, “The task force was a great sort of public and private the pandemic caused a significant uptick. partnership,” said Donahue. “A lot of the people living “We’re thrilled to be able to accommodate all of those on the street – they have no documents or they lost evrequests,” said Donahue. “We’re serving about 600 famierything.” lies, or about 1,600 individuals.” “We would see their situation and try to move them Those seeking assistance include senior citizens, from the streets into stable housing,” he continued. “It’s those who are widowed, as well as families. Since he arimpossible to get an apartment without a driver’s license, rived, Donahue said, they are probably serving double or social services without any documents.” the amount that they did in 2017. A great source that has Donahue said the homeless program is a time of parhelped them is the Community Food Bank of New Jersey, ticular pride in the last four years for him. He specifically who sends the Haven a truckload of food each month. referenced the shower days that were monthly and were “We don’t turn people away,” said Donahue. “We roll staffed by volunteers. up our sleeves and find more food and try to find enough During these days, the Catherine Rowe Commons in the bag for the whole family.” Transitional Housing Program, at 62 Trenton Ave., would Another change involves how when he arrived, the open its community center doors. The city then paid to emergency shelter was the only existing program the Hainstall two showers and used the facility to offer a number ven had to address homelessness. of services. Given the underserved population living on the street, The day involved meals donated by the Allwood Dinthe Haven collaborated with the city to create a homeless er or the Gallery Bistro. The Clifton Health Department task force. Donahue explained that the task force involved would also go out in vans and offer people rides. the city’s mayor, police chief, the Department of Public “People could shower and get a change of clothes and Works, Fire Department, local non-profits, and concerned a haircut. Councilwoman Lauren Murphy was involved in citizens. that,” said Donahue. “There were a lot of people there to Part of that involved reaching out to case workers. make that work.”

August 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Cliftonmagazine.com • August 2021

S T . P E T E R ’ S H AV E N A T 3 5 He added that Hackensack Meridian Health also sent doctors to do wellness checks and examinations, and the Mental Health Association of Passaic County sent a mental health worker, along with Alcoholics Anonymous and recovery specialists. “It was a really solid program,” said Donahue. “Now with the vaccine here … we have worked with the Health Department to get the J&J vaccine for the homeless since it’s hard to get them back three weeks later.” “I’m happy the pandemic is more manageable now to start things up again.”

could check in and we would talk to them.” “Once we switched to drive thru, we made appointments and volunteers masked up and opened people’s trunks,” continued Fueshko. The housing units were similarly successful in navigating the pandemic. Donahue attributed that in large part because the units are private and hold specific families. “Each unit has its own bathroom and kitchen,” said Donahue. “Because it’s a family shelter, it’s a different While the Haven’s deeds are local, physical set-up and not bunk beds in their services have been recognized on a state level as Trustee Ray Robera huge room.” tello is shown accepting a Jefferson “Each family was as protected as I Award for public service in 2019. was in my home,” he said. Volunteers at the Haven also exA Welcoming Environment pressed that they felt protected. One such volunteer was Though they remained in operation during the panJuliann Miskowsky. Although Miskowsky started volundemic, their doors stayed open in a new way. teering more recently at the Haven, her connection ex“The food pantry basically moved to drive thru picktends further back over the years. up,” said Fueshko. “It used to be social, where people

August 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Cliftonmagazine.com • August 2021

S T . P E T E R ’ S H AV E N A T 3 5

At right from the December 1999 Clifton Magazine, Ruth Happ, Ann Kaminski, Ruth Lippolis and Frank Heck. At left, Lippolis, Clifton Postmaster Joe Gondola and one of a team of Clifton postal workers pitching in during their annual food drive. The Haven is sponsored by and affiliated with St. Peter’s Episcopal Church.

“I’ve been in contact with the Haven for at least 12 years,” said Miskowsky, 72. “I did donations, but never volunteer work.” Then the pandemic shut everything down and Miskowsky found herself out of work. After staying home in lockdown for eight weeks, she went to the Haven as soon as it was safer. “I’m not the type of person to stay home and when I reached out to them, they said, ‘Come on up, we need volunteers,’” said Miskowsky. “I’ve been there since May of 2020.” Miskowsky volunteers at the Haven on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 8 am until the work is done, which is usually three or four hours later. During her time with them, she has assumed responsibility over the women she works with on the floor. “I go in and tell everyone what to do. When things come in, I’ll direct the volunteers,” she said. “If there’s a lull in one spot, I’ll take a volunteer off a certain work area and put them somewhere else. The women report to me, and I report to [Gustavo Orales].” Part of the Haven’s appeal, she explained, is its relaxed work environment. She added that everyone is respectful and the area is clean. For Miskowsky, the decision to continue her volunteer work there for as long as possible is a no-brainer. “[The most fulfilling part is] just giving back,” said Miskowsky. “I feel like I can help someone by doing that, and I feel good about it.”

August 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

The Next 35 Years … As life continues to open up, the Haven’s plans for the future remain firm. One plan currently in place is providing school supplies to children. Their collection seeks backpacks that they distribute to the children of family members who visit the food pantry. But there is a new partnership with that effort. The Haven is now working alongside Clifton Schools Superintendent Danny Robertozzi to stock extra backpacks in each school building. These In December 2006, Ruthann Happ, parishioner at St. Peter’s Episbackpacks will stay in the principal or teacher’s copal Church and secretary of the Board of Trustees of St. Peter’s back closet so that a child can “go shopping” if Haven; Ann Masiello, administrator; Greta Ontell, program directhey show up and need supplies. tor, and the Rev. Lorraine Dughi of St. Peter’s Episcopal Church. “We’re excited to see that working,” said Donahue. “For as many children as we’re able to serve, need to up our game to meet that need,” said Donahue. there are many that we don’t know about.” “Anyone who wants to support us can certainly find a do“Schools are a great way to get that out to even more nate button on the website.” people.” Above all else, Donahue hopes people remember that The backpack drive runs until the end of August. For there is help in Clifton if they or someone they know more info., visit www.saintpetershaven.org. needs it. Another project in the works is a large one – remodel“You can pick up the phone and call, and we can get ing the food pantry. Part of that plan involves installing you food that day,” said Donahue. “We’re here to serve a walk-in refrigerator and freezer so that they can store that need and hope that you never need it.” more food and ultimately, serve more people. “A lot of people out there are struggling,” Donahue con“Given the number of new people coming to us, we tinued. “We are here and fighting it.”

Cliftonmagazine.com • August 2021

Wealth Manager Teacher Empowerment Director Advocate

Most of us do it every day—Work! But these days how we do it and where we work has evolved. Here are a few stories on some occupations of Cliftonites, which is part of our ongoing series, Working. As we continue to navigate these unusual times, we would love to hear from you about your unique nine-to-five. Write to cliftonmerchant1288@gmail.com to tell us about your job.

WORKING By Ariana Puzzo

Oh, the Places You’ll Work Jeffrey Muddell admits that if you told him as a high school senior about his career trajectory, he would have looked at you in disbelief. The CHS 1993 Mustang graduated as ninth in his class. After leaving Clifton, he went on to the University of Miami, where he studied broadcast journalism. He began working as a TV news producer after college and in 2000, he joined the Golf Channel as the lead producer. “The Golf Channel was still very much in its formative years, having started in 1995,” said Muddell, 45. “It was still small and growing, but I walked in when Tiger Woods was doing amazing stuff in the golf world.” “Tiger transformed golf and the Golf Channel went from a small cable station to a known commodity in the television, entertainment world,” continued Muddell. “It was an interesting time to be there.” The work gave him the opportunity to travel and explore all types of storytelling. He worked in original productions, which meant he was not merely sitting at golf tournaments. He was producing documentaries, profiles and long-form series. The work saw him traveling all over the country, as well as spending three weeks in Hawaii and two weeks in Iceland. When reflecting on what brought him to that point, he recalled influential moments from his time at CHS. Part of what inspired his later work was being part of the CAST program. From that, he knew that he enjoyed television. Similarly, although he did not play golf in college, it was a great part of high school for him. “I took up golf the summer before my freshman year at CHS and played on the golf team,” said Muddell. “Dan Goodell, who became the athletic director, was our golf coach.”

August 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Jeffrey Muddell Senior VP of Wealth Services Jeffrey Muddell with Caroline, Charles, and Grant.

“It was one of my favorite high school experiences,” he added. “Unlike football, you’re spending two hours standing around with other people from other schools and it’s a very social sport. It was a great experience.” After leaving the Golf Channel in 2007, Muddell’s career took another interesting turn. For seven years, he served as Foundation Vice President for Arnold Palmer Medical Center Foundation within Orlando Health, a notfor-profit network of community and specialty hospitals in Orlando, Florida. From that period until 2019, he was heavily involved in the fundraising sector. Most recently, though, he has returned to the for-profit space. Today, he works as Senior Vice President of Wealth Services for Sanibel Captiva Trust Company in Sanibel, Florida. The work Muddell has done has undoubtedly excited him in different ways. In the early days, it was getting the opportunity to spend time with Arnold Palmer, known as “one of the greatest legends in the world.” Later, it was helping to raise money to open a new neonatal intensive care unit to save babies’ lives in Orlando. Although people can assign different values to his different jobs, he has found every position worthwhile in its

own way. “I went through a stage … [where I took] a mental inventory of what I’ve done,” said Muddell. “I remember thinking, ‘I’m just a television guy, what are my gifts?’” “I’ve entertained people,” he said. “I’ve worked my tail off and people watched what I did and I got feedback that they enjoyed it. From left, in 2019, at Passaic Valley Regional High … Even in the financial world, School Nicholas Andriani, Catherine Pereira, I see the impact of the work I do. Dahlia Jelski, Alexa Varjian, and TJ Jones. We have clients who need our assistance. It’s made all these changes Muddell lives in Sanibel Island with his Thomas Jones in my life worthwhile.” wife, Stephanie, and their children Caroline, Health & PE Teacher The other worthwhile parts of Mud13, Charles, 11, and Grant, 9. Along with his dell’s life are his efforts outside of the future marathon plans, his other major hope professional world. He is now a six-year survivor of testicis seeing his children achieve bright futures. ular cancer and after the end of his successful treatment, he “When I moved from Clifton and New Jersey, you hear decided that he wanted to run the New York City Marathon. all the naysayers poke fun at the state,” said Muddell, “but He ran it once in 2006 and then completed it for a second it was a great place to grow up and gave me an amazing time one year after his treatment. foundation to do some of these crazy, varied things that Muddell has since participated in four of the six maI’ve done in my life.” jor marathons, which also included Chicago, Berlin, and “I want my kids to have those same opportunities that I London. He plans to participate in the rescheduled Boston did,” he continued. “Yes, I want them to be successful, but Marathon in October and then in March of 2022, he is gofirst and foremost, I want them to enjoy life and be kind and ing to Tokyo. make a difference.”

Cliftonmagazine.com • August 2021

WORKING No Child Left Behind tion teachers in the area about a yearWhen we consider unique profesly tournament between his school and sions, we don’t automatically think others like West Essex and Caldwell. of educators. Even so, any job is what Jones lives with his wife, Jacqueyou make it and Thomas “TJ” Jones line (Lasky) Jones (CHS 2000), in has proven that. the Lakeview section. Ultimately, the Jones is in his seventh year as the next step is creating a model since health and physical education teacher there aren’t many existing curricuat Cedar Grove High School. Back lums to pull from. But the larger part in 2019, his physical education class is creating an inclusive and fun excaught the attention of News 12. perience. The point of intrigue? Introducing “It’s one of those things where TJ and his wife, Jacqueline (Lasky) Jones. wheelchair basketball into the cur[as a teacher] you want everyone to riculum. enjoy your class,” said Jones. “She tried to participate in “That year, I happened to have a freshman student who every single thing after that, which is something she never was … in a wheelchair,” said Jones, 31. “In middle school did in middle school, so that’s a win in my book.” she never did any type of phys ed. She and her aide would throw a ball back and forth the whole year in the gym.” Champions of Change Jones wanted her to get involved and enjoy the class like While many people embrace advocacy in their lives, her peers. After calling William Paterson University, they brothers Michael and Brian Berlinski embrace these values were given permission to borrow the wheelchairs. The rein their work. The Clifton brothers may live on opposite sponse from the school community was great, and not only coasts, but they are united in their passion for environmenfrom the students. tal and social progress. “We had a couple of teachers who heard about it and Michael, 43, lives in Westford, Massachusetts with his wanted to come down to the gym and try themselves,” said wife, Jillian, and their daughters, Amelia, 11, and Adeline, Jones. “The principal at the time was playing once or twice 10. He went through Clifton schools and acknowledged a day, sweating in a suit and tie.” that his interest in the sciences took hold at CHS. That led The coronavirus pandemic has prevented Jones from to his decision to study physics at Wesleyan University. His pursuing future plans for other wheelchair sports lessons. first job was at an energy consulting firm. He hopes to continue discussions about putting in pa“I got interested in energy and it was near Washington, perwork for grants so the district or school can purchase D.C., so I could [really] learn about the energy industry,” wheelchairs. said Michael (CHS 1996). Another goal, he said, is arranging a wheelchair basketMichael earned a master’s degree from MIT in energy ball tournament. He has spoken with other physical educapolicy. Today, he works out of his home office as

August 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Cliftonmagazine.com • August 2021

WORKING the Director of Emerging Technologies for the Philadelphia-based company, Customized Energy Solutions. He has held the role for seven years, helping clients understand the markets as they relate to energy storage. The fundamental practices are ones that he shares daily with his loved ones. Brian Berlinski “What I share … is an interest in clean Empowerment Director energy and the environment,” said Michael. “I also try to practice good behavBrian, with partner Lorenzo, kids Zenaida, Juan and Mario, sister Alison, iors in energy conservation by promoting brother Michael, and parents Peter and Julie Berlinski. renewable energy.” ears, leaving him profoundly deaf. That includes having solar panels on Brian went through Clifton schools and graduated from the roof and driving hybrid cars. He also sees an interest CHS in 1998. He started in the Program for the Deaf at growing in his daughters as they develop a greater underSchool 14. standing of the world. “I am grateful for [Mrs. Kim Puzzo’s] class,” said Brian, “I do now, as a parent, share what I think they should be 40. “It was a safe haven where I could just be Deaf and not doing, like minimizing energy use by not leaving lights on struggle with communication.” or not leaving the doors open,” he said. “They definitely Kinship was a big part of that. When Brian integrated have that awareness and generally do a good job around it.” into classrooms with predominantly hearing students, he Michael’s hope is to continue working in the clean en“just did what I could to get by” and there was a lot of ergy space to help improve society’s circumstances. His guesswork. other long-term goal includes helping to keep energy sysAlong with his hard work and tenacity, he expressed tems accessible and affordable. gratitude to his family for his ability to succeed. His late Seeing the results of great research and policy are what father, Peter, valued Brian’s education and recognized the make him proud to be part of the energy sector, like a few importance of access to communication. Part of that was years ago when he was part of a report for the State of Masadvocating for a sign language interpreter, taking the dissachusetts. What Michael described as a groundbreaking trict to court to secure the first American Sign Language study was a comprehensive cost benefit analysis on the role interpreter for a deaf student in a regular class setting in of energy storage. Clifton, a year before the Americans With Disabilities Act “It really helped a lot of people in the state, and people became law. elsewhere could look at it and use it as a model or a guide,” “I was missing assignments and missing a lot of classsaid Michael. “I am really happy to have helped contribute room discussions that the other students had full access to,” to that because I can see the impacts and how it’s benefitted said Brian. “If not for my father, I would have struggled folks.” more and more as classes got tougher.” As for his children, it gives him a great feeling to see Brian also credited Michael, recalling how Michael them interested in talking about his work. “always excelled in school” and was involved with the “They are also aware of our behaviors and the habits that Marching Band. are meant to minimize these problems,” said Michael. “I’m “I looked up to him and I committed myself to particiexcited to see that.” pating in Academic Decathlon, the Art Club, and karate at a hapkido dojo at a private school,” said Brian. “My brother A Different Form of Advocacy was my role model, and I wouldn’t have imagined myself Brian Berlinski has similarly dedicated his life’s work to doing those things that I was involved with if not for him.” the betterment of society. Today, Brian is an inspiration for young people. He Born hearing, Brian contracted meningitis at age 2.5, regraduated from Rochester Institute of Technology, where sulting in language delays and hearing loss in both of his

August 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

he majored in fine arts and minored in psychology, and attended graduate school at Nazareth College, where he studied art therapy. In 2005, he moved to California. “It was by chance that someone from the Deaf Gay community in Rochester told me that DeafHope was looking for an art therapist to work with children who have been exposed to violence,” said Brian, “and I thought that was exactly what I wanted to do.” Brian is an empowerment director at the organization. Although he first joined in 2005, he left in 2011 to raise his children full-time. He served on DeafHope’s board for seven years before rejoining the staff in April 2020. One of Brian’s career goals is “moving away from supporting survivors through a systems-based model to using a community-based model.” He emphasized how the current criminal justice and carceral systems are “inherently racist, ableist, sexist, [and] homophobic.” “We are working to reinvest our strategies in community-based models such as Transformative Justice and Restorative Justice,” said Brian. “These practices have been implemented for a long time by Native/Indigenous Peoples, people of color, and other people from groups who have been marginalized for centuries.” Brian would also like more people to realize that the notion of Deaf people being “broken” or needing to conform is damaging to their mental, emotional, language, educational, social, and financial health. Brian lives in San Francisco with his partner of six years,

Michael and Jill Berlinski with Amelia and Adeline.

Lorenzo Herrera. He also lives with his children Zenaida Berry-Berlinski, 16, Juan Berry-Berlinski, 15, and Mario Berry-Berlinski, 14, all of whom he co-parents with his exhusband, Michael Berry. “My kids are Deaf and adopted, and they are of Mexican descent,” said Brian. “My hope is that they embrace social and racial justice and invest themselves in unpacking their biases and showing up in the world in the fullest expression of who they say they are.”

Cliftonmagazine.com • August 2021

C H S AT H L ET I C H A L L O F FA M E R

Anthony Giordano

By Tom Szieber It takes a lot to earn a head football coach’s trust. Yet somehow, Anthony Giordano has done it over and over again. From high school to college to joining the coaching ranks himself, he has won over the leaders under whom he has worked. Perhaps his penchant for earning the confidence of his superiors is a byproduct of his own leadership qualities. Giordano, who will be inducted into the Clifton High School Athletic Hall of Fame this October, was a skilled passer who made plenty of big plays in leading Clifton football to the 2006 North I, Group IV title. But the traits that made him destined for enshrinement were his ability to elicit the best from his teammates and to keep spirits up when the chips were down. “He had tremendous knowledge of the game as a young person,” said Ron Anello, Clifton’s head coach from 2004 to 2010. “He saw things the way a coach sees things. I had a lot of faith in him. His knowledge, his leadership, it was a good recipe. He understood everything he was seeing on the field.”

August 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Worth Repeating The story of Clifton football’s 2006 championship run has been told repeatedly. At 3-3 and coming off a stinker against Montclair, the Mustangs were on the verge of a fourth consecutive season of sitting home during the playoffs. They fell behind, 17-14, against Ridgewood (winners of two of the previous three sectional titles) late in the fourth quarter after senior running back Steve Pecora scored on an eight-yard run. At just 17 years old, Giordano was Eli Manning-esque. Ice water was running through his veins. In the huddle, he kept it together—and as a result, the Clifton offense kept its cool. He led the Clifton attack on a 58-yard drive—one he kept alive by alertly targeting senior running back Derrick Stroble, who drew a pass interference call for a first down. He completed a 13-yard pass to senior tight end Nick Cvetic to set up his own game-winning three-yard touchdown run at the end of regulation. In the moment, Giordano did not perceive the enormity of what had transpired. He was on autopilot. Another day at the office.

“I guess being young and dumb, I didn’t really appreciate what had happened,” Giordano said. “It was just adrenaline. Coach Anello put a lot of trust in me in a tough situation. He believed in me and then it happened.” The win reinvigorated the Mustangs, who outmuscled St. Joseph a week later and then clinched the eighth seed in the playoffs when Teaneck downed Ridgewood the following night. In a defensive slugfest against top seed North Bergen, he scored the decisive touchdown on the ground in a tilt that ended in a 15-8 win for the Mustangs. They were Champions: the 2006 Fighting Mustangs varsity, top from left, Louis FeAnd although he was a game manliciano, David Fahy, Adam Justin Dela Mota, Brian Fierro, Nick Cvetic and Anthony Giordano; middle, Joshua Texidor, Paul Andrikanich, Phillip Buzzone, Mirsad ager, he wasn’t only a game manager. Bruncevic and Barron Johnson; front, Matthew Detres, Johnathan Brito, Derrick In the North I, Group IV semifinals Stroble, Omar Saleh, Tim Jacobus and Rob McClear. against Randolph, Giordano showed he could air it out on a big stage, going 11In reality, his performance against the Rams was imof-21 for 211 yards. He threw no scores and three picks, portant in that it reminded Eastside—Clifton’s upcoming though those numbers are deceptive. One interception ocopponent in the sectional final—that it had to game plan for curred on a tipped ball and a second was on a final prayer all facets of the Mustangs’ offensive attack. going into halftime.

Cliftonmagazine.com • August 2021

Coach Giordano with 2021 QB Kyle Vellis and Coach Anello with 2006 QB Anthony Giordano.

The 2006 Championship “It was one of my best games,” Giordano said. “It showed [Eastside] that they had to respect our passing game.” The Ghosts were outclassed at Giants Stadium two weeks later, with the Clifton run game and defense smothering them in a 26-0 romp. Giordano had two big completions on a drive that set up a Matt Davella touchdown late in the first quarter— a conversion that gave the Mustangs a two-score lead and sucked the electricity from the Ghosts’ sideline. He rushed for a six-yard touchdown himself right before the half. “I tried to utilize my legs a lot,” Giordano said. “I never complained about it. Whatever needed to be done to win, that is what I tried to do.” Giordano moved on to Kean University, where he saw limited action under center but discovered an itch for coaching. He earned the respect of Cougars head coach and fellow Clifton High School alum Dan Garrett, in large part because of his commitment to preparation and cerebral approach to the game, and joined Kean’s staff as a graduate assistant after earning a Bachelor’s degree in health and physical education. “When I was a junior or senior there, I would help call plays,” Giordano recalled. “[Garrett] used to come to me, and I would tell him my thoughts. I was teaching kids my junior and senior year.”

August 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

To Be A Mustang Again In 2015, Ralph Cinque was hired as the head coach at Clifton. In his first foray into leading a team, he needed staff he could trust. Again, Giordano proved worthy. Cinque hired Giordano as the team’s offensive coordinator, believing the former Mustangs QB could be an asset as a playcaller and relate to the current batch of players. In six seasons, he has done just that. He has given the Mustangs a well-balanced offense year after year. His play selection has been consistently stellar, and he has demonstrated the ability to adapt to the talent on the Clifton roster. He has also helped mold Armani Brinson and current senior Kyle Vellis into top-flight gunslingers. “I feel I’ve grown leaps and bounds,” Giordano said. “It has happened through experience and learning the flow of the game. And a lot is a credit to the players. There is no perfect play, just perfect execution.” His impact on the Clifton football program has been immeasurable, less because of statistics and mostly because of his ability to make others believe that with focus, effort and the drive to win, anything is possible. For that, he is undoubtedly deserving of the label “Hall of Famer.” “I am just proud to be included with so many great athletes that have come through Clifton,” he said. “I have so much pride in my town. It is why I came back as a coach—for an opportunity to impact kids in the place where I am from. It is a real honor.” The 2020 Clifton Athletic Hall of Fame luncheon is Oct. 10 at noon at the Brownstone. Call 973-470-2280 for tickets which are $50.

Clifton PUBLIC SCHOOLS Kindergarten Registration Parents of Clifton Residents who will be 5 years old by October 1, 2021 can register as of February 22, 2021

Pre-School Registration Parents of Clifton Residents who will be 4 years old by October 1, 2021 can register as of February 22, 2021 Limited Space Available, requirements can be found at https://www.clifton.k12.nj.us/domain/928

Limited Income Eligible 3-year-old Pre-School Program please call 973-472-8880

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Cliftonmagazine.com • August 2021

All State Band Honors to Luke Kulesa & John Rivas The machine that is the Marching Mustangs continues to earn honors and bring accolades to Clifton. Take for instance rising seniors John Rivas (right) and Luke Kulesa, just named to the NJ All State Band. “We are incredibly proud of John and Luke for this achievement,” said Bryan Stepneski, CHS’ band director, noting the selection means they will perform alongside some of New Jersey’s most talented student musicians. The audition process was different this year. The ensemble plans to rehearse and perform with each other in the fall. But students were responsible for recording their auditions and then submitting them. This summer, the judges met virtually to consider each applicant. Rivas (CHS 2022) is a trumpet player in the Mustang Band. He has played the instrument for nine years, starting in fourth grade at School 17. Rivas is presently the Quartermaster and trumpet section leader for this season’s Mustang Marching Band. The senior plays in every possible ensemble. These include the Jazz Band, Orchestra, Wind ensemble and Pit Band for the school musicals. His dedication to music and love for his instrument are evident. “Auditioning for and making the NJ All State Band has been such a rewarding

and outstanding accomplishment,” said Rivas. “I’m looking forward to my final year as a member of the Show Band of the Northeast.” Kulesa still remembers seeing the CHS Marching Band perform at a parade when he was a child. That performance made the Class of 2022 grad know that he wanted to one day join the group. “Beginning in fourth grade at School 14, I played drums and percussion instruments and also took piano lessons at an earlier age,” said Kulesa. “I’m thrilled to have been selected for NJ All State Band this year and am looking forward to the performance.” Today, Kulesa is the section leader of the drums in the Mustang Band. He also proudly plays with the Clifton Community Band, and he is involved with the CHS Orchestra, Wind Ensemble, and Pit Band. Separately, Kulesa has nearly achieved the rank of Eagle Scout in his troop. Both boys also expressed gratitude for the guidance of Wes Krygsman. Krygsman is a music teacher in the Clifton Schools and the assistant director of the Mustang Band. Krygsman helped both of them with the audition process and spent hours helping to film and critique Rivas and Kulesa’s video submissions.

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August 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Cliftonmagazine.com • August 2021

Tails & Tales & Other Library Stories The Clifton Public Library staff has worked to make the main facility and Allwood Branch welcoming. Their efforts have paid off. Chairs and tables returned after the Fourth of July so people can read, study or use the Wi-Fi. The community room became available for use in July and both locations are booking for full use in September. “Our foot traffic is still low, but [it] is increasing,” said Justine Tomczak, CPL’s director. “Community group activity is happening, and children’s summer programming is almost set to begin,” she added at the end of June. In the meantime, groups like the Master Gardeners and the Clifton Garden Club, FRIENDS of the Library, Woman’s Club of Allwood, and Kiwanis Club are all trying to regain the momentum lost from the shutdown. The groups are not the only ones striving to get new activity. Main Memorial’s Library Assistant Tess Iwachow designed and painted a mural (pictured) to promote the summer’s reading program. Tomczak noted that Iwanchow did the work after-hours. “I’m proud to have been given the opportunity to make a contribution to my community by way of beautifying a small corner of our town’s library,” said Iwachow, a long-time resident of Clifton. Teen Services Librarian Khusboo Rana said Iwachow’s work is part of the Collaborative Summer Library Program. CSLP began in 1987 after nearly a dozen Minnesota regional library systems created a summer library program for children. They chose a theme, created artwork, and selected incentives for other public libraries to purchase and use.

August 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Rana explained that the Clifton Public Library uses CSLP guidelines to create summer reading programs for all age groups. The current CSLP slogan for the 2021 Summer Reading Program is “Tails & Tales.” “The Clifton Public Library uses the programming ideas and other resources provided by CSLP to plan the Children’s, Teen, and Adult summer reading programs every year,” said Rana. “CSLP’s main [goals are] to foster an interest in reading and to encourage the use of libraries.” For more info. about CPL, current hours or to find upcoming events, visit cliftonpl.org.

Presents:

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Dinner & Show: $45

Italian Wedding

Mario’s Restaurant 710 VanHouten Ave. Clifton, NJ 07013

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Cliftonmagazine.com • August 2021

BACK IN THE GROOVE St. Brendan & St. George Church, 154 East 1st Street, hosts a Tailgate Picnic Tricky Tray on Aug. 27, 3 to 7 pm. Cost is $25 if purchased by Aug. 13 and $30 after. Admission includes one small prize sheet. Tickets and value packs can be picked up at the church starting Aug. 23. Drawing begins at 7 pm live on Facebook. Come down and enjoy the food trucks and meet the folks from the parish. Call 973-772-1115 or visit stbrendan-george.org. The Garden Club of Clifton resumes monthly meetings on Aug. 11 at 6 pm at the Main Memorial Library, 292 Piaget Ave. Mary Jo Sichak, a Rutger’s Passaic County Master Gardener, naturalist and photographer, is the speaker. Her garden has been listed in The Garden Conservancy’s Directory and toured by gardeners from throughout the region. She has a love of nature and captures what she sees through photography. Her presentation “Outnumbered” is a photographic glimpse at what’s bugging us and highlights the benefits that insects provide to the ecosystem. Guests are welcome to this free event. The goal of the club is to keep Clifton in the green. Any questions contact Donna Fantacone 973-473-0577.

COVID-19 Moderna Vaccination Clinics Every Wednesday 9:00am - 11:00am

Clifton City Hall 900 Clifton Ave., Clifton, NJ 07013 FOR INDIVIDUALS OVER 18 YEARS OF AGE

NO APPOINTMENT NECESSARY Vaccination Tent is located across from Parking Lot #4

To expedite your visit, schedule your appointment at: https://www.solvhealth.com/book-online/Avdk8g If you need assistance with making your appointment, please call 973-470-5770

The The CliftonClifton Health Department is a contractual health Health Department is a agency serving the Township of Little Falls. the contractual health agency serving

Township of Little Falls.

August 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

The Athenia Business Association’s Classic Car Show is Sept. 19. The all-day event, in the Municipal Lot on Van Houten Ave. across from Shook Funeral Home, lasts from 11 am to 5 pm. That is Shook’s Roy Garretson with his 1942 Cadillac, which you’ll see at the show. Vendors, crafts and food will be available for the entire family, with live entertainment by Swingman & The Misfit Mutts Band. Call 973-202-8578 or 201-410-1686 for info.

COVID-19 Moderna Vaccination Clinics Every Wednesday 9:00am - 11:00am

Clifton City Hall 900 Clifton Ave., Clifton, NJ 07013 FOR INDIVIDUALS OVER 18 YEARS OF AGE

NO APPOINTMENT NECESSARY Vaccination Tent is located across from Parking Lot #4

To expedite your visit, schedule your appointment at: https://www.solvhealth.com/book-online/Avdk8g If you need assistance with making your appointment, please call 973-470-5770 The Clifton Health Department is a

The Clifton Health Department is a contractual health agency contractual agency serving the servinghealth the Township of Little Falls.

Township of Little Falls.

The 8th Annual Fred Torres Memorial 5K is on Oct. 10 at Garret Mountain, in Woodland Park. The 5K starts at 9:30 am. A 2 mile walk and kids races follow. Proceeds benefit the Fred Torres Memorial Scholarship Fund, presented to scholar athletes of CHS cross country and track & field programs. The registration fee through Sept. 6 is $25, and $30 after Sept. 6. Register online at eliteracingsystems.com and find more info at fredtorresmemorialfund@gmail.com. The 2020 Clifton Athletic Hall of Fame luncheon is Oct. 10 at noon at the Brownstone. Call 973-470-2280 for tickets which are $50. Class of 2020 inductees include: Tom Acton, 1987, Soccer; Anthony Giordano, 2007, Football; Jeremy Hernandez, 2014 Cross Country and Track; John A. McClain, 1986, Baseball; Jackie Pangilinan, 2004, Swimming; Anthony Tuesta, 2001, Soccer; Kelly Douglass, 2015, Volleyball and Basketball; Michael Doktor, Boys and Girls Volleyball Coach; Jack Whiting, 1969, Contributor. Also the members of the 2005 Boys Volleyball Team as well as the 2007 Mustang Softball Team.

The Annual John Samra Memorial 5K Run/Walk & 1 Mile Family Fun Run/Walk is Sept. 26. The event begins at City Hall, at 900 Clifton Ave., at 8:30 am and includes multiple age divisions. Samra was killed when his motorcycle was struck by the driver of a mini-van attempting to flee on Nov. 21, 2003. Proceeds fund a scholarship in his memory. Refreshments, rewards and a 50/50 raffle follow the race. The registration fee through Sept. 19 is $30 for the 5K and $10 for the Walk/Fun Run. Register online at eliteracingsystems.com.

Cliftonmagazine.com • August 2021

DINNER THEATER IS BACK If you’ve missed the big laughs and the great meals live theater offers, fear not! The Theater League of Clifton presents “My Big Gay Italian Wedding” at Mario’s Restaurant, 710 Van Houten Ave., in September. The production will be staged like an Italian wedding reception. From there, the hijnks begin. Audience participation will be encouraged in Act Two. The storyline begins with Andrew and Anthony’s plans for getting married and their wacky friends and relatives want to “help.” My Big Gay Italian Wedding spins into hysterical chaos as everyone tries to have their way. Co-producers Jalmari Vanamo (left) and Mark Peterson offer a toast These show sell quickly so purchase tickets and invite theatergoers to “My Big Gay Italian Wedding,” which will now. Shows are on Sept. 18, 24, and 25 at 7:30 open at Mario’s Restaurant on Sept. 18. pm, Sept. 19 and 26 at 4 pm, Oct. 1 and 2 at Founded in 2005, the Theater League is a non-profit or7:30 pm, and Oct. 3 at 4 pm. Tickets are $45 ganization dedicated to fostering an appreciation of the arts and includes a buffet dinner, coffee, tea, soda and dessert. through theatrical performances, while providing quality There is a cash bar. To purchase tickets, call 973-928-7668 entertainment for all ages. The Theater League welcomes or make a purchase at theaterleagueofclifton.com. Payvolunteers in all aspects of performance and production. ment by checks to The Theater League’s mailing address Go to theaterleagueofclifton.com for more info. is: PO Box 4072, Clifton, NJ 07012.

Clifton’s Martin Kemp, the last Passaic Police Officer who walked the beat without a walkie talkie, was honored by Passaic PBA 14 members for his service as a Marine in Vietnam and his years on the Passaic Police Department. From left, Det. Martin Kemp, Passaic Police Capt. Ricky Rivera, Passaic PBA President Juan J. Nieves, Passaic PBA State Delegate Alex Flores, Passaic PBA Secretary Hugo Castrillon and Passaic Police Deputy Chief Louis Gentile.

August 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Cliftonmagazine.com • August 2021

It was large, loud and colorful. The 200th year of Peru’s sovereignty was marked on August 1 with a parade which began in Passaic, danced through Clifton, then on to a street fair in Paterson. Politicians from throughout the region marched along with Grand Marshal Guillermo Garcia and perhaps a thousand performers. Seen in the costumes, floats and performers were the colors of the flag which represent those who fought for Peru’s freedom, the enduring national value of peace, and the Inca—the Indigenous civilization whose cultural heritage is foundational to Peruvian identity. Turn the page for more photos.

August 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Cliftonmagazine.com • August 2021

August 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Cliftonmagazine.com • August 2021

Birthdays & Celebrations - August 2021

Happy Birthday to...

Send dates & names .... tomhawrylkosr@gmail.com

Tom and Lori Hawrylko celebrate their 7th anniversary on Aug. 18, Lori’s 63rd is Aug. 4 and Tom’s 64th is on Aug. 15. Peter & Christina Kedl celebrate their 17th anniversary on Aug. 21. Their children Ottilia Kedl turned 15 on July 23 and her brother Alexander celebrates his 13th birthday on Aug. 28.

Barbara and Ted Guzowski celebrated their 39th wedding anniversary on July 10. Rudy Hudak, a former CHS teacher and still a Marine, turns 92 on Aug. 19. Greetings to Emilie Oakley who is 28 on Aug. 22. Luciana Meneses will turn 15 on Aug. 23. When you see Donald D. Dunn wish him Happy Birthday on Aug. 22.

August 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Margot Villanova................. 8/1 Kim West............................ 8/1 Angelo Greco...................... 8/2 Karen Lime.......................... 8/2 Michael Urciuoli.................. 8/2 Christian Gomez.................. 8/3 Lori Hawrylko...................... 8/4 Kevin Ciok.......................... 8/4 Scott Malgieri...................... 8/4 Mark W. Mikolajczyk........... 8/5 Christina Sotelo................... 8/5 Ed Gasior Sr........................ 8/6 Sean McNally..................... 8/6 Gladys Shefchik................... 8/8 Chiara Cristantiello.............. 8/9 Jean Schubert...................... 8/9 Emily Hawrylko................. 8/12 Danielle Swede................. 8/13 Andrew Cronin.................. 8/14 Kimberly Mozo.................. 8/14 Michelle Smolt................... 8/14 Christopher Antal............... 8/15 Peter Bodor....................... 8/15 Tom Hawrylko................... 8/15 Andrew Noblett................. 8/15 Jessica Oliva..................... 8/15 Maria Pinter...................... 8/15

Bruce and Diane Drake will celebrate their 51st wedding anniversary on Aug. 22. Susan Van Blarcom............ 8/15 Daniel Wolfe..................... 8/15 Arlene Hard...................... 8/17 Bella Bulsara..................... 8/18 Alexandria Veltre............... 8/19 Michael Melendez............. 8/20 Rachelle Swede................. 8/20 Luciana Meneses............... 8/23 Cara Cholewczynski.......... 8/24 Yasmin Ledesma................. 8/24 Joanne Pituch.................... 8/24 Robbie Lucas..................... 8/25 Eileen Gasior..................... 8/26 Cameron J. Popovski.......... 8/26 Adam Brandhorst............... 8/27 Peter Fierro, Jr.................... 8/28 Nicholas Swede................ 8/29 Michelle “Mish” Choy........ 8/30 Joe Rushen........................ 8/30 Kathleen McKenny............. 8/31

Jack & Anne Houston celebrate their 35th anniversary on Aug. 8. Cliftonmagazine.com • August 2021

CLIFTONMAGAZINE.COM Where it all began: Clifton Merchant Magazine squeezed its way onto the media landscape of our hometown with this historical collage cover in July, 1998. Within that magazine were dozens of classic photos and a 300-year Clifton History timeline, written by David L. Van Dillen. Beginning with the 1678 Dutch purchase of Dundee Island from the Lenape Indians, it concluded with the 1998 ground breaking of Clifton Commons on what was ITT on Route 3. That edition put us “on the map.” While the interior pages of most editions from 20-plus years ago are not on our website, the covers are. That’s where Oregon resident Russ Carey (CHS ‘73) saw this cover and asked if we could help identify the school teacher in the main photo entitled Story House, November 19, 1948, at the Clifton Public Library. “I think the teacher is my grandmother, Janet Lyle Carey, who lived on Lincoln Ave., near School 3. Is that right?” So I put it out to you folks: Is that Mrs. Carey? And who are those kids in the photo? If you know, write to us at tomhawrylkosr@gmail.com. Maybe some of those kids, about 83 now, are still around? If so, give us a call. We look forward to hearing from you!

August 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

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