Clifton Merchant Magazine - January 2021 by Clifton Merchant Magazine

From the Editor - Tom Hawrylko, Editor & Publisher

The year 2020 will forever remain pivitol in world history. Over 1.5 million people died from the pandemic, racial unrest was felt across the globe and American democracy teetered from many tests. Clifton has not been immune to any of these issues. But despite the pandemic, the masks, tropical storms, protests, a challenged election and a host of other strange, peculiar and life threatening events, 2020 could have been worse. Count your blessings that we are here to say farewell 2020. Turn the pages for photos and vignettes from the last 12 months in our hometown. Like you, I welcome 2021 and look forward to all it has to offer. 16,000 Magazines

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Contributing Writers

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

Editor & Publisher Tom Hawrylko Art Director Ken Peterson Associate Editor & Social Media Mgr. Ariana Puzzo Business Mgr. Irene Kulyk

Cliftonmagazine.com • January 2021

At the Hot Grill, the landmark eatery on Lexington Ave., it was curbside pick up or pay at the counter. Manager Adam Wilk said in early March the nationally known Hot Texas Weiner joint “is suffering like every business, like every one of us.”

On July 1 and Sept. 9, Nova UA Federal Credit Union on Allwood Rd. distributed a total of $200,000 in grants among 24 non-profits negatively affected by the pandemic. Pictured are Nova officers Claire Giancola, Val Bogattchouk, Dr. Michael Lewko and Helen Newmerzyckyj.

Action Theatre Conservatory turned 30 on June 26. ATC, in Downtown Clifton, has trained talented Broadway stars, film and television actors, regional theatre entertainers, directors, and other industry professionals. During the pandemic, ATC offered online classes, as well as in-person as the state allowed, for students aged 4 to senior citizens. Among those who studied at ATC were Rachel Zegler, Nina Arianda, Federico Castelluccio, Paige Sciarrino, and Greg Marcel.

January 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

CHS 1960 grad Bob Papa was among the Mustangs we met up with when we asked in July: “Where are these Mustangs today?” Published every July, we are now on the lookout for Mustangs and class reunions for those who graduated in 2011, 2001, 1991, 1981, 1971, 1961 and 1951. Want to share your whereabouts? Write to tomhawrylkosr@gmail.com. On March 16 at 8 pm, the night before St. Patrick’s Day, a shutdown of casinos, movie theaters, gyms, bars and restaurants began. While these men enjoyed a last call at the Grande Saloon, the shutdown was the latest bid to stop the potential spread of the coronavirus in the tri-state region.

Rainbow Montessori School on Varretoni Pl. in Botany Village stayed open during the Covid-19 closing and became an Emergency Child Care Center. Staff was proud to care for the children of essential workers while parents worked. Cliftonmagazine.com • January 2021

JANUARY

2020

IN REVIEW

Last January we met business, community, social and entertainment leaders and asked their outlook on the year ahead. “20 Takes on 2020” was the theme and the question we asked all (pictured here on these two pages) was, “What do the next 12 months hold for our neighborhoods, our business districts, our schools and our shopping areas?” Their responses were optimistic, naturally, and specific to their industry or their areas of expertise. No one could have predicted that within three months our world would be plunged into a pandemic that completely shifted our community’s trajectory for years to come. As we have done for the past quarter century, we also presented a photo review of Clifton events that took place throughout 2019, much like the retrospective you are reading today.

From top, Realtor Ernie Scheidemann, Amauris Peralta Munoz of the B&G Club, the Arts Center’s Roxanne Cammilleri. Paula and Federico Cotic at Francesca’s on Market St., Gabriel, Matteo and Vincenzo Abatangelo of Matteos & Sons on Clifton Ave.

January 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

From top left and clockwise: State Farm agents Tom Tobin and Bill Eljouzi, concert promoter Ali Shabazz, George Jacobs of Styertowne, Samson Wong of Seasons Restaurant, Debra Breslin of Garden State Honda, Dennis Boyko, Tom Garretson of Shook Funeral Home, Amy Ferrari and Linda Dubnoff of Morré Lyons Jewelers, Clifton Schools Supt. Danny Robertozzi, and above, CHS teacher Monique Dituri (right) with a STEM student.

January 1: Power of One, Hunger Doesn’t Stop is selected as a beneficiary of the Stop & Shop Community Bag Program. Power of One Hunger Doesn’t Stop received a $1 donation each time a $2.50 reusable community bag was purchased at Stop & Shop during January. Power of One CCOM, Inc, is a non-profit organization serving the community by providing life coaching and outreach to the local community.

Cliftonmagazine.com • January 2021

FEBRUARY

2020

IN REVIEW

Top left heart, Veronica & Rich Amati, Eric & Patty Roennau, Gene & Gloria Toma, Robin & Bill Gibson, Kim & Joe Latiano, Lisa & Joumer Medina, Rose Burlingham & Louis Robert Weigele, Vic & Kathy Rossi. Above Alan & Karen Paris, Ana & Oscar Buonafina.

February 27: R.F. Knapp Construction celebrates 60 years of business. Richard and Dorothy opened the family business, R.F. Knapp Roofing, six decades prior on their wedding day in 1960. Sons Richard and Donald joined the business during high school and began running the company in 1991. Since his brother’s passing in 2014, Donald continues to run the Clifton business, and expressed his gratitude for the community’s support.

January 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

We couldn’t help but fall head over heels with Clifton’s love stories. We’ve been doing it for years and are looking for stories to do in the February, 2021 edition. Last year, our cover featured newly and long-time married couples who either met in Clifton or considered our city home throughout the years. In a tribute to Black History, we also told of the significance of Lonnie Clayton’s jockey career and how it launched at the Clifton Race Track. We bade farewell to Mike Novack, the spirited Cliftonite who passed away last January. It was not without fond memories, though, of the gondolier who brought the Christmas Eve Tour de Clifton to our streets with the original Santa on a float, Tom Insinga, in 1971.

Cliftonmagazine.com • January 2021

MARCH

2020

IN REVIEW

That’s former lawyer and now a priest, Richard Shackil on our cover as we told of his untraditional path to the priesthood. From eco-advocate to teachers to composer to sales people, the diverse jobs of our residents were shared within our March magazine and many of those folks are shown below. In “When Basketball’s Best Came to Clifton,” we told of pro players and top college hoopsters who came to play in Clifton five decades ago. We cheered the Marching Mustangs as they traveled the previous month to San Francisco, to perform in the Southwest Airlines Chinese New Year Parade. At the time, no one could have predicted what would be in store for the travel industry.

Top photo, Edward MacDonald, Celebrant; Charles Nouhan, Jr., Eco-Advocate; David & Karen Smith, Teachers; Rob Stephan, The Barrow Culinary Director; Estela Bernales, Fette Kia Sales; Brian Hern, Delivery Volunteer; Izzy MacDonald, Tea Partier; Chris Opperman, Composer; Lauren Murphy, Jobs Creator and Jo Ann Bellini, Volunteer.

January 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Cliftonmagazine.com • January 2021

Our March magazine celebrated a fiveyear stretch, from 1969 to 1973, when Clifton was the center of the basketball universe. Writer Jack DeVries recalled how Willis Reed of the New York Knicks received a call from East Rutherford High coach Dick Vitale, now a legendary ESPN broadcaster. Vitale was calling on behalf of 9-year-old LaVerne “Sammie” Davis, who was severely disabled after a slow-moving Erie Lackawanna freight train rolled over him near Passaic’s Pulaski School No. 8. Their interest turned to action and then to a series of charity basketball games which featured some of the top ABA, NBA and college basketball stars. The series began at CHS but moved to the courts at Paul VI because the gym was air conditioned. Read the entire story again with more photo and lots of details at cliftonmagazine.com.

January 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

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Cliftonmagazine.com • January 2021

APRIL

2020

IN REVIEW

Among those who shared their stories... Medical Technologist Cesar Cruz. Clifton Magazanie’s Angela Livera with daughter Maxine, Danny Pugliese at Shoprite, Walter Voinov of Colonial Pharmacy, Gus Logothetis of the Allwood Diner, William Morton of Richfield Farms, City Manager Nick Villano, Clifton Health Officer John Biegel, Jose Guaman of the Bagel Station, Hot Grill Manager Adam Wilk and the B&G Club’s Director Bob Foster.

January 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Matt Murray has sent air hugs and positive vibrations from in front of Liberty Tax in Richfield Shopping Center for six years and we look forward to his return. In April, we offered a snapshot of what Clifton life was like during the early months of the pandemic and how residents were coming together to try and get through the challenging time. Health officials and front-line workers explained how they were handling the changing times. We applauded volunteers who distributed fresh food and helped their neighbors in need through acts of kindness. To help readers stress less and smile more, we explored a Mustang myth about who hit the first homer out of Clifton Stadium.

Cliftonmagazine.com • January 2021

APRIL

2020

IN REVIEW

Aziz Elmhad in Downtown Clifton reminding readers that tossing masks and gloves is unsanitary and actually rude. Above right, Ken Patel of Henry’s Deli stayed open and busy through the early months of the pandemic.

At left, PCTI Juniors Asia Brown and Samantha Olsen are among the film makers in the 16th Annual Passaic County Film Festival which began streaming online in May. Above from left, the Mustangs of the Month for April 2020, Cassidy Rubio, Darent Trejo, Tomas Ortega, Justin Morales.

Various community resources helped distribute food to those families in need. Among them: Kim Castellano of Power of One Coaching and Outreach Ministries. Volunteers and staff at the Boys & Girls Club split 20,000 pounds of food into 500 packs for Clifton families. The truckload donation came through the New Jersey Community Food Bank. At right, CHS Vice Principal Susan Schnepf and other staff continue to distribute meals to students at CHS, CCMS and School 17.

January 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Cliftonmagazine.com • January 2021

MAY

2020

IN REVIEW

Clifton Magazine did not publish in May 2020.

Tova Felder brings nearly 100 masks for adults and children to the Boys & Girls Club of Clifton on May 7. The masks were sewn on a machine that she bought for that purpose. She delivered another 100 to the Palestinian American Community Center a week later. “I’m a novice sewer, learning as I go,” said Felder. Her masks for The Club were her first “drop” and she said that it came from her own pocket. Felder sews in her art room when not teaching on Zoom. She teaches religion and Hebrew at Temple Ner Tamid in Bloomfield and recently earned her supervisor’s certification from MSU. School 2’s Safety Patrols showed that even when faced with unfortunate circumstances, it is possible to create something special for others. After the school’s fifth graders’ annual Washington, D.C. trip was canceled due to COVID-19, the students used the money that they raised to help feed first responders and healthcare workers during the height of the pandemic.

January 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Memorial Day, May 25, 2020, at the War Monument in Downtown Clifton. While the solemn event usually attracts hundreds, this group, and others, laid a wreath, placed flags and remembered The Fallen—the 300 plus Cliftonites who gave their lives while in the service of our nation during WWI, WWII, Korea, Vietnam and Iraq.

Covid-19 has made all of us a little more aware of the inevitable. So let’s focus on the basics of estate planning strategies. Everyone should have a will—that’s the best way to ensure that what happens after you are gone is what you want to have happen. Perhaps even more important: durable powers of attorney. If you are not able to make decisions for yourself, who can step in and help you? Without durable powers of attorney, no one can! Someone will have to go to court and be appointed your guardian. Will they handle your affairs the way you would have wanted? To avoid this situation, go to a lawyer and get two durable powers of attorney, one for health issues and one for financial issues. This is surprisingly inexpensive. And it will allow you to be comfortable that your wishes will be known, your affairs will remain in order, and when you recover from the illness or accident your life will still be your life. Everyone needs to do this, it is that important. While you are doing this estate exercise, take it a step further. Look at your IRA and your 401(k) plan. Have you named a beneficiary? If not, you should! And if you did, is it still the right person? How about your life insurance? Check the beneficiary designation. Does it need to be updated or changes added? And be aware that it is likely a mistake to name a minor as a beneficiary—that just doesn’t work—but more about life insurance in a later article. We all need to be aware of the basics of estate planning strategies, and deal with the inevitable before it is too late or something bad happens. That’s why it’s called estate planning strategies! Wells Fargo Advisors is not a legal or tax advisor.

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Racy’s Pond in Main Memorial Park has really cleaned up—just ask Daniel Feliciano (above) and Lucas Loucopolos (who can be found on our cover.) After doing their online school work from CCMS, the 7th graders fished, catched and released at the Downtown park all summer long. Cliftonmagazine.com • January 2021

JUNE

2020

IN REVIEW

After not publishing a May edition, our June magazine introduced some game changers, Cliftonites who volunteer, pay it forward, and more. Some include George Silva, Nicole Cohn, Ivy Garcia, and Bernadette Silva. We honored 2020 high school grads as they shared their plans for the future and their unprecedented senior year experience. We noticed that Main Memorial Park looked better than it has in years. The park quickly became a great place during the warm spring and summer months for residents to fish, walk and mingle while respecting the guidelines of social distancing.

On June 18, The Beacon, the newspaper of the Paterson Diocese, celebrated Bishop Arthur J. Serratelli on his retirement, after leading the Catholic churches in our region since 2004. He is seen at left with incoming Bishop Kevin J Sweeney, now the eighth Bishop of Paterson. Photo by Joe Gigli/The Beacon.

June 2: Justin Rivera and Gabby Garcia make Clifton history when they organized a Black Lives Matter rally at City Hall. Some 3,000 people came to protest the May 25 killing of George Floyd, whose words, “I can’t breathe” while a white Minnesota police officer knelt on his neck further awakened the nation. The rally was youthful, peaceful and game changing.

January 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Brianna Armstrong, George Silva, Joe Gaccione, Dawn Carofine and Brittany Gaccione. Below: Nicole Cohn and her daughter Sophia; class of 2020 grads Grace Shukaitis, Isabel Nemeth and Daniel Marriello with his brother Thomas.

Middle: game changer Ivy Garcia, at right is CHS grad Tracy Termyna signing “I love you” and holding her acceptance letter to Bloomsburg University. Below left holding the Class of 2020 sign is Christina McCoy. Mark Peterson and John Traier of TLC reminding readers the show will go on! Bernadette Silva was cited as a game changer by Jacqueline Cupoli, right. Cliftonmagazine.com • January 2021

JULY

2020

IN REVIEW

Photos from the June 5 Black Lives Matter rally at city hall opened our magazine and were found on pages 64 and 65. We connected with Mustangs from 1960, 1970, 1980, 1990, 2000 and 2010 who told of their journey since. While some “then and now” photos are here, we met parents and grandparents, locomotive engineers and educators as well as kids launching careers and golden years retirees. On July 2, restaurants opened for limited indoor dining. Schools Chief Danny Robertozzi said BOE committees are focused on the issues of health, safety, cleanliness, building planning; instruction, format, curriculum; operations; governance and finance.

Colin Van Horn, Theresa Bivaletz, Andrew Tatarenko

Lenny and Marie Elena Feldmann.

Kimberly (Smith) Hosler and Steven Damiano, now and then.

January 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Above left, Deborah Verderosa, Luisa Torres, Donna Block, at left, Nick and Jaimie Lavender.

Above Leonard Wieczerzak, Carolee (Grazioso) Azzarello. Below, Shantel Cordero, Barbara Novak.

Brad Chupick and Karen Pambello.

Janet Klikier and Pamela Capizzi.

Louis DeStefano. Cliftonmagazine.com â&#x20AC;˘ January 2021â&#x20AC;&#x192;

Paramus Catholic High School takes a holistic approach to education and provides a faith-based coeducational college-preparatory learning environment. Students thrive thanks to PC’s high-quality curriculum, which includes 141 courses, 33 of which are honors level, and 21 that are Advanced Placement. But that’s not all. PC offers programs focused on fostering mental, physical, and spiritual wellness.

“As the leader of the school, I understand education can only take hold when the learner feels safe, secure, and content,” said Principal Dr. Stephanie Macaluso. “It is my belief that the maximum potential of each student can only shine through when there is balance with faith, academics, safety, and wellness.” Wellness programs are offered in many forms. For instance, Paladins are part of the Principal’s Student Impact Team while student art and photography is featured in media (see above) and on Christmas cards. A key component of the PC Student Wellness program is that students don’t have assessments or assignments due on Monday. This allows students and staff! time to recharge and enjoy the weekend with family and offers down time, Dr. Macaluso said. From healthy options in the cafeteria to sports teams and clubs, the aspects of the Physical Wellness program are vast. Athletes compete in the 1,500seat football stadium carpeted with artificial turf; other sports fields dedicated to soccer, baseball, and softball are irrigated and groomed. There is also a tennis court within a 22,000-square-foot bubble for all-weather capability.

January 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

The study and practice of faith is part of PC’s Spiritual Wellness. Often, the retreats and classwork focuses on putting faith to work through service, such as projects to feed the hungry, support for veterans and nursing homes. In past years, projects focused on the Beatitudes and the Stations of the Cross. “This school year we are focusing on the study of the Rosary,” said Dr. Macaluso. “This allows for spiritual awareness and school unity. Programs continue through our hybrid program and virtual instruction.” “Since my freshman year at Paramus Catholic, faith, service, academics, and athletics have shaped me into who I am today,” said an upperclassman. “Faith has given me mental strength and has helped me stay strong in difficult times. Service has provided me with a new worldview and has ignited my passion for helping others. Academics has made me more focused and has given me a growth mindset. “Athletics has taught me how to be a team player and taught me not to give up,” she continued. “I believe these qualities and characteristics are something I would not have been able to develop without a Paramus Catholic education.”

New PC students participate in a mentoring program that allows them to feel supported in their new campus. “Each incoming freshman is paired with an upperclassman,” Dr. Macaluso said, adding that the student-to-student connection begins the summer before. “It is a program that helps each student understand what it is to be a Paladin,” Dr. Macaluso continued. “Students helping students is powerful and positive. Upperclassmen are more than willing to guide underclassmen. They feel as if they are welcoming new students into their home. Paramus Catholic students are kind, welcoming, and tolerant. One of our greatest assets is our students and their families.” Likewise, students treasure the faculty and staff and the leadership they offer.

“I believe the teachers and staff at Paramus Catholic truly love what they do, and it is exemplified through their work,” an upperclassman wrote. “I love Paramus Catholic because the school and everyone in the community has changed me to become a better person than I was when I first arrived.” Wellness is not limited to just the students, said Dr. Macaluso. In understanding that time is a most precious commodity for teachers, the first and third Fridays of each month are shortened, wellness days, allowing teachers and students time to regroup. “Overall wellness means that all the members of the school community should be awarded respect and any issue which arises should be handled with dignity, regardless of the consequence,” Dr. Macaluso said.

Cliftonmagazine.com • January 2021

AUGUST

2020

IN REVIEW

If the world wasn’t crazy enough, Tropical Storm Isaias ripped through the region on Aug. 3. That’s Lauren Scarfo of the Clifton Heath Dept. on our cover. She is the “Voice of Clifton,” the person who records the reverse 911 advisories. The “Comeback” theme explained how many of us were getting through this strange chapter of our American lives. Groups like St. Peter’s Haven, the Power of One and the Boys & Girls Club helped address food insecurity. Residents, health officials, volunteers and business owners shared how they are grappling with the new realities in their respective fields, and some are pictured on these pages. Dog owners and their hounds showed up at the first ever drive-thru rabies clinic.

Rafael Cuellar, owner of Crunch Fitness was pleased to learn that on Aug. 27 Gov. Phil Murphy allowed gyms to reopen. From left, Clifton Superintendent Danny Robertozzi; Lisa Corrado of the Chelsea at Clifton; The Barrow House owners and founders Dean and Tom Maroulakos, Kim Castellano of the Power of One, and Shauna Vanderee doing a safe serve at the Grande Saloon.

January 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Covid-cautious, Clifton Rec summer camp was offered at School 3.

Tropical Storm Isaias took down trees and power lines on Aug. 3. Gino Arturo’s classic Mercedes was on the front page of newspapers the next day after a 70 foot tree near his home at Luddington and Fifth pulverized his vehicle.

Our Texas Weiner history took us to 1998 when Midtown Grill founders and brothers John and Tommy Foukas shared their secret sauce recipes with new owners and brothers-in-law Jerry Dimitratos and Jimmy Doris. Bob Foster of the B& G Club is named 2020 Executive of the Year by the Club’s Professional Association. Rep. Bill Pascrell with Ukrainian Congress Committee member Marie Duplak. On Aug. 26, he secured a $100,235 grant for the Clifton Fire Department.

From our August restaurant directory: Casey Hawrylko of Veganlicious Foods, Johnny Managaniotis with his dad John of Mr. Cupcakes and Sherif Ameti of Ameti’s Pizza. Cliftonmagazine.com • January 2021

SEPTEMBER

2020

IN REVIEW

Despite these “upside down” times, we continue to keep working. Jeffery Zdanewicz and Dipti Desai, two respiratory therapists at St. Joseph’s University Medical Center, were among those who shared their stories. Readers met the Community Policing team and their new Chief Tom Rinaldi. We took a trip through our archives with “A History of Newspapers” in our city. From The Journal of Acquackanonk Township to The Clifton Journal, all the way to the creation of our own magazine, we reminded our readers that Clifton always had interesting stories to tell and people with a passion for telling them.

Jeffery Zdanewicz and Dipti Desai at St. Joseph’s Hospital. and John Blesing of Blesing Floors.

Ihor Andruch of Berkeley College, Imam Shaykh Osamah Salhia, reporter Ariana Puzzo, school counselor Jamie Nash, supermarket owner Dana Beltran and at right, John Federle, his daughter Ariele with grandad Jim of Affordable Homes. Self-employed Rich Ruggiero, Casey Boutillier of JAGONE physical therapy, Steve Davies of Clifton Hardware and Paint Supply and Waskar Cordero of Shoprite.

January 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

The Clifton Health Department, on Sept. 17, in conjunction with Mountainside Medical Center, provided free COVID-19 testing to the residents at Horizons Scales Plaza. The testing program is part of an initiative to test Clifton’s senior population for COVID-19. The program is intended to continue throughout the city for the rest of the year.

Some newspapermen who covered Clifton: From top left, Bob Whiting, Augie Lio, Joe Lovas, Vic Winkler, Tom Sullivan, Jerry Costello, Richard Sokerka.

At left, George and Lorraine Kroll and an inset of Chester Grabowski. Above, Terry LaCorte with his dad, Gus, the founder of The Clifton Leader, which began in 1926. Photographer Jack Anderson and George Homcy. Cliftonmagazine.com • January 2021

OCTOBER

2020

IN REVIEW

Clifton Merchant turned 25 and thanked readers and advertisers for their support. We offered a retrospective of how we got to where we are today, speaking with past and present writers, as well as our editor and publisher, Tom Hawrylko, who detailed the sometimes difficult early years and how he kept the magazine going. Clifton’s green canopy grew thanks to a $20,000 TD Green Space grant to plant 50 more cherry trees in Nash Park. We honored those lost on Sept. 11, 2001 and reminded our neighbors to stay safe during Fire Safety Month.

Clifton Avenue of Flags founder Walter Pruiksma. October’s magazine featured a pictorial history of Police Chiefs to mark the June 1 appointment of Thomas Rinaldi who became the 12th person in that position since 1908. Clifton Magazine started as a 24-page guide to Main Mall in Oct., 1995. Two years later, we found our niche by publishing a 300-year history of Clifton. Twenty-five years later, we’re still working hard to keep the title of Clifton’s Storyteller. The late Clifton Historian David L. Van Dillen receives perpetual thanks for helping put us in the public mind when he provided us the 300-year timeline of Clifton, which we first published in 1997.

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Fighting Mustangs Coach Ralph Cinque is the Lou Rettino High School Coach of the Week for Week 5 of the 2020 season.

January 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

From rear left: Ahmad Ramadan, Tyler Williams, Omar Alshujaieh. At front, Dylan Urban, Muhammad Abedrabo and Kyle Vellis.

Cliftonmagazine.com • January 2021

OCTOBER

2020

IN REVIEW

Swingman and the Misfit Mutts got to perform live on Oct. 10 at the East Rutherford Street Fair. The message of Clifton Fire Safety resonates in a 24-page coloring book. Growing the canopy in Nash Park, DPW Tree Crew members planted 50 more cherry trees in and around the sprawling greens.

Above, Jackson Hayes, 7, caught the first fish of the Clifton Rec Fishing Derby with his dad, Gene, and grandfather, Don Handel. At right, previewing the election are Chloe Popowich and Amy Louie. Below, Board of Education Commissioners Feras Awwad, Jim Smith, Fahim Abedrabbo and Freeholder Bruce James. At right, Halloween Trunk or Treat in Botany Village.

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January 2021 â&#x20AC;˘ Cliftonmagazine.com

Cliftonmagazine.com • January 2021

NOVEMBER

2020

IN REVIEW

Our cover asked an important question: Will You Help The Club? Our penultimate edition for 2020 featured the Boys & Girls Club of Clifton’s children and The Club’s $200,000 Ask. We heard from BGCC Board members and parents who spoke about the significance of The Club in our community. We focused on other ways to give back, including a look at how siblings Brian and Samantha Eromenok serve their country in the U.S. Military.

Tom Hawrylko Jr. exercised his civic duty the old fashioned way to vote on Nov. 3 at CCMS (before he donned his mask).

Boys & Girls Club Board members Joe Cupoli, Dante Liberti, Gloria Martini, Gina Corradino, Cindy DeVos, Howard Baum, Richard Mariso.

At left, DeLuxe Cleaners in Downtown Clifton marked their 90th anniversary on Nov. 3. Founded by grandfather Joseph in 1930, the business is now run by Patrick Jr., at left and his sister Linda at right. Also in this 2005 photo are cousin Bob Genuardi, who operates the DeLuxe Formal Wear. At center are the parents of Pat and Linda, the late Patrick DeLora and his wife Albina. January 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Craig Chananie said his CHS shop teacher Bill Borowski taught by example.

Dr. Salvatore Patti and Marvin Roman told of the lifelong connection between them. Dr. Patti also worked at the US Animal Quarantine Station during his high school days, and we told of that history as well.

Brian Eromenok (CHS 2002) and his sister Samantha (CHS 2005).

Clifton Police Officer John Samra was killed in the line of duty on Nov. 21, 2003. Since then, Samra is remembered annually with a bike run that begins at police headquarters. Organized by Ros LaCorte on Nov. 21, it featured 25 riders plus six motors from Clifton Police.

Above, Grande Saloon owners, Nick Cimmino and Jim Visco raised nearly $600 for the Club on Nov. 9 and 10 through their dining promotion. At right, a new granite monument etched with the names of 283 Cliftonites Killed in Action (KIA) during WWI, WWII, Korea, Vietnam and Iraq was unveiled on Veterans Day, Nov. 11 across from the barn which serves as the ‘headquarters’ for the Avenue of Flags. Cliftonmagazine.com • January 2021

DECEMBER

2020

IN REVIEW

John and Kristin Fette responded to November’s $200,000 “Ask” by the Boys & Girls Club by offering a $50,000 challenge grant. “We are stepping up this year because we can,” said John Fette. “We hope others will give whatever they can.” Many have; to date The Club has raised $190,000 to provide much needed services and programs for Clifton kids. We asked our readers to share their holiday memories and favorite past and present traditions. We reminisced about the past 50 years of Santa’s Tour of Clifton. We shined a spotlight on Aldo Putignano and the origami tree he helps create each year for the American Museum of Natural History. We applauded the efforts of Clifton firefighters and citizens who strove to put a smile on childrens’ faces by providing them with gifts for the holidays.

Cliftonites continue their generosity, providing age appropriate toys through the campaign run by Assemblyman Tom Giblin and his staff, above. The community also gave generously to food drives and other causes to help those in need. And Santa did indeed make his Christmas Eve tour of our city, the 50th annual excursion.

January 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Heisman Trophy Winner Angelo Bertelli in his Notre Dame days and in Clifton in 1972.

St. Joseph’s University Medical Center received three boxes of vaccines on Dec. 17 and the following day 2,925 employees in Paterson and Wayne received the first of the two-dose Pfizer-BioNTech Covid-19 vaccine. The second dose will be given 21 days later. Below, Bob Obser, Alvaro Garcia, Virginia Kostisin, Joe Bondonna, Penelope Surgent.

Clifton Rec’s door decorating contest was judged Dec. 7 to 11 and 41 families participated in the contest. Winning doors are shown below with the theme and the names of the families who created them.

Best Craftsmanship: L. Gomez family, Most Original: Scorziello family, Most Unusual: Nolan family, Old Fashioned: Alicea family, Best Theme: Fay family.

Most Colorful: Babula family, Most Creative: Deribin family, Most Cheerful: Winkler family, Most Patriotic: Mastroberte-Gomez family, Best Children’s Creation: Gondaliya family. At left origami artist Aldo Putignano. Cliftonmagazine.com • January 2021

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Cliftonmagazine.com • January 2021

By Ariana Puzzo For the Mikula family, Clifton is a lifelong partner. Mikula Contracting, which will celebrate its 75th year in January, is a three-generation family business with strong ties to our city. It’s a partnership that the family doesn’t take for granted. “We take pride in being here for as long as we have,” said Dennis Mikula, Jr., executive vice president. “People will say, ‘You dug our addition’ or ‘I remember when you knocked down my grandparents’ garage.’ When you’re in a community as long as we’ve been, you come across that a lot. Pride goes into that—working for your neighbors,” continued Dennis Jr., 43. “It’s our backyard that we’re improving.” His father, Dennis Sr., echoed the sentiment. Dennis Sr., 65, is the company’s president. He started working for the family business full time after he graduated from CHS in 1973. Dennis Sr. said the fact that the community watched them grow over three generations helps them get their foot in the door. “Many customers see the longevity of it and know that if you’re in business for that long, you’re doing something right.”

January 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

“One of the realities of family businesses in places like Mikula is that family businesses are the best places to work even if you’re non-family.” — Dale Caldwell, Executive Director of FDU’s Rothman Institute of Innovation and Entrepreneurship

A Shovel, A Pick-up Truck, and A Vision The first thing that was done right was Nick Mikula’s work ethic. Nick founded the firm in 1946 after he returned home from serving his country in World War II. The timing was right and Nick had a clear credo—maintain strong partnerships while standing committed to your employees. It’s a credo that he passed down to Dennis Sr. and is one that the family considers the strongest tool at their disposal. “Many times my father said, ‘If you don’t do it right the first time, you’ll do it right the second time’, and he taught us to be honest. The rest is history,” said Dennis Sr. “My father was a tough businessman,” he continued. “He would give you the shirt off his back, but don’t try to take it. If you needed something, he would work with you and help you. I’ve tried to pass that along to my kids.” That commitment to a strong work ethic was everything, especially as the business grew. For Dennis Sr., he also witnessed the values in action at a young age. Although he joined full time once he graduated, he began working much earlier for his father. “I was using the equipment and doing jobs way younger than I should have been,” said Dennis Sr., with a laugh. “Someone would drop me off on a job … and I was knocking down houses in my early teens, working on sewer lines and using backhoes.”

Founder Nick Mikula on the job and in an oil portrait.

Dennis Sr. emphasized the value in working from a young age. He is also glad his father was around for a long time. That gladness is in part because of all Nick ultimately taught him, but also stems from his love for working with his family. “What’s better in this world than working with your family?” said Dennis Sr. A New Technological Age When Dennis Sr. considers the technological growth and development over the last several decades, he said he is grateful that he started working full time when he did. “I was fortunate because I started working here full time right after high school … and by the mid-80’s, it’s when things started to kick in as far as environmental changes and the new regulations,” said Dennis Sr. “I was on the bottom floor of that and we got a lot of work out of that. We still do,” he added. “If I were to try to get into it now, it would be tough.” More so than the environmental regulation changes, he recognized the significant shift that took place in the 1990s. It was then that he said Dennis Jr. brought computers into the company and how that “really changed things and [shifted] things into high gear.”

Cliftonmagazine.com • January 2021

“Safety is always the main concern. Half the place is family and the other half is like family,” said Dennis Sr. “As for our clients, they trust us and that’s important. They don’t forget if you do it wrong or do it right.” It was a change that Dennis Jr. knew would bring the company into the next century. But it also brought back a poignant memory for him. It’s a family affair at Mikula from left front: uncle Leonard Wieczerzak, “My grandmother did the books for years brothers Ryan and Dennis. In rear, brothers Drew and Dennis. and handled everything,” said Dennis Jr. (CHS 1995). “We still have most of the old journals. So if I’m in the storage room opening them up, I go “One of the realities of family businesses in places back to seeing her paying bills and doing invoices at the like Mikula is that family businesses are the best places kitchen table.” to work even if you’re non-family,” said Dale Caldwell, But by the early 1990s, Dennis Jr. was taking computthe executive director of Rothman Institute of Innovation er classes in school. By the time he was in college, Mikuand Entrepreneurship. la Contracting got its first computer and started inputting “Once you have worked in a family business for all the billing and payables into the computer system. a while, you’re treated like family,” added Caldwell. Though it took time to warm up to having a computer, “You’re there for life … and Mikula really treats everyDennis Sr. can now see the value in it. Both men agree body like family. They really take pride in that. They that the bottom line is, it makes the work more effective make sure that they’re giving back to the community and and efficient. that they are being a positive presence in the communi“Whether we’re tracking something or sending picty.” tures and plans, it takes it to a new level,” said Dennis Jr. That closeness and the reality that they are a “true It was also the family business’s commitment to techfamily” is what Dennis Jr. believes sets them apart. nological growth that put them on the map for the “New “I’m fortunate to come to work every day with my Jersey Family Business of the Year.” The award, orgafather, my brother, Ryan (CHS 1999), and uncles from nized by Fairleigh Dickinson University’s Rothman Ineach side of the family,” said Dennis Jr. “There are emstitute of Innovation and Entrepreneurship, is now in its ployees who are still here from when I was a kid and was 28th year and was held virtually on Oct. 21 via Zoom. learning how to operate the equipment.” Along with Mikula Contracting, there were six other Dennis Jr. continued saying that the average family honorees for the award. The company won the category member working with them is there for almost 20 years for businesses with revenues up to $10 million. What set or longer. Similarly, the average tenure of an employee them apart in the comprehensive nomination process was who is a non-family member is over 15 years. fulfilling the requirements, including that the company “When you’re hired here, you’re coming into a family spans more than one generation. business,” said Dennis Jr. “You’re only as good as your Other qualifications are that Mikula Contracting has crew and employees, and there is such a great environa record of strategic innovation and business acuity, as ment that has been established through the years.” well as active family involvement in operations and enFor both men, receiving the award was a memorable gagement in their broader communities. and humbling experience.

January 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Cliftonmagazine.com • January 2021

“It’s humbling because there were a lot of good companies up for it,” said Dennis Sr. “It was very nice to be chosen and noticed.” “Humbling is a great word and pride is the other one,” agreed Dennis Jr. “We’re very thankful and grateful knowing this is something that started nearly 75 years ago, and it is still continuing to grow.” “We started with the same work ethic and integrity,” added Dennis Jr. “The technology may have changed, but the foundation is pretty strong.” To the Next 75 Years … Safety and trust are two integral values that Mikula Contracting intends to carry with the family business. Whether it’s making sure employees are comfortable with equipment or that a client is comfortable with the firm’s work, the commitment doesn’t waver. “Safety is always the main concern. Half the place is family and the other half is like family,” said Dennis Sr. “[As for our clients], they trust us and that’s important in this business. They don’t forget if you do it wrong or do it right.” Dennis Jr. agreed with his father, adding that the best marketing is word-of-mouth and that their intention is to always leave a project better than when they arrived there. He also acknowledged that it takes trust from the client who is allowing someone into their house or onto their property “I’ve heard my father say when he looks at specific projects, ‘If this was my house, yard, property,’ said Dennis Jr. “We’re looking for how to make each project the best; not to make the most money on it.”

January 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

“We want the client to refer us to the next client and when they buy a new property, for them to think of us.” When Dennis Jr. thinks ahead to the future Mikula generations, he thinks of his daughter, Lucy, 7, and what the family business will one day mean to her. “She loves coming in on Saturday mornings with me,” said Dennis Jr., seen with his daughter on a recent visit. “She’ll call my father and get him on the phone and say, ‘Pop, are you coming in today?’ and if he says, ‘No’, then she says, ‘OK, I’m the boss today.’” “She is,” laughed Dennis Sr. Ultimately, Dennis Jr. hopes that she sees the strong commitment put into the company, from her great grandfather to her grandfather to her father and uncles and great uncles. He added that her pride doesn’t have to mean she ever spent one day working in the business or that she took it over one day. “I want her to see that we’re proud of where we are and she can say, ‘I’m proud to see my last name on those trucks and equipment’ and know that it was built with work ethic and integrity,” he said. That pride, both Dennis Sr. and Dennis Jr. said, circles back to how Nick started from nothing and created a fixture in the community. “I wish my father was here to see how we’ve grown,” said Dennis Sr. “I moved it ahead a little bit and then Dennis and Ryan took it even further. It’s been a privilege.” “We look at every day and count our blessings,” said Dennis Jr. “Treat people right. No matter where the company goes as far as growth, that will never change.”

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Call to arrange your safe tour: 973-218-4674 Cliftonmagazine.com • January 2021

On these pages are some of the projects proposed or currently underway around town. Stories by Ariana Puzzo

Vincent’s The views are amazing. The grounds are tranquil. The former Vincent’s Hilltop Villa on Vincent Drive would make a beautiful setting for a wedding, or a house of worship, or a nursing facility. Those were among the projects considered over the past few years for this abandoned property. Today the scenic picture and its view of the NYC skyline are marred with debris and cars in the parking lot. In the last year or so, when face-to-face meetings were happening pre-COVID, the Zoning Board heard and later a denied proposal for a Ukrainian Cultural & Community center. While nothing is currently in front of the Zoning Board, one consistency is how the former restaurant’s neighbors are cohesive when putting groups together to object potential projects.

January 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Border War at On 3 For the last two years, Clifton and Nutley residents watched the history-making transformation of the former 116-acre Hoffman-La Roche property into the Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine. Once referred to as the Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine at Seton Hall, the two schools ended their partnership last July. At the time of its opening, multiple Seton Hall programs moved to the Nutley site at the Route 3 Clifton border. Today, as the next generation of doctors prepare to enter the workforce, they do so amidst a global pandemic, but also a growing conflict between Nutley and Clifton. According to a Clifton, ON3 lawsuit, Nutley has created an actual physical roadblock to the development of the former Hoffman-La Roche land. The roadblock involves Nutley’s decision in October to prevent traffic from Clifton, which is said to interfere with ON3 developing the 67 acres of land that are on

the Clifton side of the border. However, Clifton Mayor James Anzaldi expects Clifton will continue making progress in 2021. “An office building has been approved to start construction and there is an application before the Planning Board for a first class hotel,” said Anzaldi. “It’ll probably be before the board in the next few months since some meetings were not held because COVID.”

Black Prince Warehouse to Transit Village When residents of a certain era drive by the former Black Prince Distillery at Paulison and Clifton Aves., they may recall the site’s untraditional “lawn mower.” At one time, the vacant facility housed wool manufacturer Samuel Hird and Co. and residents could see sheep grazing on the front lawn. It’s a different picture today since the City Council approved in October the redevelopment of the Black Prince Distillery into 300 residential units with a pedestrian walkway to the nearby NJ Transit train station. But that does not mean the project is underway. Through its RFP or request for proposals, the city is inviting developers to invest and follow the plans the city has drawn up. “In the beginning, I had second thoughts about housing,” said Mayor James Anzaldi, “but the popularity of transit housing throughout New Jersey in cities like ours … has become very common. Everyone calls it a transit village.” Cliftonmagazine.com • January 2021

Funeral Home to Housing & Retail on Lakeview Ave. The new year and Jebara Developers are bringing a significant change to the landscape of Lakeview Ave. A mixed use building, at 371 Lakeview Ave., is taking shape, replacing the former J. Opuda Lakeview Memorial, which has been closed since 2017. Coldwell Banker listed the land area as 16,600 sq. ft. It sold on Dec. 8, 2017 for $790,000. “There will be apartments and retail, and we’re hoping to have it done by April 2021,” said Tarek Jebara, CEO of Jebara Developers. “There will be eight one-bedroom apartments, high ceilings, two big retail stores, and a big parking lot for retail tenants and apartment tenants.” The retail stores are not yet confirmed. Jebara said what attracted the company to Lakeview Avenue is it is “close to all major highways.” Jebara Developers owns the building and Jebara predicts likely occupants will be young couples with a newborn or older couples looking to downsize. “It’s a special building and there is nothing in the area that matches it,” said Jebara. The former J. C. Fila Lexington Memorial Home, whose building was constructed in 1906 and is located at the Lake Street and Lexington Avenue intersection, is another site that remains vacant in our city. Despite its location on a prominent corner, many variances are still needed for the 340 Lexington Ave. lot, which is 17,295 sq. ft. A proposed development this past November by Lexington Partners, LLC, was demolishing the funeral home and constructing a 4-story multi-family development with 28 units and 42 parking spaces. To date, the vacant lot remains in front of the Zoning Board of Adjustment, who determined the building’s maximum

Funeral Parlor Lexington Ave.

January 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

stories permitted is three, as opposed to the proposed four. Said the Board in the public comments: “The architecture of this building leaves something to be desired. It does not fit in with the existing character of the neighborhood … The building essentially does not address the streetscape at all.”

Cliftonmagazine.com • January 2021

Gas Station, Home, Drug Store Intersection of Lexington and Clifton Aves.

A redevelopment proposal for the corner of Lexington and Clifton Aves. was denied by the Zoning Board on Dec. 16 and leaves the intersection unsightly with no plans for the future. In February, a large fire destroyed the multi-family home next to the gas station. Midyear, a developer proposed a mixed use apartment and retail building as illustrated above, middle. While the scope of the project was modified for parking and apartments, the Zoning Board rejected the project as it needed too many variances. The long vacant Rite Aid on the other side of the intersection is equally unsightly. Vacant for years, the 16,887 foot property was built in 1954 as a supermarket and renovated in 1997 to accommodate a drug store.

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January 2021 â&#x20AC;˘ Cliftonmagazine.com

Rite Aid

Cliftonmagazine.com • January 2021

‘21

Royalty may not be moving to Clifton, but the new Kinder Kastle will give off that impression for the young children who attend there. At 879 Clifton Ave., a Kinder Kastle is being constructed on the two lots where Schneider’s Florist (below) for decades had once served our community.

Now Then It’s been a minute since you could head down to 1172 Broad St. for garden soil, spring plantings and fresh eggs. The 1.85-acre property, formerly Ploch’s Garden Center, will become a multistory storage center. Located between Route 3 and the Garden State Parkway ramps where Allwood Road and Broad Street intersect, Ploch’s (inset right) grew from its humble beginnings as a fruit stand in the 1950s. A 2014 proposal for the property included a large QuickChek gas station and convenience store. Clifton zoning does not permit more than one use on any property so the project was rejected. It was in 2018 that the Zoning Board approved using the land for self-storage and the four-story property now looms from the intersection of Allwood Rd. and Broad St. It can also be seen from Route 3 and the Garden State Parkway.

Now Then

January 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Cliftonmagazine.com • January 2021

Last Frame on Your Card Garden Palace & Van Houten Lanes

In the not-so-distant past, Clifton was home to many bowling centers, once boasting nearly 150 lanes. Over the last decade, the picture became bleak. It started with the closure of Athenia’s Van Houten Lanes in May of 2015. Before that, city staples like Bowlero and Rizzuto-Berra Lanes (later Astro Bowl) in Styertowne shuttered their doors. Today, Garden Palace Lanes is the latest to go up for sale. Located at 42 Lakeview Avenue, Garden Palace would have marked 83 years this January. Over the years, Garden Palace grew to offer keglers 16 lanes, electronic scoring and more innovations. When asked why they were selling, the Covid-19 had an unsurprising role. “Twenty-five percent capacity?” said a person who answered the phone. “You can’t make it with four lanes.” Clifton residents experienced a lengthy goodbye when bidding farewell to the old Van Houten Lanes building. The lanes, like multiple city bowling alleys before it, closed in May 2015. Over the last five years, the property changed hands multiple times until a Newark-based company purchased it for $700,000 in November of 2019. This past October, partial demolition began with the plan set to introduce a Dollar General

Store. The building, dating to the early 1920s, drew in many customers during the 1950s and 60’s. The building’s location, mere blocks from the Passaic border, helped it attract generations of avid bowlers.

In 1999 at Van Houten Lanes, manager Eric Sudhalter, at left, with his daughter Ashley and Rick Lamonico with his son Skye. The property, as seen today from next door’s NOC Auto Body.

January 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Cliftonmagazine.com • January 2021

By Tom Szieber As perhaps Clifton’s all-time greatest girls basketball player, Kelly Douglass always seemed to dominate those who opposed her on the hardwood. But it was the difficulty she had overcoming two rivals—sibling rivals—that molded her into the competitor she became. “As kids, we always played outside instead of watching TV or things like that,” Douglass, a 2015 Clifton High School graduate, said of her upbringing with sisters Kimberly (Class of 2012) and Sara (Class of 2014). “We have two hoops in the yard and we would have this mini-court. We played one-on-one all time. I definitely credit them for how far I got with my career. They were older and bigger and I learned to stand up to them athletically. I always wanted to prove myself against them.” The challenge of beating her sisters and the support of her parents, Gordon and Lynn, pushed Douglass to become a scoring phenom and, in March of 2021, she will be honored as an inductee into the Clifton High School Athletic Hall of Fame.

January 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

2015

Kelly Douglass

“I thought it was insane when I found out I was in,” Douglass said. “I didn’t think it was going to happen so fast.” A four-year starter for the Mustangs, Douglass was a force from day one. By her sophomore season, she emerged as a team leader, leading Clifton in scoring, rebounds, assists and blocks. She accomplished that same feat during her junior and senior years. After going 7-14 during Douglass’ freshman campaign, the Mustangs had three consecutive winning seasons in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2014-15 (going 1312, 14-13 and 15-13). For her efforts, she became a three-time first team all-league and three-time first team all-county honoree, and landed on The Record’s AllNorth Jersey second team as a senior. She etched her name in the records of Mustang lore during her final high school season, breaking the program’s scoring record and finishing her CHS career with 1,375 points.

Cliftonmagazine.com • January 2021

It was a dominant season overall for Douglass, who averaged 18.0 points, 9.1 rebounds, 4.6 assists, 3.1 steals, and 3.0 blocks per game. Douglass excelled on the volleyball court, as well. A three-year varsity player, she earned first team all-league honors three times and first team all-county recognition twice. She was a third team all-state player as a senior, notching 153 kills, 82 digs, 33 aces and 13 blocks. In one year of spring track and field (her sophomore year), she took second place Previous page, in 2012, the Douglass girls: Kim, 11, Sara 12, Kelly, 13. Above, Sara, in the javelin in the North I, Kimberly and Kelly, at her senior day game with their mom and dad Lynn and Gordon. Group IV meet, and set new program records for individual javelin, relay javelin and relay shot put (those records While the Clifton Athletic Hall of Fame have since been broken). After graduating from Clifton High School, Douginduction banquet has been delayed lass played for the University of Hartford, having been until 2021, we continue to recall the recruited by Women’s Basketball Hall of Famer and stories of inductees. This month we look then-Hawks head coach, Jennifer Rizzotti. back and celebrate Kelly Douglass, CHS “Coach Rizzotti was on UConn’s first-ever national 2015, who is being inducted for her days championship team,” noted Douglass. “For her to notice me and believe in me is one of the biggest honors in Mustangs Basketball and Volleyball. I’ve ever achieved.” Other Class of 2020 Inductees include... Douglass played 119 games for the Hawks, scoring 451 points, and the team went 70-57 during her four Class of 2020 Inductees years on the roster. Tom Acton - Class of 1987 • Soccer Since concluding her playing career, she has made Anthony Giordano - Class of 2007 • Football it her business to stay in the game. She got a coaching Jeremy Hernandez - Class of 2014 job at Drew University in summer of 2019 and helped Cross Country and Track lead the Rangers to the best season in program history John A. McClain - Class of 1986 • Baseball in 2019-20 (18-10). Later in 2019, she found her way into the professional ranks, obtaining a position as a staJackie Pangilinan - Class of 2004 • Swimming tistics auditor for the NBA G-League. Anthony Tuesta - Class of 2001 • Soccer No matter how high she climbs, though, she will alKelly Douglass - Class of 2015 ways treasure her time in Mustang maroon. Girls Volleyball and Basketball “It was a great four years,” she said. “I think my Michael Doktor • Boys and Girls Volleyball Coach career shows that you do not need to go to a private Jack Whiting - Class of 1969 • Contributor school or Catholic school to succeed as an athlete. I am forever grateful for the four years I had at CHS. Who 2005 Boys Volleyball Team knows? Maybe I will find my way back.” 2007 Softball Team

January 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

FOOD DISTRIBUTION Clifton Public Schools

Times and Locations: Mondays and Fridays Christopher Columbus Middle School - 350 Piaget Ave., Clifton, NJ 07011 - 10:00 -11:30 School 17 - 361 Lexington Ave., Clifton, NJ 07011 1:30-2:30 Clifton High School - 333 Colfax Ave., Clifton, NJ 07013 - 1:30-2:30

Wednesdays Christopher Columbus Middle School - 10:00 -11:30 School 17 - 1:30-2:30 Clifton High School - Closed

#OneClifton Cliftonmagazine.com • January 2021

Chloe Popowich, Christian Veltre, Albaraa Gebril, Sawyer Placek.

January has arrived for Mustangs of the Month.

The vice principals from each Clifton High wing have spotlighted four students, one from each grade, who have gotten a virtual head start on the latest activities via Zoom. Chloe Popowich, Senior When Chloe Popowich attends The College of NJ in September 2021, she plans to major in economics with a minor in social justice. By doing so, she hopes to one day work for a social justice organization like the ACLU. When she considers her greatest inspirations, two women come to mind. “I am most inspired by Ruth Bader Ginsburg and my mom,” said Popowich (CHS ’21). “[RBG’s] decisions were always on the side of fairness and justice … [and] my mom taught me that all people are important and equal.” Popowich is involved in numerous extracurriculars. These include the Superintendent’s Ambassador Council, the Key Club, and the Regional Executive Board and the CHS Executive Board for Girls Learn International. She is a four-year recipient of the Academic Awards Distinguished Honors and volunteered for Congressman Josh Gottheimer’s reelection campaign. One hurdle that she has faced is encouraging CHS students to be more active in the community. However, she felt the support of one significant staff member. “[Superintendent Danny Robertozzi] has always listened and encouraged me to speak out against injustice,” said Popowich. “When I spoke about the lack of female protagonists in the required novels for English classes, he formed a committee to add more diversity to the curriculum.”

January 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Christian Veltre, Junior Although Christian Veltre is used to helping others, he also knows when to ask for help for himself. The CHS junior is an active member of the Boy Scouts of America and is working toward earning his rank as an Eagle Scout. By striving for that, he helps his younger troop members earn their merit badges. He credits his brothers for his strong work ethic and knowledge that it’s important to know when to ask for help. “My brothers inspire me to ask them for help when I need it,” said Veltre (CHS ’22). “They also encourage me to have a strong work ethic [and] to never give up. They give me the confidence to always do my best.” Transitioning to remote learning was an obstacle Veltre experienced this past year. He added it was the “help and support of my amazing teachers” that made it easier. Veltre credited his English teacher, Mrs. Gordon, as his most influential teacher. “Mrs. Gordon encourages me to write with her positive, encouraging words of advice,” he said. “[She also] encourages me to believe in myself and encourages me to not give up.” Veltre’s ambitions include attending a technical school with a focus in Computer Systems/Networking and Telecommunications.

Cliftonmagazine.com • January 2021

Albaraa Gebril, Sophomore Despite a challenging transition to high school, Albaraa Gebril finished his freshman year with full distinguished honors thanks to hard work and steadfast beliefs. “The most important thing that kept me going was the belief that I was more than my circumstances,” said Gebril (CHS ’23). “I urge all students to believe in themselves because as Henry Ford once said, ‘Whether you think you can, or you think you can’t, you’re right.’” The sophomore’s favorite class is AP US History and said Mr. Henry is his most influential teacher. Gebril said his passion was previously in the sciences, but Henry “teaches his students to analyze information critically and to see the true meaning behind things.” Gebril’s extracurriculars include serving as the CHS ’23 Class Treasurer, the Vice President of the Muslim Student Association, and being a member of the Key Club. For his greatest inspiration, he points to his brother, Bilal (CHS ’21). “Like many students at CHS, growing up without a father hasn’t been the easiest,” said Gebril. “From a young age, [Bilal] has naturally become a father figure in my life. Despite our early upbringing, Bilal has overcome and achieved several great things throughout high school, inspiring me to do the same.”

January 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Sawyer Placek, Freshman The pandemic has changed the way students of all ages learn, but freshman Sawyer Placek found that learning online made the transition to high school easier. “Personally, I didn’t feel the difficult transition that some felt,” said Placek (CHS ’24). “Doing school online has honestly helped me in many ways. It’s a lot easier than I expected it to be back at the end of eighth grade.” When Placek considers an inspiration, the character Gon from the show, “Hunter x Hunter” comes to mind. “Gon has … shown how powerful friendship can be,” said Placek. “Even though he goes through many tough situations, he always gets back up and stands for what he believes is right.” Placek’s favorite subject is history because of the discussions related to philosophy and religion. The freshman’s favorite teacher is Mr. Hlat. “I really love the way he teaches,” said Placek. “He makes it easy for us to not fail and is always understanding when different life issues occur. Every time I have to join the Google Meet, he is always in a good mood and is talkative.” Since entering CHS, Placek has joined the school’s Gender & Sexuality Alliance. “It is a welcoming and comforting environment where I feel safe to talk about anything.”

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PO Box 6080, Clifton, NJ 07015 Cliftonmagazine.com • January 2021

That Tombstone

in the Window? By Ariana Puzzo

There are those who live storied lives, full of travel, adventure and intrigue, and there are those whose stories continue in their next life. Frankie Lymon was a one-of-a-kind singer who fit comfortably in both categories. But it was Ronnie Italiano who helped make it possible. Although the doo-wop legend’s journey to greatness began in Harlem, New York at a young age, Lymon and his legacy traveled far and wide, both in life and later after his death. In fact, older Cliftonites may even recall one of these exciting destinations was close to home.

January 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Amidst a display of old LPs and 45s, Lymon’s 2,000-pound granite tombstone once found a home in the former Ronnie I’s Clifton Music. Located in Downtown Clifton, the popular record store specialized in doo-wop music, owing to Italiano’s appreciation for the genre. But how the tombstone came to reside there is a story in itself. A Moment in Time Lymon was an unique figure in the music industry, and his doo-wop group, the Teenagers, was a large part of that. Later regarded as rock’s first all-teenaged act, the original group formed in 1954 when Lymon was 12-years-old. Lymon became the group’s lead singer and later departed for a solo career in mid-1957. He did so not long after the group’s biggest hit, “Why Do Fools Fall in Love”, which was also their first single in 1956. Though his life and career were tragically cut short after he was found dead at the age of 25 from a heroin overdose, music appreciators like Italiano understood the significance of artists like Lymon.

Italiano also appreciated what the musicians brought to the “early group harmony rock ’n roll” genre—those who knew Italiano also knew that he had no use for the term “doo-wop” and he would refer to the genre in its purest sense as “vocal group harmony.”

Cliftonmagazine.com • January 2021

So, how did a tombstone for Lymon end up in Downtown Clifton? Lymon, whose final resting place is St. Raymond’s Cemetery in the Bronx, was laid to rest below an unmarked tombstone. It was 20 years later when Lymon’s “fans and friends” decided to dedicate a stone for the singer, which was bought in 1988 with more than $3,000 in donations. The tribute read: “In memory of Frankie Lymon. We ‘Promise to Remember.’” The stone was accented with flowers and a cross. It was a fitting tribute to the old adage, “Rock ’n roll will never die.” It was also keeping with the atmosphere of Italiano’s store, which served many of its loyal customers as a time capsule to the 1950s. A New Home Today, the landscape of Downtown Clifton and Main Avenue is sadly without Clifton Music. Italiano, who ran the store from 1972 until his death in 2008 aged 67, created what would later be considered an incredible part of Clifton History. Although the store shuttered its doors on March 23, 2012, it was beloved by

January 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

many music and doo-wop enthusiasts who saw its closing as the end of an era. It was also a sign of the times. Ultimately, a changing music scene and volatile economy were both responsible for the store’s closure, Italiano’s wife and then-owner, Sandra, explained at the time. Even so, it was clear that Italiano, who grew up in East Rutherford, created something special that endured for 40 years. As the store prepared for its closing, customers were showing up with flowers and hugs, full of remorse that yet another Downtown Clifton landmark was becoming a footnote in our city’s history.

Gary “Dr. J” Johnson and Mike Rullis of Monroe Monuments, with Frankie Lymon’s tombstone before trucking it out to the Michigan museum.

Still, there is likely one question on everyone’s mind. What did ever become of Lymon’s tombstone once Clifton Music was no more? Remarkably, that particular story is also an interesting one. For the past eight years, the granite tombstone dedicated to Lymon sat in Elmwood Park resident Pam Nar-

della’s backyard. Then, this past month on Dec. 11, the tombstone was lifted once more for one final journey: to a museum in Michigan. Gary Johnson, the founder of the Michigan Rock ’n Roll Legends Hall of Fame Museum, took the tombstone into custody. But the way he learned about its existence is another story worth telling. After Johnson purchased a Weird N.J. book as a house-warming gift for his son and daughter-in-law, he learned that the tombstone originally sat in the store window in Downtown Clifton for almost 25 years. That is where Nardella comes into the picture. Known as “Dreamgirl DJ”, she was once one of Italiano’s DJs for the United in Group Harmony Association. Italiano founded the group that, at one time, hosted hundreds of shows to bring fans of doo-wop together. Once Italiano’s record store closed, Sandra asked Nardella to take Lymon’s tombstone, which Johnson eventually managed to track down to Nardella’s backyard. Now in its new home, the tombstone will do what it did in Downtown Clifton for so many years — honor Lymon while also celebrating the rich history of rock ’n roll—and connect that history back here to Clifton.

Cliftonmagazine.com • January 2021

Clifton’s Samantha Olsen (center) who is also a senior at PCTI, is the producer of “Stutter Boy,” a short film about “an introverted boy with a severe stutter who forms an unlikely friendship with the town delinquent, who changes his life forever.” She and her crew were at the corner of Washington and Fifth shooting scenes on Dec. 13. Her 10 minute film is an entry in the 2021 Passaic County Film Festival which has a submission deadline of Feb. 1. For details call 973-569-4720 or e-mail: film@passaiccountynj.org.

Can’t wait to get back on the softball diamond? Get The Boys of Late Summer by Jerry Miccolis, the story of the Jersey Boys, a 60-plus team competing in the 2017 Cape Cod Classic. Along with game action, Miccolis profiles his teammates who include a pastor, former meme and research chemist once recruited by the mob. Despite creaky joints, weak bladders, self-doubts and fighting Father Time, the Jersey Boys illuminate a profound truth: In softball, and in life, it’s never too late. Miccolis has a history playing locally, previously competing for the Clifton Cardinals and Clifton Basks in the North Jersey Senior Softball Conference at Dunney Park and Richardson Oval. His Clifton teammates have included Jimmy Denaples, Harry Litchfield, Bob Perris, Ed Klemik, Val Decker, Mark Belli, Steve White, Jim Cupo and Eddie Zuchowski. The Boys of Late Summer is available on Amazon, and Miccolis is donating all sales royalties to the Interfaith Food Pantry in Morris Plains. 2021 PRICE INCREASE

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January 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Cliftonmagazine.com • January 2021

The 1969 Bertelli team, front from left: Jim Shea, Ray Zangrando, Bob Greg, Alan Schwartzbard, Walt Remus, Gary Ippolitto, Ted Shaft. Second row: Head Coach Manny Gouveia, Kevin Baumann, Mike Vargo, Greg Aluce, Ed Kuberewicz, Alan Carestia, Dennis Kleber, Bill Cluney, John Schweighardt, Coaches Bill Robinson and Andy Schimpf. Third row: Coach Gordon Van Lenten, Ben Romano, Steve Szurko, John Blandos, Mike Britton, Tom Jvranich, Joe Muschiotto, Billy Schimpf, Steve Sudol, Blake Lesnik, Coach Phil Carestia. 1969 Bertelli Cheerleaders, front from left: Joann Santillo, Diane Gouveia, Doreen Robertson. Second row: Adrianne Barbara, Elaine Bernadini, Cathy Pinchak, Debbie Mizdal, Linda Gouveia. Rear: Evelyn Gouveia, Janet Mullen, Carol Spillane, Laurie Santillo

Alan Schwartzbard wrote to say that the photo of Bertelli’s football team on page 72 in December was incorrect. “That was not the 1969 team that traveled to Maryland to play the Friendship Bowl, rather (the Dec. photo was) likely of the 1970 team,” he wrote from his Texas home. “Your article says #30 is Allen Asbaty however that player is actually me. I met my wife while playing for Bertelli’s in 1969 as she was one of the cheerleaders.” Schwartzbard said the correct photos from the 1969 team appeared in our August, 2002 magazine. So to straighten it out, we publish here the 1969 photos and captions. Read the captions and you’ll find those kids and then look right. That’s Alan and Debbie (Mizdal), some 51 years later.

January 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Cliftonmagazine.com • January 2021

Birthdays & Celebrations - January 2021

Happy Birthday to.... Send dates & names .... tomhawrylko@optonline.net

Birthday greetings to Barbara Bivaletz (Jan. 5) and hubby Steve (Jan. 9) who both celebrate 66! Austin Blesing turns 15 on Jan. 17. Kyle Stone Osborne 15 on Jan. 19. Isabel Victoria Calvo turns 5 on Jan. 12.

Skylar De Santis turns 16 on Jan 17. Cindy Hawrylko is 30 Jan. 22. Alyssa Philhower & Becca Potocki share a birthday on Jan 1. Vicky Petrovic will party on Jan. 5. Birthday wishes to Bob Sandri on Jan. 6. Shaun LaGala.................... Marek Rzasa...................... Connie Zangara................. Chrissy Cetinich.................. Matthew Delaney................ Amanda Esposito................ Kristin Reilly........................ Steven Hrina...................... Rosalie Konopinski.............. Ray Krenc.......................... Emily Zawicki..................... James Dohm....................... Rich Peterson...................... Mohamad Bekheet.............. Missy Fazio........................

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January 2021 â&#x20AC;˘ Cliftonmagazine.com

Alexander Ortiz.................. 1/5 Jeremy Delaney.................. 1/6 Gay Eaclie......................... 1/6 Amanda Curtiss.................. 1/9 Ariana Hryckowian............. 1/9 Joseph Perzely.................... 1/9 Fatma Bekheet.................. 1/10 Ronald Calo..................... 1/10 Richie DeMarco................ 1/10 Michael Gorny................. 1/11 Katy Sokolik..................... 1/11 Nicole Unis...................... 1/11 Megan Duffy.................... 1/12 Daisy Colman................... 1/13 Olivia Dohm..................... 1/13

Rob Generalli................... Joe Musleh....................... Ernie Rodrigues................ Mark Stuart...................... Kyle Santiago................... Susan Hernandez............. Jennifer Montanile............. Matthew Soprano............. Anna Tatarenko................ Kim Barilari...................... Erica Pangilinan................ Lindsay Dueben................ Luke Falzo........................ Payton Bogatch................. Douglas Ciallella..............

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Angely Sotomba will celebrate her 9th birthday on Jan. 26. Matthew Gorun................ Daniel Shackil.................. Evelyn Montague.............. Cheryl Vigh...................... Catherine Coloccia........... Greg Collucci................... Jamie Mikolajczyk............. Anna Redling................... Larissa Unis...................... Robert Duffy..................... Ashley Gagnon................. Debbi Koch...................... Michelle Nahass............... Karen Rice....................... Michael Bandurski............ Gianna Caramucci............ Nicholas Grippo............... Scott Crawford................. Patrick Ferrara III............... Robert C. Henn................. Stephanie Smith................ Alexis Camp.................... Donna Chipura................. Laura Kuruc...................... Sean Sabo....................... Evangeline Joy Kohler........ Jessica Sonn.....................

1/21 1/22 1/23 1/23 1/24 1/24 1/24 1/24 1/24 1/25 1/25 1/26 1/26 1/26 1/27 1/27 1/27 1/28 1/28 1/28 1/28 1/30 1/30 1/30 1/30 1/31 1/31 Cliftonmagazine.com • January 2021

Superintendent Danny Robertozzi said he expects the Board of Education to vote on approving a bond referendum at the Jan. 7 meeting. The referendum would likely be placed on the ballot in April. “The referendum, if approved by the voters, would include HVAC upgrades throughout the district, enhanced security entrances at each school, bathroom renovations throughout the district, and upgrades to locker rooms and weight rooms at Clifton Stadium in addition to a new turf field and fieldhouse at Woodrow Wilson Middle School,” wrote Robertozzi.

January 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

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