Clifton Merchant Magazine - October 2020 by Clifton Merchant Magazine

We started as a 24-page guide to Clifton’s Main Mall. Two years later, we found our niche by publishing a 300-year history of Clifton. Two decades later, we’re still working hard to keep the title Clifton’s Storyteller.

“If you are given the grace to continue working, then you better figure out something that needs telling...” - Martin Scorcese

25 Clifton Magazine

turns 25 By Tom Hawrylko

Editing this 25th anniversary edition made me laugh out loud, take pause and reflect often. As I read the story by Ariana Puzzo, selected covers, saw old friends, recalled stories and heard voices of those that helped me get here today, I know that I am a blessed individual. Now at age 63, I have been given the grace to continue working, and the story of Clifton, my adopted hometown, still needs telling. With the good will of my family, readers and advertisers, that is what I will continue to do. A quarter century ago I had an idea to make a living and it still works today. Thank you, God! Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2020

Launched in ’95, STILL GROWING By Ariana Puzzo

Since 1995, Clifton Merchant Magazine has worked hard to earn its place in our city’s history. To do so, we’ve held up a mirror up to the community, showing what makes our city, businesses and residents so vibrant. As we mark Clifton Merchant’s 25th year this month, it is impossible to let the milestone pass without reflecting on the magazine’s journey to earn the title of Clifton’s Storyteller. For our editor and publisher, Tom Hawrylko, reflecting on the journey is as easy as looking at his wall. It is a wall that he refers to often. When he is trying to recall when a story was written, he looks at the office wall that is adorned with nearly 30 glossy posters. These posters feature our magazine covers past to present. Another set of these boards also include the headshots of people who helped make Clifton Merchant what it is today. Almost all the photos—portraits, landscapes and covers—were shot by Hawrylko.

October 2020 • Cliftonmagazine.com

“I often get up and walk down the hall to figure out when we wrote a story,” said Hawrylko. “I think that I get lucky every once in a while when I remember where something is. I’ve got a strange institutional memory.” The wall also tells another story. The spaces where the covers for January and February of 1996 should be are blank. Similarly, August and September of 1997 are empty. These empty areas represent months when the magazine almost folded. When he does the poster for 2020, the space for May will also be open—a victim, of sorts, of COVID-19. “I was down back then,” Hawrylko said of 1996 and 1997. “The wind was knocked out of my sails, just like this year.” Although the five issues that never were became a part of Clifton Merchant’s history, Hawrylko and his staff dusted off and learned to give it another try. Now, with this October magazine as our 298th issue, the team that puts it together feels grateful and offers gratitude for all that continue to encourage us.

We found Nostalgia & History— despite that it is history—never gets old! In July and August 2006, the two issues at left combined for 244 pages of Clifton History. Then, from 2015 to 2017, as a prelude to Clifton’s 100th anniversary, we explored the not-so-distant past, publishing the 60’s, 70’s, 80’s, etc. in various months. Post Office, Printer, and (lack of) Profit While Clifton Merchant began in October 1995, it is predated by Tomahawk Promotions. Tomahawk (short for Thomas Andrew Hawrylko) began in March 1990 by doing public relations, advertorial writing, fundraising and advertising for regional and local clients. Until 1989, Hawrylko was marketing director for Ingersoll Publishing, which became the Journal Register Company. The firm owned 27 daily newspapers and over 200 weekly publications. But in 1989, as income from classified ads went to the internet, the newspaper industry bled revenue and the father of three was unemployed.

“On day one, I started calling all of the newspaper people I knew,” said Hawrylko. “I hustled. All of a sudden, newspapers started hiring me for project work.” After rejecting a job offer from the Herald & News in early 1990, and already with a handful of clients, Hawrylko became an entrepreneur. “Some of my bigger clients were The Star Ledger and The Jersey Journal,” he recalled. “I did circulation promotions, marketing and advertorial writing for them.” Despite the five year growth of his firm, Hawrylko kept coming back to the idea of doing a Clifton publication, to tell the story of his hometown. 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 • October 2020

Over our 25 years of publishing, we collected an enormous amount of photos, newspaper clippings and personal stories and diaries. Those items get saved (and oftentimes lost) in the files here at 1288 Main Ave. Eventually they find their way into the pages of our magazine, frequently when we do history. That opportunity came when he helped manage a street fair in Main Mall (now called Downtown Clifton), which needed a marketing boost. Paul Epstein and other retailers in the business district agreed to give Hawrylko $1,000 to pay for 30,000 copies of a 24-page magazine. The agreement allowed Hawrylko to sell advertising within its pages and then to distribute the magazine throughout Clifton in the weeks before the street fair. Hawrylko’s office was above the old Clifton Camera store and he had a full time writer on staff. Hawrylko started selling, taking photos and giving his staff writer directions: the Main Mall Shopping Guide was born. “That’s how it really began—with good stories about people’s businesses. I’ve always had a writer’s—or really—a reader’s mind,” said Hawrylko. “I know what people like to read and see. That’s the gift I have.” The magazine began with 23 advertisers. Among them were the Main Mall Business Association, Epstein’s, Clifton Electrical Supply, American Coin & Stamp, Belly Buster, and Clifton Dog & Cat Hospital. Hawrylko would go door-to-door to distribute the magazine, leaving it on door steps, in mail boxes or on cars or wedged in doors, as well as public spaces like city hall, bagel shops and stores.

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“My daughter Casey still recalls that she was probably 6- or 7-years-old and I had her and her brothers out in various neighborhoods with plastic supermarket bags filled with magazines. I had them with me and we were putting magazines on people’s porches,” he said. November’s cover urged people to “Meet The Merchants. Clip Their Coupons.” December shouted “Season’s Greetings! Clip The Coupons!” By December 1995, Styertowne Shopping Center owners Bob Stier and Les Herrschaft began to advertise, as did a handful of other business owners. A distribution firm was hired who inserted the magazine with supermarket flyers and other bulk mail that were distributed to 32,000 homes. “We quickly became another piece of junk mail,” recalled Hawrylko. By the time January of 1996 rolled around, he found that he was not selling enough ads to cover the $5,000 needed to print and distribute 32,000 magazines. “I didn’t have a formula then,” said Hawrylko. “I was working for the post office and printer, and that was not what I wanted to do. I had to make a profit.” No magazines were published in January and February, but by March of 1996, Clifton Merchant was back with a Guide to City Government, which explained the resources available at city hall.

The most memorable Clifton history story I wrote? We had done much with veterans from the beginning. But in May 2011, the family of USMC Cpl. Guy Tulp provided me 50 letters he wrote home before his death at age 20 on April 30, 1969 in South Vietnam. Bringing that kid’s voice to life is a proud tribute. Other themes began to take shape over the coming months: a salute to veterans, Mother’s Day, as well as Shop Clifton First. “A lot of what I did back then is still what I do now. I’m an advocate for the merchants of Clifton—that’s where we came up with the name,” said Hawrylko. “I’m a veteran and that’s why I write about them because I know there are so many great stories to be told.” But what really got the magazine noticed was publishing photos and stories offering nostalgia and history.

used over a series of months. By the following year, in July 1998, after we added a color cover to the magazine, we sourced and enlarged more photos and illustrations to create a more illustrative history. “David’s stuff was very comprehensive … when it came to how much detail he put into it,” said Hawrylko. “It was wonderful research and he was OK with me editing and shortening it. He was such a sweetheart.” One year earlier, though, was when we got noticed for it. At that time, Clifton Merchant was still getting mailed and The History of Clifton we included history in multiple sections. Although Clifton Merchant today is However, things were not known for its nostalgia and history editions, the magazine The late Clifton Historian David looking too promising for the future of the magazine. owes a debt of gratitude to the “The history went through late Clifton historian David L. Van Dillen helped put us in the L. Van Dillen. He authored public mind when he provided us until July of 1997,” said Hawrylko. “That month, I did the first 300-year timeline of Clifton area history, which he the 300-year timeline of Clifton, a history edition, but finally said, ‘This is ridiculous. I’m provided Clifton Merchant which we published in 1997. working for the post with in 1997 and which we Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2020

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Historian and writer Jack DeVries and his amazing stories of Mustang Glory bring readers back to their high school days. And his story telling is not limited to sports. Jack has taken Clifton to the Movies (see March 2018) and brought hometown authenticity to our magazine. office and printer. I’m gonna end this thing; I’m done. I can’t continue like this.’” Learning the hard way that the summer months were terrible for business, Hawrylko planned to end publishing the magazine after July of 1997. He did not even intend to sign off. Then, he received a call from The Record. “Phil Read was the business editor of The Record,” said Hawrylko. “He lived in Clifton and read my magazine, so he had a writer call to do a story on me because he loved the history that The Merchant was doing.” “It all changed with his writer interviewing me,” continued Hawrylko. “Instead of saying, ‘I just quit,’ I said that I’m going to take a hiatus and come back in October with something new.”

October 2020 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2020

Jack DeVries and his panel of unnamed Mustang authorities stirred controversy naming athletes of the century in 2000.

He found a new printer who could combine a coated color cover with the newsprint pages inside. He cut the print run from 32,000 to 16,000. Instead of mailing, he distributed to delis, coffee shops and public spaces. Savings were realized by not mailing the magazine and now more pages featuring longer stories and larger photos helped bring the magazine to life. “I guess it was a white lie that I told The Record, but it was the best white lie that I ever told.” Today, Philip Read, 65, is the editor and publisher of 27587 MAGAZINE and has lived in North Carolina since October of 2013. Read grew up in the Allwood and Montclair Heights sections, and he would go on to start his career in 1979 working for the Paterson News. Prior to his move down south, Read raised a family in Clifton. His daughter, Lauren, graduated from CHS in 1999 and his son, Philip Jr., is CHS Class of 2001. He recalled that the story about Clifton Merchant was written during the tail-end of his tenure with The Bergen Record and he said that they opened the whole third page of the business section for local news. That decision, he said, “was one of a million decisions you make.” Still, it yielded results. When reflecting on Clifton Merchant marking 25 years, Read said that the magazine fills a void that many readers sought then and still seek today. “The Bergen Record and Star Ledger found that people want local news, and daily newspapers stopped do-

October 2020 • Cliftonmagazine.com

ing it,” said Read (CHS 1973). “Publications like Tom’s are the only vehicle for delivering local news anymore to a large segment of the population.” Those print, local stories, Read continued, are also part of an “experience.” When he considers his past work, he noted how the stories are difficult to find online. That is not the case for Clifton Merchant. “It’s something you can hold in your hand. Something that lasts,” said Read. “It’s not clickbait and it doesn’t disappear.” “[Tom is] writing about history and capturing it in that sense, but you can hang onto it, too, so that’s important.” Read went on to say that he still enjoys reading the magazine long after he made the call to run a feature on it. “Tom mails the magazine here and I mail him mine,” Read laughed. “I spent most of my life in Clifton. My daughter used to call me a ‘townie.’” As for Hawrylko, getting featured in The Record was the boost that both he and the magazine needed at the time. He recalled the feeling of being featured in The Record. “When I got a PPP loan this year, I was like, ‘Wow, I’m valid.’ It changed my perspective,” said Hawrylko. “That’s what the story did back then.” “When the story hit, it just validated who we were and what we did. We’re a great storyteller, and we built on it since that time.”

Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2020

A Labor of Love Clifton Merchant maintained similar themes over the years, but the optics changed and the right formula made it work. A glossy cover was the first step. The next step was increasing from 24 pages to 50 pages, and not being in postage or mailing. But the big shift was cutting distribution in half to 16,000 on the first Friday of every month. “It’s a little harder with COVID stuff going on, but the number still works,” said Hawrylko. “We get them out and in a week, everything is distributed.” Design was also crucial. Hawrylko came to realize the power of great pictures, and Clifton Merchant’s past and present graphic designers found a way to put his ideas on the pages regardless of page constraints. Hawrylko credited past designers such as Fabian Calvo and Rich McCoy for moving the magazine forward, but makes special mention of Ken Peterson, who joined in 2011. “Kenny has such a knack for it and great visuals,” said Hawrylko. “I trust him and we have an unspoken thing where I sketch out an idea and he just takes my ideas and flies with it.”

October 2020 • Cliftonmagazine.com

One of my favorite photos is those workers at Bay State Milling, the largest producer of flour on the East Coast. It launched our Made in Clifton feature, which tells how ‘stuff’ is still manufactured here in town by our friends and neighbors.

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In 2003 Smart Growth was the mantra in New Jersey. We felt that message was not heard by Clifton’s elected officials. Our campaign to limit high-density housing projects attracted some 3,500 residents who signed our petition that was presented to the City Council in May 2003 asking them to adopt Smart Growth principles. It is that sort of dynamic that longtime writer Jack DeVries said ensured the success of the magazine. DeVries joined Clifton Merchant as a writer in December of 1997 but the former Clifton resident offered more than his writing skills. He also brought with him a deep knowledge of Clifton and he utilized his personal experience of growing up in the city to determine what stories readers would enjoy the most. Although DeVries, 63, left Clifton at age 16, he still holds a deep connection to the city. Along with having family here today, it was also family that led to him meet-

October 2020 • Cliftonmagazine.com

ing Hawrylko. Specifically, his aunt, Sarah Lombardo, was the former switchboard operator at city hall, and Hawrylko knew her from when he edited the Dateline Clifton and she connected the two. “I asked Tom, ‘What do you want a story about?’ and he said, ‘Oh, you know Clifton. Why don’t you suggest something?’” recalled DeVries. “Jack wrote a 25-year milestone for the 1972 Fighting Mustangs,” said Hawrylko, “who capped a 9-0 season and became one of the most storied in Mustang history.” The story was a success. DeVries said he does not think Hawrylko expected the huge reaction they got from the city that became commonplace when they wrote about high school football. “He found that Clifton really loved its sports, the Mustangs, and they really had a respect for past athletes and coaches,” said DeVries. “He enjoyed reading about that, and after that we began to do a lot of sports stories.” Those were the stories that DeVries said he enjoyed writing the most. Whether it was writing about different teams, the different personalities and players, or the legendary coaches like Joe Grecco, Bill Vander Closter and John Kostisin, it all made for a great piece.

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Our Love edition first appeared in Feb. 1999. For some reason, we did not revive it until Feb. 2009. Among the many covers, the one with Amanda and Michael DeVita and their miracle baby Sloan Rose, remains the most touching. Similarly, the other memorable stories for DeVries were when Clifton Merchant got creative and wrote their “All-Century Teams.” “Tom loves the fantasy story of the 1946 Mustangs versus the 1973 Mustangs, which was a totally fictional, fantasy type, science fiction story that worked,” recalled DeVries. “I think that was a little different.” “I think the stories about George Telesh and Bobby Boettcher were the ones that people remembered.” But nostalgia and appreciation for the city’s history are only part of it. Part of Clifton Merchant’s appeal, DeVries said, is the interesting nature of the city, itself. The residents’ commitment to and respect for its military veterans, as well as its constant evolution, inspired countless stories.

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“[Clifton] reinvented itself several times over. It has gone from a rural community to a suburban community,” said DeVries. “It has gone from a classic 1960s Eisenhower community to a very diverse city.” Clifton Merchant’s legacy, DeVries continued, is that it has never stayed fixed in one era. The magazine consistently looks backwards to chronicle the past and looks forward in speculation about the city’s future in a way that DeVries believes surpasses its 25-year history. It is the reason why, he added, the magazine seems to have existed for much longer. “A publication that can really mark the city’s history is an essential and welcome part of that community,” said DeVries. “I think The Merchant covers many stories throughout the town. Many local heroes, and I think it gives a voice to those people.” “It allows for neighbors to read about their neighbors, and today, newspapers and smaller publications are not doing that,” he continued. “But The Merchant has a real love for the community, and I think that comes across in every issue.” To that end, DeVries also acknowledged that between the writers, the designers, and Hawrylko, no one

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Shop Clifton First! That message first shouted from our cover in December 1998 and appeared annually until 2010. From the left in 2002 are Mike Bertelli of Bertelli Liquors, Morre Blumenthal of Morre Lyons, Stan Jakubczyk of Able Hardware and Jack and Deborah Morton of Richfield Farms. involved with the magazine is looking to “mail it in” or “just looking to fill pages” in a given month. Everyone involved, he said, is looking to tell a story. “Tom will look at a magazine after it comes out over the course of a few days because he enjoys it as much as the readers do for what’s been accomplished that month,” said DeVries. “It really is a labor of love.”Merchant has a real love for the community, and I think that comes across in every issue.” To that end, DeVries also acknowledged that between the writers, the designers, and Hawrylko, no one involved with the magazine is looking to “mail it in” or “just looking to fill

October 2020 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2020

pages” in a given month. Everyone involved, he said, is looking to tell a story. “Tom will look at a magazine after it comes out over the course of a few days because he enjoys it as much as the readers do for what’s been accomplished that month,” said DeVries. “It really is a labor of love.” An Environment of Growth As much as Clifton Merchant gives to its community, it also gives to those who have worked there over the years. Joe Hawrylko found that to be true during the years that he worked alongside his father and developed his skills as a writer and journalist. By the time Joe was 18or 19-years-old, he worked full-time for Clifton Merchant. Though he would later freelance for the magazine, his full-time tenure lasted from the beginning of 2004 to the end of 2013, and he said that he learned a lot during that time. “At the time, I wasn’t doing so hot in college and didn’t know what I wanted to do,” said Joe, 35. “I ended up really liking it and it reshaped where I was going … [because the experience] was different every day.”

October 2020 • Cliftonmagazine.com

USMC Cpl. Rich Musicant was also a Clifton Fire Inspector. He is seen on our May 2016 cover receiving Last Rites in a Saudi Arabia military hospital on Feb. 24, 1991. His story goes on to tell about his life after his battlefield death. Celebrating the experiences and lives of veterans remains a favorite topic every May and November for this magazine.

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Maybe it’s something in the water. More likely it’s the training by the directors of the Marching Mustangs. What we know for sure is Clifton has an incredible musical history. In August 2009 and 2010, we connected with Cliftonites making music, some across the globe and others right here—an enjoyable song and the chorus joined in! The CHS Class of ’03 graduate lives in ent kinds of stories is also something that Morristown today, but still recalls what he proved highly beneficial in his career. loved about the job, as well as certain stories “As a journalist, it was a fantastic opporthat stood out to him. The ability to meet all tunity. I wrote a wide array of pieces that intypes of people and “dissect their thoughts cluded cover stories and features,” said Joe. and how they behave” was something that “The success I have now is a direct result of he never grew tired of doing while writing working with him … and honing my craft for Clifton Merchant. … which led to understanding how to ask Similarly, the stories that stood out the the right questions.” most to him were the “people pieces” that Joe is not the only writer at Clifton Merwere just “off beat” enough that he rememchant to experience that growth while workbers them almost 20 years later. One in ing for Hawrylko. Like Joe, I started writing Joseph Hawrylko particular that stood out was from our Sepfor Clifton Merchant when I was 19-yearstember 2010 issue, where he wrote about old and in college. Brian Eromenok, Sr., a former member of It was the Summer of 2015 and that point, the Clifton Police Department who became an amateur I had a few years of experience writing articles for my beekeeper in his retirement. high school newspaper and working as the opinion editor The size and diversity of the city, Joe said, made for for Fairfield University’s student-run newspaper. To put an interesting cross-section where you could meet people it simply, feature writing was entirely foreign to me. of all walks of life. The ability to write so many differHawrylko was not deterred by that.

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Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2020

July 2017 Cover copy_Layout 1 6/27/17 9:33 AM Page 1

Maroon, Gray & Mustang Traditions. Clifton school kids remain at the root of our storytelling. From the musical Madrigals (now called the Mads) to reunions and all the accomplishments in between, we celebrate Mustangs. At both the elementary and high school levels, we also tell the stories of kids who attend Catholic, private, public and charter schools. We respect the decisions their parents have made. While that first summer after my freshman year was spent learning the tone of Clifton Merchant and worrying that I would miss the mark, it taught me a great deal more. For starters, I would learn how to interview people at Clifton Merchant, which years later would serve me tremendously as a graduate student at Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism. Like Joe, I was learning on the ground what sorts of questions to ask and to whom I needed to ask them.

October 2020 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Keeping 2020 QB Kyle Vellis safe are from rear left: Ahmad Ramadan, Tyler Williams, Omar Alshujaieh. At front, that’s center Dylan Urban with Muhammad Abedrabo cradling Vellis.

I was also talking to people that I never imagined I would interview at that age. Over the years, these people have included Board of Education commissioners, health officers, local business owners, school educators and administrators, and those everyday people with stories to tell. For an introvert, doing that was not easy by nature. However, Hawrylko has a certain way about him that encourages everyone to perform better than they expect of themselves. DeVries is right—Hawrylko gets excited to read every article once the magazine is published. It is his energy along the way, though, that shapes his writers. It is after thoughtful deliberation, when he solidifies which angle to take or what to choose as the cover story, that he gets his most enthusiastic, and that is part of what encourages his writers to produce their best work. It is also because we know that he knows Clifton. More so, if our stories are met with Hawrylko’s approval, the stories will undoubtedly mean something to the public, which is frankly the hope of any journalist. Joe attested to that satisfaction, both on the side of the writer and for the individual whose story is getting told. “I think that my dad hit it on the head years ago—we’re Clifton’s Storyteller,” said Joe. “There is a satisfaction people have when they say, ‘You told my story, and you told it right.’” “Not many people do the long-form, feature magazine style writing that he does,” Joe added. “It’s a dying art.” But, Joe said, it is something Clifton appreciates because they also see Hawrylko as a member of the community. Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2020

So Ken Peterson and I picked our favorites. When we began designing this magazine—our 298th edition—we knew we had to select some ‘best of’. My selections: September 1999, which linked two generations of Club members, and the February 2001 edition, which pondered where Clifton would be in 2020. Ken said October 2014 and 2016 capture the images and voices of Clifton. The messages in December 2018 and November 2015 are beautiful and heartfelt.

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Although Hawrylko grew up in Perth Amboy and came to Clifton later in life, many can recall a time when they saw him driving his bright yellow Volkswagen Thing convertible or riding his bike through the city. Others can attest to seeing him at events taking photos, or even walking into the middle of a street during a parade to get that otherwise unattainable shot. Even young people, Joe added, know what the magazine is about and recognize that it strives to feature the everyday Cliftonite. “He is embedded in the community in a way that you can’t fake. I think that is what made [Clifton Merchant] so successful,” said Joe. “People my age who have moved on from Clifton … still talk about it and they love the stories that are in there. It serves as a vital cog in the community as far as what it provides.”

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Medicine, Miracles & the journey to health. Billy Gibson is a cat. More than once he has beaten back cancer and is still vibrant and healthy. For a number of March editions, we focused on telling the comeback stories of people like Gibson, Clifton teacher Peter Salzano or Rosangela Tumminia. The legacy of the Doerr family and their generations of physicians was also celebrated. The Road Ahead Clifton Merchant’s most recent significant development is perhaps the decision in 2017 to fully embrace the social media age. The magazine existed on Facebook prior to 2017 and amassed a following there, but the time came to expand and diversify our online audience. Specifically, it became important to create Instagram and Twitter accounts. “At the very base level, I didn’t understand it and I had to be dragged in,” said Hawrylko. “In some ways, too, I hated the idea that print was going away in many cases.” A lot of that was to do with how many years he spent in the industry and his deep love for print newspapers. As a young boy, Hawrylko had his own paper route and said that he has always loved the feel of newspapers. Still, Hawrylko continued, the way a story is packaged can influence the staying power of print and he believes that print “has a place in the right environment.”

October 2020 • Cliftonmagazine.com

“Packaging is everything,” he said. “From the size of the magazine, including the stitching and feel of it, to the great designs and the great stories that are written.” “I think that print has a place in society,” he continued, “but I cannot deny the power of social media and how it moves stories. Also, how it moves images and everything that this next generation of journalists, storytellers, and graphic artists are able to do.”

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At the Clifton Storyteller exhibit at the Clifton Arts Center in 2015, some current and former staff members of Clifton Merchant Magazine: Fabian Calvo, Aly Ibrahim, Ken Peterson, Tom and Lori Hawrylko, Michael Gabriele and John Bendel.

Our Instagram and Twitter accounts are found under Our role in the community is something Hawrylko the username @cliftonmagazine and while our Instahopes to maintain for years to come. “25 more years?” gram has amassed over 1,100 followers, it also keeps us responded Hawrylko, dryly. “I’m not sure. But I’ll be connected in new ways. doing it for another 10 years. Easy.” We can connect with and promote local businesses, Hawrylko said he takes great pride in Clifton as a as well as show what the Clifton School district is docommunity. He is especially proud to see the established ing. Many times, families and friends will recognize a resident’s acceptance of the many new cultures that have student or teacher that we feature on our platforms. chosen to buy homes and raise their families here. “I’m happy we’re on this. I see the value in it,” said “I hope we can continue to grow and [that The MerHawrylko. “It’s a great ancillary way to connect with chant can] reflect that,” he said. “I try hard to be reflecpeople, readers, and advertisers. People appreciate that tive and hold the mirror up to the community to show all extra [promotion].” of the great colors and everything that we are. This town However, as we got deeper into 2020, these became has a lot to offer.” layered benefits. What was previously a great way to share previews of our monthly stories became a necessary tool for survival when Clifton Merchant existed solely on our social platforms during the month of May. When it came to reaching out for stories, social media helped us during a time when events were canceled and we could not talk with people in a traditional face-to-face setting. As we shared community members’ collection efforts for COVID-19 personal protective equipment, we also featured local Black Lives Matter rally organizers. Social media kept us integrated with the community and preventWhen we celebrated our 20th anniversary in 2015, writer Irene Jarosewich ed us from fading into the periphery. sent us this wonderful note that I hope readers will find 45 years from now.

October 2020 • Cliftonmagazine.com

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Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2020

October 2020 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Ever wonder how the saying “93% of consumers who tested our product saw an improvement” came into being? For many products, it begins at 716 Broad St., in Clifton. For decades, Essex Testing Clinic has run thousands of clinical trials on various cosmetic products, skin care applications and (OTC) over the counter products. The test panelists are neighborhood people who sign up to sample products and get paid for their time. So here is how it works: Essex Testing is hired by brands and manufacturers to find consumers to try out their latest products before they hit the market for consumer purchase. Then, ETC recruiters will be in contact with our panelist database to find volunteers to fill the test, where you will then receive a package of instructions on how to complete the test and finally receive payment for your time and cooperation. It’s as simple as that!

Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2020

Clifton announced that it received a $20,000 TD Green Space Grant from TD Bank Group (TD) and the Arbor Day Foundation to support innovative urban greening and tree planting projects in underserved areas of the community. Clifton plans to use the grant to plant cherry blossom trees in Nash Park. Clifton was one of 19 U.S. and Canadian cities selected for to receive a grant. “Green spaces play a critical role in creating more vibrant and livable cities. Not only do they provide environmental benefits, but they also provide social and economic benefits to cities and the people within them,” said Andrea Barrack, Global Head of Sustainability and Cor-

October 2020 • Cliftonmagazine.com

porate Citizenship, TD. “We are proud to work with the Arbor Day Foundation to support innovative community programs in cities including Clifton that are striving to create a more inclusive and sustainable tomorrow.” “Our goal with this grant program is to help communities not only enrich their green spaces but also enrich lives,” said Dan Lambe, President, Arbor Day Foundation. “We are supporting Clifton in its effort to build awareness about the benefits of trees, educate residents on proper tree care, and lay the groundwork for a greener future.” “We would like to thank TD Bank Group and the Arbor Day Foundation for awarding Clifton the TD Green Space Grant. We here in Clifton cannot wait to enjoy the beauty and the bounty that these trees will provide to our city and its residents. They will be breath giving for generations to come.” said Dominick Villano, City Manager. The ceremony will take place at Nash Park on Thursday, Oct. 22 with a rain date of Friday, Oct. 23. The planting will take place for two days with Clifton DPW working with Lisa Simms and her volunteers from the New Jersey Tree Foundation. TD provides funding for the grants, which are awarded annually for tree planting, maintenance costs and educational activities. The program is administered by the Ar-

bor Day Foundation. TD Green Space Grants are made possible as part of the TD Ready Commitment, TD’s global corporate citizenship platform aimed at opening doors to a more inclusive and sustainable tomorrow. To be eligible for a grant, qualified municipalities must be within TD’s footprint in the United States and Canada. Priority was given to projects occurring in underserved areas Clifton DPW workers will prep two locations in Nash Park for the planting of of the local community. For commu50 additional cherry trees to reforest this landmark green space. Top is the Rose Garden on Lexington Ave. and above, is the cannon area above the ballfield. nities applying within the U.S., prefBoth of those areas will be planted with the cherry trees on Oct. 22. erence was given to currently recognized Tree City USA® communities communities. As part of its corporate citizenship plator those interested in becoming a Tree form, TD is targeting $750 million in total by 2030 toCity USA community over the next calendar year. wards community giving in four areas critical to opening Founded in 1972, the Arbor Day Foundation (for dedoors for a more inclusive and sustainable tomorrow – tails: arborday.org/programs/tdgreenspacegrants) is the Financial Security, Vibrant Planet, Connected Commulargest nonprofit membership organization dedicated to nities and Better Health. More info about TD Bank’s planting trees, with more than one million members, supprogram is at: td.com/tdreadycommitment. porters, and valued partners. Their vision is to help others Clifton is one of 19 cities in North America to receive a $20,000 TD Bank Green understand and use trees as Space Grant to reforest Nash Park with cherry trees. Other grant recipients include: a solution to many of the global issues we face today, United States Canada including air quality, wa• Washington, D.C. • Strathmore, Alberta ter quality, climate change, • Miami, Florida • Fredericton, New Brunswick deforestation, poverty and • Palatka, Florida • Riverview, New Brunswick hunger. • Lawrence, Massachusetts • Brampton, Ontario About TD Global Cor• Baltimore, Maryland • Mississauga, Ontario porate Citizenship TD has a • Flushing, New York • Hamilton, Ontario long-standing commitment • Asheville, North Carolina • Salaberry-de-Valleyfield, Quebec to enriching the lives of its • Philadelphia, Pennsylvania • Montreal, Quebec customers, colleagues and • Central Falls, Rhode Island • New Westminster, British Columbia Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2020

9/ /20 Clifton’s September 11 ceremony at City Hall is set among nearly 2,200 American flags and nine World Trade Center flags—one for each of nine individuals from Clifton who lost their lives on 9/11/01. They are Zuhtu Ibis, Kyung Cho, Francis Joseph Trombino, Ehtesham U. Raja, Edward C. Murphy, Edgar H. Emery, Port Authority Officer John Skala and brothers John and Tim Grazioso. The solemn ceremony is held annually at 9 am. Visitors can tour the city hall grounds to take in the magnificent patriotic display on the campus once again on Nov. 11, Veterans Day.

October 2020 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Clifton Fire Lt. John P. Van Dorn Jr. died on Aug. 8 from injuries he received while sifting through the rubble, looking for survivors of 9/11. He was honored at Clifton’s 9/11 service this year.

Congratulations Tomahawk on Your 25th Year of Clifton Merchant!

Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2020

Clifton Police Chief History 1908-2020

Chief William J. Coughlan Jan. 1, 1908 Dec. 13, 1931

Chief Tunis Holster Dec. 16, 1931 April 13, 1934

Chief James N. Marsh Aug. 8, 1934 June 1, 1955

Chief Paul Dittrich Aug. 2, 1955 Oct. 31. 1957

Chief Joseph A. Nee Jan. 1, 1959 Sept. 23, 1977

Chief Edward J. Kredatus May 24, 1979 March 1, 1990

Chief Frank J. LoGioco March 1, 1990 May 31, 2002

40â&#x20AC;&#x192;

October 2020 â&#x20AC;˘ Cliftonmagazine.com

Chief Robert Ferreri June 1, 2002 March 1, 2010

Chief Gary F. Giardina March 1, 2010 May 1, 2014

The Clifton Police Department can, to some degree, trace its origins to the 1905 opening of Fairyland Park. Located near the current day Corrado’s and the neighboring area, Fairyland was one of three amusement parks in New Jersey then. This destination created the dilemma of providing protection to homeowners and keeping the pleasure seekers in line. Security was handled by hiring constables, one of whom was William J. Coughlan.

Chief John Link May 1, 2014 May 1, 2016

On Jan. 1, 1908 Coughlan was named the first Clifton Police Chief. But it was not until 1917, the same year Aquackanonk became incorporated as Clifton, that the first automobile, a Ford, was purchased for police work. Much has changed since then but to provide some history, we present the dates of service and photos of all who have served as Clifton Police Chief since our city’s incorporation some 103 years ago.

Chief Mark Centurione May 1, 2016 March 1, 2020

Chief Thomas Rinaldi June 1, 2020 Current

Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2020

Serve Up Fire Safety in the Kitchen! is the 2020 Fire Prevention message. October is Fire Safety Month and the Clifton Fire Safety Coloring & Activity Book for Kids is once again available. 7,000 books have been published at no cost to taxpayers thanks to members of Clifton FMBA 21, Tomahawk Promotions, Clifton Merchant Magazine and a variety of businesses and schools. Listed below, their sponsorship fee have paid for the booklet’s printing and help spread the word about fire prevention. Designed for kids, grade 3 and younger, pages offer simple messages that kids can learn from as they color. They will color a smoke alarm, follow the steps to practice exit drills in case of a fire and they can join Sparky the mascot to cook with care in the kitchen. During October—or later, depending when kids return to schools—Clifton firefighters will visit public and private schools to distribute the booklets. Proud to serve the Clifton, Passaic & Nutley Police Departments In case you did not & getFire a copy, the Clifton Fire Safety Coloring & Activity• Book for Kids booklets are also • Domestics/Foreign Light/Medium Trucks • Automatic/Manual available by calling 973-470-5801. • Antiques & Classics • Commercial Fleets • 4 Wheel Drive Service • Differentials, Clutches • A/C Systems & more • Clifton FMBA 21 Members • Mr. Cupcakes • Paramus Catholic High School • The Apprehensive Patient • Shook Funeral Home • Carl Zoecklein, Esq. Call 45 Atlantic Way • State Farm Agent Thomas Tobin • Valley National Bank • P & A Auto • State Farm Agent Bill Eljouzi • Athenia Veterans Post Members • Clifton IHOP (790 Bloomfield Ave) ask for Mark or Brian Present this ad and save $100 off any overhaul • Corradino & Papa, LLC • Assemblyman Thomas Giblin • Clifton Transmissions • The New Bairn School • Downtown Clifton • Cake Factory/Lakeview Bakery

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October 2020 • Cliftonmagazine.com

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Above an image from the 2020 Clifton Fire Safety coloring book. At right, on 9/11/20 at the 19th annual 9/11 ceremony in front of City Hall, from left: Clifton FMBA 21 VP and Clifton Fire Lt. Daniel Schwaner, Clifton Fire Chief Frank Prezioso and FMBA President Michael Andrade who is also a Clifton Firefighter.

Cliftonmagazine.com â&#x20AC;˘ October 2020â&#x20AC;&#x192;

FAITH, FAMILY, & FISHING WITH

“Go Go” Gomez Most of us know the proverb,

“Give a man a fish, and he’ll eat for a day. Teach a man to fish, and he’ll eat for a lifetime.” By Ariana Puzzo

Antonio “Go Go” Gomez takes it a step further— he’s handed children their first fishing rod and inspired a lifetime of fun and recreation. The Clifton resident has hosted fishing derbys for the last 15 years in Clifton and surrounding towns. During his time spreading his knowledge and love of fishing, Gomez said that some of the most special moments are when families share what the experience meant to their child. “A father said last year, ‘My daughter comes every year and travels four hours from Upstate New York just to see you’, and that’s so beautiful,” said Gomez, 53. “I see kids who grew up … and say, ‘Do you remember me? I still have your hat!’” “[Other parents will say], ‘You gave him the first hat, rod, bait. You didn’t ignore him and stuck with him,’” Gomez continued. “That’s what it’s all about.” October 2020 • Cliftonmagazine.com

At the Sept. 12 fishing derby at Racy’s Pond in Main Memorial Park, from left, Ayden Mulrony with his 10-inch bass as certified by judge David D. Fletcher. Above Jackson Hayes, 7, caught the first fish of the derby with his dad, Gene, and grandfather, Don Handel. At left, that’s Ubaldullah Jackson, 9, with a sunny he snagged, with Go Go Gomez. On the facing page, Lillian Colindres, 7, with her dad, Carlos, got a big one.

A family of anglers Originally from Paterson, Gomez recalled many happy weekends spent fishing with family and friends. As a young boy after Mass ended, he would leave church and meet a friend who was outside waiting for him to go fishing. From church, they would

Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2020

Also at the derby: Vrajesh Rana and his dad, Pratik, with Anthony, Jacob, Carol and Taralyn Dittus. Above Issac Flores.

walk to different lakes and ponds, and he would fish until he was picked up later in the day. For Gomez, fishing was a pastime that he loved, but it also served an important purpose. “You know, living where I lived and the way crime is and everything else, I started fishing with friends,” said Gomez. “Then I stayed with fishing, and it [kept] me out of trouble.” Gomez started fishing at age 6, and it was a natural progression. He is one of eight children - all boys - and he followed by his family’s example. “My brothers and uncles used to fish,” he said. “I always wanted to tag along and when I met my friends around the area, they would fish every week.” “It started with my brothers,” Gomez continued. “Every weekend, I was going fishing.” His favorite memory that he recalls is when he participated in fishing contests during grammar school. Every year he would vie for one trophy that he was determined to win. “It took me years before I graduated 8th grade to win that trophy, but it meant everything to me,” said Gomez. Spending time outside surrounded by nature is also a big appeal. Now, with his volunteer work, Gomez strives to foster similar memories for families, while also encouraging children that the experience is what you make it.

October 2020 • Cliftonmagazine.com

“It’s not about losing, but enjoying yourself and making the best of it,” said Gomez. Religion also plays an integral role in his life and the advice that he gives others. “Have faith,” he said, simply. “Everyone is divided now and there is too much negativity. I tell everybody that you can do anything if you follow your dream. Whatever your heart tells you.” For Gomez, his heart tells him one thing. “It’s all about the kids and families.” Go Go Gomez For Kids and Family Although people may think that Go Go Gomez For Kids and Family is a business, Gomez said it was incorporated as a name only last year. His day job is working for UPS as a truck driver, and all of Gomez’s fishing activities with families are volunteer-based. He moved to Clifton four years ago, he has volunteered in the city for the last 15 years. “I’ve been ‘Go Go’ Gomez forever, but I wanted more parents and families to get involved,” said Gomez. “I try to get the whole family to go out, not just the kid, for the shared experience.” “I got my friend to sponsor me and he put Go Go Gomez on my boat and truck,” he continued. “It’s not a business. It’s just me being me.” His volunteering has included getting involved with the Clifton Rec Department to organize and host fishing derbies and clinics.

Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2020

o G

“

” o G EZ

NIO O T

GOM

For the clinics, he spends time teaching people basic safety for catching the fish. Meanwhile, his derbies are a big attraction and even COVID-19 didn’t stop one from taking place on Sept. 12 in Main Memorial Park. The 3-hour event was socially distant, with X’s marked around the pond and lanes arranged for everyone’s safety. The morning featured fishing awards in multiple categories, and Gomez said everyone would receive a tackle box from him, along with something extra for the winners. “If I can change another kid’s life and get them off the computer or the streets - that’s more important than anything,” said Gomez. “Fishing competitions aren’t going anywhere, but a kid can go somewhere.” Fishing is also a passion that he shares with his family, including his five grandchildren. He added that if it wasn’t for his family, especially his wife, Maria, he wouldn’t be able to do what he loves. “She’s the best wife in the world,” he said. “Everyone calls her ‘Miss Go Go.’ Everything we do together is as a team.” “I love fishing. It’s my passion. It’s my everything,” he continued. “I’m happy to be here.” October 2020 • Cliftonmagazine.com

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Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2020

Be Humble.

MUSTANG SPORTS

Be Hungry.

BOYS SOCCER

Fall Sports by Tom Szieber

Standing from left: Captain Gabriel Maksymiw, Juan Ugarte, Danny Toban, Antony Meneses, Jacob Bartnik, Amer Lukovic Captain Eryk Dymora. Kneeling left to right: Mariano Esposito, Eric Piwowarczyk, Jonathan Diaz, Joey Velasquez, Sebastian Hernandez Captain, Jason Suarez Captain, Kevin Chavez, Raghav Trivedi.

After a 21-0-1 2019 season in which they won a Group IV state title, it is hard to imagine the Clifton boys soccer team being even better in 2020. But, believe it or not, they just might be. The Mustangs will return nine of eleven starters and 21 out of 28 players overall, including two preseason All-Americans, from the team that defeated Hunterdon Central in penalty kicks to win their fourth group championship, and are hoping that they can put together a second-straight historic campaign. “We say, ‘be humble and hungry,’” said seventh-year head coach Stan Lembryk. “We also talk all the time on how we aren’t defending our title, we are fighting for a title—last year was last year.” Of course, the titles they will be fighting for won’t be NJSIAA group titles, as those have been scrapped for the year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Instead, they will try to make a run in the tournament being held by the Big North Conference, which will feature seven division winners, seven second-place finishers and two “wild cards.” And while it is not the traditional state tourney, it

October 2020 • Cliftonmagazine.com

is a chance to show just how good they are. Monmouth-bound senior All-American goalkeeper Eryk Dymora will start for the third consecutive year, one season after pitching 12 shutouts. A strong leader with exceptional athleticism, he has range and can contribute on offense (one goal, three assists last season), as well. “He instills a lot of confidence in the players ahead of him,” Lembryk said. “We have a massive amount in him. We know he will make the routine saves, and we are confident he can make the crazy save.” Senior Gabriel Maksymiw will also see time in the goal. A potential Division I athlete himself, he is a starter-caliber player who can frustrate opposing offenses. Bolstering the efforts of its top-flight goalkeepers will be a strong group of defenders which includes senior Sebastian Hernandez, a versatile talent who made the All-Passaic County second team last season. Senior Eric Piwowarczyk is a strong stay-home defensive player, as is fellow twelfth-grader John Diaz, who would likely have been a starter last year but for a torn meniscus that cost him his entire junior year.

Lacrosse Mustangs

Sophomore Dylan Perez rounds Mustangs has a knack for finding holes in the out the impressive contingent. crease. “It is their mentality,” Lembryk Tobon will share the bulk of the ofsaid of what makes the group ex- Oct 1 Passaic 4:30pm fensive responsibility with senior Jacob ceptional. “You have to have a Oct 3 Bartnik. @Eastside 11am Mustangs certain mentality to be a defender. The 6-foot, 175 pounder is a proOct 6 PCTI 4:15pm They take it personal. They don’t ficient scorer and passer and can play Oct 10 @JFK 10am balls in the air. Senior Mariano Esposilike to get beat. It is great to see.” The midfield is led by senior Oct 13 Bergen Tech 4:30pm to will be in the offensive rotation, as All-American Amer Lukovic, a Oct 17 @Passaic well. TBD Mustangs third-year starter who tallied nine “I think the fun part about [our for4:30pm wards] is that they are very connected,” goals and seven assists last year. A Oct 20 Eastside 4:15pm Lembryk said. “When we play the ball true two-way player, Lukovic can Oct 22 @PCTI shoot from a distance. He can dic- Oct 24 JFK 4pm on the ground, they always know their tate the game, playing longer passteammate will be there. They have a reOct 27 @Bergen Tech 4:15pm Mustangs es to speed up the offense or slowally good feel of how to play with each ing the game down as the situation other. If one moves to a pocket, the othdictates. er moves into the space the other left.” Senior Jason Suarez returns to the starting midfield Despite the fact that the Mustangs will not be able after a first team All-Big North Liberty first team All-Pasto pursue a repeat Group IV crown, they are dead set on Mustangs saic County junior season, as do juniors Peter Lynch and moving through 2020 as the same dominant force they Juan Carlos Vizcaino. were a year ago. With their talent-loaded roster and LemOffensively, the Mustangs are faced with the task of bryk’s leadership, it seems they’ll do just that. replacing the now-graduated Kevin Salensky, who tied “Whatever is there in the end, the bottom line is all for the team-high in goals last year with 18. we can do is play one game at a time,” said Lembryk. To do so, they will need senior Danny Tobon (who “People won’t say, ‘Oh, they didn’t win states,’ they’ll also scored 18 goals last year), a first team All-Liberty say, ‘Oh, they won whatever is available.’ Whatever we and first team All-Passaic County player as a junior who can play for, that will be our championship this year.”

Boys Soccer

Boys Soccer Girls Soccer

Tennis Track

Volleyball

Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2020

ennis Mustangs

Cross Country Mustangs

Football Mustangs

Golf

Mustangs

Gymnastics MUSTANG SPORTS

GIRLS SOCCER Mustangs

Girls Soccer Oct 1

@Passaic

Oct 6

@PCTI

Oct 3 Oct 8

Oct 13 Oct 15 Oct 20 Oct 22 Oct 23 Oct 27

Eastside JFK

@Bergen Tech Passaic

@Eastside PCTI

@JFK

Bergen Tech

Mustangs

Lacrosse

Standing (from left) Natalie Leach, Brianna De La Cruz, Nora Gallagher, Layla Nurid-Din Flores, Evelyn Czajka, Kiara Fisbeck, Jessica Rubio, Katie Kakascik, Tabitha Osborne, Samantha Presutto, Amanda Presutto, Anna Mustangs Marie Del Guercio. Kneeling (from left) Katherine Pena, Leslie Surita Perez, Sara Habrahamshon, Sierra Fisbeck, Carly Stoepker, Holly Konrad, Gianna Delgado, Lilyann Martins, Natalie De La Cruz.

Boys Soccer 4:30pm

Coming off an 8-11 season that saw the Mustangs fall to Mount Olive 11am Mustangs in the first round of the North I, Group IV playoffs, Konrad Kruczek knows 4:15pm his team has something to prove this fall. The seventh-year head coach’s program has a tradition of success, and 4:15pm expectations are always high. 4:15pm So, in the face of a pandemic and the challenges that come along with 4:30pm Mustangs it, he will look to lead the Mustangs to a turnaround season in 2020. “The team has been very positive,” said Kruczek. “They want to 4:15pm change the whole situation. I think we played tough opponents last year 4:15pm and the schedule just wasn’t the right fit for the players that we had.” 4pm They will still face a tough slate of games, and will hope to pull out 7pm Mustangs some wins despite a fairly young roster.

Girls Soccer

Tennis Track

Have Clifton Merchant Mailed. $35 per year $60 for two • Mailed via first class to your home

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October 2020 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Mustangs

Cross Country

Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2020

MUSTANG SPORTS Sophomore forward Layla Flores will be counted on to put the ball in the net from a new spot, having played center offensive midfielder a year ago. A physical player that can finish, she was a first team All-Big North Liberty and second team All-Passaic County honoree last season. She will be joined on the front line by senior Evelyn Czajka, now a second-year starter with great anticipation. The midfield will be manned in the middle by the

October 2020 • Cliftonmagazine.com

GIRLS SOCCER trio of freshmen Carly Stoepker and Gianna Delgado and senior Brianna De La Cruz “They are very technical players,” Kruczek said. “Gianna and Brianna will be more offensive while Carly will be more defensive. All three shoot well and are strong on the ball. They are not afraid to use their bodies to win the ball and are always moving with the play.” Junior Katie Kakasick and senior Jessica Rubio will play the sideline in the midfield, and both possess great speed and passing. Defensively, senior outside back Kiara Fisbeck will lead the way. Now a four-year starter, she is a three-time first team All-Big North Liberty player who knows when to step in and win the ball and when to stop and hold the line. Her outstanding speed allows her to contribute on offense, as well. Freshman defender Sierra Fisbeck is similar to her sister with uncanny toughness and the ability to recover if she gets beat to the ball. Senior Tabitha Ozborne is the third starter in three-player defensive formations, with junior Samantha Presutto and senior Holly Konrad vying for the fourth slot in four-player sets. Senior Nora Gallahar will also be in the defensive rotation. Freshman goalkeeper Leslie Surita-Perez will protect the net. Despite being in just her first year as a Mustang, she is very comfortable with both her hands and feet and reads the game well. She is adept at distributing the ball, as well. “We are just trying to keep everyone positive and healthy,” Kruczek said. “It is another year and another season where we’ve got to be playing well. We want to win the league again. We just have to keep it positive and play well against those tougher teams on our schedule.”

Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2020

Mustangs Mustangs

Tennis

Baseball Mustangs

Cross Country

Mustangs

Football

Mustangs

Football

In 2019, Clifton knocked on the Junior Kyle Vellis enters his secdoor of its first sectional title in 13 Oct 2 ond year as starter as the unques@PCTI 6pm years before falling to Union, 42tioned leader of the Mustangs, caOct 9 Passaic 7pm Mustangs 28, in the North II, Group V final. pable of making every throw and Oct 16 Eastside 7pm With the bulk of its team returning possessing the respect and confidence in 2020, the Mustangs had been Oct 23 @Bayonne 6:30pm of team and coaching staff. pegged as a championship contender Oct 30 Teaneck A year ago, he passed for 1,368 7pm once again. yards and 15 touchdowns, and he Nov 6 @JFK 6pm Mustangs But their dream of hoisting NJwas impressive in Clifton’s scrimSIAA hardware was derailed before mage against Wayne Valley on Sept. they had even taken the field, not by another team, but 25, throwing for three scores. by the coronavirus pandemic. He is the true total package, with pocket presence, the With the state playoffs shelved for the year due to ability to run andMustangs a rocket arm. He makes his talented the ongoing health crisis, the Mustangs will now simply corps of skill players even better and is poised for a big look to win as many games as possible during their sixyear. tilt regular season and “plus two” schedule. “He is a quiet assassin,” Cinque said of Vellis. “He “If you look at the big picture, [the goal is to] be 8-0,” isn’t going to be on social media talking, he is just going Clifton head coach Ralph Cinque said frankly. “It’s one to show up and hold his standard so high. He demands it Mustangs game at a time, but at the end of the day, the goal is to be of himself to be the best.” 8-0 going into next season returning 18 of 22 starters.” Vellis developed a strong rapport with his receivers as They will look to do so with a true prodigy under a sophomore, and most of them are back. Among them center. are game-breaking juniors Caleb Boneparte (2019: 33

Golf

Gymnastics

Lacrosse

Boys Soccer

October 2020 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Mustangs

Girls Soccer

Top row from left, Nicolas Stathopoulos, Barry Mahmoud, Ivan Flores, Devin Lee, Christopher Stathopoulos, Caleb Boneparte, Joshua Hernandez, Tyron Robins, Dahmier Soria. Bottom row from left, Ryan Lowe, Omar Al-Shujaieh, Mohammad Abedrabo, Ryan Lauritano, Muhammad Hemaid.

receptions, 504 yards, five touchdowns) and Michael Kristof (2019: 24 receptions, 268 yards, two touchdowns). Their classmates Donovan Swasey, Luke Ceneri and Omar Muheisen will be key figures in the passing game, as well, as will tight end Joe Abill. The run game, meanwhile, will be spearheaded by powerful junior Jacob Maldonado, who brings to the table an entirely different style than his predecessor, the graduated Christian Boneparte. Maldonado is a load to tackle with breakaway speed and embodies the toughness that is a hallmark of the Cinque-era Mustangs. He will frequently run behind junior fullback Nick Burgess in two-back sets. “I always knew how good Jacob was,” said Cinque. “Last year we had one of the best backs in the area and to sit behind him, there is

Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2020

MUSTANG SPORTS nothing wrong with that. His practice habits are second to none, as are his attention to detail. He can run you over, run by you or shake you in the hole. He is a very complete back.” Clifton’s offensive line is multi-dimensional as a group of fierce run blockers and reliable pass protectors. Tackle Mohammed Abedrabo and guard Omar Alijusiejah, both seniors, will line up on the left side, with junior Dylan Urban playing center. Juniors Mohammed Ramadan and Tyler Williams will play right guard and right tackle, respectively. Clifton will show different fronts on defense, but its primary three-man defensive line will feature Abedrabo and Burgess on the ends and Ramadan on the nose. Senior defensive end Shaquae Brimley and senior defensive tackle Muhammed Hemaid will both get plenty of burn in both three and four-man alignments. Senior Josh Hernandez and junior Owen Reardon are the inside linebackers, with Maldonado seeing reps, as well. Ceneri and Abill will be the starters at outside linebacker, though senior Julien Solomon and sophomores Gavin Quinones and Marcos Betances will also be integral parts of the rotation. Junior strong safety Bryan Fe-

October 2020 • Cliftonmagazine.com

FOOTBALL liciano will lead the secondary, with Muheisen alongside him at the free safety spot. Boneparte and Swasey will be the starting cornerbacks, with senior Tyron Robins contributing, as well. Expect to also see Kristof, senior Dahmier Soria and junior Chance Blount on the field as defensive backs. “I don’t expect a drop-off or a letdown from last season,” Cinque said. “This is a really good defense. It is the same scheme as last year, but it’s a group of guys that are a year older, a year smarter and a year hungrier.” Senior Nick Stathopoulos will handle kickoffs, while his twin brother, Chris, kicks on extra points and field goals. Solomon will once again be Clifton’s punter. As for Cinque, who has a 32-20-1 record as Clifton’s head coach, he is on the verge of some individual history. If the Mustangs can, in fact, win every game, Cinque will pass Ron Anello (who had a 39-33 record between 2004 and 2010) for third on the program’s all-time wins list. “I think they have the capability to go undefeated,” Cinque said. “They aren’t looking past anybody, but they are just very serious about the sport and they love playing for each other. It is one of the best overall, cohesive units I’ve coached.”

MUSTANG SPORTS

CHEERLEADING

From front left: Ariana Castro, Maria Matos, Aiyana Woodhouse, Mia Maldonado, Camila Vasquez and Patricia Scouten. Second row: Serena Cassese, Savana Leitner, Melanie Mejia, Laisha Campos, Emma Sime, Bianca Giordano, Shantal Moquillaza and Nicolle Leitner. From top left: Aleksandra Kot, Captain Kayleigh Zhitnick, Captain Nahioly Almonte, Captain Kiara Reid, Karolinna Abella and Isabella Ranu.

This was an offseason like no other for Clifton. But in the end, the cheerleaders found a way to put together a team that is ready to keep Mustang spirit high for their fans and football team alike. With head coach Ashley LaTrace on maternity leave, third-year assistant coach Gina Pollaro has taken the reigns on an interim basis, and will oversee a team that boasts nine seniors, including captains Kayleigh Zhitnick and Kiara Reid. The remaining twelfth-graders on the sideline will be Milton Zarzuela, Dezmariah Franceschi, Isabella Ranu, Emma Sime, Laisha Campos, Melanie Mejia and Karolinna Abella. With the football season shortened due to COVID-19 and crowd size to be reduced significantly, the squad knows that their presence will be key in keeping morale high. According to Pollaro, they are embracing the responsibility. “I had a conversation with the team the other day and told that we are going to go into the first game and they have to work out that spirit more than they ever have,” she said. “And their immediate reaction was, ‘you’re right.’ They are excited for the season to start.”

In addition to the strong senior class, the underclassmen are led by junior Nahioly Almonte, who was named a captain as an eleventh-grader. “Her personality shines,” Pollaro said. “Nahioly is so dedicated. She is an outstanding cheerleader.” Presentation will be a bit different this fall, as stunting has been prohibited and contact essentially eliminated to allow for a more socially-distanced performance. Still, the Mustangs are locked in and ready to have the sidelines rocking come Oct. 2.

Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2020

MUSTANG SPORTS

MARCHING BAND

Get ready for the 82nd edition of the Clifton High School Mustang Marching Band! After months at home, the Showband of the Northeast returned to in-person rehearsals in August without missing a beat. “Practices might look different with our safety precautions, but it’s still the same Mustang Band energy,” said director Bryan Stepneski. “The band members have been incredible and we are gearing up for an excellent season.” Don’t miss their first performance of the season as Drum Majorette Keely Lopez leads the Pride of Clifton onto the field: Friday, Oct. 9, 7 pm at Clifton Stadium.

October 2020 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Marching Mustang seniors include: Nicholas Abraham, Bryan Aguilar, Joseph Altilio, Alyssa Anello, Christine Del Guercio, Dominick Elejalde, Samantha Enciso, Kayla Evangelista, Juli-Anne Gamo, Nicole Garcia, Christopher Garcia, Angel Guanga, Henry Guardia, Sofia Hernandez, Derek Hichez, Michael Hollis, Robert Lemanski, Keely Lopez, Michael Mcnally, Jordan Robinson, Christian Rodriguez, Max Rubin, Alan Sambrano, Nicole Santillan, Nyla Williams, Valeria Wisky. For more info, visit www.cliftonmustangband.com and follow them on social media @CHSMustangBand.

Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2020

Mustangs

MUSTANG SPORTS

Football TENNIS Mustangs

Golf

Mustangs

Gymnastics Mustangs

Lacrosse Mustangs

Boys Soccer Mustangs Kneeling: Riddhi Gandhi, Natalia Majchrzak, Captain Ria Panchal, Sena Ummak, Marinella Piña De La Hoz, Julia Oldakowski, Sanjna Jariwala, Anias Jenkins, Chloe Gomez, Ann Jimenez Collado. Standing: Isabella Bermudez, Alexandria Choon, Lamees Abdallah, Lauren Chirinos, Emery Senosin, Svara Shah, Manasi Rana, Aimi Davila and Aryanna Adler.

Girls Soccer

In the face of the coronavirus The remaining singles slots will Mustangs pandemic, Clifton girls tennis has Mustangs go to some combination of seniors somehow defied expectations with Ria Panchal, Sarah Veneziano and their best turnout in recent memory. Riddhi Gandhi. A 23-girl roster has head coach Panchal played singles last seaOct 2 @PCTI 4pm Chad Cole excited about what the son, while Veneziano and Gand@JFK 4pmMustangs Mustangs can accomplish in 2020, Oct 5 hi contributed on the singles clay. @Bergen Tech 4:15pm Their presence provides leadership especially as the supporting cast Oct 7 develops behind new first singles Oct 8 @West Milford 4pm on a squad that is, on the whole, player Anias Jenkins. somewhat young. Oct 12 @Passaic 4:30pm A transfer from The Bronx, the Whichever of the three does not 4pmMustangs freshman is an all-around talent who Oct 14 @Eastside play singles will contribute in doucombines superior ground strokes Oct 15 @Pompton Lakes 4pm bles play. with uncanny power. The doubles teams will be filled Oct 16 @PCTI 4pm She is reminiscent of Clifton out by a group of juniors consisting 4pm of Emery Senosin, Natalia Majchrlegend Keiko Tokuda, who Cole Oct 19 JFK 4:15pm zak, Julia Bil and Svara Shah. coached to four straight state titles Oct 20 @DePaul and an 86-0 career record between Oct 21 @Bergen Tech 4:15pm “I am really excited about the 1994 and 1997. turnout,” Cole said. “I think they Oct 23 @Kearny 4pm “Keiko had such great ability,” had a good time last year even Cole said. “She was diminutive at though we struggled. A lot were un5’2”. Anias is equally talented, 5’8”, athletic and very derclassmen and now they are playing so much better coordinated. She hits the ball as hard as the boys can.” and trying to have a great year.”

Tennis

Tennis Track

Volleyball

October 2020 • Cliftonmagazine.com

FOOD DISTRIBUTION Clifton Public Schools

Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays Times and Locations: BEFORE OCTOBER 12

CCMS 10:00 am - 11:00 am

Clifton High School 1:30 pm - 2:30 pm

Times and Locations: AFTER OCTOBER 12

Clifton High School 1:30 pm - 2:30 pm School 17 1:30 pm - 2:30 pm

School 17 1:30 pm - 2:30 pm

#OneClifton Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2020

Mustangs Mustangs MUSTANG SPORTS

Tennis CROSS COUNTRY

Baseball Mustangs Back row: Mary Jo Martinez , Remy

For 36 seasons under head coach Mustangs Dubac, Mia Dubac, Nicole WyszynsJohn Pontes, the Clifton cross country ki. Front row of Clifton Cross counteams have had a tradition of putting try girls are, Isaballa Carlomagno, @Darlington 9am Angelica Peralta, Gisele Colao, and strong teams on the course. In Pontes’ Oct 3 Madison Greenfield. @Darlington 4pm Mustangs 37th year at the helm, those traditions Oct 6 seem likely to continue. Both the boys Oct 10 @Garret Mtn 9am and girls teams are stocked with talent and is out to make a name for himself Oct 17 @Garret Mtn 9am at each grade level and appear poised this fall after losing a spring—which Oct 22 @Darlington 3:30pm was canceled due to the coronavirus for success in 2020. The boys finished last season in Oct 24 @Garret Mtn pandemic—in which he was likely 9am Mustangs first place in the Big North Liberty Di- Oct 31 @Garret Mtn 9am to be the best freshman in the county vision and second in Passaic County in the mile and 800m. 9am (behind Lakeland). They also quali- Nov 3 @Garret Mtn Senior Braulilo Hernandez is back 9am for a second season of cross country fied for the Group IV meet by taking Nov 7 @Garret Mtn Mustangs fifth in North I, Group IV. While there Nov 14 @Garret Mtn 2pm and has impressed Pontes with his will be no official Passaic County dedication to training independentMeet nor Group IV meet due to COVID-19, the Musly on days off from organized team practices. The boys tangs will look to make a run at division and sectional lineup will also feature sophomore Hisham Ettayebi (a titles behind junior Jacob Heredia. Heredia made it to the freshman county champion last year), senior Nick Ross, Meet of Champions last season after finishing in the top sophomore ShivamMustangs Mehta and junior Matt Burgos. five in the section. He was also a top-three finisher in “I think we are a contender for our division,” said Ponthe Passaic County Meet and won an individual division tes. “And we would be a contender if there were a county crown. He is exceptionally adept at strategizing to adapt meet this year.” to different courses. The Clifton girls will also look to build on a 2019 that “Jacob is a very hard worker,” said Pontes. “He is very saw them win the Mustangs Big North Liberty Division and earn a loyal to his training, takes advice and processes it and third consecutive Passaic County title, as well as finish puts together a good race.” third in North I, Group IV and advance to the Group IV Joining Heredia will be sophomore Harrison Schimpf, meet. a first-year cross country athlete. He has improved greatly Having just accepted a scholarship to Temple UniMustangs by keeping as close to Heredia as possible during practice versity, senior Mia Dubac will be one of the top cross

Cross Country

Football

Golf

Gymnastics

Lacrosse

Boys Soccer

October 2020 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Girls Soccer

First row: Harrison Schimpf, Shivam Mehta, Jossue Xochipa, Harsh Prajapati. Second row: Hisham Ettayebi, Braulio Hernande Nick Ross, Manan Patel, Muhammad Abedrabbo. Third Row: Jeffrey Jimenez, Alan Kaminski, Jacob Heredia.

country athletes in Passaic County this fall. She has already broken program records for time at Garrett Mountain, Van Cortlandt Park (N.Y.) and Holmdel Park, and finished second in the Liberty Division last fall behind now-graduated teammate Andrea Dubbels. She also finished second in Passaic County, behind only Lakeland’s Angelina Perez. “Mia works very hard,” Pontes said. “That is sort of a theme in cross country. [The best athletes] stay healthy and become students of the sport. She does that.” Mia’s sister, Remy, returns for her sophomore season, having finished fifth overall in Passaic County last year. Loaded with potential, Pontes expects the younger Dubac to elevate her performances to an even higher level than she did during her stellar freshman campaign.

Seniors Angelica Peralta and Nicole Wyszynski and junior Isabella Carlomagno will be key pieces of the Clifton lineup, as well. According to Pontes, the Mustangs’ numbers have suffered a bit due to the ongoing pandemic, yet he remains optimistic about the team’s chances due to the dedicated group that has come out to compete. It will be up to them to be vigilant in staying healthy, but Pontes has liked what he has seen this preseason. “I’ve told them that Mustangs are a pack animal,” he said. “If we can keep that pack close and together [on the course], we can be successful. And they know they have to help each other be responsible. We’ve gotta social distance on the bus. They have to wear the mask at all times except when they run. So far, they’ve done a good job.”

Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2020

2007

Lady Mustangs Softball

While the Clifton Athletic Hall of Fame induction banquet has been delayed until 2021, we continue to recall the stories of inductees. This month we look back and celebrate the 2007 Championship Softball team.

Class of 2020 Inductees Tom Acton - Class of 1987 • Soccer Anthony Giordano - Class of 2007 • Football Jeremy Hernandez - Class of 2014 Cross Country and Track John McLean - Class of 1985 • Baseball Jackie Pangilinan - Class of 2004 • Swimming Anthony Tuesta - Class of 2001 • Soccer Kelly Douglas - Class of 2015 Girls Volleyball and Basketball Michael Doktor • Boys and Girls Volleyball Coach Jack Whiting - Class of 1969 • Contributor 2005 Boys Volleyball Team

October 2020 • Cliftonmagazine.com

The Road to a State Championship Clifton got the number two seed in the North 1, Group 4 tournament, and easily swept its way to the sectional final game against number one seeded Bloomfield. It was a hot, sunny day at the Bengals’ field, but the Mustangs, with their ace pitcher, Deanna Giordano, in the circle, were ready to rock. Everyone expected it to be a close contest between these two classy teams, but Clifton came on strong in the fourth inning, scoring eight runs and continuing on to a 10-0 mercy-rule victory before a stunned Bloomfield crowd, capturing the sectional title. Only one more game was left to win before the team could head to the Group 4 state championship game, a rematch against North Hunterdon, the North 2, Group 4 sectional champ. The Mustangs had beaten their opponents 6-0 earlier in the regular season, but they took nothing for granted as they traveled to Whippany Park for the game.

As bases were loaded in the third inning and no score, Amanda Caparso singled to bring in the only two runs Clifton would need to seal the deal for a trip to the state championship at Toms River North High School on June 9. “I can still remember the practice the day before the game,” Jill Leonard said. “We were all so pumped up and excited. Coach Cara Boseski and Coach Stacy Veech, well let’s just say they were the most superstitious people you will ever meet. I mean those two wore their turf sneakers to their day jobs for the entire state run, and I’m almost certain they wore the same polo coaching shirts, too.” Giordano added, “I remember waking up at four or five in the morning so we could take batting practice, like we always did on our home field, before leaving for the game, and how anxious, excited and focused we were on the trip down.” Clifton, a team that was nowhere to be found in The Star Ledger’s Softball Top 20 rankings at the beginning of the season, was ranked fourth in the state on the day

Lady Mustangs — Take One, Free • June 8, 2007 • Clifton Merchant Magazine —

Champions

he Lady Mustangs softball team is back where it belongs. For the eighth time since 1990, Clifton is heading to the Group 4 State Championship Game in Toms River. Led by second year head coach Cara Boseski, Clifton has rolled past its competition this year to a 29-3 record and a North 1, Group 4 sectional crown. The team’s latest victim was North 2 champ North Hunterdon (227) whom the ‘Stangs beat 2-0 in the Group 4 semifinal at Whippany Park High School on Tuesday. With the win, Clifton advances to the Group 4 title game against Toms River East (31-1) at 11 am on Saturday. A win there would clinch the program’s fourth state championship. The previous three came in 1993, 1997 and 1998. Coach Boseski was a senior on the ‘97 team that won it all. She said winning has a completely different feeling when you’re the coach. “It’s not about wanting it for me anymore,” she said. “I’ve never been more proud of a team.” The Lady Mustangs are led on the field by star pitcher Deanna Giordano. She is 28-3 with 283 strikeouts and an earned run average south of 0.70. “Without her, we wouldn’t be where we are this year,” said Boseski.

Above, the special tabloid edition we published on June 8, 2007 and an alternate copy of the cover for July 2007 Clifton Merchant Magazine.

Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2020

of the state championship game, and facing the top ranked team, Toms River East. A large crowd of Clifton supporters made the trip to Ocean County to cheer on the team, many of them with signs and painted faces and bellies. They made their presence known beyond the center field fence and in the stands on every play. The game went a grueling nine scoreThe 2007 squad seen in 2017, front from left: Jill Leonard, Ashley Jacobus, less innings, with a bunch of hitters from Melissa Barbera, Samantha Litchfield, and Monica Barhorst. Back row, from both teams left stranded on base, and left: Kim Ferrara, Deanna Giordano, Amanda Caparso, Kim Lope, Nicole Giordano and Lindsey PeQueen, TRE’s Wisse, Allison Di Angelo, Emma Gretina, and Lindsey Moore. Missing were: top notch hurler, battling against each othJessica Perez, Cheryl Porter, Jessica Elliott, and Nicole Santosuosso. er in the circle. When Clifton opened the tenth inning, Celebrating Victory, Celebrating Team the game went into the tie breaker rule, with the last out Following the trophy presentation, the photos and all batter from the previous inning starting on second base, the hugs, the players continued their celebration at the in this case Giordano. Courtesy runner, junior Emma Seaside Heights boardwalk, enjoying cheese steaks and Gretina took her place on the base. strutting around as state champs. Leonard led off by laying a bunt down the first base Returning to school on Monday, the team was greeted line, as the speedy Gretina took off and beat the throw with the playing of the song, “We Are the Champions” to third base. That set the stage for Kim Ferrara, who over the public address system, and, at graduation, forgot the game-winning RBI of her life with a single to mer superintendent, Dr. Michael Rice, honored the playcenter field. Junior Lindsey Moore then put the icing on ers by unveiling the letters CHS shaved into his haircut, the cake with a single to knock in the second Clifton run. just as he had done following the football championship. TRE put its last batter out from the ninth inning on Later that summer, the players were invited to sign autosecond base to start the bottom of the tenth, but she was graphs for fans at a Jackals game at Yogi Berra Stadium. quickly erased by a Leonard throw-down and tag by JesWhen asked what made their team so successful, all sica Perez, while trying to steal third on a pitch in the seven seniors had the same response: teamwork. dirt. Giordano struck out the next two batters to put the “If somebody made an error or struck out, we were game away. always there to pick each other up,” Ferrara said. “I had “I can remember watching Dee strike out the second so much faith in my teammates. Some of them are my batter,” Caparso said. “And, when the last batter had two best friends to this day.” strikes, my eyes were welling up. I turned to Jessica Pe“Each of us made a huge impact on the outcome,” rez at shortstop and we both couldn’t see, trying to calm Giordano commented about the championship game. each other down. Dee threw strike three and I threw my “From the plays we made to get out of a bases loaded, no glove in the air and ran to hug her.” outs situation, to the final hits we got to score those two Cheryl Porter added, “I’ll never forget running onto runs in the tenth inning. It was truly a team effort.” the field after that last play, celebrating and being so hap“I’ll always remember the strong bond we had, regardpy and proud of what we had accomplished.” less of what happened on or off the field,” Perez added. Clifton finished the season 33-3, and ranked second “It was always an ‘I got you, you got me’ type of thing in the state, behind only Notre Dame High School, the that was unbreakable. As soon as we walked on that field, Parochial A state champion. nothing else mattered.”

October 2020 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2020

25 Clifton Magazine turns 25 this month and we’re taking a look back at...

Garey Taylor’s 95-Yard Miracle Run In this story, published in 2002 here’s what many consider...

Greatest Game THE

ENDING

in Clifton Mustangs History. By Jack De Vries

Number 24 Garey Taylor in a familiar scene dropping off potential tackles and making his way to the goal line in 1972.

October 2020 • Cliftonmagazine.com

The afternoon had been a war. Going into the final period, Clifton trailed Bloomfield, 28-14. The Mustangs were on enemy turf, and the home crowd at Foley Field was ready to celebrate. Fumbles and penalties had been Clifton’s undoing. Before the game, one of Bloomfield’s supporters announced that the Mustangs “were just not that good.” To that point in the game, Coach Bill Vander Closter’s squad had done everything to prove him right. Then the Mustangs’ luck changed. After only an 11-yard punt by the Bengals, Clifton’s All-Metro running back Garey Taylor took a Rich Waller screen pass and raced 46 yards for a touchdown, making the score 28-20. Vander Closter elected to go for the two-point conversion, but Waller’s pass to Bob Conrad was incomplete.

Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2020

25 Years Clifton Magazine

Fighting Mustangs of 1972: Joseph Chopko, Glenn Lesniak, Daniel Swaluk, Glenn Hertzberg, Richard Cupo.

Clifton would get another break shortly after, recovering a Bloomfield fumble on the Bengals’ 35-yard line. The Mustangs drove down to the Bloomfield goal line, but the Bengals’ defense dug in. Finally, on fourth and goal, Waller took the snap and plunged over, making the score 28-26. Again, Vander Closter went for the two-point conversion. This time, Waller’s pass to Conrad was successful, tying the score and sending the visiting Clifton crowd into a frenzy. They had seen nothing yet. Drama Builds The Bengals weren’t finished. With their home crowd roaring, they mounted one last drive, led by quarterback Wayne Ripley, advancing the ball to the Clifton seven. With less than two minutes left in the game, Bloomfield looked about to score. “We thought,” said Taylor of that October 10, 1971, afternoon, “we were going to lose.” Enter Denny Kleber. “It was a moment a linebacker dreams of,” Kleber said. “It was the one game I’ll always remember.” Bloomfield attempted a running play, sending a ball carrier shooting up the middle. Kleber shot forward to make the tackle. “It was a desperate situation,” Kleber recalled. “I put everything I had into that hit and made solid contact. I don’t remember going for the strip – what I wanted was to get my head and shoulders into the ball carrier’s stomach and see if I could pop the ball loose… and that’s just what happened.” Clifton recovered the Bloomfield fumble, but 95 yards stood between the Mustangs and the end zone.

October 2020 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Fateful Decision As the Mustangs’ offensive team took the field, team manager Dan Swaluk stood behind Vander Closter and assistant coach Emil Chaky, listening to their conversation. “They debated about a fly pattern,” said Swaluk, “then I heard Emil Chaky say, ‘The middle’s wide open.’ Vandy thought for a moment and said, ‘You may be right.’” “I didn’t feel right about the pass,” remembered Vander Closter. “Waller was a good, tough quarterback, but I don’t think he could have thrown the ball far enough down field. Plus, Bloomfield had only four defensive players on the line, and the rest were playing deep. “I decided to let Garey Taylor run the ball. If he could break free, we had a chance. “We ran a ‘22-Trap’ to the left side, but there was an illegal procedure call. Upstairs in the booth, (coach) Bob Roberts was saying, ‘It looks like it can go,’ meaning we had Bloomfield set up. I had this feeling, if Garey could get past the linebackers, we were going to score.” With seconds remaining, Vander Closter called for a trap play from the right side. “When the play came in,” Taylor remembered. “I couldn’t believe we were going to run again. I thought for sure it would be a pass.” Right tackle Glen Hertzberg, who would block for Taylor on the play, recalled, “At that point, we had no expectation of winning.” Legendary Run Waller handed the ball to Taylor, and the Clifton runner sped up field, untouched for the first 15 yards. Seeing the running play, the Bloomfield defenders raced toward Taylor.

2020 SEASONAL FLU VACCINATION CLINICS CLIFTON HEALTH DEPARTMENT *DATES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE*

WALK UP CLINICS: Tuesday, October 13th: 10:30am-1:30pm Thursday, October 15th: 10:30am-1:30pm Tuesday, October 20th: 10:30am-1:30pm Thursday, October 22nd: 10:30am-1:30pm Location: Clifton Senior Center Parking Lot #9, Barn C-5 900 Clifton Ave., Clifton, NJ 07013 *******************************************************************************

DRIVE THRU CLINIC: Saturday, October 24th: 9:00am-12:00pm Location: Clifton DPW Garage 307 E 7th St., Clifton, NJ 07011

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FLU VACCINES ARE FREE OF CHARGE TO CLIFTON RESIDENTS *******************************************************************************

FACE COVERINGS WILL BE REQUIRED TO BE WORN AT ALL TIMES  RESIDENTS MUST PRACTICE SOCIAL DISTANCING BELONGINGS AND OUTERWEAR SHOULD BE REMOVED AND LEFT IN CAR IF POSSIBLE, PRIOR TO RECEIVING INJECTION BRING YOUR COMPLETED CONSENT FORMS TO EXPEDITE PROCESS

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BOOKING AN APPOINTMENT:

PLEASE CALL OR REGISTER ONLINE AND ACCESS CONSENT FORMS

Call: 973-470-5760 Visit: www.cliftonnj.org/342/Coronavirus-2019-COVID-19 to register and for more information on these clinics; Forms are available on this webpage. The flu clinics are open to residents of Clifton & Little Falls 6 years of age and older. The Clifton Health Department is a contractual health agency serving the Township of Little Falls. Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2020

25 Years Clifton Magazine

“Two of them caught him and had him dead to rights,” said Doug Kleber, Denny’s older brother and a senior fullback. “But somehow he broke the tackle.” Escaping tackles was not out of the ordinary for Taylor. “Besides having tremendous speed and agility,” said Hertzberg, “Garey had incredible upper body strength. Despite weighing only 160 or 170, he could bench press 270-280 pounds.” “I took off up the middle,” Taylor explained, “and one Bloomfield player had me in his grasp. But his teammate came from the other side, missed me and slammed into him. I broke free and ran to the left. Once I broke into the open field, I knew no one could catch me. I was a sprinter back then and could move.” Taylor vividly remembers his run toward the end zone. “Even though I was flying, everything slowed down for me. I could hear the crowd roaring and getting louder. It was like I was running in slow motion. When I crossed the goal line, it was pandemonium. “Minutes before, we thought we were about to lose; now we had won – it was incredible.” The Clifton fans could not believe what they witnessed. “I was yelling and jumping up and down so much,” said Mustangs rooter Tom DiDonna, “that I almost fell out of the stands.”

Vandy with Richard Waller and Doug Kleber.

Forever Remembered Exhilarated and exhausted from run, Taylor was swarmed by his teammates. Swaluk remembered Taylor saying, “About the 20-yard line, my legs were going to give out!” Clifton added the extra point for a 35-28 win. After the game, Taylor became Clifton’s biggest celebrity. “Because there weren’t too many minorities in the school,” said Taylor, “I was pretty recognizable. After that game, people were constantly coming up to me, talking about the play. The notoriety was overwhelming. “When kids – many having nothing to do with football – had parties, their parents would tell them to ‘make sure you invite Garey Taylor.’” The victory was also a milestone for Vander Closter, giving him his 100th win as Clifton’s head coach.

“That game,” he remarked, “had the greatest ending of my entire coaching career.” The win over Bloomfield was one the Mustangs treasured. “Coach let us have the game film, and we would watch it over and over,” said Taylor, later a signal maintainer for the New York City Transit Authority, residing in Passaic Park. “We still couldn’t believe we’d won. We’d pass it around and watch it at Rich Waller’s or Joe Chopko’s house. I even remember us looking at it the summer after it happened.” Today, Taylor’s 95-yard miracle run remains one of his greatest life moments. “At least a few times during the football season,” Taylor said, “I think back to that day. Breaking into the open field and scoring that touchdown – there was no greater feeling in the world.”

October 2020 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2020

By Ariana Puzzo

As November approaches, so does Election Day. The Nov. 3 date is anticipated by many for a multitude of reasons, but with it comes changes due to COVID-19. Among these changes are the methods in which we can vote for our elected officials. Whether you register online, by mail or in-person to vote, the registration deadline is Oct. 13. We asked Clifton residents to share their thoughts about voting in the election. Although answers varied, one sentiment remained - Clifton says, “Vote 2020.” Scott Agnoli, 51, Lifelong Resident I am going to my polling place to vote in person like I always do. I expect to vote in person as I have done in every election since I was 18, and I hope that I am able to cast a real vote and not a provisional ballot as I am hearing. No one should have a problem voting in person. As I see it, it is no riskier than going to an ATM machine, Walmart or Target. Al and Sue Zwiazek My husband has lived in Clifton for all of his life and I moved here 34 years ago when we got married. We are going to do mail-in ballots because for us, it is safer. We believe in voting and our political system. We trust that the post office and the board of elections will do the right thing. We are senior citizens who have been social distancing since this pandemic started. We shop online, we have our groceries and prescriptions delivered, and we visit family and friends via Zoom. We have tried to social distance as much as possible.

October 2020 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Ihor Andruch, 44 Whether you are voting red or blue, the upcoming election will make or break this country. Keeping recent government scandals in mind, I have doubts that mail-in balloting will be seamless for the 2020 election. I predict that many ballots will go undelivered – and/or there will be duplicates in the voting. I also would not be shocked to hear about delays or miscounts in the final poll results. Masking-up to vote in 2020 is worth the risk and I feel that it will be safe to vote in person, especially for this particular presidential election.

Chloe Popowich, 17, CHS ‘21, Richfield section I am an intern for Josh Gottheimer’s re-election campaign in NJ-05. During the primary, I was an election challenger for the Gottheimer team, where I visited polls and gathered data for how many people voted on July 7. The polls had low voter turnout considering people were mailing in their ballots. For the election in November, I am expecting the same thing and I am hoping that people are encourFrom left: Scott Agnoli, Ihor Andruch, Chloe Popowich and Amy Louie. aged to mail in their ballots rather than go to the polls. as the next generation, exercise our right as voters to help I got involved with Josh Gottheimer’s campaign over decide on who will be governing the laws that affect us. the summer. I wanted to do something over the summer Our voices matter and will help shape the future that we since my summer plans to attend the ACLU National Adwill be living in. vocacy Institute were shortened due to COVID. A family friend recommended the Gottheimer internship because Lorraine Prior Saravia, CHS 1975 she knew that I was interested in politics and advocacy I do not trust the mail-in voting at all, I believe it is pertaining to women’s rights. With the internship, I am a democratic ploy to delay a clear presidential winner, able to understand participation in politics and the role of therefore having Nancy Pelosi in the Oval Office until attracting voters to the polls. the votes are counted. At least I know that by voting in Mail-in voting is the new “going to the polls.” There person, President Trump will be assured my vote. There is increased accessibility of going to the polls and more have been talks, rumors that there will be armed personpeople are responsive to voting. This is important for nel at voting centers. There have been vandalized vehicitizen participation in a democracy. I am also running cles that had Trump on their bumpers. People I know a fall voter registration drive at Clifton High School, to who four years ago had Trump banners on their lawns are encourage youth to register to vote. afraid to put them up this year. I will not be scared away or made to feel fear in placing my vote. I have supported Amy Louie, 24, CHS ‘14, Albion section Trump and will continue to do so. I have had people unI plan to vote by mail-in ballot in November due to the friend me on Facebook because of my political views, all pandemic. As part of the wave of millennials that will be of whom are Ridin with Biden. entering the job market, I feel that it’s important that we,

Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2020

Bruce James For Bruce James, there is nothing more personal than speaking with an elected official. “I’m available to anybody. My personal phone is on my business card,” said James. “You have to be available and have to know how to help Freeholder Bruce James and BOE Commissioner Fahim Abedrabbo. someone.” from Texas and Hawaii trying to figure out what we did,” Part of it, he added, includes recognizing he continued. that sometimes you will have to explain why there’s not Although he added that it was tough to get people to an immediate solution for an issue. understand the severity of the situation, he stressed the James has served on the Passaic County Board of importance of answering the Census. Doing so, he said, Chosen Freeholders since 2005 and he is running for helped secure funding for COVID testing for a populare-election next month. As a decades-long Clifton resition exceeding 500,000 people, as well as further “mitident, James speaks highly of his community. gate losses for Passaic County businesses” and get PPE “Clifton is a great city,” he said. “It’s a vibrant, diverse for every municipality. city, and it is a great place to live and raise kids.” Similarly, the pandemic shifted how services were As a freeholder, James has emphasized the imporprovided to senior citizens. For instance, Passaic County tance of preserving open space and providing services switched to Meals on Wheels to provide meals at home. to seniors. When thinking about these issues today, he James said food insecurity was one of the big conacknowledged their heightened significance during the cerns due to unemployment. The county put CARES Act COVID-19 pandemic. money into organizing boxes of food and then distributed In terms of the open spaces, Passaic County citizens them to residents from every town, including Clifton. approved an Open Space and Farmland Preservation “It just was heart wrenching,” said James. “You would Trust Fund referendum and an Open Space and Parks Imnot believe the number of people who would pull up for a provement referendum that were added to the November box of food and how thankful they are.” 1996 Election Ballot. “I don’t understand how someone couldn’t be sympa“I’m still an advocate for it,” said James. “During this thetic to someone trying to feed their kids.” pandemic when you couldn’t go anywhere, our parks beAmong the four candidates running for the two open came where people went.” seats, James is the only one from Clifton. “When you couldn’t get out of your house,” he added, “I think my record speaks for itself,” said James. “they were a safe place to go and at least you were out“People have known me for many, many years and they side.” When discussing his own response to the pandemknow what I do.” ic, as well as Passaic County’s response, James acknowledged the preparedness of local leadership. Fahim Abedrabbo “I was the first elected official to raise the concern of When Fahim K. Abedrabbo ran for a seat on the Board COVID and called an Office of Emergency meeting of Education four years ago, he was motivated because that’s when people started taking it seriously,” said James. he wanted to see change. “Our response to it was better than any other county.” “I ran for the Board of Education because “We raised concern back in February and got calls

October 2020 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2020

I didn’t see what I liked. Now I’m the school district aware of what’s gorunning because I love what’s on the ing on,” he continued. “It’s reaching Board of Education,” said Abedrabbo, out to the superintendent to say, ‘I 35. “I think there’s a great leader on the need help here. I can’t give my kid board.” what they need.’” “Is anybody perfect? No, but does Abedrabbo, a father of three, said [Superintendent Danny Roberhis continued involvement on the tozzi] try his best to make sure board is not related to his eldest every kid is treated like his own two children entering the school kid? Yes. I absolutely see it in district. him,” Abedrabbo continued. “If “If you jump in when your the support is there to help him kids are in school, you’re too succeed in his goals district wide, late,” he said. “You don’t do it for why not continue to be there?” your kids, you do it for the district Speaking for this interview as and town.” a candidate, and not on behalf of It’s the notion of “One Clifton” the board, Abedrabbo discussed that encourages him to act in his his slogan “Moving Clifton Forcurrent role and do what he loves ward” and what it has meant to for everyone in his community. him during his term. His visions “No matter what part of the as he came to the board included city you come from, we are one greater emphasis on STEM procommunity.” grams and collaborating prior to the coronavirus pandemic with Jim Smith the superintendent and the techDespite Jim Smith’s denology committee to implement cades-long history with the Board 1:1 technology. of Education, he felt the turbuHis visions were influenced by lence brought on by the coronaviThe message holds true from when Mayor growing up in Clifton and envirus pandemic. Jimmy Anzaldi first appeared on our cover in sioning an increasingly competiSmith credits his years of exNovember 1997: please vote on Nov. 3. tive district. perience as a trustee from 1992 to “Whether that is through more 2006 as anchoring him since he communication, technology, transparency, or effectivefilled the vacated seat in February. ness with students and administration,” said Abedrabbo “It takes a good eight months to a year for a new board (CHS 2003), “all of it takes Clifton from what it has been member to get acclimated,” said Smith, 56. “I think it to the next day in the age in academics, where seniors worked out the best it could not only for myself, but for can reflect and do well and look at what college is to be the district that somebody was chosen with experience.” for them.” At the time, he said, the board couldn’t anticipate the Abedrabbo holds another vision as a candidate: ensurpandemic and the resulting months of Distance Learning unity. Part of that means ensuring that an individual’s ing. Although Smith said remote learning is not an ideal background does not isolate them. He spoke about ESL situation, safety for students and staff is his top priority. students and difficulties certain students may encounter Smith emphasized the unfortunate reality of losing the while learning from home. social element of school during those months and how “My parents … spoke to me more in Arabic than Enthat time cannot be regained. He also acknowledged the glish,” said Abedrabbo. “I know how hard it is growing effect that remote learning has on special education stuup in a household where the primary language isn’t Endents. glish. When you’re home during remote learning, you’ll “That’s one area where virtual learning is not approget the primary language first.” priate … and we’re so aware of it,” he said. “We are “If a parent sees a struggle, the best thing to do is make working continually with the administration on

October 2020 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2020

how we need to address this.” “In no way do we want them to be left out or feel any less important than anyone else.” Smith grew up in the Allwood section and today lives across from CHS. He attended St. Andrew the Apostle School and graduated from Paul VI High School and Montclair State. He went on to teach for 20 years at St. Andrew’s. BOE candidate Feras Awwad and Commissioner Jim Smith. When it comes to considering potential cuts “Your arts and sports programs are areas you could because of declining federal and state funding, cut, but I wouldn’t support any cuts there,” said Smith. “I Smith’s perspective is based upon his experience in difthink Clifton has one of the best arts and sports programs ferent roles. around and they offer so much to our kids.” “We have continually been writing to our legislators,” “Just look at our wonderful band,” he added. “How said Smith. “One problem I have - and I’m not putting could you go and tell [them] that you’re not going to [them] down - but charter schools all got money to conhave a band?” tinue to help with their budget, where we didn’t and we Although Smith is surprised he’s one of only three were cut, and how is that fair?” people running for the three open seats, he maintains “We’re going to continue to fight that and have to there are different ways people can help their town, and make sure the public knows [by giving] links directly to these ways do not have to include serving as an elected legislative offices,” he continued. “[Then] parents can official. tell them how upset they are and that our kids deserve Smith found that to be true throughout his involvejust as much as kids in charter schools deserve.” ment with the Recreation Board, the Elks and the Clifton Smith added that what he wants to avoid is eliminatVeterans Committee. ing positions due to the pandemic and any “poor deci“Clifton has to work as one,” said Smith, “and it ties sions made by our legislators.” into [Superintendent Danny Robertozzi’s] slogan of “I will go out and fight with all I have to make sure we ‘One Clifton.’” don’t cut staff,” said Smith. “We have very hardworking “If there was ever a time when Clifton needed to be and dedicated people in Clifton … and they choose to united as one, it’s now. We have tremendous challenges stay in a stable district that offers a great, thorough and in front of us, and funding is just one of them.” efficient education for our students.” Another area that Smith discussed was the process of Feras Awwad making cuts and how there are certain untouchable arAlthough it is not Feras Awwad’s first time running for eas. These areas include anything that affects “thorough the Board of Education, perseverance led him to pursue a and efficient education” and can range from programs for seat again in next month’s election. “needy students” to teaching positions. The lifelong Dutch Hill resident ran in January 2020 Alternatively, facilities and upkeep are areas that he prior to the coronavirus pandemic when he interviewed said are often cut. Whether investing in turf fields or for a vacated seat. Although he was unsuccessful, he said window replacements, they are positive updates, but can that the following Harriet Beecher Stowe quote inspired sometimes be delayed while seeking further funding. him: “Never give up, for that is just the place and time Then, there are the areas that he said can, but shouldn’t that the tide will turn.” be cut.

October 2020 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Our founder, Joseph M. Shook, Sr. was born

#3969, a member of the Clifton Elks Lodge

on March 15, 1924 and on June 7, 1955, the

#1569 and an active parishioner of St. John

NJ State Board of Mortuary Science granted

Kanty RC Church.

approval to operate Shook Funeral Home.

On June 9, 2008, at the age of 84, Joe died

Joe was a member of the Athenia Veterans

peacefully in his home above the funeral home,

Post, a Charter and Honorary Life Member of

where he started his business and raised his

Regina Mundi Knights of Columbus Council

family. We are proud to continue his legacy.

Cliftonmagazine.com â&#x20AC;˘ October 2020â&#x20AC;&#x192;

He uses that inspiration to try to serve his community both during the good times, as well as the challenging ones. “With everything happening,” said Awwad, 26, “I would be honored to serve on the Board, improving the lives of every student, staff memVote for one, Joe Biden or Donald Trump. ber, and community [member] in our district.” Awwad attended School 3 and CCMS before “I am very proud to see the strides that our district has graduating from Pioneer Academy in 2012, then located taken,” said Awwad. “Education for our students and the on Main Avenue. He pursued his higher education at Rutprotection of the district’s employees are top priorities.” gers University, majoring in political science. Moving forward, he said the district and city must But Awwad’s roots in the city run deeper. His father, continue to consider the health and safety of the entire Mohammed, arrived in the U.S. as a teenager and graducommunity when resuming onsite instruction. Although ated from CHS in 1982. he added that students in a classroom will always be pref“Living in Clifton for 40-plus years and calling it home erable to Distance Learning, every decision must be con[and] raising his children here,” said Awwad. “Hopefully, sidered with caution as flu season approaches. if blessed, I may do the same.” He continued that if he is elected and the district is still Now, Awwad celebrated his 1-year wedding anniverdetermining a safe method of reopening, he would aim to sary on Sept. 19 with his wife, Baraah. work alongside medical and health experts. “She is a major inspiration, and the love of my life,” “We need to speak about school safety, like having he said. “We do not have any kids yet. [I’m] waiting for doors and windows open for ventilation,” said Awwad. that blessing to come one day, and when it does, I will be “The weather is getting colder; will the environment inoverwhelmed with joy.” side of the building be comThe desire to pave a Vote by mail ballots postmarked fortable for students and staff “stronger future” for current to be in?” Clifton students and his fuon or before Nov. 3—that are “Also leaving doors open ture children is further encouragement for Awwad to received by 8 pm on Nov. 10 — - what about security and readiness if lockdowns need run for the BOE as the only will be considered valid by the to occur for unspeakable reanewcomer. sons?” he continued. “Bring“I want my children to Passaic County Clerk. ing back students with preattend Clifton schools, and cautions due to the pandemic [want to ensure that] they [is something] I take seriously, and I feel that students have the highest standard in education, safety, and reand staff need to be more active vocally throughout this sources at their disposal,” he said. process.” Awwad acknowledges the district’s response to the Awwad, like the other BOE candidates, stressed the pandemic and considers their actions done to the best of need for unity in the city. their ability. He added there were a lot of moving piec“As we continue to navigate through these tough es, including how to respond in a way that not only protimes, we must unite as a community and not divide, with tects students, but also “parents, the elderly, and their open hearts [and] respect for one another’s opinion.” communities.”

October 2020 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2020

The Theater League of Clifton (TLC) brought the sounds of Broadway to Weasel Brook Park on Sept. 12 with the musical revue of “Showtune.” Staged in front of the Vanderhoef-Westervelt House at dusk, over 300 fans attended the event to hear selections from “Hello Dolly,” “Mame,” and “La Cage aux Folles.” Jalmari Vanamo, Clifton resident and musical director, led the singers and musical ensemble, while John Traier produced the show. A cast of dedicated TLC volunteers assisted audience members, as city residents turned out with lawn chairs while following Covid-19 protocols to maintain social distancing.

October 2020 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2020

$200,000 in grants to celebrate 60th Anniversary From veterans posts and civic groups in Clifton, to Ukrainian civic and social organizations throughout New Jersey, Nova UA Federal Credit Union, which is headquartered at 851 Allwood Road, has touched the lives of many since its founding. Recognizing the negative economic impact Covid-19 had in its service area, Nova requested and received two grants from Federal Home Loan Bank of NY which in turn Nova dispersed to 24 non-profits in the region. The $200,000 was distributed among non-profits that experienced a decrease in revenue due to the pandemic. From churches, schools, youth organizations and cultural centers serving the Ukrainian diaspora in New Jersey, the Nova grants will help restore funds lost during the pandemic.

October 2020 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Board Chair Dr. Michael Lewko said Nova first opened its doors in 1960 on Hope Ave. in Passaic on the belief of people helping people. “We believe that it’s important to be a responsible social member and support the communities we serve,” he added. “Every year, a portion of our earned profits go to support local churches, scout organizations, cultural events and other community foundations.” But Covid-19 amped up that need and Nova UA FCU was there to respond. “We are much more than just a credit union that offers competitive financial services and great member support,” Val Bogattchouk, Nova’s CEO, said. “We also take initiative to help our communities succeed and grow. Our focus is on taking care of our members and the community we serve. We are happy to help.”

Hunger Doesn’t Stop Power of One’s Hunger Doesn’t Stop Covid 19 Relief effort offers a free drive thru food distribution at the Clifton Senior Center to Clifton residents in need. The Senior Center is behind City Hall, 900 Clifton Ave. and thanks to the Farm to Families USDA program, boxes of milk, bread and other items will be distributed. Dates are Tuesdays from 3 to 5 pm for families; Wednesdays 11am to 1pm for seniors, veterans and disabled individuals. ID is required, limit one package per family, wear a mask and practice social distance. Volunteers are needed to help support the project, said Power of One’s Kim Castellano, pictured on our November, 2017 cover. “Even one hour makes a difference. All you need to do is show up during hours listed. Kindly email us so we know you are coming to Kim@powerofoneccom.org.” Call her at 201-328-2326 with contributions or questions.

Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2020

Walter Pruiksma, at right, received the Military Police Regimental Association’s Order of the Marechaussee in Silver in 2018 for his 1944 “Mission of Mercy” which we wrote about in November, 2018. Find that story at cliftonmagazine.com

They Never Looked Back The old saying, “When in Rome, do as the Romans do” was a creed that Walter Pruiksma’s grandparents firmly believed in. When Pruiksma’s grandparents emigrated to America from the Netherlands, they cut all ties with their homeland and embraced their new American culture, which they found in Clifton, New Jersey. The love and pride they had for America— their new homeland—was passed down to their children, thus beginning a new tradition. “When my grandparents, Theodore and Jessie Pruiksma, came to America, they severed all ties with Europe because we were now Americans. America came first. We would be making American dollars, eating American food and following American traditions,” Pruiksma said. Pruiksma’s family is actually from Friesland, which is located in the northern part of the Netherlands. The only custom the family did retain was to fly the Friesian flag alongside the American flag at family reunions, which are held every five years.

October 2020 • Cliftonmagazine.com

As children, Pruiksma and his eight siblings spoke only English and were not taught Dutch or the Friesian language. “We have no Holland, Dutch or Netherlands Day. We truly entered the melting pot,” he said. Pruiksma, a lifelong Clifton resident, believes that no matter what nationality we are, we are now all alike and must give our best to further the welfare and prosperity of the new country. He takes great pride in being an American. So much so that he does not understand when other immigrants continue to carry out traditions and cultures from their homeland. “Let’s understand they are now Americans. It’s fine to carry out their customs, but it means they are still tied to that country. I don’t understand why did they leave a place they love so much?” he asked. Perhaps because Pruiksma’s relatives fled from the country they loved in search of a better life for themselves and their family, he feels grateful to America for

giving his family opportunities. He added that in one way or another we are all of immigrant backgrounds and we must get back to the truth of the melting pot in order to better understand one another. “America is the melting pot of the world and we all live in it together,” he said. Pruiksma’s family settled in the Dutch Hill section of Clifton. He explained that back then it was a small community compared with today. As a child, he attended school with a mix of children from different nationalities and that everyone got along. He also recalled his first brush with racism. “When we moved to Clifton Avenue with my family, the neighbors were horrified and wondered what a large immigrant family with eight kids would do to the neighborhood. They later apologized for their behavior,” he explained. Pruiksma proudly fought for his country during World War II and remains true to his American heritage today. He is active in many veterans organizations, including serving as historian of American Legion Post 8 and chairman of the Clifton War Veterans Monument Committee. Pruiksma’s final thoughts: “Realize that someday we will be history, and our descendants will look back and see what we contributed to America.” This story originally appeared in our Many Faces, One Family edition in October 1998. Walter Pruiksma, who is now 97 and lives in Toms River, will be honored at the Avenue of Flags at 11 am on Veteran’s Day, Nov. 11. He is one of the three founders of this unique and every growing patriotic tribute of nearly 2,200 American Flags. Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2020

Birthdays & Celebrations - October 2020

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

Happy 16th birthday to Noel Coronel on Oct 16. Our favorite retired Clifton cop Edward Holster celebrates on Oct. 18. Kim Oeffler has a birthday on Oct. 8. Congratulations to Orest and Barbara Luzniak who celebrate their 40th anniversary on Oct. 1. Fr. Andriy Dudkevych, pastor of St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Church and Parochial School, celebrated his 25th year of Ordination on September 21. Sarah Bekheet................... 10/1 Melissa Szwec................... 10/2 Awilda Gorman................. 10/3 Ashley Messick.................. 10/3 Christopher Papademetriou.10/3 Charlene Rivera................. 10/3 Grace Robol...................... 10/3 Frank Antoniello................. 10/4 John Brock Jr..................... 10/4 Kimberly Ferrara................ 10/4 Kayla Galka...................... 10/4 Lisa Junda......................... 10/4 Alan Merena..................... 10/4 Bruce Merena.................... 10/4 Rosalie D. Konopinski......... 10/5 Kyle Takacs....................... 10/5 Gene D’Amico................... 10/6 Nicole Nettleton................ 10/6 Joseph Tahan..................... 10/6 Cheryl Cafone................... 10/7

October 2020 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Christopher Phillips............. 10/7 Jilian Fueshko.................... 10/8 Nick Kacmarcik................. 10/8 Kim Oeffler....................... 10/8 Michael Biondi................ 10/10 Rich Montague................ 10/10 Kyle Zlotkowski................ 10/10 Eileen Patterson............... 10/11 Anthony Shackil............... 10/11 Michael D. Rice............... 10/12 Stephanie M. Palomba..... 10/13 Kimberly Beirne............... 10/14 Lil Geiger........................ 10/14

Mary Anne Kowalczyk..... 10/14 Andrea Kovalcik.............. 10/15 Stephen Kovalcik............. 10/15 Maria Kulyk.................... 10/15 Marianne Meyer.............. 10/15 Nicole Zlotkowski............ 10/16 Benjamin Brody............... 10/17 Nancy Hromchak............. 10/17 Devin DeVries.................. 10/18 Matthew Fabiano............. 10/18 Edward Holster, Sr........... 10/18 Jamie Norris.................... 10/18 Brian James Grace........... 10/19

Susan and Ray Cramer will celebrate 26 years of marriage on Oct. 1. Steve and Barbara Bivaletz were married 42 years on Sept. 30.

Maxwell Alexander son on Adam and Stephanie Yoda (Stephanie Peterson, CHS 2001) turned three on Sept. 30. Kristen A. Hariton............ 10/19 Ben Brody....................... 10/19 Joan Bednarski................ 10/20 Jean Chiariello................. 10/20 Lea Dziuba...................... 10/20 Pactrick M. Doremus Jr...... 10/21 Eugene Osmak................ 10/21 Nathaniel Santelli............ 10/21 Katelyn Smith.................. 10/21 Ted Guzowski.................. 10/21 Jonathan Rossman............ 10/22 Toni Van Blarcom............. 10/22 Daniel Atoche.................. 10/23 Andrew J. “Dez“ Varga.... 10/23 Allison Beirne.................. 10/24 Sandra Kuruc.................. 10/24 Heather Fierro................. 10/24 Paul G. Andrikanich......... 10/25 Matthew McGuire............ 10/26 Kristofer Scotto................ 10/27 Nicole Keller................... 10/28 Ashley Gretina................. 10/29 Lindsay Berberich............. 10/30 Hadeel Aref.................... 10/31 Raymond Romanski.......... 10/31 Josef Schmidt................... 10/31 Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2020

Misfit Mutts LIVE Oct. 10

Miss those good old days of music by Swingman and the Misfit Mutts? Then mark Saturday, Oct. 10 at 1 pm to see and dance when they perform at the East Rutherford Street Fair. Part classic car show, part fall festival and lots of outdoor fun, look for the stage on Park Ave., near the Rutherford Train Station. Swingman and band leader Ray Grabowski reminds those who come to be sure to wear a mask and note that the raindate is Sunday. Who knows... in a few weeks we may even be able to see the Mutts back on their home stage in the Grande Saloon? Continue to respect the rules of social distancing, wear your mask and stay positive. And remember—the pandemic isn’t over just because you are over it!

October 2020 • Cliftonmagazine.com

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