Clifton Merchant Magazine December 2024

A Season For Memories

Most of you would not know Joe or Julia Hawrylko. But as this is a season for memories, I wanted to share this photo and explain what my parents imparted on my life.

They lived and died in the shadows of oil tanks, railroads and refineries in Perth Amboy, where they raised me and my older siblings John and Elaine.

It was in that Budapest neighborhood that Joe and Julia taught us the basics of life—be the first to offer people respect, honor God, our heritage, and love America. Know that if you work hard, life can turn out pretty good.

From the Editor Tom Hawrylko

Except sometimes curve balls come your way. And even when that happens, dust off and go to bat again.

Joe died in 1976 when I was 18 but the wind of life was taken out of him six years earlier. It was then that Alzheimer’s disease stole his mind from us. His co-workers on the docks of the Hess Oil refinery in Sewaren noticed him getting disoriented and they called Julia.

The doctor called it ‘shell shock’ from the action he saw during WWII or the beginning of dementia and Alzheimer’s—whatever that was. Today we know a lot about that damned disease, but not then. He was in his mid 50s when he was grounded for good.

Julia, then the famed “Donut Lady of Mickey’s Donuts in Two Guys” in the Hopelawn section of Woodbridge, quit her job. She took to heart her wedding vows and cared for Joe day and night until his death.

Over the course of a year, Julia went from being Joe’s wife to his full time caretaker. It was a tough time for my family. Back in the early 70s, no one knew much about Alzheimer’s. So Julia made it up as she went along. A nursing home was not an option.

“Making it up as I go along” is probably the best thing my mom ever taught me. It’s sort of my survival motto in life. I figure things out as I go along and that’s what the ever-resourceful Julia did back then.

Editor & Publisher

Tom Hawrylko, Sr.

Art Director

Ken Peterson

Associate Editor & Social Media Mgr.

Contributing Writers

Ariana Puzzo, Joe Hawrylko, Irene Jarosewich, Tom Szieber, Jay Levin, Michael C. Gabriele, Jack DeVries, Patricia Alex

Ariana Puzzo

Business Mgr.

Irene Kulyk

That’s the Hawrylko family in the summer of 1970; sister Elaine, Tom with the glasses and John, along with our parents, Joe and Julia.

A Season For Memories

That’s the Hawrylko kids in 2024; Ed and Casey Bivaletz holding Josie and Daisy, Joe and Arielle Hawrylko, Nick Hawrylko, and Tom Jr. holding Ed and Casey’s daughter Lyla who is holding Pawla. At right, Joe and Julia on May 24, 1947, at the Ukrainian Assumption Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Perth Amboy.

She had little money, knowledge or skills for dealing with Alzheimer’s. But she was frugal and strong, so when the curve balls came, she dusted off and went to bat again.

When money was tight, she figured out how to apply for and receive a home improvement grant so our house would not fall apart. She continued paying a mortgage with help from us kids and Joe’s Social Security.

Julia was a rock for her family thanks to her faith. Every morning she’d sit at the side of her bed to say prayers, asking for strength. And basically, that’s how she got through it—with God’s help.

When she could finally turn off her ‘caretaker’ light late in the evening, we used to watch classic movies together. Those were some simple but great times where we got to become friends.

Julia died from cancer in 1992. My ex-wife Cheryl and I handled many of the arrangements. And it was a good wake, with lots of memories and a few good laughs, too. Here’s my favorite: Julia loved pink so we wanted to get her a pink dress.

We went to Macy’s—not where Julia would have shopped—“too damned expensive,” she would say. By the time of her death, Julia was not easy to size. But Julia must of guided us to the discount rack. We found a big beautiful pink dress. As an added bonus, when we go to paid, they took another 50% off. Mom would of loved it. Julia looked good in that discounted dress.

I wrote Julia’s obituary for the Star-Ledger and mentioned her as the “Donut Lady of Two Guys.” The notice brought out a lot of old friends and their good stories.

After her funeral, I was sitting out in my backyard in Clifton and I see, over the course of that August, three shooting stars. Perhaps one for each of us kids? I think it was and I take it as a good sign.

By time she died, Julia Karackay Hawrylko saw her children become adults and begin raising another generation. She was able to go on knowing that she did her job here the best she could. I’m proud of her and I thank God for what Julia— and Joe—gave me and my family. Merry Christmas and God bless.

Love Thy Neighbor ...And Their Pets

By Ariana Puzzo

There’s love all around the Clifton Animal Shelter — and the city’s lead Animal Control Officer Steel Leon has witnessed it both professionally and in his personal life.

Leon, 26, is a lifelong resident who not only loves his job but is skilled at it. He started working part time at the Clifton Health Department at age 19. Today, he patrols the city from 8 am to 5 pm and makes sure of two things.

The first is that the department helps prevent the spread of rabies. The second goal that is important is keeping all of the animals and people safe in our city. Even during off hours, a 24-hour pager allows Clifton Police Dispatch to page Animal Control for emergency situations.

“If I see animals in danger, I react with the skills that I’ve learned from this job,” said Leon. “I would need hours to tell you all of the different things that happen when people aren’t paying attention.”

The Animal Control officers encounter domestic animals that people throw out onto the streets. They also handle wildlife and guarantee that they’re safe and healthy, not suffering. In terms of the domestic animals, the department protects and shelters them.

“I have really good connections with rehabilitators and rescues,” said Leon. “There are so many animals out there that need love and need homes.”

He’s not the only person in his family who feels strongly about protecting our furry, four-legged friends. Leon has known his girlfriend, Danielle Santillo (CHS 2018), for basically his entire life since he went to preschool with her brother. During his senior year at CHS, Leon was a Varsity kicker for the Fighting Mustangs and Santillo was a cheerleader.

“Fast-forward, and finally God put us in the right place. The Animal Shelter brought us together,” said Leon. “I saw her and knew her. We saw each other’s love for animals.”

“The Animal Shelter helps out everyone,” he continued. “Love is all around it.”

A Good Challenge

Leon has immense gratitude for the City of Clifton and the opportunities that his hometown continues to afford him.

The younger child of parents Joseph and Stephanie Leon, he grew up with sister Alyssa Ray Bouman (CHS 2013). Leon attended School 13, WWMS, and graduated with CHS’ Class of 2016. He Varsity-lettered in football, ice hockey, and lacrosse.

“My mom is pretty much the biggest inspiration of my life. I would not be where I am at without her, for sure. She kept me strong, smart, and made me look at the bigger picture,” said Leon. “That caring and giving for others is the most important, as well as trusting in the Lord.”

“That’s why I am where I am today,” he said. “God and my mother. I don’t mind telling anyone that.”

Leon had another influence in his life that helped guide him toward his future career as an Animal Control Officer. His uncle, Robert Boyle, was the head Animal Control officer for 37 years. It was a role that he stepped into while following in the footsteps of Councilman Bill Gibson, and it’s a role that Leon saw the importance of firsthand.

“I never knew what my uncle really did so, before his retirement party, I asked if I could go on a ride-along to see what he really did,” said Leon. “The first job that we did, we went up by Garret Mountain where a deer that was separated from its mother was stranded.”

“He put his safety equipment on, got the deer, relocated it, and basically found the mother and reunited the mother with the baby deer. I was so impressed with it,” said Leon. “I thought, ‘This is a job? I would do this for free.’”

Wanting to make a difference and help animals in need encouraged him to approach Health Officer John Biegel at Boyle’s retirement party. He recalled how Biegel was honest about the Health Department needing to fill the vacant position soon and acknowledging that the job is time-consuming, challenging, and the courses needed for it are also hard.

“I looked at him and smiled. It felt like a good challenge for me,” said Leon. “I thought, ‘You know what? I’m gonna do that.’”

And he did. Leon did double and triple classes until earning his certificate. He spent eight weeks visiting the Health Department daily until he could get in for an interview. Once hired, he worked with mentors like retired Senior Animal Control Officer John Tauber.

At right, Liz Taranda, Vice President with Evelyn Ackley Raps, President. Above, some of the many volunteers at the Clifton Animal Shelter who keep the dogs and cats fed, walked and clean and ready for adoption.

“I definitely would not be as good of an officer without him. John Tauber really took me under his wing,” said Leon. “He would drill things into me — and whatever he did worked. I wouldn’t be as safe on this job without the protocols and procedures that he taught me. He’s a big inspiration.”

Complementary Halves

There’s a “secret weapon” that Leon believes makes all the difference in his job.

“The volunteers of the Clifton Animal Shelter, who 100% give their hearts to these animals and the cause of their lives,” said Leon. “It’s amazing how these people are the least selfish people that I know. They’re not getting paid. They’re volunteering out of the kindness of their hearts.”

The Clifton Friends of the Shelter can be found on the city’s Municipal Complex, 900 Clifton Ave., just like the Animal Control office. Leon works side-by-side with President Evelyn Ackley Raps and Vice President Liz Taranda,

who he said help him every day and both work with the other volunteers to “get the animals to the veterinarian offices that they need.”

The Friends of the Shelter includes Secretary Yvonne Skikus and trustees Patricia DeStefano, Laurie Egan, Susan Eryan, Caroline Hermann, and Ginny Sheehan Michie. The current officers have each spent over 10 years with the shelter — with Skikus clocking more than 25 years and the two leading women having volunteered for over 20

Thy Neighbor...And Their Pets years.

“Liz adopted a cat here and caught the bug,” said Ackley. “I stopped in with my family looking for a dog and offered to help with Petfinder photos.”

“Everything after that is a blur — this place is happy quicksand,” she continued. “As soon as you get in deep enough, that’s it. You’re a lifer.”

The Friends of the Shelter is an all-volunteer 501c3 and independent from Animal Control. The volunteers work hand-in-hand with the ACOs as “two complementary halves that make up the Clifton Animal Shelter as a whole.”

Adoption meetings can be made by appointment at CliftonAnimalShelter.com. Available animals with their biographical details are also shown on the website. FOS appointments are scheduled in evenings and on weekends due to many volunteers keeping regular work hours. But the FOS checks their answering machine throughout the day and promptly returns calls.

“Many people are shocked when they learn that we are not paid for this, as we do take it as seriously as if we were,” said Ackley.

Ackley went on to say that there’s no single person who’s responsible for the shelter’s success. There are 50 to

More options for adoption...

75 rotating volunteers that make up the staff.

“However,” Ackley acknowledged. “I feel comfortable saying that we have caught lightning in a bottle with this robust and dedicated group of animal lovers currently in residence.”

Ackley’s primary focus is on dogs, whereas Taranda heads up the cats. The two women arrived within months of each other in 2002, and they continue to work in perfect sync. They navigate surrenders, strays, and hoarders, faced the realities of the coronavirus pandemic, and they’re ready

to negotiate whatever else they may encounter.

“There are few rookies here and that is rare,” said Ackley. “Many good-hearted people try this kind of work, but compassion fatigue takes a toll. Our people rally and support each other like family as we try to find new families for these animals.”

Clifton Proud

Ackley gives credit where it’s due to ACOs like Leon, who she speaks of with glowing words.

“I’m glad that Steel is finally getting some of the recognition he so richly deserves,” said Ackley. “That guy is

The Friends of the Shelter, an all-volunteer 501(c)(3), is independent from Clifton Animal Control. They work handin-hand with the ACOs as two complementary halves that make up the Clifton Animal Shelter as a whole.

like Crocodile Dundee, but with better people skills and the patience of a saint. I think that he came on board in 2017 and he took to it like a fish to water,” she continued. “It’s sort of satisfying when you see someone doing what they were clearly born to do. That doesn’t happen every day.”

During his off-hours from work, Leon noted that he’s rarely far from the shelter. Santillo is one of the

Love Thy Neighbor...And Their Pets

head volunteers at the shelter, clocking in over 1,000 hours last year. She will often walk the dogs and give them love, which has led to the couple doing many dog-walk dates instead of the traditional movie date.

“Even when I’m not working, I’m making sure that everything’s good,” laughed Leon.

And despite doing so throughout the year, it’s especially important during the holiday season. If you recognize those faces on the cover, it is because Leon and Santillo bring the North Pole to Clifton annually as Santa Claus and the head elf.

Ackley and Taranda set up Santa Pet Day with Foster Animal Hospital, at 1347 Broad St., which is Dec. 8. It’s an opportunity to reunite with the dogs and cats seen throughout the year that the Animal Shelter adopted out.

Leon’s brother-in-law Brian Bouman of Memory Creations Photography, based out of Clifton, volunteers his time to take pictures. Residents are welcome to bring their pets to support the shelter even if they didn’t adopt from there.

The FOS also works closely with Brick City Rescue, a Newark-based 501c3 nonprofit cat rescue organization. Ackley noted that the FOS and Brick City Rescue have “helped each other many times” and many of these cats are in foster homes within the Clifton area.

Seeing his community and neighboring ones come together in a unified effort reminds Leon that what he does is more than a job to him. It’s not the type of work where he’d punch in and punch out at the end of the day.

“This is my city,” said Leon matter-of-factly. “When I bleed, I bleed Clifton.”

Will You Hang On?

Some days are standard, but then there are the days that Leon couldn’t make up if he tried.

Colleagues that he works closely with include Melissa Payne, who is a full-time

Clifton Animal Control does all kinds of wrangling including this yellow python.

Leon’s family, from left, uncle Robert Boyle, step-dad Erin Allen, sister

Alyssa, nephew and godson Luke James Bouman, brother-in-law Brian, mother Stephanie Leon, girlfriend Danielle, and Leon.

The US Quarantine Station illustrations from a 1981 Clifton Handbook by Tom Hawrylko and Jack Tulling.

Animal Control officer that was hired this year. Leon also works with Infectious Disease Prevention Generalist Kasey Molner, who is certified and licensed to help with Animal Control for emergencies.

Speaking in early November, Leon noted that Mondays are the most hectic. He was writing about 40 tickets for residents who didn’t get licensing for their dogs.

Part of his job is making sure that every dog living within our borders is vaccinated and licensed, which controls the spread of rabies and lets the city know which animals live at which houses.

“When people don’t license their dogs … unfortunately, we have to write them summonses to do so. It’s much easier for people to comply,” said Leon. “We do free rabies clinics in the spring and fall, where we assist them and try to make [the process] very simple.”

One of his more unexpected calls came on another Monday, roughly a

year or two into the job. He received a call from a panicked woman that a “giant yellow snake flew out from underneath a commercial dumpster to eat her little Yorkie.”

Leon admitted that he thought she was either pulling his leg or not thinking clearly — until he saw the 10-foot Burmese python staring back at him.“I couldn’t believe it. I had never really dealt with snakes and realized I had no one to call,” he said. “I thought, ‘What would Steve Irwin do?’ So I grabbed it by the tail and stuck my prongs on its head, but then it started moving its muscles.”

“It easily cracked my prongs and I couldn’t even use the tools that I had in the truck,” said Leon. “Now I’m laughing, because I am so scared and, at this job, you will get scared but it’s a matter of, will you hang on?”

Leon’s faith in Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior is what he credited for coming safely out of that situation. He recalled using all of his strength while not hurting the snake and how — even as he stands at 6-feet-1-inch — the snake made him look small.

Love

“[NJ Exotic Pets] helped me get this snake medical attention, and I believe they adopted it out.”

Horses, Cattle, Birds … Oh, My!

Exotic animals seem peculiar nowadays. But there was a time when Clifton could be likened to a circus — and no, we’re not talking politics.

A Federal Bill, approved by Congress in July of 1884, provided funds to establish and maintain Animal Quarantine Stations in the United States. The primary function was for the stations to safeguard domestic livestock and poultry by the proper quarantining of all imported domestic and wild animals.

Pitching in for the 12th Clifton Fire Department Pet Drive, from left: Fire Prevention Supervisor David Montalvo, Deputy Chief William LeGates, Acting Chief Ryan Fitzsimmons, Ann-Marie Lancaster, Admin. to the Chief, Fire Inspector Lindsay Weiss.

Where now the Municipal Complex houses Clifton’s Animal Control and the Animal Shelter once stood the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Clifton Animal Quarantine Station, which became the city’s most interesting neighbor. From 1900 to 1980, nearly 95% of all imported animals entering the country passed through the Station’s gates — and there were thousands of animals.

Children and adults from throughout Passaic County spent decades lining the Center’s tall fence to catch a short glimpse of the “circus” that paraded past their eyes, only to disappear into one of the 18 barns housed on approximately 26 hilly acres of green grass.

There were million dollar horses from Europe and Africa that ended up in the Meadowlands, Belmont, and Aqueduct; prize cattle from Europe and Australia that eventually went out west; and wild parrots, mynah birds, and exotic creatures from Africa that were sent to zoos and pet stores throughout the U.S.

Actually, many of our present-day farm animals — sheep, goats, swine, and cattle — had their origins in countries other than the U.S. and each one of them had to be inspected and certified in Clifton before they could each move on to their eventual destinations. Clifton even managed to help prevent the extinction of muskoxen by housing 34 of the rare creatures in the brick and wooden barns.

After Congress decided in May of 1930 that it needed to repopulate Alaska with muskoxen by taking some from Greenland, the creatures were transported and spent 33

days in Clifton. All oxen survived and were next sent on a train to Seattle, where they would take a seven-day voyage on a steamship to Seward, Alaska.

But the Station wasn’t forever — and, as Clifton continued to grow in the post-war boom, more land was needed. By August of 1968, the city had the intention of constructing a new municipal center. The only obstacle was the recently-acquired remaining land and buildings of the Station — for a bargain price of $526,000 — would not formally become the city’s until the USDA could relocate the Station to another site.

After 14 years of bureaucratic red tape, the USDA surprised city officials by announcing that the import center would be moved in May of 1980 to Stewart Air Force Base in Newburgh, New York. Thus, the new municipal building officially moved from Main and Harding Aves. and the building was dedicated in September of 1980 with the remaining acreage left intact for all kinds of uses.

Suffice to say, animals are a page in Clifton’s history that — like many of Leon’s stories — you couldn’t make up if you tried.

A Humbling Community

There is one major misconception that Leon wants to dispel, if possible.

“The Clifton Animal Shelter does whatever is necessary to save and protect animals,” he said. “People will ask, ‘Are you a kill shelter?’ I did not dedicate my life

to Animal Control because I don’t like animals. We’ll do anything possible to keep animals alive and to get them adopted.”

But sometimes there are severe medical or behavioral issues. Leon emphasized it’s inhumane to “keep an animal alive when it is suffering” and he’s seen the shelter dedicate hundreds of hours and thousands of dollars toward trainers to help give aggressive animals a chance.

“It’s the most humbling and kind thing that I’ve ever seen,” said Leon. “Our decisions literally determine life and death.”

Leon is an avid outdoorsman with a small rescue on Orchard St. He takes care of chickens, ducks, a 300-pound pig, dogs, and fish. Caring for these animals means he cannot take in others in need of a home. One dog, Bruno, came to the Shelter in February without signs of aggression. He’s still waiting for someone to love him full time.

“It’s heartbreaking,” said Leon. “He’s two years old and a lab mix, who’s great with kids. He needs someone that’s

athletic and able to deal with a stronger dog. He’s cute as a button.”

Father Joseph’s advice to stay humble and kind grounds Leon.

“It drives me crazy when people say, ‘Oh, Clifton’s not the way it used to be,’” said Leon. “No, there are still good people. … But it has to be people like me who’ll stand up and do a job that will benefit and protect the city, and make the city thrive and look better.”

Clifton’s Animal Control team: Kasey Molner, Steel Leon, Alyssa Torres, Melissa Payne.

FROM CLIFTON TO CHUKA

By Ariana Puzzo

Acts of kindness go a long way. In the Niedzialek family’s case, it traveled over 7,000 miles.

Alongside the organization IHOPE, the Niedzialeks traveled from Clifton to Chuka, Kenya to volunteer free medical services in a comprehensive medical camp at Chuka Level 5 Referral Hospital. From Oct. 14 to 18, IHOPE worked in partnership with the County Government of Tharaka Nithi and the Department of Public Health and Medical Services.

As for the Niedzialeks, they each had their own important role. Margaret, a nurse case manager at The Valley Hospital in Paramus, was part of the nursing staff who participated in the mission. Acting as non-medical volunteers were her children Jack, 15, and Olivia, 12.

All three Niedzialeks found the experience eye-opening. It was Jack who truly set the scene for how essential the work is by the organization and its volunteers.

“I thought that [the mission] was a unique opportunity and was a little scared at first, because I didn’t know what to expect when arriving in Africa,” said Jack. “[But] I was enthusiastic to start helping as soon as possible.”

“[What stood out was] the distance many people had to walk to get to us,” he continued. “Some people walked almost 8 hours on foot just to see us, and we would get to them at the end of the day.”

Throughout the five-day camp, the medical team treated

over 1,500 patients. Patients came from neighboring counties as well. A total of 50 surgeries were performed for appendectomy, laparotomy, hydrocele, and hypothyroidism.

It was a big trip for the CHS freshman and WWMS seventh grader, but Margaret is proud of how successful it was as a first mission for all three of them. The timing of it, she said, was perfect.

“My neighbor next door is the CEO of IHOPE, Amy Pajnik, and she knows that I’m a healthcare worker,” said Margaret, 50. “She kept encouraging me by saying, ‘Join one of my missions’, but you know how life is. The kids were little. It was never a good time.”

“Now, I thought, ‘Why not?’” she continued. “We decided to join this mission … and I wanted to bring the kids on board, because both of them are showing an interest in medicine. It was the perfect opportunity for them to see what medicine can be about.”

Planning Ahead

Prior to embarking on their mission, Margaret sat down with Pajnik to get a better idea of what they could expect. She also wanted to know how she could make it a wellrounded experience for Jack and Olivia.

“I said to her that besides going on the medical mission, I would like to show them schools and bring donations to [local] schools as well,” said Margaret. “She loved

Mustang siblings Jack and Olivia Niedzialek, at center, in Kenya this past fall.

the idea so much and told us that we could pack all of the school supplies that we could bring to donate.”

So that’s exactly what they collected. Margaret began gathering items like crayons and soccer and volleyball equipment. Jack spoke to CHS soccer coach Stan Lembryk.

“As soon as I realized I was going on this trip to Africa,” said Jack, “I told my coach ahead of time before the season began.”

That request for donations resulted in soccer T-shirts for Kenyan school children. It also led to a promise of additional help next time since the season wouldn’t end until after the mission, which would be when more supplies are available.

Other Mustang soccer players reached out to Jack as well to say that they had items to donate. It made a significant difference, especially when they realized they would be put to good use.

“We saw some kids playing soccer in ripped, dusty shirts that looked like they hadn’t been washed in a year,” said Jack.

That wasn’t all that was brought with them. Margaret was among the volunteers who gathered medical supplies and expressed appreciation for Christopher Bush, who is The

Clifton’s Margaret Niedzialek, kneeling, worked with a team of esteemed doctors from the U.S. that treated over 1,500 patients.

FROM CLIFTON TO CHUKA

Valley Hospital Material Manager and helped with donations for IHOPE.

“Overall, what was most surprising was that Kenya Airways didn’t charge me anything extra for the school supplies luggage,” said Margaret. “All of the donations did not need to be charged.”

The process was exciting for Olivia, who was eager to have a new experience that was also in a brand new environment.

“It was cool just to see all those people once they saw us,” she said. “There were long lines with everyone waiting for us to see them.”

Community Backbones

have lived in the Maple Valley section. Their children are Solana Simiyu, 20, Glenn Bett, 10, and Gavin Bett, 8.

The 501(c)(3) organization nonprofit foundation in the U.S. focuses a significant amount of its mission work where the need is in Kenya, but there are missions in other countries. Other than in 2020 during the coronavirus pandemic, the foundation travels annually for two missions with their team of volunteers.

Founding IHOPE in 2018 was no small feat for Pajnik. But as a Kenyan-American woman, she saw the need firsthand in her birth country.

Pajnik grew up in Bungoma County, in the former Western Province of Kenya, and recalled her village’s medical access during her youth. There was a dispensary, she said, that only provided pain medication and had a consultant or a nurse.

One particular memory that stands out is how she and others in the village watched as a woman slowly and painfully died from cancer, but no one knew that it was cancer.

“[This was] when I was in high school. People thought it was like black magic,” said Pajnik, 41. “The woman was secluded from her own family and went through a lot. Can you imagine having cancer from the painful Stage 1 to the last stage and each stage taking your life and never going to a hospital to seek medical attention?”

Pajnik saw the woman’s children drop out of school, because there was no one to support them at home. The current Clifton resident knew at the time that more needed to be done. She would go on to earn a bachelor’s degree in International Relations while living in Kenya.

Pajnik moved next to Vienna, Austria and pursued additional education before she stepped into a financial administrator role for the United Nations’ Africa bureau. From 2004 until she founded IHOPE 14 years later, Pajnik worked on the budgets for different African projects.

“I have kept my network with [many] African leaders from [my time] working at the UN … and it helps me a lot to have a soft landing in any country when we come to do a mission,” she said.

Since 2016, Pajnik and her husband, Dr. Geoffrey Korir,

The team consists of American boardcertified surgeons, plus a few surgeons from Europe and some others from Argentina. The mission work has brought them to other African countries like Uganda, Tanzania, and Malawi. Pajnik attends each mission to ensure their success and follows up with the government when there are obstacles to ensure an “environment that is conducive for the doctors.”

Pajnik also collects data during the mission and creates a comprehensive report that focuses on the condition of patients, where the hospitals and government need to improve, and how IHOPE can return in the future to teach. It’s an opportunity for local and traveling doctors to gain greater insight and understanding of the situations.

But more than anything else, it’s a way to support communities that see every aspect of their lives affected by limited access to healthcare.

“Without healthcare, the community ends up having a group of illiterate kids who really wanted to go to school but, because they don’t have parents, don’t continue with their education,” said Pajnik. “A mother will make sure that she provides food for her children and that her children go to school.”

“That,” she continued, “is why I’ve always known that when you save any mother’s life, you’ve saved the entire community.”

A New Environment

All four Maple Valley residents saw a tremendous amount accomplished in the October mission.

IHOPE did medical procedures out of the Chuka Level 5 Referral Hospital due to the availability of state-of-the-art medical equipment in the facility for the camp. The facility offered specialized treatment for health conditions that included diabetes, hypertension, arthritis, kidney diseases, and other general medical cases.

Surgical procedures were performed for patients

Clifton’s Amy Pajnik.

suffering from hyperthyroidism, appendicitis, hydrocele, and other critical cases. The medical team additionally conducted reconstructive and pediatric surgeries to address congenital conditions like cleft palates, undescended testes, and intestinal malformations. Other successful case treatments were in neonatal jaundice, infections in newborns, premature births, and gynecological surgeries like C-sections and hysterectomies.

Pajnik expressed gratitude for all of the volunteers and donors who make the missions possible. She acknowl-

edged how Margaret and her children all contributed a lot to the cause.

“We needed Margaret’s expertise as a senior nurse in running the operating room during the surgeries and mission here,” said Pajnik. “Her children contributed a lot by collecting soccer balls, volleyballs, basketballs, and bringing them here after we identified a school.”

“They really contributed a lot,” Pajnik added. “I felt very grateful they were part of this mission.”

Husband and father Rafal Niedzialek is also proud of his family’s volunteer work. Niedzialek and his family moved to Clifton when he was aged 16. Although Rafal didn’t play soccer like his son, the Class of 1995 graduate watched as the late Coach Fernando Rossi led the boys to the State Championship in his senior year.

Rafal is the individual who originally reached out to us about Clifton students volunteering for a medical mission in Kenya. Seeing his kids attend his former school district is something that he is equally proud of due to his appreciation for its teachers.

One such teacher was retired Math Department Head and teacher Kathleen Brach, who he described as having changed his life and who gave him “a chance and pushed me.”

“Mrs. Brach basically gave me a chance to show that if you set your mind to something, you can do it,” said Rafal. “Even though I could not speak English well, she gave me a chance. I finished CHS with an A in Calculus and got a nice scholarship at Drew University.”

That same work ethic has trickled down to Rafal’s children. Both Jack and Olivia agreed that the mission, above all else, put their own lives into perspective. One of the ways that it gave them a new point-of-view was seeing how different classrooms were in Chuka compared to Clifton.

Jack described classroom

furniture that was different from our own experiences, including picnic tables and wooden stools.

“They looked beaten down to the point where they might break,” he said. “They also don’t have computers or SmartBoards. There were chalkboards and the teachers would teach on that.”

There also wasn’t gym class at the two schools where they visited. Olivia added that the school day was from 7 am to 5 pm, with class after class and their own approach to lunchtime.

“They’d get bowls of food and sit anywhere and eat,” said Olivia.

The other consensus was how friendly everyone was and how welcomed they felt. Jack said when they visited the schools, they were offered bananas, watermelon, and sandwiches.

“We would say, ‘No, it’s okay’ and they’d say, ‘I insist, eat it,’” he said. “If you ate it, it was like you respected it.”

Eye-Opening Experiences

The Niedzialeks hope more people strive to give back. “It was definitely an eye-opener,” said Olivia. “Most kids

here feel like they have a hard life, but going and seeing what some other kids are experiencing [showed us how] their problems are way harder than ours.”

Pajnik’s appeal is simple: help however you’re able. Volunteers can provide medical expertise, register patients, or donate medical and stationary supplies for hospitals and schools. Financial support is also crucial. Donate at internationalhopeafrica.org or by check to IHOPE at: 59 Main St., Suite 110, West Orange, NJ 07052.

“Every coin is needed to support these vulnerable communities,” said Pajnik. “For those who needed surgeries, it was very difficult for them to walk back home. IHOPE takes care of how they’re transported back to their village.”

IHOPE donors help cover the cost of the medical treatment, each patient’s admission and meal, and medication like anesthesia that must be locally bought. Donations enable residency doctors to accompany senior doctors on these missions, which lessens the volunteers’ strain.

“We save more lives when they are part of the mission,” said Pajnik.

Future Ready! At the Club

Invest in the futures of your community’s young people Scan to Donate

Time is running out! Make your donation before December 31st to receive tax benefits! This applies to gifts from IRA’s, including Qualified Charitable Distributions(QCD) and Required Minimum Distributions (RMD). Please contact your tax advisor to maximize year-end charitable giving. Questions? Contact Maureen Cameron at mcameron@bgcclifton.org

4,000 Swimming Lessons

130 kids on the Swim Team

528 kids in Sports Programs

1,000 kids in afterschool at the Club & school sites

363 Early Childhood Students

550 kids in Summer Camp

Dear Clifton Community,

Our Club provides a safe space where Clifton’s children and teenagers develop physically, academically, and emotionally At the Club, positive youth development is incorporated into everything we do--from sports, to educational experiences, to fun and games. Each year we raise important funds through the Annual Campaign to enable us to continue developing today’s kids to be Future Ready!

For 77 years, we have impacted thousands of children and teens! Hear what some of our Club Kids have shared about our Club:

“I wasn’t into sports or other activities, but I loved going to the Club because I always felt accepted I never felt pressure to be someone I wasn’t. I enjoyed the cooking classes, water robotics, basketball, and talent shows.”

We hope you will give generously and power our Future Ready mission! Our families need your support now more than ever. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at any time by calling 973-773-0966, ext 144

We hope you have a peaceful holiday season! Thank you again for our consideration.

Sincerely,

Gabe Blau

Gabe Blau

“The Club’s diverse and inclusive environment will always hold a special place in my heart; the Club been a second home for me, where I felt safe and was free from worry. I formed unbreakable bonds with fellow students and with the counselors I feel so lucky to have had the Clifton Boys & Girls Club in my life ”

“Growing up with immigrant parents, learning to speak English and doing homework was a struggle for me. Thanks to the positive and caring attitudes of counselors at the Club, I found support systems where I could learn and develop skills that I could not have done on my own. ”

Angelo Crudele CEO Chair, Annual Campaign Future Ready

Angelo Crudele

Pe Paving Brick

We invite you to become a permanent part of our future by purchasing a personalized paving block engraved with your special message. The paver will be placed in the walkway at the front entrance to the Clubhouse.

lized d Seat Plate

Celebrate someone special or commemorate a significant occasion with an engraved seat plate! By purchasing a plate and naming a seat on the bleachers in the Nicholas Martini Aquatics Center, you’ll create a lasting tribute while supporting our local youth.

For questions and more information, please to reach out to Maureen Cameron at mcameron@bgcclifton org or 973-773-0966 ext 144

A Community Foothold

By Ariana Puzzo

Feet and ankles are the foundation of the body, which is precisely why Dr. Maryellen Brucato and her team at Brucato Foot & Ankle Surgery are considered supporters of our community.

Brucato Foot & Ankle Surgery, 1011 Clifton Ave., was founded in 2019. Brucato was working for another podiatrist in Bergen County and they were building a new office in Clifton to service the Passaic County patients. After their partnership dissolved, Brucato made the office her own.

“My patients needed to be seen, and I wanted to be able to treat and do the surgeries that patients still needed,” said Brucato, 40. The in-office treatments are advanced and specialize in treating kids, sports injuries, and wound care. The business expanded in 2021 and again earlier this year with offices in Hackensack and Fair Lawn, respectively.

They had an office in Ringwood for about one year that they sold to a doctor who previously worked for Brucato’s practice. They’re exploring opening another office in the new year in the Essex County area.

“Our mission when we created the company was to have a positive impact on the community,” stated Chief Financial Officer Kyle Berger. “Dr. Brucato also wanted to get involved with the public service workers to provide foot care to those who are the backbone of our community.”

The practice volunteers annually at St. Peter’s Haven around Thanksgiving.

The staff helps to unload trucks, put away food, and they conduct a food drive ahead of time. The coronavirus pandemic didn’t halt their philanthropic efforts.

Brucato’s team also does a Back-To-School Drive for CASA of Passaic County in August and runs a Toy Drive in November and December for Toys For Tots or St. Peter’s Haven. They additionally sponsor events for the Clifton PBA.

They’re always eager to support their patients as they walk out the door.

“I think that’s what sets us apart as a medical practice. We are not saying, ‘Here’s a treatment. Bye,’” said Brucato. “We help patients get transportation to the office, we make phone calls, and we help them set up home care. We get involved and help them with their paperwork. We want to go above and beyond in any way that we can.”

The Brucato Foot & Ankle Surgery mobile service is another community resource. Brucato, with Dr. Keval Parikh and Dr. Meltem Ates, brings the services to local NJEA events, schools, police departments, and PSEG locations.

“Foot problems can be devastating. If you don’t take care of your feet, you can develop arthritis, tendonitis, and [other conditions] that cannot be reversed,” said Brucato. “Preventive treatment can save you potentially hours of pain and missed days of work.”

In One Mustang’s Memory

William “Hank” Mancini was a firm believer in the importance of helping all students access the STEM fields. The four-time patent awardee’s love for his field began in our city.

“His chemistry teacher, William Mandara, implanted in his head all of this stuff,” recalled sister Helen Mancini (CHS 1967). Helen, who remains in Clifton, was an RN for 25 years at Passaic General Hospital, now St. Mary’s.

Mancini (CHS 1963), who passed away at age 78 on April 24, grew up with Helen and parents Alfred and Bianca on Van Riper Ave. He earned a B.A. in Chemistry at St. Michael’s College in Winooski, Vermont, plus his M.S. and Ph.D. degrees in Chemistry from the University of New Hampshire.

Mancini wed Elizabeth “Lea” Papageorge in 1967, becoming parents to Elisa and Denise. He worked for Corneal Sciences Incorporated in Boston as a research chemist. His later career moves were with Syntex Corporation and then building the Organic Chemistry program at Paradise Valley Community College in Phoenix from 1994 until 2012, where he met his life partner, Casey Durandet.

“Hank was a referee for 37 years, so I established a STEM scholarship in his name and at the college where he taught … for our student-athletes,” said Durandet, a Physics faculty member. “I thought that it would be a great way to honor him.”

The scholarship supports studentathletes who are pursuing degrees in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). It will assist them in receiving the financial assistance needed to pursue their academic and athletic dreams. All while honoring the former Mustang who championed these endeavors.

“[Hank] loved life. He enjoyed life and had fun,” reflected Durandet. “He was the first graduating class from the new Clifton High School and was a mischievous character growing up.”

William Mancini in 2012 and the Mustang in 1963.

The Clifton FMBA 21 coat drive for St. Peter’s Haven, run in conjunction with the Clifton Fire Department, collected 236 adult coats and 53 kids. CFD members making the delivery from left: Martin Ramos, Bryan Roldan, Tom Jacobus, Chris Doherty, Steven Turi, Greg Iwacki, Gustavo Orales, Dylan Maresca. Last year, toys were distributed to 900 children.

Stocking up the Toys for Tots toy drive, from left: Clifton Fire Chief Ryan Fitzsimmons with Firefighters Tom Jacobus, Tim Noborine, Pablo Torres, Oleg Skachko, Frank Yodice and Brian Fusco at Station 3 on Maher Ave.

On Nov. 14 at St. Peter’s Haven, Pam Fueshko, Dan

Some people hold out for a partridge in a pear tree, but Dan Shackil knows how much a pallet of 90 turkeys benefits a community. Shackil (CHS 2008), the assistant store manager at Shoprite of Little Falls, spent the month of November collecting food items for distribution through his Cans for Dan campaign. On Nov. 14, a delivery of 1,161 food items, or 115 lbs. of food, was delivered for the needy. The drive concluded with 2,771 donated items, including the whole pallet of turkeys that each weighed in at 20 pounds. “On a typical morning, 147 families come through the pantry to pick up items,” said acting director Pam Fueshko. “Please help.” Donate at saintpetershaven.org or deliver a bag of non-perishable items. Checks are accepted: St. Peter’s Haven, 380 Clifton Ave., Clifton, NJ 07011.

Shackil and Andrew Infusino.

Mia, Vivienne and Lara Bevacqua, Roma Ferriter, Ken Wanio, Marie Duplak, Fr. Andriy Dudkevich of St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Church, and Michael Sawkiw, Jr. UCCA President. At inset, Taras Shevchenko, the national bard of Ukraine, a founder of modern Ukrainian literature and language.

Charisma and leadership mean the most when they’re used to help others. That is exactly what lifelong resident Kenneth Wanio has always striven to deliver to his beloved Ukrainian-American community.

The Ukrainian Congress Committee of America (UCCA) honored his efforts with the Shevchenko Freedom Award during the XXIII Congress of Ukrainians in America from Oct. 11-13, an award for those who contributed to promoting Ukraine’s history and culture or played a sizable role in securing its sovereignty. Unable to attend, Marie Duplak, UCCA Passaic-Bergen President, accepted the award.

On Nov. 3, at the Ukrainian Center in Passaic, a reception was held for Wanio, 77, for his more than 50 years of work within the Ukrainian-American community.

“Our family is so happy that he received this honor,” said daughter Lara Bevacqua (CHS 1997). “He’s been so dedicated for so long. It is the highest accolade given by the Ukrainian-American community.”

The UCCA provides the award to individuals who “embody the prophetic aspirations of Taras Shevchenko”, who is the national bard of Ukraine, who dedicated his life and work to the pursuit of democracy and freedom for Ukraine.

Wanio was a bard in his own right — and he certainly inspires his daughters. His eldest, Roma Ferriter (CHS 1994), spoke and highlighted how Wanio joined the UCCA in 1974 and championed “the power of our shared cultural heritage.” She continued: “My sister and I have memories of him writing speeches at the dining room table late into the night, preparing to address our community with the kind of respect and devotion only a true patriot can bring.”

Back in the 1970s and 80s, he and others worked to unite the Ukrainian-American community and bus people down to the country’s capital or to NYC to protest Russian aggression. “Throughout our lives,” said Ferriter, “he has instilled in us and his five granddaughters the importance of a love of God, a love of country, and a profound pride in being Ukrainian.”

Profound Pride

Wanio graduated CHS in the 1960s and enlisted in the US Army. He and his wife, Myrosia, were married for 52 years until her passing on March 13, aged 74. Their five granddaughters are Mia and Vivienne Bevacqua — who live locally and— and Téa, Siena, and Charlize Ferriter.

A member of the New Jersey State Bar since 1972, he has always based his law practice in the city. His paralegal Lynn Marakovitz, who has worked with him for decades, still does work with Wanio’s guidance.

A parishioner at St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Church in Passaic, things did change for Wanio after suffering a stroke in August of 2019. The stroke took away much of his ability to speak, though he can still communicate to his loved ones who know him. His mind and spirit remain strong, with Bevacqua noting that Wanio felt “very humbled by the award and very honored.”

Emphasizing Wanio’s role in his grandchildren’s lives, she added, “He’s a great role model, a man of values, principles and strong faith. It’s just about a love of country and a love of God,” continued Bevacqua. “He sticks to those principles, and I think they really admire him for it.”

Giving Back, Saving Lives

By Ariana Puzzo

A brighter and safer future is the Ukrainian American Youth Association of Passaic’s mission. And the organization has striven for the past decade to ease the suffering of Ukraine’s most innocent victims.

Supporting children left orphaned since Russia’s initial invasion of Ukraine in 2014 is the organization and volunteers’ priority. Through the Ukrainian Youth Association’s worldwide network of 13 country chapters — headquartered in Ukraine — and the 20 U.S. branches, the “Warm

from the map of Europe and the world,” said UAYA Passaic President Lillianna Chudolij. “Tens of thousands of children have been orphaned unjustly; their parents were killed in action or more recently were killed by the Russian bombing of civilian targets.”

The Passaic chapter, 240 Hope Ave., Passaic, has had different chairpersons at the helm. The chairpersons have overseen the donation of warm clothes, school sup plies, sweet treats, and handmade Christmas greeting cards from its youth members to over 3,000 children over the past 10 years. Recipients are ages newborn to 16 years.

work of Ukrainian Youth Association members across Ukraine work alongside their counterparts in Europe to receive the items and get them to the youth organizers.

The item’s next stop is into the arms of the children — all in time for the greatest gift-giving celebration in Ukraine, which is the Feast of Saint Nicholas. But it’s more than about giving back.

It’s also about saving lives.

“Our older youth are building small drones to be used for search and rescue efforts,” said Chudolij. “These are key items to find survivors of the constant city bombings [that] destroy buildings and [take] innocent lives.”

This year, UAYA Passaic Branch helped the innocent just as vigorously as in the past. Current chairpersons are Ivanna Paranchak and Kateryna Kotovych, who were mentored by past Chair Olesia Sledge. A combination of their leadership and community involvement resulted in adult and youth members stuffing backpacks filled with enough supplies for 260 children.

Chudolij added that over 68 boxes were delivered to a transportation point due to the “generous donation of the international shipping company Ukraine Express.” A net-

It is estimated that each drone saves 50 lives. To support UAYA Passaic Branch’s ongoing humanitarian efforts, donate using PayPal or Venmo. CYM Passaic PayPal: @ passaiccym. Venmo: @UAYA_Passaic. All donations are 100% tax deductible as the Ukrainian American Youth Association of Passaic is a fully recognized 501(c)(3) charity nonprofit organization.

“Thank you for your support in the past, the present, and the future,” said Chudolij. “May the future be bright for the USA and for Ukraine.”

Chopin Singing Society

Members from left to right: Mariusz Bryszkiewicz, David Anderson, Adolph Burghardt, Arthur Sroka, Michal Kurdyla, Kazimierz Ziemba,Fr. Tadeusz Mierzwa (former Director), Richard Daszczyszak, Brent Iskra, Billy Niejadlik, Peter Frey, Austin Sroka (President). At right, Frédéric Chopin. In 2017, society members in Clifton’s 100th anniversary parade.

It’s more than creating and sharing music; it’s a celebration of their culture and heritage.

Organized on March 10, 1910, the Chopin Singing Society of Passaic is one of the oldest male independent choral groups that remains active in the U.S. The Chopin Singing Society #182 is proudly a member of the Polish Singers Alliance of America, District 7.

The chapter has traveled extensively in the U.S. and Canada to support local and international conventions. Arthur Sroka, 65, is a 28-year member.

“My son is a member and … our family has had fathers and sons as members,” said Sroka. On the Society’s 114 years of existence, he said, “Years ago, there was a need to keep our culture in existence and there was huge Polish immigration to this area.”

Sroka acknowledged that it changed over the years. The members used to be predominantly Polish Americans born in the U.S. Now, over 60% of the members are Polish-born Americans.

“Immigration is changing,” he said. “The other issue is it’s difficult to get new members and the younger generation involved.”

The peak years saw 40 men in the choir. Today, there are 12 to 14 fluctuating members. Son Austin, 37, is the president and Sroka is the executive secretary. Rehearsals are Wednesdays at 7 pm at 68 Union Ave., behind the Dunkin Donuts.

The Chopin Singing Society was organized to honor the 100th anniversary of Fryderyk Chopin’s birth, a Polish composer and virtuoso pianist of the Romantic period. The choir promotes Polish and American culture through song, with recording credits including “Polskie Kolędy” (Polish Christmas Carols), “Songs of Poland”, traditional Polish Folk songs, and a CD entitled “A Christmas Concert”.

The Chopin Singing Society Annual Christmas Musicale is Dec. 8 at 3 pm at St. John Kanty Church Hall, 49 Speer Ave. For $50, there will be a hot buffet and guest artists. Tickets and information: call 973-473-6619.

Housing insecurity is bigger than any one city or state. But Kelley Moss-Brown sees how it affects residents of Passaic County and Clifton every day. “It’s mind-blowing for me how expensive it is to have somewhere to lay your head,” said Moss-Brown, 56. And so begins the journey of the Heart of Hannah.

Kelley Moss-Brown is the founder of Heart of Hannah, 421 Lakeview Ave., which is a faith-based social service agency dedicated and committed to the empowerment of women, families, and their communities.

Founded in 2003, Heart of Hannah provides programs to community members such as Rapid Rehousing, Women’s Empowerment & Enrichment, Emergency Rental Assistance, and Young Entrepreneur Enterprise.

This past January, Moss-Brown formally stepped into the role of director at Grandma’s Place / Hope Through Care. The independent, non-profit organization serves families with children in the Passaic County community. The house, with shared living accommodations, located at 89 1st St., is an emergency shelter for women and children.

An October meet and greet helped introduce the new leadership and explain their services to the community. The

By Ariana Puzzo

previous head of Hope Through Care was Lilliana Giedrys.

“We wanted to increase our engagement within Clifton,” said Moss-Brown. “Clifton has been extremely welcoming, and the response was very warm and friendly. Clifton appears to be a community that cares about its [residents], and that makes my soul very happy.”

Holistic Care

Heart of Hannah’s holistic approach to rehousing is strategic. The long-term goal of the organization’s efforts is helping families develop “healthy habits to set them up for success.” Hope Through Care has shared interests, including assisting families and working through the traumas and other social service issues that result in economic, medical, or educational disadvantages. Funding for the 501(c)(3) organizations are

Sharing Caring

through the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA), the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, and Passaic County Continuum of Care (CoC).

“As you probably would imagine, we just don’t have enough funding to help as many people as we’d like,” said Moss-Brown. “Our funding is a drop in the bucket compared to the needs of the community. The shelter stays full. As soon as we get someone on their way, someone else is at the door.”

Hope Through Care’s house is currently at capacity with seven adults and about 16 kids. But the team of dedicated case managers, administrative workers, and interns keep things moving. That makes a big difference for their youngest occupants.

“The greatest number of people enrolled in our programs are children,” said Moss-Brown. “They enter with their parents and are the greatest number across the board.”

Helping parents is rewarding, but Moss-Brown described an entirely different feeling when they can help a young child who enters the shelter scared at night with an adult and with all of their possessions in a backpack.

“When they show up disturbed and concerned … we’re there to provide a sense of peace and hope and to let them know that it’s a setback,” said Moss-Brown. “It may not be what they want, but this is a place of hope, care, and inspiration.”

Making Sense of It

Heart of Hannah was born in part out of lived experience and from Moss-Brown’s professional background.

In the early 2000s, she was working as a Perinatal Addiction Specialist at a methadone clinic. Moss-Brown witnessed firsthand a gap in services, particularly for women navigating recovery who were working and couldn’t access 9-to-5 services.

“There were no evening programs for women,” said Moss-Brown. “And women who worked couldn’t participate in the programs in the daytime, so they weren’t able to benefit a lot from social services in the community.”

Heart of Hannah answered that call. The organization started a support group for women — first once per month, then twice per month, and then each week. They also partnered with local food pantries and food distribution programs to put boxes together for families. Taking it a step further by introducing dramatic performances gave women an additional outlet to discuss mental health and illnesses.

Yet housing was always there as the foundation.

“You can inspire people to get enrolled in school and deal with substance abuse but if you have nowhere to live, it’s in vain,” said Moss-Brown. “There is a greater need for safe and affordable housing.” Learn more about Heart of Hannah’s full range of services at heartofhannah.org.

Moss-Brown met Giedrys in Washington, D.C. in 2013 at a program regarding homelessness and housing insecurity. They kept meeting over the years in Washington until the coronavirus pandemic hit and Giedrys was ready to retire, which is when they discussed the possibility of transitioning leadership for Hope Through Care.

There are a lot of people who make the work possible. Moss-Brown expressed gratitude for Clifton organizations like St. Peter’s Haven and Kim Castellano’s Power of One. She lauded meetings with City Manager Nick Villano, Health Officer John Biegel, and Health Department Social Worker Nathaniel King as well.

Staying constantly on-call is how Moss-Brown delivers on different services. Another component is making sure the majority of the staff has more than just a professional background.

“Almost the entire staff has some lived experience either with being homeless or in a domestic violence situation, or they have received social service benefits,” she said. “They understand a clients’ needs professionally and by having had some personal experience, themselves.”

Moss-Brown has channeled her own history into her purpose of helping others. As a teenage single mother, whose parents dealt with addiction, she had her own adversities to overcome.

“I believe in God and that we are strongest in our broken places,” said Moss-Brown. “I always say, ‘God, please make it make sense’ and now it does, because I can help somebody else to get through things that I’ve been through.”

Founder Kelley Moss-Brown with previous director Lilliana Giedrys and Paterson Councilwoman Ruby Cotton.

We are g rateful f or your support through out 2024, and d look forward to repre senting y you in the years ahea d.

We are grateful f or your support through out 2024, and look forward to repre senting you in the years ahea d.

Paid for by Friends Of John Bartlett ~ PO Box 3544, Wayne, NJ 07474 ~ Tripti Singh, Treasurer

for by Friends Of John Bartlett ~ PO Box 3544, Wayne, NJ 07474 ~ Tripti Singh, Treasurer

Sharing Caring

U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Oscar G Buonafina opens his Clifton Cares package while serving in Kuwait in 2010.

“We support our troops!” is an easy phrase to say. Nearly every American repeats it proudly, and the troops appreciate hearing it. But how many people really show their support for our military?

There is a group in Clifton that leaves no doubt of its feelings and actions. Since 2010, Clifton Cares has demonstrated its support, showing affection and thanks to the approximately 200,000 men and women defending our country who are deployed in 177 foreign countries. In faraway lands, on ships at sea – even on submarines in the deep oceans, packages from Clifton find their way to soldiers containing a little slice of home and showing appreciation with needed items, food and notes. Those packages mean much to their recipients and go beyond the supplies contained within.

How You Can Help:

You can help Clifton Cares with needed funds to pay for postage and packing supplies.

Since its founding, postage for mailing boxes has increased from $10.75 when Clifton Cares started to $18.30 – that’s a 70 percent increase!

Your monetary donations for postage, no matter how big or small, are appreciated!

Make checks payable to Lizz Gagnon and mail them to her at Clifton Cares Inc., 900 Clifton Ave., Clifton, NJ 07013.

Sharing Caring

Few living people can say with a straight face that they know what it’s like to guard Abraham Lincoln and Thomas Jefferson. Clifton native US Army Sgt. Naomi Oyanguren is one of those people.

Oyanguren, 27, enlisted in the New Jersey Army National Guard in 2018. Prior to enlisting, she grew up with parents Silas Ayala and Ruth Oyanguren, who remain in Clifton, and her younger brother, Angel (CHS 2017).

The Army has activated her approximately a dozen times since her enlistment and one of those times was during the height of the coronavirus pandemic.

“The mission was for the riots in D.C. during the Black Lives Matter [demonstrations],” said Oyanguren. “We mostly did security to make sure that no one vandalized the monuments.”

Doing What She Can

By Ariana Puzzo

Those 12-hour shifts were among Oyanguren’s many eye-opening experiences. In October, she was sent to Florida to help residents during the storms. Being on the ground reminded her about how much of a difference it makes to see things firsthand.

“When you read the news as a civilian … and hear about Florida, you see that perspective,” she said. “Then when you see an actual National Guard soldier [providing relief], it’s so different.”

Oyanguren elaborated that it was a similar scenario in D.C., where she expected the rioting to be much worse based on the conversation than it was in reality.

“You really do have a different perspective and, in terms of natural disasters, sometimes the news doesn’t show you all of it and it’s actually worse,” said Oyanguren. “When you see with your own eyes … people’s emotions when their houses are destroyed, it makes you feel like you’re doing something for the greater good by helping them.”

Finding Her Direction

Born in Paterson, Oyanguren was raised in Clifton and attended School 3, St. Paul’s, and Christopher Columbus

Middle School. She graduated with the CHS Class of 2015 before beginning college at Montclair State University.

“I was studying biochemistry there, but then I realized that I hated it,” said Oyanguren. “When you change degrees, you lose credits, though. I decided to join the National Guard, because it was the perfect opportunity since they pay for your tuition.”

When speaking for this interview in mid-November, Oyanguren was near completion for her Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies degree at Thomas Edison State University. Balancing her National Guard duties and schoolwork is only part of the equation.

Most of the time, she lives in Aguadilla, Puerto Rico. When she isn’t activated on a mission, Oyanguren will fly to New Jersey for drill weekends, which is one weekend per month and a two-week period each year.

Even as a part-time soldier, the sergeant still has plenty of responsibilities as a Squad Leader for the 508th Military Police Company in Teaneck.

“It’s not like after we finish Drill, we don’t talk. I’m always in contact with soldiers,” she explained. “Some soldiers have personal issues. Some may have houses on fire and we will help them and give them resources.”

US Army Sgt. Naomi Oyanguren on the job.

“We make sure that they’re good to go,” continued Oyanguren. “Especially during the holidays when sometimes bad things happen that we don’t know about.”

Oyanguren attended boot camp and advanced individual training at Fort Leonard Wood in the Missouri Ozarks. Self-described as naturally a book person, the biggest adjustment during her Basic Training was the physical component and being in a room with 67 other women.

She worked her way up to the rank of sergeant over the course of four years and has previously held roles that included Military Police and Recruiter. Her long-term career plan is flexible, and it may involve her transferring to the Puerto Rico Army National Guard. Her other potential pursuit is becoming a baker and following in her mother’s footsteps, who was previously behind what is the since-closed Miss Theresa’s Cakes at 1289 Main Ave.

she said. “There were nine individuals who I put in boots and, to this day, they text me the great things that they’ve done.”

First and foremost, Oyanguren wants to be there in support of others.

“As much as I love helping people during natural disasters, one really [gratifying] moment was when I was recruiting certain people who needed direction in life,”

“I’m very very inspired by them,” she continued. Which, ultimately, tied back to the best advice that she received years ago from her next-door neighbor who was a Navy veteran. “‘Do what you can. And what you can’t do, get help.’”

If you or a veteran that you know needs support, resources are available at mentalhealth.va.gov.

Naomi in a recent photo and in 2015.

Unlocking His Potential

The start of any new academic year is a busy time for Clifton’s dedicated Key Club members.

That means hitting the ground running is not only essential but encouraged. Key Club President Fahmid Aftab was particularly impressed by his peers’ consistency and how “fast-grasping” the Key Club Executive Board members were with their responsibilities.

By Ariana Puzzo

“It’s a different board than the past three years,” said Aftab, 18. “This was a new group, and they are always striving to get involved with more service opportunities. Whether it’s physical help, an item donation, or monetary donations.”

The CHS Class of 2025 senior acknowledged that Key Club is a great line for members’ college applications, but there are bigger benefits for student involvement. It’s a way to benefit the CHS and broader community. It’s also a way to meet new people.

“A lot of underclassmen have gotten involved in our club,” said Aftab. “It has increased the growth of our club and has really kept us consistent in the service projects that we’ve done throughout the year, which has been amazing to see.”

Key Club Advisor Jacqueline Turk, who is in her 25th year of teaching and 17th year as the Key Club advisor at CHS, echoed that the students have kept busy throughout the fall months. They organized a bake sale and CHS Staff Dress Down Day in October that raised $600 to support Asheville, North Carolina schools in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.

Turk, who teaches English at CHS, led the group as their initiative rallied students and the school community. All proceeds went toward resources and rebuilding efforts for schools damaged by the storm. The Asheville City Schools

Foundation expressed gratitude for the donation and Clifton Schools’ support on its social media pages.

“You don’t always recognize people who are struggling, or impoverished families,” said Aftab on why getting involved is important. “We might be stuck on what we have and how we can better ourselves.”

“We don’t always look at the other side of the situation,” he continued. “Key Club is a humbling experience.”

Seeing the Influence

Joining at the end of his freshman year, Aftab began actively volunteering at the start of his sophomore year. He rose to the position of vice president as a junior and became president ahead of the current academic year.

“One thing that interested me the most was the idea of ‘community,’” said Aftab. “Clifton is a large, growing community … that is united by family-fun events like Trunk or Treats, plus the food pantry, helping senior citizens, and honoring veterans.”

Aftab continued, saying that he saw how these different pieces created a bigger picture of impact and service. It also aligned with his own personal identity.

“I’m Muslim, and our religion is about serving our community. Helping our brothers and sisters is very important,” said Aftab. “That spiritual [component] also motivated me to join the Key Club.”

He sees the reach of the Key Club — not just in his own community but around the state and the country. Aftab and his fellow Executive Board members visited Oasis in Paterson, serving women and children who live at or below the federal poverty line. Many of these women and children have also encountered domestic violence, unemployment, and hunger. They’re also often in need of essential human resources like food and clothing, educational opportunities, and social and emotional support.

Aftab has additionally attended the 2024 NJ Key Club District Convention (DECON) in Princeton and the 2024 Key Club International Convention (ICON) in Atlanta, Georgia.

“It made the Key Club feel so prestigious,” said Aftab. “While serving your community, you don’t think of the effect that you’re making. Until you see others [doing the same thing].”

On facing page, Key Club president Fahmid Aftab. Above, the 2024-2025 Key Club members.

Sharing Caring

Always Doing More

Aftab spent his childhood in our city well before walking the halls of Colfax Ave.

He attended School 5 and WWMS, describing his individual growth since joining the Key Club. As the president, Aftab leads the general and Executive Board meetings. He ensures that each member is completing their responsibilities and is more recently taking member feedback.

Aftab is President of the Muslim Student Association and a member of the CHS Volleyball team. The other commitments are possible due to the Key Club teaching him time management. Aftab is also grateful to the Key Club for another reason.

“My responsibilities for Key Club have helped teach me how to implement things in other clubs,” he said. “I have developed social skills, including not only talking to people but public speaking.”

Aftab is still undecided on where he will attend college next September. He is looking to stay in New Jersey and possibly attend Rutgers or NJIT. He added that his inter-

ests involve computer science and joining Circle K International, which is a collegiate service leadership program of Kiwanis International.

Aftab was awarded the Kiwanis Heart for Service Award at the end of his junior year. That, and becoming president last April, are among what he regards as his greatest achievements. Aftab is especially grateful for the influences in his life that guided him toward giving back.

“Growing up, I hung out with kids who were smart and did cool service events like helping out people who are homeless,” he said. “I never pictured myself around these types of influential individuals, but thankfully I was and it pushed me to do more.”

Key Club drive for flood victims in Asheville with advisor Jackie Turk at right.

Kindness All Four Seasons

It’s about keeping patriotism alive in the community. And it’s about helping others for the sake of it. Just ask Four Seasons at Great Notch residents Carol Meng or Sue Greco.

The 55+ adult community, 720 Valley Rd., doesn’t slow down during the holidays. Philanthropy was in full force over the past month with the Veterans Club hosting a show that raised $6,890 for the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association, NJ Chapter 38-2. The Four Seasons Coat Drive separately collected over 200 coats for St. Peter’s Haven, 380 Clifton Ave.

Sue and her husband, former City Manager Al Greco, volunteer to transport coats. The CHS 1965 grads recognized the DeLora family of DeLuxe Cleaners, 1280 Main Ave. — noting how Patrick takes in the coats to clean and prep them at no charge.

The Grecos have lived at FSGN for 17 years. The residents’ generosity is familiar to them, and they feel a similar sense of duty.

“We want to share the wealth. We’re fortunate to live a good life,” said Sue. “As a community, people feel the same way. People up here have more time on their hands to … do good things for the sake of doing good things.”

Those words rang true at the Nov. 8 concert, with FSGN resident Aelita Neihausen taking center stage. Known widely as Aelita, the singing star and recording artist cares about veterans. Aelita has completed USO tours, singing for our troops all over the world. She is the only Latvi-

an-born singer who has made a career in Big Band/Swing circles in the U.S. and Canada.

Aelita has taken the stage with some of the biggest names in Jazz like Sarah Vaughan, Stan Getz, Dizzy Gillespie, and Lionel Hampton.

Last month, she was joined by her husband and musical expert, Jack Neihausen, and friends Enrico Granafei and his wife, Kristine Massari. Granafei is a musician and vocalist, wowing on a no-hand’s chromatic harmonica and guitar. Other performers who volunteered their talents were Domenic “New Blue Eyes” Carbone and Harold Lachnicht.

Resident Michael Napurano, a Purple Heart veteran and current Commander of the Chapter, has pledged the funds raised will be used wisely and with transparency. In 2023, the Veterans Club concert raised $6,700 for the same Chapter with only one ask — that funds go toward NJ vets.

Two recipients of $500 donations each were VFW 7165, at 491 Valley Rd., and the NJ DAV of Passaic County. VFW 7165 also received a commercial toaster valued at $250.

The Veterans Club was founded by John Zym. Almost two years ago, Zym passed the title on to Jim Meng after at least 12 years. Jim and Carol, the club’s secretary, moved to FSGN in 2007. A crowd of 170 gathered for the concert was made possible by the Club’s 32 members. “Aelita has volunteered for the past few years. She really makes the program,” said Carol. “She gets … people involved, and we work as a team. It’s always a very nice show.”

Al and Sue Greco, Aelita Neihausen, Carol and Jim Meng and singer Domenic Carbone.

More Ways To Support & Give

Giving is year round at St. Peter’s Haven. While donations of food, clothing and household items are accepted, your dollar stretches further thanks to their ability to make purchases in bulk. Send a check to 380 Clifton Ave., Clifton, NJ 07011 or visit saintpetershaven.org.

Holiday gifts are distributed to children and teenagers within the pantry program throughout December. Gifts valued from $15-$25 are appreciated. Gift card donations valued at $10 for teens are encouraged, to retailers like Five Below, Target, Walmart, QuickChek, Dunkin’, or Starbucks. Monetary donations are appreciated and essential to combat hunger year-round.

Clifton families can support their neighbors and their community with recurring monthly gifts through credit card or bank transfer. Learn the latest news about The Haven’s efforts and its drives by following @saintpetershaven on Instagram.

Power of One’s 7th Annual Toy Drive runs through Saturday, Dec. 7, accepting new, unwrapped toys for children aged newborn to 13. The drive helps to spread the joy of Christmas while also supporting the families in need who rely on Power of One Christian Coaching and Outreach Ministries, Inc.

Founded by Kim Castellano in October of 2011, the nonprofit organization strives to alleviate poverty and offer resources and support to its community. Services include the Back2School Outreach program and Stress, Anxiety, & Grief support, as well as assisting senior citizens or providing emergency relief. To donate or sign up to volunteer, visit powerofoneccom.org.

What once started as a good idea by Castellano with a collection of 75 backpacks for School 12 transformed into something much further-reaching.

Today, Power of One has helped assist school principals, faculty, and community workers in distributing over 4,000 backpacks throughout Clifton’s K-8 schools.

Drop-off locations for the toy drive include: A1 – Affordable Construction, 164 Getty Ave.; JK Realty, 270 Colfax Ave.; Alma Bank, 1133 Main Ave.; Agamie’s Deli; 62 Market St.; and Infatuation Hair Salon, 832 Clifton Ave. Amazon deliveries can be shipped to 164 Getty Ave., Clifton, NJ 07011. For more info, call 862-239-5905 or email info@powerofoneccom.org.

For over 75 years, The Boys & Girls Club of Clifton has inspired our city’s young people to realize their full potential as productive, responsible, and compassionate citizens. The Club strives to support all children who pass through their halls, but especially those in need.

The community’s ongoing generosity is what makes delivering on their mission to 6,000 children possible each year. One of the annual ways to give is by supporting The Club’s 2024-2025 Annual Campaign, “Future Ready!” The Annual Campaign is the most important fundraiser, raising critical funds that go toward services preparing today’s kids for the future.

Some other ways to support The Club during the year is by planned giving, corporate giving, a personalized engraved seat plate, or a personalized paving brick.

For info on giving, write or call Maureen Cameron at 973-773-0966 x 144 or mcameron@bgcclifton.org

The Club also always needs volunteers for sports, academics, fundraising, Bingo, and special events. Individual volunteers or group volunteers are welcome. To get involved, call Greg Reinholt at 973-773-0966 x133.

To donate, visit bgcclifton.org/ways-to-give. Follow @ bgcclifton on Instagram.

The Generosity of the Clifton Jewish Center

By Ariana Puzzo

For 81 years, the Clifton Jewish Center has provided worship, comfort, and friendship to the city’s Jewish community. As it prepares to close its doors on Dec. 31, CJC is steadfast in its commitment to support the needs of family members and the community at large.

On Nov. 18, CJC’s president Elinor Alboum presented four checks — each for $3,600 — to city organizations. The recipients were the Clifton PBA #36, Clifton FMBA Local #21, Saint Peter’s Haven, and Power of One Christian Coaching and Outreach Ministries, Inc.

Alboum, a member since 1981 and CJC’s president for the past seven years, said their hope is that the funds provide support and “make a happier holiday for lots of families.” Alboum further explained the significance of the chosen amount of money.

“In the Jewish religion, or in the Hebrew language, the word ‘chai’ means ‘life.’ You’ve all heard it when people

say, ‘L’chaim’ at weddings and bar mitzvahs,” said Alboum when she addressed the Council. “You heard it in Fiddler on the Roof: ‘L’chaim, to Life.’”

“Well, the word ‘chai’ also has a numerical value. And the value is 18,” she continued. “So we decided to give our gifts as a multiple of 18. We’re giving each organization 200 times 18.”

Founded in 1943, CJC met a growing need in our city. Former Councilman Gerald Friend spoke prior to Alboum at the Council meeting about how members of the community, including his own parents Israel and Bess, helped establish the synagogue. Israel was Clifton’s mayor from 1973 to 1974, filling the seat of the late Mayor Anna Latteri, who died of cancer after serving three and a half years of a four-year term.

Gerald went on to say how three generations of his family remained active members of CJC. Prior to its

Some of the board members of the Clifton Jewish Center on Delaware Ave., from left front: Joel Fields, Art Schein, Judy Fields, Jackie Schein, Joe Traum, Charles Adrian, Second row: Ann Dairman, Elayne Eisenstein, Elinor Alboum, Martine Jaffe.

The late and legendary Rabbi Eugene Markovitz.

creation, families would drive to Passaic and neighboring communities for Temple. The Conservative Egalitarian Synagogue further gave Clifton children a place to receive their Hebrew education.

“The Center was the focal point of our families,” Gerald told the Council and public.

Good Neighbors

The first meeting place in our city was on Clifton Ave., below Main Ave., over what was then a Grand Union. Several years passed and the CJC obtained the 18 Delaware St. property. They constructed their first building and membership would grow to exceed 750.

Along with a synagogue and social hall, CJC provided a Hebrew school for children and served as a meeting place for other organizations. The members of the synagogue formed deep ties in the broader community as well. View more of their offerings on cliftonjewishcenter.com.

groundbreaking in 1958 and rededication in 1964, their community presence was tangible.

CJC members also strove to collaborate with their neighbors who had other belief systems.

“We hosted an annual brotherhood meeting … on a rotating basis with the other churches,” said Gerald, “so that members of all religions could get together and talk about what it meant to be understanding of religions, beliefs, and to be good neighbors.”

Final Farewells

A downturn in membership over the last several years meant that decisions needed to be made.

Gerald noted that CJC produced two mayors (Ira Schoem and Israel Friend), a councilman and municipal attorney (Gerald), assistant municipal attorneys, and members of the Zoning Board, Planning Board, Library Board, Board of Education, and city representatives to the Passaic Valley Water Commission.

Other showings of community participation included hosting candidates nights for elections and donating a menorah and hosting an annual Candle Lighting for Hanukkah on the City Hall steps. CJC’s rabbis have also served as chaplains for the police and fire departments, which included the late Rabbi Eugene Markovitz for over 50 years.

Markovitz, who retired in 2002 after 52 years, was one of several congregation leaders. Rabbi J. Harold Romirowsky preceded Markovitz in the 1940s. In 2003, Rabbi Joshua Lefkowitz became the spiritual leader. Rabbis Ari Korenblit and Robert Mark joined in 2006 and 2013, respectively.

The rabbis witnessed several CJC transformations. From humble beginnings in Thorburn’s Hall at Main and Clifton, and Hebrew School only at Clifton Theater, to the CJC’s

Alboum said that the 12-member Board started to discuss CJC’s future about three years ago and ultimately decided that it was time to think about closing. The building was sold two years ago to Clifton Cheder, who has plans to modernize and renovate the building to create a Girls Jewish Day School.

Clifton Cheder and Bais Yaakov of Clifton, 1333 Broad St., has several divisions. The Clifton Cheder Early Childhood Program and their Boys Elementary Program both strive to develop warm and genuine relationships while focusing on the strengths of each student. The future school will be for students in grades K-8.

“We’re all happy that the building is going to remain a Jewish institution in Clifton,” said Alboum, a 50-year resident, in a separate interview. The CJC will host its final Hanukkah party and closing celebration luncheon on Sunday, Dec. 22 at 12:30 pm. The day before on Dec. 21, CJC will have its final Shabbat service at the Center. “We are inviting the people who were past members and people who are connected to the center,” said Alboum.

A Bond Transcending Distance

Sisters Helena and Barbrara Perendyk were granted the wish of a lifetime: to reunite with one another after five years and over 2,000 miles of distance.

But they’ve overcome greater odds.

The sisters grew up in Poland in the 1930s. After losing their mother, the Catholic girls were taken in by nuns at a Warsaw orphanage. Speaking recently to the Bergen Record, they recalled a nice upbringing with weekly visits from their father.

Then the Nazis invaded Poland on Sept. 1, 1939.

The onset of World War II changed everything — specifically, their safety and connection to one another. Helena, now 100, was sent to a Nazi forced labor camp in Germany. Barbara, now 96, was sent to a different German work camp.

They never lost hope and — three years after liberation by American soldiers — would reunite. Sadly, they learned their father was killed during the war.

Following their 1947 reunion, they moved to the U.S. Barbara settled in New Jersey, living in Clifton, and Helena now lives in Montana.

In mid-August, Wish of a Lifetime, a charitable affiliate of AARP, helped the sisters reunite with one another in Newark. Although they speak daily on the phone, the prospect of seeing each other seemed less and less likely until Wish of a Lifetime made it possible.

Neither woman knows how they managed at a young age to survive the Holocaust’s starvation, unsanitary conditions, and constant states of fear — but they have never taken their freedom for granted.

The sisters have also never taken each other for granted, which is why they’ve longed for the opportunity to spend meaningful time together in person — possibly for the last time.

“Everything was perfect,” Helena told Wish of a Lifetime, with Barbara adding, “I was very, very happy. At our age, you have to say goodbye.”

A diamond can last forever — felt memories that Corbo Jewelers created for five generations. The celebratory momentos will stay with Clifton families long after Corbo Jewelers’ doors close for the final time in early 2025.

“We sell a product, but we really sell emotion,” said fourth generation co-owner Steve Corbo, “and that’s something that’s great.”

The tradition began in 1898 in Naples, Italy. At the turn of the century, Alfonso Corbo took his wife and eight children from their home and moved to the United States. A watchmaker by trade, he settled in Newark and went doorto-door selling his wares and skills.

Thus, began a family legacy. Six of Alfonso’s eight children continued the tradition. By 1918, the first Corbo Jewelers opened on Warren St. in Newark and later moved to Bloomfield in 1945. In 1950, the second location opened in the newly-constructed Styertowne Shopping Center.

Corbo Jewelers expanded to 12 brick-and-mortar locations over the years, but Clifton’s 1055 Bloomfield Ave. store was the final one remaining.

“We’re sad to close, of course. It was a big decision. It was hard for us,” said Steve, 68. “Our lease is up here, so that’s sort of what guided us.”

Steve lives in our city with his wife and Clifton native, Ellen (Nunno), and is father to Stacey and Michael. He runs the 2,808 sq-ft business with brother Michael, 65, who is married to Rosemary and the father of Michael, Dylan, and Katie.

The store will close at the end of February or beginning of March. The thing that Steve said they will miss are the

END OF AN ERA BUT A NEW BEGINNING

“moments of excitement in people’s lives.”

“At the end of the day, we sell products that people celebrate during special times in their lives,” he said. “We share that excitement with them and will miss that for sure.”

What’s Next

There’s no shying away from it. The business landscape has changed.

Steve recognized how the family’s business became a “tradition in gift-buying in town.” Whether it was a gift for the holidays, a birthday, or an anniversary — Corbo Jewelers serviced the city it has resided in for almost 75 years.

But remaining as part of the city’s landscape meant evolving with the times. The online business at corbojewelers.com became part of the business model, but the Internet is a crowded space. It also became true that the culture shifted around jewelry.

“People don’t dress up the way they used to. They don’t wear fancy jewelry anymore,” said Steve, candidly. “We sell a lot of staples, especially in our market, but it’s not like people are going out to balls or walking down Fifth Ave.”

Steve added that it’s “expensive to live in New Jersey” and the retail industry has undergone a seismic shift. Not just in general, but also with a specific eye toward Styertowne, itself.

“If you look at most of the tenants, it is more servicerelated and less products,” he said. “There is a PT and dentist here and an ImmediCenter, whereas before we had a lady’s clothing store and a record store where people would actually come shop and spend the afternoon. People don’t do that anymore.”

Buying online is the way of the consumer, but Steve saw a difference in the level of service. He noted that while their business didn’t really struggle, it came time to decide how they wanted to spend the next stage of their lives.

Everything’s on the table for Steve.

“If I do continue in jewelry, it would be on a smaller basis where I don’t have to worry about making rent and payroll. I’ll be close to 70 when we close up,” Steve explained. “I’m looking forward to retiring and slowing down.”

A Good Community

There’s still some time to make some final holiday memories.

Corbo Jewelers is running a Store Closing/Retirement Sale for its multi-million-dollar inventory that includes diamonds, fine jewelry colored gemstones, giftware, watches

On the facing page, a look back to 1953 with Michael and Mary Corbo in the same Styertowne store that their family works in today. At left, Michael and Rosemary with Ellen and Stephen Corbo. Also pictured is Stacey Corbo daughter of Ellen and Stephen.

and more. As they prepare for these items to leave their shelves, Steve said one thing hasn’t changed in Clifton.

What was an up-and-coming community in the 1950s is still as strong as his father believed.

“Although it has changed a lot, it’s still a good community,” said Steve. “There’s a lot going on here … and despite any ups and downs, there have always been good people here.”

The Corbos are thankful to Clifton. As they closed other stores over the years due to a lack of business and clientele, it was never the case for Clifton. The city’s store and its owners built a reputation on honor, integrity, and honesty. And Steve described their clientele in one word.

“Family,” he said. “They really are. They’re honest and they’re nice. They make your job easy by wanting to make them happy.”

Clifton’s Nov. 10 Veterans Parade stepped off on Huron Ave. in front of the Athenia Veterans Post. As it wound its way to the campus of city hall, it was led by Grand Marshal Paul DiGaetano who served in the US Navy. Over 1,000 people lined Van Houten Ave. as dozens of marchers and vehicles paraded into the Avenue of Flags where residents and reviewers enjoyed the annual patriotic tribute to those who served.

24 VETERANS PARADE

MUSTANG SPORTS

Dec. 20 will be a big night for Clifton boys wrestling. The Mustangs, who went 20-5 and won the North I, Group V title last winter, will open their season on the road at rival Passaic County Tech whom they defeated in the sectional final, in a match that will not only be crucial in the battle for a division title, but that can set the tone for a successful year.

“It is going to be a really, really competitive match,” said Clifton head coach Dan Geleta, now in his 19th season at the helm of the program. “The kids are really motivated to do well this year.”

There are a lot of unknown commodities on Clifton’s roster, but the senior duo of Nick Doktor and Joe Geleta are very familiar to the North Jersey wrestling community.

Doktor, who will take the mat at 190 pounds, was a county champion, district runner-up and state qualifier two years ago. Geleta, who will compete at 165, won district and county crowns in 2024 and made it to Atlantic City.

“[Joe] is an unbelievable competitor and refuses to

lose,” Geleta, the coach, said about his son. “I can say the same thing about Nick. They overpower opponents with their technique and strength. I can see their drive and their leadership.”

Clifton has other vets, as well, including 285-pounder Isaac Cazimoski and 215-pounder Justin Gaviria—both seniors. Senior Jason Cancel is back after an 18-14 junior campaign, while sophomore Jarrett Rodriguez (21-14 in 2024) is an up-and-comer who improved dramatically throughout his freshman season. Cancel and Rodriguez will fill the 126 and 132 slots, though which will wrestle in which position is not yet certain. Senior Angel Vasquez will likely be Clifton’s opening day starter at 106, with juniors Jandell Borrero and Chris Olivo wrestling 113 and 120.

Juniors Jordyn Rivera and Braviell Rodriguez and sophomore William Thompson will vie for time at 138 and 144. Seniors Gianpaul Restrepo and Yousef Qtienfan and juniors Luis Zuniga and Jacob Organisciak will do the same at 150 and 157.

Winter Sports by Tom Szieber

From left kneeling: Jordyn Rivera, Vice Captain Jason Cancel, William Thompson, Luis Zuniga, Angel Vasquez, Jandell Barrero, Jarrett Rodriguez, Yousef Qteifan, Justin Gaviria, Josh Martinez. Top: Louay Ali, Moe Ijbara, Joe Dumeng, Braviell Rodriguez, Jacub Organisciak, Captains Joe Geleta, Nick Doktor, Isaac Cazimoski, Gianpaul Restrepo, Sercan Yagci, Lucas Melo.

“We are going to have about 24-25 kids on varsity that will see time on the mat,” Geleta said. “We are going to be in every match. Even though we stepped up the competition, we will be fighting in every match.”

Junior 175-pounder Joe Dumeng returns a year after medaling in districts and will be pushed in practice as Joe Geleta’s training partner. Senior Edward Jativa will compete at 165 and 175, while senior Sercan Yagci will see time at 190 and 215. The roster, while somewhat under-the-radar despite being the reigning sectional champ, has the makings of a classic Dan Geleta team—gritty, cohesive and out to prove people wrong. Their head coach likes their chances of doing just that.

“We are going to surprise a lot of teams,” Geleta said. “We are only returning seven starters but the other seven classes will have great athletes. Every practice, every match and every challenge they face is an opportunity to grow. They get better every practice.”

WRESTLING

Dec 20 PCTI 6pm

Dec 21 TBA 9am

Dec 27 @TBA 9am

Dec 28 @TBA 9am

Dec 30 @Parsip. Hills 9am

Jan 3 @TBA 7pm

Jan 4 @TBA 9am

Jan 8 Bergen Cath 6pm

Jan 10 Ridgewood 6pm

Jan 11 @ Old Bridge 10am

Jan 17 @ Bloomfield 6pm

Jan 18 Passaic 9am

Jan 22 Eastside 6pm

Jan 22 Cliffside Park 6pm

Jan 25 @W Milford 9am

Jan 28 @Morris Hills 7pm

Jan 29 Union City 6pm

Jan 31 @Hasb. Hts. 6pm

Feb 5 Kearny 7pm

Feb 8 @Elm. Pk. 9am

A year ago, Clifton had two female wrestlers. MJ Martinez, now graduated and attending the United States Naval Academy, and Samara Monahan may not have realized it at the time, but in 2023-24, they were pioneers for what head coach Zuzana Geleta hopes will be the start of a strong and successful program.

“Honestly, I really think [the increase in participation numbers] was MJ and Samara,” Geleta said. “They were strong role models. This [202425] team is tough. They just want to show they can do it.”

With some dual matches and some “jamboree” style outings, the Mustangs will have plenty of opportunities to show how far they’ve come in an a very short period of time. Monahan, now recovered from a broken clavicle

From left front: Ruth Lara, Lillianne Addabbo, Samara Monahan, Hailey Carnona, Jessian Nguyen, Breanna Urbina, Kathalyn Tavarez. Standing: Keyla Fequene, Jade Mayo, Sofia Valdez, Minnah Mohamed, Olivia Patek, Valeria Veliz, Mell Bautista.

that rendered Clifton a one-girl show a year ago, will lead the way. The senior has not only led by her effort on the mat, but by her effort in helping build the team’s roster. Monahan worked to help recruit additions to the team but is now looking to make an impact on the mat.

“Samara got hurt, but she came back and she came back as strong as ever,” Geleta said. “She tried to learn as much as she could over the summer. She will be our leader and our captain.”

Monahan will wrestle in one of the middleweight classes, as will juniors Valeria Veliz and Ruth Lara and freshmen Kayla Fequene and Jade Mayo.

Senior Jessian Nguyen, juniors Olivia Panek and Jalene Rodriguez, sophomore Breanna Urbina and freshman Lillianne Addabbo will make up the lower weight contingent, while junior Hailey Carmona, sophomore Kathalyn Tavarez and freshmen Sofia Valdez, Minnah Mohamed and Mel Bautista will man the upper weights.

“This group just wants to learn,” said Geleta. “They are so excited. It is a lot of learning right now. I think this season is going to be important to see how we are going to do as a program. It is not an easy sport. The girls won’t win every time, but learning that when you fail, you have to get back up and dedicate yourself, that will be big.”

It’s a new era for Clifton boys basketball. With program legend Saif Al-Deen Saleh now graduated, the Mustangs will bring a different feel to the court this season, relying on a collection of talent to replace the production brought by the phenom Saleh. But that is not necessarily a bad thing.

“I think it is important that we quickly adjust as a program,” said head coach Mike Cadmus. “Saif was a great player, a big man, and the offense was centered around him. We will probably play a different style on offense

and defense this year, so it is important our guys adjust.”

This winter, the Mustangs will lean on their backcourt—especially seniors Caisius Payano and Evan Ynoa. In Payano, Clifton has a point guard that can get to the basket with ease, make every pass and shoot the ball.

Inoa, a two-guard, emerged last year when the Mustangs were decimated by injury and has shown 20-pointper-game potential. Senior guard Andrew Moreta, a great spot-up shooter, will be a major contributor, as well.

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Standing from left: Evan Perez, Omar Rosario, Caisius Payano, Aaden Nolan, Andrew Dupree, Xavier Nunez, Evan Poulis. Kneeling: Jayden Oliveras, Isaac Elghazi, Andrew Moreta, Kyler Jones, Evan Ynoa, Justin Leach, Yandel Nina.

BASKETBALL

Dec 19 @ Bergenfield 7pm

Dec 21 @Wayne Val. 1pm

Dec 23 West Essex 11:30am

Dec 27 Lyndhurst 6pm

Jan 7 Eastside 4:30pm

Jan 9 Cliffside Park 4:30pm

Jan 11 @Watch. Hills 1pm

Jan 14 @ Passaic 4:30pm

Jan 16 PCTI 4:15pm

Jan 18 @ Ridgewood TBD

Jan 19 @ TBD TBD

Jan 21 @ JFK TBD

Jan 23 @ Bergen Tech 4:30pm

Jan 25 @ Bloomfield 11:30am

Jan 28 Passaic Valley 4:15pm

Jan 30 Passaic 4:30pm

Feb 4 @ Eastside 4:15pm

Feb 11 @ PCTI 4pm

Feb 13 JFK 4:30pm

Feb 15 Livingston 11:30am

Feb 18 St Joseph 4:15pm

Feb 20 Bergen Tech 6pm

Senior Omar Rosario, a jack-of-alltrades, will return in the front court alongside sophomore Yandel Nina. Both football players in the fall, these Mustangs are confident and physical and will be relied on to contribute to Clifton’s scoring.

The Mustangs will need to develop depth, as lack thereof was a big reason they started last season 1-7.

They seem to be doing so, as Cadmus says senior forwards Justin Leach and Evan Perez, junior guard Tyler Jones (a transfer from Newark Collegiate) and sophomore guard Aaden Nolan are all capable of logging major minutes.

Despite the perception, Cadmus feels the Mustangs can bounce back from their 12-17 campaign and compete when it counts. Clifton surely won’t be a one-man show, but if its cast of characters can jell quickly enough, it may be one everyone will want to watch.

“At the end of the day, while we didn’t achieve what we wanted to achieve last year, I’ve always thought that success is defined by how you handle that adversity,” Cadmus said. “At no point did the guys quit. They kept believing. We were probably two plays away from making the sectional semifinals. This team is probably more talented than last year’s in terms of across-the-board depth and skill level. They are ready.”

BASKETBALL

Dec 19 Bergenfield 4pm

Dec 21 Wayne Valley 11:30am

Jan 2 @ Fort Lee TBD

Jan 4 Ridgewood 11:30am

Jan 7 @ Eastside 4:15pm

Jan 9 @Cliffside Pk. TBD

Jan 11 Lodi 11:30am

Jan 14 Passaic 4:30pm

Jan 16 @ PCTI 4:15pm

Jan 18 @ Shabazz 1pm

Jan 21 JFK 4:30pm

Jan 23 Bergen Tech 4:30pm

Jan 28 @Passaic Val. TBD

Feb 4 Eastside 4:30pm

Feb 6 @ Passaic 4:30pm

Feb 8 Harrison 11:30am

Feb 10 Mary Help 6pm

Feb 11 PCTI 4:15pm

Feb 13 TBD TBD

Feb 15 Hoboken 1pm

Feb 20 @Bergen Tech 4:15pm

Feb 22 Orange 11:30am

The Clifton girls basketball team had a trying 5-20 season last year, but if you think the Mustangs are short on enthusiasm for the winter, you’re dead wrong.

First-year head coach Lou Lotito sees energy and fire in his squad and is hopeful that it can make some serious strides on the hardwood in 2024-25.

“My honest opinion, from day one, is that I don’t care what our record was last year,” Lotito said. “We will play anyone, anywhere, any time.” That tough-as-nails attitude is personified by senior guard Nyah Negron, now a fourthyear starter. A tenacious defender, the 5’2” Negron is not afraid to take on opposing bigs when the situation calls for it. She will share the backcourt with junior Christina Briguglio, whose productive offseason and improved scoring have impressed her head coach.

“Our system will be to run, run, run,” said Lotito, a former head girls coach at Eastern Christian and head boys

coach at Mahwah before joining Clifton as an assistant. “Christina has grown up a lot since last season and I am excited to see what she can do this year.”

Senior Chrystal Dilone and junior Li’Ajah Ramos will man the frontcourt for the Mustangs. Dilone is solid outside and in the paint and has solid handles. Ramos is willing to mix it up inside despite her 5’6” frame, with Lotito calling her “relentless” as a defender.

The fifth starter is to be determined, though Clifton will switch up its lineup as often as it needs to. Junior guards Gianna Colon, Stephania Fiete and Ayanna Payano will be in the mix, as will senior forwards Audrey Rodriguez and Eileen Esteban.

“We have some athletes,” Lotito said. “That is the most important thing. We have girls who want to be there. Last week, we had really good days of practice where I pushed them hard. Nobody quit. They are ready to go.”

Mustang Varsity standing from left: Danya Sadeh, Audrey Rodriguez, Gianna Colon, Nyah Negron, Li’Ajah Ramos, Eileen Esteban. Kneeling from left: Casey Mullen, Christina Briguglio, Stephanie Fiete, Ayanna Payano. Missing: Chrystal Dilone, Ja’Cairra Lamb.

Clifton United ice hockey coach Mike Santosuosso doesn’t want to get ahead of himself, but he knows he has a ready-to-win roster. The CliftonPassaic Valley-Cedar Grove tri-op, now in its third year, has proven a big success, as interest has ticked up and victories on the ice have become more commonplace.

Clifton, as a standalone program, had gone just 3-28-1 (.109) in the two seasons prior to linking up with the Hornets and Panthers. In the two since, they have gone 19-24-3 (.446).

If they want to make that next leap, they will, of course, need to score goals, and they seem to have a group capable of doing so.

Junior forward Trevor Rascher, of Clifton, is back after scoring 32 goals over two seasons and is primed for a big winter. He will play alongside Cedar Grove juniors Ryan Montana (33 goals, 10 assists in 2023-24), who has emerged as a top offensive player in the county, and Leo Marzullo, who finished last season with three consecutive multi-point performances.

Clifton senior Thomas Nicol and Cedar Grove junior Eric Ring will be major contributors on offense who give Santosuosso the ability to mixand-match lines.

“I do feel this is a big year for this group,” Santosuosso said. “Even just looking at them, they are not little kids anymore. I expect them to be a very difficult group to deal with this year.”

The United defense will be hard to penetrate with returning Cedar Grove senior Jonathan Montana and Passaic

HOCKEY

Dec 6 Vernon 4pm

Dec 8 @ Lakeland 4pm

Dec 13 Fair Lawn 4pm

Dec 15 @Paramus Cath. TBD

Dec 17 @ Tenafly TBD

Dec 21 @ River Dell TBD

Dec 28 @ Madison 5:15pm

Jan 3 River Dell 4pm

Jan 10 Pascack 4pm

Jan 13 @ Fair Lawn 7:50pm

Jan 17 Paramus Cath. 4pm

Jan 24 Montclair 6pm

Jan 31 N. Valley 4pm

Feb 5 @N. Valley 4pm

Feb 7 Oratory Prep 4pm

Valley junior Ioannis Koularmanis, who may or may not play on the same line. The position group boasts some exciting young talent, as well, namely Clifton freshman Ryan Sisco, who has returned to play for his hometown after a brief stay at Paramus Catholic.

The United defensive effort will rely on consistency in the goal, and Cedar Grove junior Thomas Cannataro is eager to provide the same. He will be backed up by Clifton junior Ryan Gallagher. “Thomas was hurt last year,” recalled Santosuosso. “He broke his leg a week or two into the season, came back late and was still good. He has gotten bigger and stronger and is one of the biggest competitors on the team. I know that the guys on the team respect him.”

United has all the pieces to make it a threat in the Big North Patriot Division. Depth remains a concern, though an intact roster should be enough to push any opponent.

The squad opens its season Dec. 6 when it hosts Vernon at Montclair State University Ice Arena. “I think that this group has come together very well,” said an optimistic Santosuosso. “I think just the way the kids have merged into the team they are is why I think they can be successful.”

Kneeling from left: Julien Sanchez, Thomas Nicol, Ryan Sisco, Nate Pendola, Trevor Rascher, Joe Avella, Joe Petriella, Ben Smith. Standing: Ryan Gallagher, Jon Montana, Conor Petersen, Chris Cubeta, Francesco Peluso, Eric Ring, Ionni Koularmanis, Leo Marzullo, Ryan Montana, Thomas Cannataro.

It is one step at a time for Clifton indoor track. While championships are always the goal for the storied program, it has been a gradual build back for teams like Clifton, whose participation numbers were hit hard during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Mustangs are hoping to chase down Passaic County Tech for division supremacy this year, and senior Mia DeVita will be a big factor in determining whether they catch them. A middledistance runner, DeVita is versatile and selfless, willing to do whatever it takes to help her team rack up points.

“We can put her in a lot of different things,” said Clifton head coach Kareem West. “She is the type of athlete that can do four or five different events.”

TRACK

Dec 14 @ Garfield 9:30am

Dec 20 TBA

Dec 21 @ Garfield 9:30am

Dec 28 @ TBA 9am

Jan 3 @ TBA 4:30pm

Jan 6 TBA 4:30pm

Jan 11 @ Garfield 9:30am

Jan 20 TBA 4:30pm

Jan 23 TBA 4:30pm

Feb 3 TBA 4:30pm

Feb 6 TBA 4:30pm

Feb 16 TBA TBD

Feb 23 TBA TBD

Mar 2 TBA TBD

DeVita was a first team all-county runner last year in the 400m after making the second team two years ago. Her sister, freshman Isabella DeVita, will be a prospect to watch this year.

Junior sprinter Rosanna Bogev will compete in the 55m, 200m and 400m, while her classmate, Mikaella Francisco, will high jump, triple jump and run the 200m. Freshman Abigail Rascher is an athlete with huge potential. She will run the 800m and 1600m this fall.

“Abigail loves running,” said West. “It is not like someone we had to recruit. I have seen her at some meets and I know she is very good. She was always talking to me about

how much she loves track, and that is half the battle. She’s got that fire.”

For the boys, senior Lamarr Olive is in his final winter as Clifton’s top distance runner. A first team All-Passaic County athlete in all three seasons, he has already solidified his place as one of the program’s all-time greats.

“The thing with Lamarr is that he is a great kid and ridiculously intelligent,” said West. “I joke that one day he is going to be running the country. As long as he understands how his body works and that he needs rest, he will set a lot of personal records this year.”

Senior Nathaniel Phillip is back in the triple jump, as is senior Aaron Hatcher, who will also compete in the high jump and long jump.

Clifton certainly is not short on talent. The Mustangs have plenty of hungry runners and jumpers and have the Bulldogs in their sights. If they can improve throughout the year, they may well be champions when the season concludes.

“Every year, without trying to sound cocky, I think we close the gap a little bit more,” West said. “You had a huge falling off after COVID, but numbers-wise, we are looking good. It is trying to rebuild the brand with the legacy we had. We are trying, and if we can turn a couple heads every year, then I think people are going to be pleasantly surprised, again.”

At Clifton Stadium track, girls from left: Hala Mohamed, Isabella Latorre, and Mia De Vita. Boys from left: Wander Dilone, Lenny Montero, Aaron Hatcher, Juan Mejía, Nathaniel Phillip, Zane Nelson, Rayner Familia and Declan Eineker

Top from left: Aarmani Reynoso, Joshua Henry, Nicole Velasquez, Nicolas Liscano, Scarlyn Hernandez, Renata Chyshkevych, Amanda Pinnock, Judith Montes De Oca, Xiomara Rivadeneyra. Center: Karlieth Gamez, Yaretzi Castillo, Ann Jaimes, Laura Martinez, Gaby Delgado, Jaelyn Rivera, Vidhi Mehta, Michelle Solis, Paris Arroyo. Kneeling: Yasmine Mills, Julio Montero, Adrian Wilson King, Bhavya Rama, Emmanuel Solis, Brian Berthelsen, Benjamin Santana, Nevaeh Rivera.

There is a lot of “new” in the Clifton swimming program. With a new head coach in Mike Velez and a young roster, the Mustangs will look to lay a foundation for the future in 2024-25.

“We are rebuilding,” Velez admitted. “Because I wouldn’t say we lost a lot of performers, but we lost role fillers. We only have, on the girls side, four returners who filled pretty much a lot of the events.”

The Clifton girls are what Velez calls “seasoned,” with Renata Chyshkevych and Jaelyn Rivera providing senior leadership. They will be joined by sophomores Antonina Kiszkel and Amanda Pinnock, who were big contributors last year, and freshman Dyani Rodriguez. Their exact roles will be determined after time trials early this month.

SWIMMING

Dec 6 @ Lakeland 6:30pm

Dec 10 Fair Lawn 3pm

Dec 12 Pope John 3pm

Dec 17 @Pascack Val. TBD

Dec 19 Becton 3pm

Jan 3 @ West N Y 4pm

Jan 7 Paramus Cath. 3pm

Jan 9 Wayne Valley 3pm

Jan 14 PCTI 3pm

Jan 16 Union City 3pm

Jan 21 Passaic 3pm

Jan 23 @Kearny 4pm

Jan 29 @McNair 4:30pm

That is also the case with the boys, who bring back senior Benjamin Santana and juniors Joshua Henry and Adrian Wilson King. Velez believes the three can elevate their games this year, and if they can, the boys should be competitive thanks to the infusion of several exciting underclassmen--including freshman Nicolas Liscano and sophomore Julio Montero.

“I want our swimmers to all have personal bests for their events, first and foremost,” Velez said about his goals for the winter. “After that, we just want to work on making our team a contender in our league.”

With a solid mix of experience and youthful energy, the Clifton bowling teams are looking to make some serious strides this season.

Steve Sarsano, a district employee and Clifton Class of 2007 graduate, will be the team’s interim head coach this winter, filling in for head coach Alex Berberich as he recovers from a medical procedure.

Despite his newness to the program, Sarsano is excited about his bowlers’ potential.

The Mustang girls went just 4-10 a year ago but are hopeful that they’ll improve with Sarah Zwiebel leading the way. The accomplished junior has a good approach and tremendous technique, and Sarsano expects a big year from her.

She will be flanked by senior Fabiola Mejia, a smart, hardworking bowler who could emerge as a secret weapon, of sorts.

BOWLING

Dec 4 TBA 4pm

Dec 6 TBA 4pm

Dec 10 Bergen Tech 4pm

Dec 13 Passaic 4pm

Dec 16 Eastside 4pm

Dec 20 PCTI 4pm

Jan 7 JFK 4pm

Jan 8 Mahwah 4pm

Jan 16 Teaneck 4pm

Jan 17 Westwood 4pm

Jan 22 Pascack Val. 4pm

Jan 24 Bergen Tech 4pm

Jan 28 Passaic 4pm

Jan 30 Eastside 4pm

Jan 31 TBA 4pm

Feb 5 PCTI 4pm

Feb 6 JFK 4pm

Seniors Carolina Camacho, Kimberly Feliz and Gabriela Ovalle Baez complete the girls’ roster.

As for the boys, junior Rian Pierce, senior Kevin Grivas and sophomore Jeremias Granados all return after a 7-9 campaign in 2023-24.

They will be joined by talented newcomers Om Rama and Victor Minetto, both seniors, and juniors Justin Texcucano and Ian Raghunandan.

Sarsano likes his group and believes that there is more than enough talent to not only improve on last season’s record, but return to the postseason, as well.

“I would like us to build on what Coach Berberich laid the foundation for last year,” Sarsano said. “Even with just one more win or two more wins, I would look at that as a total success.”

From rear left: Om Rana, Brandon Feliz, Victor Minetto, Justin Texcucano, Kevin Grivas. Front: Rian Pierce, Kimberly Feliz, Sarah Zwiebel, Carolina Camacho, Gabriela Ovalle, Fabiola Mejia, Jeremias Granados.

Here

are the

Mustangs of the Month for December 2024.

These four students, one from each grade, were selected by the vice principals at CHS, to be spotlighted for their personal achievements and school-wide contributions.

Sophia Felix – Freshman

Sophia Felix is all about thinking of her future. That is why she is keeping an open mind and is interested in pursuing the different academic programs that CHS has to offer its students.

The freshman knows that the programs would be good for her on a personal level as well. She has already gotten involved in extracurriculars like Volleyball and enjoys Dance. She attributes her success to a few things.

“Doing all of my work, being on time, and being patient with things,” said Felix (CHS 2028).

There is no single teacher that has influenced Felix — namely, because she has credited each of her educators at CHS for being helpful in her transition to high school. Her favorite subjects are English and Spanish.

“The reason for this is because in Spanish, I feel like I learn different ways to speak the language,” said Felix. “The reason for [liking English class] is that I like to write and to hear stories being told.”

Felix is ready to set her sights on a good life for herself once she is an adult. In the meantime, we asked who or what inspires her the most.

“Graduating and doing all of my work to get into a good school,” she said.

There’s no stopping this Mustang!

Laith Alsharif – Sophomore

A well-rounded and social experience is important at any age. For Laith Alsharif, mending any gaps has contributed to his success so far in high school.

“Fixing my social life and being able to speak to other people,” said Alsharif (CHS 2027) about how he continues to move forward and find success as an older student.

It is likely a common occurrence for kids who were in the throes of middle school when the coronavirus pandemic disrupted their lives and their ability to connect with new and familiar faces. Alsharif is not currently involved in extracurricular activities at CHS, but he expressed interest in the CHS academic programs as part of his future.

Learning about American history is what he enjoys most from his high school classes.

“You get to learn about what happened in the past and find out about new things that already happened,” said Alsharif.

The sophomore’s mother inspires him the most as someone who is “always there” to help him. His favorite teacher is Mr. Augusto Suarez, who teaches Business Education at CHS.

“He helped me out when things were tough,” said Alsharif. “I felt like I could go up to him as someone that I can trust other than just as a teacher.”

Sophia Felix, Laith Alsharif, David Feliciano, Samela Zhana.

David Feliciano – Junior

David Feliciano hopes to attend NYU or Rutgers and is interested in studying environmental science. These next steps in his life are toward helping him enter the professional field as a “player in the mitigation of the effects of climate change and environmental degradation.”

Feliciano (CHS 2026) would also love to travel the world, specifically throughout South America and Spain. He draws inspiration from Latin American artists and journalists, including the late Uruguayan journalist and writer Eduardo Galeano.

“His story was defined by the political turmoil that he was caught in between, and I admire how tragedy catalyzed such a dedication to activism and deeper understanding within him as it did,” said Feliciano. “I hope to become as immersed in learning about people’s problems and humanity as he did.”

Feliciano is a violinist in the CHS orchestra, with other extracurriculars including Key Club and Cross Country and Track as a distance runner. He has discovered value in being willing to try new things. He took that first step — or sprint — when he tried out for Track, despite never being athletic in the past.

“That interest became a passion, with dedication. Along with improving in the sport, I now won’t regret not trying sports for myself in high school.”

Samela Zhana – Senior

The medical field offers various possibilities but the common theme is helping people be healthy. That’s why nursing is the future career path that Samela Zhana hopes to pursue. She is currently in the process of applying to colleges and is more than a little bit familiar with putting in the work to pursue her goals.

“One major hurdle that I overcame was when I was new here at CHS,” said Zhana (CHS 2025). “I didn’t know anybody at the school and struggled with my English at first.”

Zhana emigrated from Albania in November of 2023 with her mother, sister, and two brothers. As a junior in high school, the move allowed them to reunite with her father, who had already moved to the U.S. and was working to support their family.

Zhana’s favorite pastimes are hiking, listening to Turkish music, and learning new languages. Her favorite subject in high school is ESL with Mr. Luke Walsh. Zhana describes Walsh as a “great teacher” and as someone who “works very hard to connect to his students.”

She further described each of her teachers as wonderful at CHS. But she was clear that the person who inspires her the most is her mother.

“She’s my biggest supporter every time,” she said. “Even if I fail at something, she still motivates me and supports me.”

1974MUSTANGS

The Class of 1974 reunion on Nov. 8 at The Mountainside filled the room with 138 Mustangs, spouses and friends. Here are photos of some of the guests. From left: Buddy Macy, Richard Mann, Jack Susser, Steve Eitman, Michael Simon, Rick Wolfish, Lynn Gochman Simon. Seated left to right, Karen Pisani Zayatz, Linda Popp, Nancy Boutsikaris Valentin, Karen Holm Olson Heenan. Standing behind: Jeri Fried Cohen, Susan DeGroff Sanguesa, Doris Robinson. Organizers, pictured right, included, from left: Lucretia DiMartino Rotella, Pete Graziano, Sandy Bettio Irving, Gary T Steele, Jeri Fried Cohen and Larry Zensen. See more reunion photos on the CHS 50th reunion facebook page. Looking forward to the 55th reunion? Email Lucretia DiMartino Rotella at crenurse06@gmail.com or Jeri Fried Cohen at jericohenforte@gmail.com.

On Nov. 26, New Jersey Lt. Gov. Tahesha L. Way, Clifton Mayor Ray Grabowski, and others joined Stew Leonard, Jr. to pardon two turkeys, “Pinot” and “Prosecco,” ahead of Thanksgiving. This act of compassion by the Garden State grants the birds freedom, allowing them to live out their days peacefully on a Garden State farm. The two pardoned turkeys will now escape the fate of the nearly 20,000 other birds that Stew Leonard’s sells to customers across the tri-state each Thanksgiving. The tradition of pardoning turkeys dates back to President Abraham Lincoln, with the modern ceremony beginning in 1989 under President George H. W. Bush.

America’s best $9 Sunday breakfast is at VFW 7165, 491 Valley Rd. Stop in Jan. 5, Feb. 2, March 2 and April 6. Chefs and servers include from left: John Donetz, Michelle Moschini, Joe Bertinato, Mario Rodriguez, Dennis Suto, Jay Lenz, Greg Collucci, Dakota Bertinato and Liberty Bertinato.

The 25 turkeys Corradino & Papa personal injury law firm donated to the Boys & Girls Club have met a more untimely finish then Prosecco and Pinot. Helping make the start for a dinner of those in need, from left: F. J. Sweeney, Angelo S. Catanzariti, Jack Corradino, RC Papa, Maureen Cameron and Gable Blau of the Club and Gina Corradino and Raffaella Selvaggio of the firm.

On Nov. 21, the Clifton Police Department held its annual ceremony to honor Officer John Charles Samra. Twenty-one years ago, Samra was killed in the line of duty when the traffic officer tried to apprehend a suspect that he had just stopped for a motor vehicle violation. The suspect’s vehicle fatally struck Samra’s motorcycle while in pursuit and the suspect was apprehended fleeing the scene. Samra, aged 41, was Clifton’s first and only officer killed in the line of duty. He was appointed to the CPD on Feb. 5, 1988 and he served in the Traffic Division from Aug. 23, 1999 until Nov. 21, 2003.

The Clifton Community Band, under the direction of Robert Morgan, performs “Snowflakes & Sleigh Rides” free holiday concert on Dec. 7 at 3 pm in the CHS Auditorium.

CHS 1976 grad Martin Pfefferkorn is Scrooge—sort of. Pfefferkorn, a working actor featured in our October edition, will play famous English actor William Macready, who is playing Scrooge for Dickens in a parlour version of the classic tale. The good news is — you won’t need to travel to 19th century London. First Flight Theatre Company’s production of “Dickens Presents A Christmas Carol” is Dec. 14, 15, 21, and 22 at The Hermitage, 335 North Franklin Turnpike, Ho-HoKus. Tickets are $35. Visit thehermitage.org/events. Saturday shows 7 pm; Sundays at 3 pm. Call 201-445-8311.

Friends of the Clifton Public Library present “Mike Luipersbeck & the All Star Quartet Holiday Concert” on Dec. 10 from 2-3:30 pm, at the Main Library. Performers include pianist Bob McHugh, bassist Ron Naspo, saxophonist John Morano and drummer Mike Luipersbeck. Children 10 years and older accompanied by an adult are welcome. Any questions? Visit cliftonpl.org or call 973-772-5500. The Friends are a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization staffed by volunteers. New members always welcomed.

Clifton Rec presents Candyland on Dec. 14 from 5-8 pm at Clifton’s City Hall, 900 Clifton Ave. Pre-registration: $8; door ticket: $12. Pre-register at cliftonrec.com before Dec. 12. Everyone ages 3 and up needs a ticket. Registration tent opens at 4:30 pm. Take a train ride, join the candy cane hunt, visit with Santa, and enjoy more activities and food. Clifton FMBA Local 21 and Power of One will be collecting adult and kids coats (ages newborn to 13) and new toys. More info: 973-470-5956.

Paramus Catholic High School Arts Program creates pathways to college, careers, the stage or canvas. “Young people are passionate about expressing themselves,” stated Justin Pedrick, the PC Arts Department Chair. “They have so much inside that they need to get out and nurture.”

Students learn differently, and that’s the point of Paramus Catholic’s programs. Students like senior Vanessa Alleyda, pictured above, an Aquinas Scholar and a four-year AP Studio Art and college-level Digital Arts student, discover their passions by getting the opportunity to do what they enjoy.

In Vanessa Alleyda’s case: drawing.

Alleyda founded the high school club “CARE”, or Creative Art Reaching Everyone, and her digital art characters were noticed by Penn State and Brown, either of which she hopes to attend in the fall. “Many career paths diverge from interest in the arts,” added Pedrick. “Creative people see the world differently.”

For more info, go to: paramuscatholic.com.

Birthdays & Celebrations - December 2024

Arianna Dubas turns 22 on Dec. 11. Nick Zang celebrates his 37th birthday on Dec. 10. Connie Spencer, a Clifton residnet for over 70 years, will be 101 on Dec. 4. That retired Athenia gem of a jeweler Greg Lacki is 67 on Dec. 5. Luis and Sonia Cuba celebrate their 25th anniversary on Dec. 18.

Marc Fazio 12/1

Ann W. Kissel 12/1

Corinne Miskowsky 12/1

Mannan Amin ............................. 12/2

Mike Gerardi............................... 12/2

Lauren Lawler .............................. 12/2

Bryan Nolasco ............................ 12/2

Allison Ahdieh ............................. 12/3

Patrick Lotorto 12/3

Bridget Rice 12/3

Sharon Tichacek 12/3

Phyllis Galambos 12/4

Timothy Gumann 12/4

Michael Kester 12/4

Dave Sternbach 12/4

Michael Vinciguerra ................... 12/4

Rosemary Kuruc .......................... 12/5

Laura Mikolajczyk ...................... 12/5

Michael Ressetar......................... 12/5

Tommy Coleman ......................... 12/6

Pat Collucci 12/6

Debbie Gorny 12/6

Marilyn Gossinger 12/6

Noel Coronel 12/7

Mark Mecca 12/7

Triana Garcia 12/8

Chris Sadowski ........................... 12/8

Bob Kester ................................... 12/9

Jamie Osmak ............................... 12/9

Daniel Fonesca Ramos ............... 12/9

Sarah Lombardo (left) turns 97 Dec. 9, her late brother Joe DeLiberto died on June 24 at age 93, and youngest sister Adeline DeVries turned 90 Nov. 29.

Mark Surgent .............................. 12/9

Andrew Tichacek ........................ 12/9

Tyler Roger Vandenberghe ........... 12/9

Michael McEnerney 12/10

Bob Snelson 12/10

Joey Cofone 12/11

Kathleen M. Marshall 12/11

Diane Meyer 12/11

Joseph Rutigliano 12/11

Richard Peterson 12/12

Andy Kent .................................. 12/13

Danny La Gala.......................... 12/13

Christina Kedl ............................ 12/13

Ray Capilli ................................. 12/14

Mary Kate Kuruc 12/14

Michael Murolo 12/14

Jacklyn Nelson 12/14

Basil Worhach 12/14

Steven Crawford 12/15

Louise Siano...............................12/16

Marie Visicaro 12/15

David Brock ............................... 12/16

Lakeview Bakery’s Cake Boss

Carlos Sotamba and Dayana have much to celebrate.

Dayana’s birthday is Dec. 7, their 16th anniversary is Dec. 8 and Carlos’s birthday is Dec. 21.

Michael Hrina ........................... 12/16

Hannah Grace Kulesa .............. 12/17

Jacqueline Gencarrelli ............. 12/18

Anne Gerardi 12/18

Samantha Bassford 12/19

Stephanie Guzowski 12/19

Nick Link 12/19

Jayen Montague 12/19

Jessie Ducos 12/20

Amy Marino 12/21

Michelle McEnerney ................ 12/22

Suman Pinto ............................... 12/22

Joey Cristantiello ....................... 12/24

Elizabeth Fazio .......................... 12/24

Soumya Gunapathy ................. 12/24

Caroline Jane Hanlon 12/24

Luba Rembis 12/24

Ryan John Hariton 12/25

Eric Soltis 12/25

Thomas Montague 12/26

Venessa Collucci 12/27

Melissa Cordes 12/27

James Mazza ............................12/29

Steven Bivaletz ......................... 12/30

Hunter Conklin ......................... 12/30

Ivan Garcia ............................... 12/31

Courtney Pinter.......................... 12/31

Send birthdays to tomhawrylkosr@gmail.com

54th Annual Tour de Clifton

If you’re new to town, get ready. On Dec. 24, Christmas Eve, you’ll first hear it off in the dis tance. Beginning at 3 pm and lasting for six to eight hours, Santa does his circuit of the city, es corted by the wailing sirens of police and fire ve hicles as they go neighborhood to neighborhood.

Santa will be easy to spot, since he’ll be atop a fire engine or riding his own personal float all around town, courtesy of Bond Parade Floats & Displays Company of Clifton.

Now in its 54th year, Santa’s Tour is preceded by tree lightings in most neighborhoods, early in the month. Each is packed with more holiday wattage than Rudolph has on his nose. You’ll have plen ty of opportunities to share in the holiday spirit. Track Santa on cliftonnj.org and Channels 77/40.