Ivo Rodrigues long ago realized that giving back was neighborly, and a good business philosophy. That’s why he and his wife Vania, owners of New Trimble Auto Body, became involved with the National Auto Body Council’s Recycled Rides. Since 2022, Rodrigues teamed up with his auto collision vendors to refurbish and donate four vehicles, two each year, to veterans in need of reliable transportation.
That’s a pretty sizable gift, likely worth thousands in new parts, skilled trade work and technology. Building on that good neighbor sensibility, Rodrigues on Sept. 11 will be donating three refurbished vehicles.
Two of them, a 2017 Hyundai Tucson and a 2018 Honda Accord, will go to veterans. The third, a 2019 Dodge Grand Caravan, goes to Clifton Outreach, a program which provides rides to seniors and disabled adults who have no other means of transportation.
He learned of Clifton Outreach through a customer, Deidra Hughes, the Senior Outreach Transportation Supervisor at Clifton Senior Services. “She’s been a customer since I opened,” recalled Rodrigues. “This year I wanted to do something unique for our hometown and the people in Deidra’s program will make good use of this minivan.” Rodrigues learned the trade in his native Portugal, before moving to Garfield in 2006. Working at Mazzola’s Auto Body, he saved... “pretty much what I did was work and go home,” recalled Rodrigues. In 2013 he purchased Trimble Auto Body, when he was 29. He changed the name, adding a second garage a few years back. He just finished construction on a stunning three-story building across Trimble Ave. Now 42, Rodrigues welcomes the community to the 11 am presentation, which will be followed by a luncheon.
To attend, RSVP Cristina at 973-546-6521.
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Colleagues and friends: Melissa Cantada and Ruth Santiago of the Mental Health Center of Passaic.
Everyone struggles in their own way, but the Mental Health Center of Passaic strives to find ways for each child and adult to cope with any of life’s challenges.
Talking is the first step.
“Mental health touches everyone,” said Director of Human Resources Melissa Cantada. “I think the biggest myth is: ‘I’m the only one that’s feeling this way’, and that’s 100% not the case.” That’s emphasized year-round, but particularly in the lead-up to and during September. Young people are returning to school — some with common anxieties and others with unique ones in the post-COVID world.
People of all ages also see more mainstream discussions on mental health as we enter Suicide Prevention Month. In 2022, the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention reported that there were an estimated 1.6 million suicide attempts in the U.S. with suicide as the 11th leading cause of death in the country.
Whether it’s anxiety, depression, ADHD, or obsessive compulsive disorder — these and other mental health issues affect people all over the world, and certainly in our communities and our own families. Cantada and fellow MHCP colleague Ruth Santiago work with roughly 100 other staff members to continue de-stigmatizing mental health.
The Center — which has six locations, including 35 Orange Ave. and 1451 Van Houten Ave. in Clifton — has championed progress since 1967. Fifty-seven years later, services ranging from individual and family counseling to children’s day programs in Clifton and Passaic schools.
Their reach is far. Santiago knows from firsthand experience. From her elementary school days participating in their after-school services to utilizing their Baby Steps Program as a teen parent, she felt the organization’s profound support. She works now as a facilitator’s aide in Clifton and makes sure that other kids feel that same care.
On Jan. 22, School 9 students celebrated Clifton therapy dog Chewie’s first birthday.
“I like being here. I enjoy working alongside my fellow co-workers,” said Santiago, 26. “I like helping the children find a safe place and have somewhere where they can be themselves without being judged.”
An Evolving Landscape
Cantada has witnessed an influx of referrals and clients requesting services from the MHCP since the coronavirus pandemic in 2020.
It’s a two-fold issue that Cantada described. Whether it was anxiety amongst completely healthy people or someone who has medical concerns, one common denominator is families. Working with families in a number of urban areas, like Passaic and Paterson, means that some families seeking services live in multi-generational dwellings.
“There was a lot of anxiety with some children saying, ‘I can’t go to school when it goes back into session, because I live with Grandma and can’t bring it back to her,’” explained Cantada, 44. “Mental health really came to the
forefront, because everyone was anxious and there was not the same stigma where you couldn’t talk about it.”
Cantada continued by saying people felt freer with new counseling formats, like virtual sessions, and their website’s contact link received more activity than ever before. After a long day of work, fewer people cancel their virtual sessions as well.
“[Virtual sessions] have increased our attendance, because people can do it at their own pace and in their own space,” said Cantada. “That’s a positive that came out of the pandemic for us.”
Cantada believes in the MHCP’s mission of helping individuals become positive and productive members of their communities — and she’s acted as a part of it since 2001. She started working at the agency as a college student until she was offered a full-time position after her graduation. In 2009, she moved to the Van Houten Avenue location to lead the Transportation Department. She became the Director of Human Resources in 2019.
“I think it’s an exciting time for us. We’re anticipating getting a new executive director after Dr. Sybil Schreiber passed away in May,” said Cantada. “For over 50 years, she really grew this agency into what it is today. She was a tremendous forward-thinker of her time.”
“I think that now as we move into new chapters without her, it’s about honoring the past and moving forward in the directions that are needed,” she continued. “Whether it relates to cyber bullying or pride with the LGBTQ community … and continuing things we know are successful.”
Services Offered
The already-established successful areas include connecting with community members through Intensive InCommunity Services, which is part of a program funded by the State of NJ through NJ Children’s System of Care and the Contracted System Administrator, PerformCare. The therapeutic services are geared toward youth who either experienced a behavioral health episode or significant trauma.
MHCP’s other youth programs are The Family Center & Community Care Program and the Children’s Therapeutic Partial Care Day Program. The children’s programs serve children ranging in age from 2.5 to 6 and 6 to 11, all based out of Clifton.
“The programs focus on themes. So there may be a back-to-school theme … for getting kids ready for if they will take the bus or take transportation [that brings about] anxiety,” Cantada explained. “Whether they’re creating little buses that move on a bulletin board of emotions, it takes a very simple task, like getting onto a yellow school bus and getting dropped off, and it allows them to work through how they’re feeling.”
For older school-aged children, the MHCP developed a School-Based Youth Services Program in Passaic High School. The organization has maintained a strong presence for over 20 years in Passaic High School and Passaic Preparatory Academy. Going beyond the counseling
services and class presentations, the experienced staff also covers topics like academic failure, physical and emotional abuse, peer and/or family difficulties, teen pregnancy, teen parenting, and juvenile justice troubles.
For teen parents, the Baby Steps Daycare Center across the street from the high school gives students a place to drop off their child and work toward achieving their high school diploma. It also enables parents to participate in parenting classes, life skills groups, and have access to individual counseling as they navigate parenting at a young age.
But, at the end of the day, the MHCP wants children to have a chance to embrace their youth. Creating consistent routines helps meet that goal.
“Counselors definitely express how consistency and a routine is very important,” said Cantada. “They help set aside time for homework and relaxation and play. Sometimes that gets lost in the shuffle once school starts, because life gets busier.”
Continuing the Support
When the MHCP marked 40 years serving its community, they had a staff of 183 and a budget of $6.5 million. These numbers have declined since July of 2007 to 101 staff members and a budget of roughly $5 million. The pandemic played a large role in staff retention and state contracts have resulted in the nonprofit remaining stagnant in terms of raising the dollar amount.
“Finding nonprofit funds for mental health is a challenge always,” said Cantada, “but coming out of COVID people were giving more funds to medical facilities and rightfully so at the time.”
The MHCP is open to any type of monetary donation and gifting. The programs need materials like crayons, paper, and board games that people may find intact when cleaning out their attics. Attending or volunteering to help at events is another great way to support the agency. Visit the website mhcp.org for more details.
Clifton Schools’ therapy dog Chewie.
Clifton Schools welcomes Kobe and Teddy.
Santiago sees a need to support local nonprofits as well, which is why she works for the agency that provided her with stability and guidance. She went through their after-school services when she was in second grade onward.
Fast forward to her senior year of high school, she was a teen mom who found support in the Baby Steps Program. Her son turns 9 this month.
Paula Raygoza and Jessica Tremble.
“That [program] was so helpful in ways that I cannot describe. Childcare is very expensive,” said Santiago. “I wasn’t so much feeling upset but was lost in a way as a teen and as a new parent. I was missing out on so much.”
“Baby Steps really helped me through that,” she continued. “They provide counseling for new moms, which was so helpful.”
A big game changer were the connections that Santiago made along the way. She recalled how Cantada encouraged her that when she graduated, Santiago should tell her so they could work together.
“And that’s exactly what I did,” said Santiago. “After high school, I came and asked if there was still a job available.”
Santiago started working in MHCP’s summer program in 2016. In 2018, she transitioned over to the Van Houten Avenue location and works with children ages 2.5 to 6. The daily structure gives the group a chance to do a community meeting, where they sit and discuss a specific topic. The children — based on their age group — may discuss how to be angry safely, transition into new school years, or establish a baby routine.
Working with and supporting children felt like a nobrainer.
“I’m just a people person. I’m very open-minded,” said Santiago. “I have a genuine heart. I like helping people. I think that’s always been me as a person.” To which Cantada confirmed: “That has always been you as a person.”
Santiago hopes the MHCP continues growing as a clinic and that people take that first step for themselves or their loved one in terms of seeking any needed mental health support. Speaking about these needs wasn’t something that she experienced as a young girl.
“At least in my Hispanic household, mental health wasn’t … something that we were taught or something that was spoken about ever,” said Santiago. “Later, I under-
stood why my mom was maybe going through a hard time. Maybe she was depressed or [experiencing] anxiety. These services provided clarity.”
If you or someone you know needs support, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline provides free and confidential emotional support, 24/7. Call or text 988. Chat online by visiting 988lifeline.org.
What Else is New in Clifton …?
Reaching almost 12,000 students is an ever-moving target, but Jessica Tremble sees Clifton Public Schools’ ongoing efforts to meet childrens’ needs on every age level.
Tremble, 40, came to Clifton in 2011 as an elementary school counselor. She was based out of School 5 and worked in multiple schools before moving to CCMS in 2017. Tremble became the Supervisor of Counseling and Student Services, K-8 in June of 2018.
“I do receive all the referrals for social workers, behaviorists, and counseling referrals,” said Tremble. “Compared to last year, there has been an increase in social worker referrals but a decrease in suicidal ideation … or decrease in any time a student may need to be evaluated.”
Tremble is hopeful that the increase of support in Clifton Schools post-COVID and more recently continue to bring down the number of students needing to be referred for external services. She is also hopeful that the district’s mental health initiatives provide a source of comfort.
Last year, Tremble and CHS’ Supervisor of Counseling Jennifer Bergmann led counselors in organizing initiatives throughout the district’s schools that provided age-appropriate mental health wellness programming. The Clifton Education Foundation — a nonprofit, tax-exempt community organization, independent of the Board of Education — secured a grant from the McCutchen Foundation to help fund a couple of initiatives.
The first initiative, In Their Shoes, was presented by Attitudes In Reverse for CHS sophomores and showcased 300 pairs of shoes. The program represented New Jersey youth who have lost hope and ended their lives by suicide and included shoes and notes of encouragement from a number of celebrities who struggled with mental health issues or supported their loved ones.
Attitudes In Reverse also presented a program, Coming Up for Air, in the middle schools. Tricia Baker, a
mother affected by suicide, led the program that focused on having honest discussions with students about mental health disorders and their statistics, stigma, and the signs of suicidal ideation.
“As much as talking about suicidal ideation and being aware of a classmate or friend’s mental health and who to talk to if you … need help are heavy topics, the overall response has been huge,” said Tremble. “At the end of both presentations, students filled out a short questionnaire … that opened the conversation about being mindful of mental health and reducing the stigma.”
Mindfulness Programming
In mid-August, Tremble mentioned there was a potential for adding three social workers on the preschool level to help support the education transitions of younger students. Across the district, there are: 19 elementary school counselors and one elementary Student Assistance Counselor, six total middle school counselors and four total SAC counselors, and there are 14 high school counselors and three SAC counselors.
There are three social workers (two focusing on K-8, one focusing on CHS) and one districtwide behaviorist (separate from Special Education) within the counseling department.
Another change coming in September is the addition of two new furry friends, Teddy and Kobe. The goldendoodles will join existing therapy dog Chewie in providing support to Clifton Schools and specific classrooms across the district. Tremble, Assistant Superintendent Mark Gengaro, and Project Coordinator/Professional Developer – PBSIS Paula Raygoza will handle the dogs.
Chewie was welcomed to the district in September of 2023 to positive feedback.
“Whether he’s attending an event, part of a classroom lesson, or part of a therapeutic session, Chewie definitely has made a huge impact,” said Tremble. “For students struggling in different areas, having a companion and a calming presence while sharing what they’re going through has been tremendous.”
Helping students to navigate the emotions and anxieties that we encounter in our daily lives is no small feat. But the results are there.
“Being in school since COVID, we have incorporated wellness days into the district,” said Tremble. “We have Mindful Mondays, where counselors get on the loudspeakers or send activities to the teachers to play with students.”
“[The classrooms] go over mindfulness breathing techniques,” continued Tremble, “and students are able to build a toolbox of skills to help self-regulate. Mindful Mondays have been huge on all grade levels.”
The Clifton Health Department has helped make that effort successful. While current research indicates that 1 in every 4 children currently live with anxiety, there are proven practices to get children to a more secure place. It includes practices like mindful breathing, increasing positive emotions, focus, memory, attention, and compassion, while decreasing stress and any negative emotions.
Clifton’s Mindfulness for Kids Program originated in August of 2023 when Health Department Social Worker Tom Sadowski and Social Service Assistant Erika Shyroky met with Tremble. Mindful Mondays are interactive and fun ways for students to learn how to calmly handle stressful situations.
The first Mindfulness for Kids Program class started last September in School 17. Sadowski and Shyroky taught it to four 3rd grade classes, a total of 78
Clifton Health Mindfullness team from left: Nate King, Erika Shyroky, Ashley Peralta, Kim Finkler, Tom Sadowski. Missing: Danielle Jones.
students. “The excitement and interest could be seen from the very start,” said Sadowski. “The first class … allowed students to talk about what causes them stress in their lives and what they currently do to handle them.”
During the 2023-24 academic year, the Health Department taught a total of 525 third grade students in Schools 1, 5, 8, 9, 11, and 17. Other instructors include Health Educators Danielle Jones and Kim Finkler, Infectious Disease Preparedness Generalist Ashley Peralta, and Local Health Outreach Coordinator Crystal Rodriguez. Sadowski made sure that every student knew to listen to others respectfully and that the space was judgment free.
“It’s important to create a safe space in the classroom where all students feel comfortable and safe speaking about their anxieties,” said Sadowski.
For Clifton Schools resources, visit clifton.k12.nj.us/ domain/2244. • Tremble (K-8 services): 973-470-5697 or JTremble@Cliftonschools.net. • Bergmann (9-12 ser-
vices): 973-470-2324 or JBergmann@Cliftonschools.net. Clifton Police Juvenile Division handles child runaways, cyberbullying, and harassment awareness. Report incidents through the Patrol Division: 973-470-5762. Clifton Against Substance Abuse provides alcohol and drug prevention resources and education. • 862-686-3112 • Email: twhittles@yahoo.com.
A lot goes on behind the scenes to keep Clifton Public School working well. The Building and Grounds Maintenance team works year round, keeping 23 buildings, multiple sports fields, and the classic Clifton Stadium ship shape. “Our main goal is to continuously and consistently make our district the best it can be,” said Supervisor Maurice (Mo) Capaci, CEFM. “Our team focuses on beautifying both inside and out of the buildings, and more importantly, we are dedicated to making the district a safe environment for students, staff, and community.”
The BOE behind-the-scenes Maintenance team from front left: David Reeves, Javier Obregon, Stefano Alberga, Maurice (Mo) Capaci, Edvard Rakitin, Cordero Law. Second row: Flavio Jimenez, George Balkjy, Eddie Maldonado Jr, George Grosz, Ramon Ribot, Andrew Diekhaus. Rear left: Emilio Vega, Oligert Macolli, Leonard Romano, George Adorno, Aladdin Karce,Gaston Orlando, Daniel Kasten, Michael Klingler.
From The Club
Nicholas Martini Aquatics Center
By Ariana Puzzo
Great swimmers start at The Boys & Girls Club of Clifton — and they strengthen their strokes in The Nicholas Martini Aquatics Center.
The Club’s 25th anniversary celebration of the Aquatics Center is Sept. 13 from 6-7:30 pm at 822 Clifton Ave. The public is invited to register and attend the free event celebrating 25 years of swimming success in The Club. Register at bgcclifton.org by selecting “Happenings” under the “Events” navigation. But recognition starts with acknowledging the name behind the Aquatics Center and, in turn, the man behind the name: Nicholas Martini.
“The Nicholas Martini Foundation are wonderful partners [of the Boys & Girls Club],” said BGCC CEO Gabriel Blau. “They feel wonderfully connected and protective of the Aquatics Center. And that’s just a tremendous gift.”
“That’s why, after 25 years, we’re so excited to rededicate the pool,” he continued. “Members of the Martini family and the Foundation will be there.”
Constant Use
Throughout a life of extraordinary accomplishment, Nicholas remained steadfast to his heritage, his community, and his profession. The Nicholas Martini Foundation is one of the legacies that he created to continue that tradition of service to the community.
Established in 1986, The Nicholas Martini Foundation is dedicated to supporting programs in the fields of youth and education, public health and welfare, community development, and arts and humanities. The Foundation supports programs in New Jersey, New York, and Washington, DC, as well as a few international locations.
Nicholas Martini and his nephew Bill. At right, a look back to Feb. 1998 as construction of the Nicholas Martini Aquatic Center was underway.
One ongoing beneficiary for nearly three decades is William Paterson University. The university held a ribbon-cutting and naming ceremony on Feb. 7, 2023 for the Martini Family Electronic Resource Center in the David and Lorraine Cheng Library on campus, in recognition of a generous gift from the Nicholas Martini Foundation.
After Nicholas’s death in 1991, his nephew William J. Martini assumed the Foundation’s role of president. William is a U.S. District Judge for the District of New Jersey, a former Congressman representing New Jersey’s Eighth District in the U.S. House of Representatives, and a former member of Clifton’s City Council from 1990 to 1994.
That familial philanthropic spirit has benefitted generations of Clifton swimmers. Retired BGCC Executive Director Robert Foster acknowledged the Foundation’s role in making a community pool for The Club a reality.
“Bill and Gloria always had an affinity for swimming,” recalled Foster, also referencing long-time Club Trustee Gloria Martini. “When we were designing the pool … Bill was right there and very much involved. He donated the actual pool itself.”
The cost of the pool amounted to $350,000 in the 90’s. Foster noted that from their campaign to raise funds in 1992 until they unveiled the new addition in September of 1999, The Club and the community behind it raised almost $5.1 million.
From The Club
The pool’s first year saw them provide roughly 800 learn-to-swim lessons. In the past year, the same program gave about 4,000 lesson sessions, with eight lessons per session. The 33-meter pool also offers Mom-N-Tot classes for children six months to four years and their parent, water exercise classes, adult lap swim times, and a space for a competitive swim team.
“The pool is constantly in use,” said Blau in a separate conversation. “The team is so amazing. The program is so good. If we could build another pool, it would be unreal. It would have a full calendar, too.”
Among those present at a recent William Paterson ribbon-cutting ceremony were Bill Martini, daughter Marissa Martini-Cyprys, and son William
Gloria, who will attend the anniversary celebration next month, is proud to see how the pool has contributed to its community.
“I think it’s one of the centerpieces of The Club. That has made me proud,” said Gloria. “Serving on the Board, I’m in contact and aware of what’s going on at the pool … and I’m so pleased at the way they’ve maintained and used the pool and made it accessible to so many children and adults.”
Which, again, underscores what Nicholas valued most: community.
“The Club was a little over 20,000 sq-ft and it went to 95,000 sq-ft,” said Foster. “I always said, ‘We build as they come’, and it’s worked out great for the community.”
Ongoing Support
Born in Paterson in 1904 to Italian immigrant parents, Nicholas was thrust into a world of clashing cultures and dynamic social and political change.
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From The Club
The family moved to Passaic, but Nicholas was fortunate to avoid the arduous life of a laborer. He seized the opportunity the American educational system offered him and excelled in school. Holding his education and law degree, Nicholas was called to public service.
Nicholas was elected a Commissioner of Passaic in 1935. He served five consecutive terms and, in 1943, was selected by his colleagues to become Mayor. Nicholas was elected to two terms on the Passaic County Freeholder Board in 1937 and 1940.
The Club’s Aquatics Center offers a similar opportunity for its youth. It boils down to one word: greatness.
From its different programs over the years — at one time, including scuba diving — to having a former Olym-
pian Aquatics Director in Nadia Stavko, who has spent all 25 years with the Center, there’s no mistaking its legacy.
“The Club is definitely teaching a lot of kids how to swim,” said Foster. “We built the program to what it is today.”
The Club had additional support. Stew Leonard’s and the Michael Phelps Foundation are two organizations that have allowed The Club to offer swim lessons to its youngest members and ensure that swim lessons remain accessible.
Stew Leonard’s, now in Styeretowne Shopping Center, has a deeply personal connection to water safety following the death of son Stewie in a drowning accident in 1989. Ever since, the family has striven to prevent other families from experiencing the same tragedy through its philanthropy and by starting the Stew Leonard III Water Safety Foundation. The Foundation has written two books and raised $6 million for water safety awareness.
The National Center for Biotechnology Information found in a 2009 study that participation in formal swimming lessons was associated with approximately an 88% reduction in the risk of drowning in the 1- to 4-year-old children.
“[The organizations] make donations
The Boys & Girls Club’s Aquatics leaders: Nadia Stavko, Scott Nerotto and Anna Abakumova.
every year to offset the cost of providing lessons. They’re really great partners. We love them,” said Blau. “They get what it means and are mission-driven. It’s wonderful when the people who support you really deeply understand what you do.”
Support for The Club as a whole also goes a long way. The Club’s Board Vice President John Fette and his family are integral to The Club as a primary sponsor for its annual Auto Show. In November of 2020, Fette and wife Kristin also offered a one-time $50,000 gift to The Club and inspired the community to match it.
The community also comes together for fundraising events like Taste of Clifton and the Annual Gala that celebrates the accomplishments and honors the community members who’ve helped make The Club what we see today.
“All these efforts come together to enable us to do what we do every day,” said Blau. “We reach all kinds of people while raising money and awareness of work that we do with 6,000 kids every year.” To make a contribution, visit bgcclifton.org/donate.
Community Cornerstone
The pool’s rededication celebrates not only tens of thousands of lessons but what has become one of the greatest youth development aquatics programs in the country.
“The Nicholas Martini Aquatics Center at The Club has become such a central part of so many people’s lives and a central part of Clifton,” said Blau. “The most incredible part of that is this is a program with everything from kids learning to swim to joining the Seahawks.”
“And on that team,” continued Blau, “we have kids who go on to swim Division I in college or make the Olympic qualifiers.”
There are about 105 Seahawks to date who swim on different levels with specific specialities and for specific events. They host and attend swim meets regularly — attending big ones like the National Boys & Girls Club meet in Florida each spring and hosting the wintertime Agathe Marten Memorial Meet.
“Agathe was a big supporter of The Club and so we named our big winter meet after her,” said Blau. “As many as 600 to 700 kids come from all over to compete.”
It’s not all about competitions or practicing to become a professional swimmer.
Blau explained that the Aquatics Center and its instructors teach kids the skills, as well as how to become the most productive, ethical members of society. Stavko, who remains at the helm as the Aquatics Director, is joined by long-time Seahawks coach Anna Abakumova and the Aquatics Program Coordinator Scott Nerotto.
Although staff numbers fluctuate throughout a given year and are partly seasonal, Blau said last month that there are about 47 in the Aquatics Center. Many of them are Club kids who came up through the same program that they support as adults. In some cases, former Club kids say that the Aquatics program helped them
From The Club
navigate the tough patches in life and provided meaningful and deep, lasting friendships.
Seeing that, at the end of the day, has meant the most to William Martini and his family.
“We were very thrilled to be a part of the [construction of the] Aquatics Center,” said William. “We have observed the growth and the overall enjoyment that it has provided for children in Clifton. It’s been such an important part of the community for young people.”
Which motivates everyone at The Club, especially Blau, to keep the pool in good shape as one of the largest pools in the state. Even Club kids get involved in its maintenance.
“I was giving a tour the other day to someone from another Club where there is also a very great Aquatics program, and he made a comment about our ‘new pool,’” said Blau. “That is how good it looks. He was shocked when I told him this is the original pool from 25 years ago.”
When you come to the Street Fair, celebrate the life of our sister, aunt and street fair organizer Valerie Grabowski, who passed on May 28. We dedicate this year’s event to Valerie’s vision, positivity and memory.
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Meet the candidates who are running to serve Clifton and Passaic County.
On the following pages, meet 16 of the 17 candidates and learn more about their backgrounds and plans. Note that despite numerous calls and emails, incumbent Passaic County Commissioner Nicolino Gallo did not respond to requests for an interview. Our coverage begins with five BOE candidates, from whom three will be elected to the nine-member board for a three-year term.
By Ariana Puzzo
BOARD OF ED CANDIDATES
Cameron Hebron – Newcomer
Respecting students and their families is a top priority for Cameron Hebron — and that means making sure that families have access to all the available resources.
“I know the district provides a lot of [these resources] already, but it requires providing a more personal touch on some of these matters,” said Hebron, 27. “It involves speaking with parents, forming cohorts, and making sure that everyone is on the same page when it comes to topics like mental illness, disabilities, and LGBTQ+ awareness.”
“A lot of issues persist in families for generations,” he continued, “and we’re now finding the language for it.”
That language starts at the top. Hebron (CHS 2015), who placed seventh in the 2023 Board of Education election, emphasized the importance of making sure that students who may not be college-bound get the support that they need.
The support could look like financial literacy or business management classes and bringing trades back into the schools. It’s also about ensuring that guidance counselors support their advisee’s endeavors.
“My high school guidance counselor wasn’t the most supportive of my school choices, but I got into many of the schools that she said I wouldn’t get into,” said Hebron. “It’s about making sure counselors and staff at CHS are experienced and — even if they may not believe it themselves — making sure they are supportive of these students.”
Hebron pursued a public health degree and career in New Orleans after high school. He works today as a patient outreach specialist at Rhythm Management Group in
Brooklyn. The Richfield resident is clear in his belief that Clifton could become a “framework for the rest of the country.”
It starts for him by acknowledging that we “have a pretty walkable community” and that it lends itself to creating new transportation options and greener transportation. These options, he said, will directly affect students who, like he did, walk daily to school.
“We could really set a precedent … in terms of green transportation, commuting pathways, and public transportation,” he said. “Really just ensuring that kids don’t wander off onto highways or train tracks or other routes just because it’s quicker.”
Since 2023, Hebron has joined the Clifton Advisory Committee on Civil Rights, Clifton Against Substance Abuse, and the United Puerto Rican Council. He stresses that tackling the difficult issues means developing interpersonal communication with parents, especially upset parents, and making sure that they’re not judged for their beliefs.
It means leading with compassion and assisting parents so that they are equipped to answer “questions for themselves” as well. Which led to Hebron touching upon one change that he’d like to see in the district.
“Finding out that the district and state measures English learning through a ‘literacy green card’ feels very deliberate and pretty inappropriate for a state that likes to tokenize its diversity,” said Hebron. “Something small like calling it a ‘literacy passport’ or ‘punch card’ would probably help kids and families feel less alienated by the district and promote prosocial behavior, like being culturally competent.”
Cameron Hebron and Alias Ragsdale.
Alias Ragsdale – Newcomer
He’s young. He doesn’t pay property tax. Some of his opponents have decades of experience to their names. Alias Ragsdale knows the concerns, but the CHS Class of 2024 grad further knows what he can offer the Board of Ed.
“It’s a new time with new issues, and with that comes new voices and new leadership,” said Ragsdale, 18. “It’s time for a new, fresh voice for a new Clifton.”
This November, Ragsdale could make history as the youngest person to win a seat on the Board. Commissioner Richard Mejia (CHS 2018) currently fits that description after taking his oath of service at age 23 on Jan. 5, 2023.
Ragsdale believes the shift in who’s at the table is a positive one. One reflecting a “demographic shift, population shift, and a shift in the issues in our city.”
He added these factors contribute to the school system and he brings a unique experience to the ballot. Namely, the other alums who appear on the ballot graduated prior to the April 2021 Clifton Public School Bond Referendum and implementation of the 1:1 Chromebook initiative.
“Who better to make decisions for the school system than someone who just experienced the system itself?” Ragsdale acknowledged.
Ragsdale has served on the Action Clifton Committee, organized by the City Council, and was the Clifton Student Union president for three years at CHS. His other extracurriculars included Student Council, Track & Field, and Superintendent Ambassador. He has volunteered as a lifelong member of The Boys & Girls Club and worked with Clifton Against Substance Abuse.
And he’s already seen the inner workings of his community. He has attended Board meetings for the past three years, which have given him opportunities to learn about the budget process and introducing policies. When he and the Track team sought to name their track after Coach John Pontes, he discovered there wasn’t a district policy for namings.
“I have taken an active role without being on the Board, whether it’s speaking at meetings or getting involved in these processes,” he said. “Now as a graduate, I feel
like I can advocate better on that kind of level.”
Some of the issues discussed include last year’s focus on Policy 5756, offering guidance and protections for transgender students, and the growing number of students who attend charter schools. To the first issue — he acknowledged that the policy is state-mandated and he does not support getting into litigation due to what it would cost the district.
“If anyone is in disagreement [with this policy],” he added, “I encourage them to contact their state representative and tell them what they think.”
As for losing students to other schools, Ragsdale proposes a path forward that he noted would be “something to work through” in order to achieve it in a fiscally responsible manner.
“People are under the impression … that chil-
dren can get a better education at a charter school or at PCTI,” he said. “If we can get industrial arts and trades back into the schools … not only would students stay in Clifton, but it would benefit students who aren’t academically focused.”
Alan Paris – Incumbent
Alan Paris recognizes the importance of a strong support structure in order to meet the needs of every student.
BOARD OF ED CANDIDATES
“That’s our job,” said Paris, 65. “To make sure every student has the tools and resources they need to succeed.”
Paris is among the three incumbents whose seats are available in November. Recognizable to many by his roots with the Clifton Mustang Marching Band and the Community Band, he ran in 2021 with the slogan: “Clifton Education Excellence.” He focused on infrastructure, security, and maintaining a strong curriculum and extracurriculars.
Paris stated that the views in his profile were made in his capacity as a private citizen, not as a Board member, and solely represent his own personal opinions, not those of the Board or any individual members.
“Since I have started on the Board, we have approved and created close to 40 School Security Specialist positions,” said Paris. “These are non-law enforcement positions but are people who are trained in school security and the needs of students [district-wide].”
He cited the expansion of extracurriculars, stating how the Board is receptive to new proposals and exhibited that open-mindedness through the creation of the new Beekeeping Club at CHS. Other sources of pride were strengthening the Student Liaison Committee, the near-completion of the Bond Referendum upgrades, and the strides taken to support multi-language learners.
“Since 2021, our multi-language learners population has more than doubled from 614 students to now having over 1,334. The number changes daily,” said Paris (CHS 1977), “but there is an increase in demand year-after-year for these students.”
Over 40 languages are spoken at home in the district. In 2023, he noted that Clifton added a Ukrainian bilingual teacher and the district received more than 50 Ukrainian refugees. Along with many students experiencing learn-
ing losses due to the coronavirus pandemic, there is another component.
“Others traveled a traumatic route to find their homes here in Clifton,” said Paris. “Some come with a lot of special needs or mental health issues that we need to address.”
One of Paris’ focuses if reelected is continuing to combat learning losses disproportionately affecting elementary-aged students. From 2022-24, the federal government allocated $4.7 million in Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) to Clifton for the remediation of learning loss over three years.
The funding ended this month. Paris emphasized if the Board didn’t incorporate the programs into the instructional budget for the 2024-25 academic year, resources like summer help and additional tutoring would disappear. The cost is $1.5 million per year.
Paris is a lifelong resident who lives in Allwood with his wife, Karen (CHS 1976). Karen teaches French at CCMS. The couple’s daughter, Alaina Paris-Garcia (CHS 2004), is a Media Specialist at School 2.
The incumbent’s background is in Biology and he retired in June of 2021 as Director of Applied Microscopy for Leica Microsystems. Although not practicing, he is a New Jersey state certified K-12 teacher of science.
“I just ask that [the voters] continue to enable us to improve and grow our school system for them,” said Paris, “and allow me the privilege to do it for another three years.”
Judith Bassford – Incumbent
Judith Bassford is seeking a fifth term for one simple reason.
“I care about Clifton,” she said. Bassford, who has served on the BOE for 13 years, stated that the following views were made in her capacity as a private citizen, not as a Board member, and solely represent her own personal opinions, not those of the Board or any individual members.
Tackling a teacher shortage is Bassford’s ongoing priority. She wants to focus on staff retention and compensation, with focus given to special education paraprofessionals. A separate concern is the “overbuilding of residential units” in Clifton.
Alan Paris and Judith Bassford.
BOARD OF ED CANDIDATES
“We are bursting at the seams because of these one-bedroom resident units that are not only going to house a husband and wife but children,” said Bassford, 64. “I am worried about ON3. Where it’s placed, it will probably impact Schools 9 and 8.”
Bassford noted that just because a family is located in one neighborhood, it doesn’t mean that’s the only area potentially affected.
“If kids require accommodations that their home school doesn’t accommodate, we have to bus them to a different school,” said Bassford. “It means bringing their population numbers up. It’s across the board.”
But Bassford fully believes in her and her colleagues’ abilities. The nine-member, elected body is a certified Board and has met their mandatory training compliance requirements and received their certification. She added that the Board and Superintendent Danny Robertozzi ensured the state re-did Clifton’s policy manual so they are “in good shape.”
“When you don’t have a Board that gets along, things don’t get done,” said Bassford. “We come to the table with diverse backgrounds. When you put us all together, we become one solid unit.”
That unity doesn’t mean they don’t hold individual opinions on major topics or decision-making. This past May, the 2024-25 school budget was approved with a 4% increase, or about $16 per month for the average assessed home in Clifton.
Although the district’s budget makes up less than 48% of the total tax bill — and Clifton has one of the lowest school tax rates in the county — some Board members advocated for tax caps and others who voted to approve the budget advocated for a more modest rise.
The maximum increase that the Board can institute annually is 2% without seeking approval for a higher increase on a referendum. In this case, years of 0% increases saw the Board bank the unused increases that they needed to use before they lost them.
“I’ve been through 0% budget increases, half a percent, and 1 and 2%,” said Bassford. “In the last two years, the administration gave us a deep dive into the budget and indepth view of the needs of the district.”
Bassford voted “Yes” to approve the budget and said she experienced mixed feelings. After the Board’s executive session and listening to the Finance Committee, she
believed that there was no choice other than to support the 4% increase.
“I know people get angry that I voted for it, but based on what I was told, know, and experienced over 13 years, I had to vote ‘Yes’ to move forward, because in the past 13 years, we weren’t fair with budgets and the percentages put out.”
She added that the Board should have “increased moderately all those years”, even by half a percent. The approved budget, she said, will provide salary increases for teachers so that the district doesn’t lose “seasoned veterans.”
“I think we failed in previous years, and shame on me for not knowing to ask certain questions,” said Bassford. “But I’ve done my homework and found out what I need to ask [in the future].”
Bassford has been a city resident since 1985. She and her husband, Keith, live in Albion. The couple have two children, Samantha (CHS 2008) and Keith (CHS 2014).
Lucy Danny – Incumbent
Creating an open dialogue between the Board and the district’s students is a long-time priority of Lucy Danny’s. It started early in her first term on the BOE after she joined the dais 13 years ago.
“I was the individual who proposed the idea of a student representative to the Board … which, at that time, was not very popular,” said Danny. “Many of the concerns as to whether they would sit on the dais and how involved they would be [arose].”
Student representatives are now required for school boards and the Student Liaison Committee in Clifton is a welcome avenue. Danny said that it gives the Board an opportunity to explain why some proposals put forth by students aren’t possible due to logistics and it’s a reminder of their responsibility to a district of over 11,000 students.
“As a teacher, I could never say, ‘Well [a liaison is] not useful, it’s not good.’ It’s very important to hear what students are thinking. What they feel is working and what isn’t,” she said. “There are so many more students than staff and Board members.”
“Students are the whole reason for us and the staff being there,” Danny added.
The Dutch Hill resident earned a doctorate in Educational Leadership from St. Peter’s University and
Lucy Danny.
BOARD OF ED CANDIDATES
has worked as an educator for over 20 years in Paramus. She’s been an adjunct instructor at Syracuse University for 15 years.
A Fullbright scholar, Danny currently serves as Vice President on the BOE. She is the mother of Tara (Danny) Candelario (CHS 2007). Seeking a fifth term on the Board means narrowing in on the key issues: security, retaining teachers, and students’ social and emotional needs.
The district’s April 2021 referendum made significant upgrades that Danny supported.
“The environment of a school does affect the learning,” she said. “If students are not secure in schools, it really affects the way that the community feels.”
Addressing the social-emotional component has included bringing in therapy dogs and adding more school counselor positions within the school’s budget. Extra funding has also allowed for tutorial programs, which Danny sees as helping to bridge a pandemic-resultant gap.
“I still think it’s important as a Board to lobby and speak to legislators,” said Danny. “I’ve been on the Legislative Committee and had the chance to lobby for the importance of funding to make sure programs we have or can offer to help students … continue to [exist].”
Despite a decrease in funding and aforementioned
teacher shortages, Danny believes that she is poised to understand the challenges that teachers face.
“I’m in the classroom,” she said. “When I spoke to legislators, some of the ways they look to address the shortages is by changing the requirements of teaching education programs.” She adds, “I [would] like to continue to provide my insight in terms of what might be helpful.”
When it comes to the 2024-25 academic year’s budget, she explained that the 4% increase comes on the heels of 0% increases from 2019-22.
“If we didn’t use [what we banked], we’d lose it,” said Danny. “For me, because of everything the administration was asking for … [the extra] 2% would allow for additional staffing.”
That includes behaviorists, counselors, bilingual teachers, and support to meet the needs of the special education student population.
“Was [voting ‘Yes’] totally easy? No,” said Danny. “I felt it was necessary for the district in terms of what we had come off of from the pandemic.”
Through New Jersey School Boards, Danny has taken educational workshops and an exam that led to her becoming certified as a certified board member and, in the past year, a master board member and certified board leader.
From the four candidates, one will be elected to serve out the seat on the seven-member Clifton council until the four-year term’s completion in 2026.
Chris D’Amato
Councilman Chris D’Amato has four goals for Clifton: improve citywide communication, increase transparency, address the quality of life, and uplift the next generation of leaders.
The first step is connecting with as many residents as possible.
“The traditional wisdom is: ‘Don’t go for the youth, because they don’t show up on Election Day,’ but that doesn’t stop me,” said D’Amato, 37. “I was also told not to campaign in certain parts of the city, but that didn’t stop me from hitting every single neighborhood multiple times.”
Following Councilwoman Lauren Murphy’s passing on Jan. 13, just one year into her third term, the Council unanimously voted in February to appoint the 2022 election’s eighth place finisher D’Amato to temporarily fill the vacancy.
D’Amato and his wife, Lily, moved to Clifton in 2019. He studied Drama at Hofstra University and has 15 years of experience in media and communication. The couple have a son, Sal, who was about 8 weeks old in early August.
The unexpected appointment meant that D’Amato’s new personal and professional roles have required him to hit the ground running.
“It was a massive life change,” he said, candidly. “I got back into a different rhythm of life after the campaign and then tragedy struck. In the month between when [Councilwoman Murphy] passed and they appointed the seat, I thought, ‘If my name were to come up in a nomination, am I able to do this right now?’”
He was — but he wanted to stand on certain principles. D’Amato’s interests lay in Council meeting agendas, not personal agendas. Acclimating to the position meant “observing the rules of order” and “treating people with respect”, which he said he’s received in turn.
“I think all of my colleagues at least appreciate that I’m trying to be fair and think for myself,” he said. “I’m not … siding with a particular voting block. I’m open-minded
and don’t come into meetings with my mind made up.”
The budget process was eyeopening. In early July, there was talk that the Council may face a potential credit rating downgrade due to using notable savings to cover costs instead of saving more funds for emergencies. After doing his research and asking questions, D’Amato said he’s prepared to be more proactive.
“There are a lot of difficult things I learned by being part of the municipal process that I didn’t understand from the outside,” he said. “It’s not just looking at contracts and reviewing every purchase order.”
“Obviously our taxes went up this year in the budget to just maintain what we have,” added D’Amato. “They may increase 2 to 3% every year just to keep the status quo. That’s a very inconvenient fact for me. But to stick to exactly what we have, taxes have to go up because costs of materials and goods go up, insurances go up, and nothing ever goes down.”
Richard Mejia
Before Richard Mejia pulled petitions, he said one thing to himself: Si Dios quiere. In other words, “God willing.”
“At first, I didn’t want to run. It was more so an epiphany that came over me,” said Mejia, 24.
Mejia, who in 2022 became the youngest elected member to the Board of Education, has just over one year remaining on his first term. A factor in his decision to run for the Council is what he said he’s heard from others who support his work as a Board member.
Of course, some people have wondered if now is the right time.
“That’s a question that I’ve been asked here and there. Not a lot have asked me it in person, which I’m quite surprised at, but I’ve pondered the same exact scenario,” he said. “I said to myself, ‘I’ll give it a shot. If it doesn’t work out, it doesn’t work out.’” Mejia, who spoke only for himself and not on behalf of the BOE, picked up peti-
Chris D’Amato and Richard Mejia.
tions within the first two weeks of July. The Botany native ran his ’22 Board campaign on the assurance of “Equality, Transparency, Representation”, and he wants to maintain that same momentum. It means being visible in the community, like visiting his alma mater School 17 for Dr. Seuss Day.
“[The second graders] all start yelling, ‘Oh, my God. It’s Mr, Mejia. We know Mr. Mejia,’” said Mejia (CHS 2018). “I never had a moment like that in second grade where someone I knew stood on that dais and came down to our schools to see us. I was just there to read, but the experience makes you feel good.”
Transparency relates to different areas — from newlyelected officials having all the information that they need to govern in a timely fashion to everyone understanding how certain projects will affect the overall quality of life. Mejia was glad to discuss the ON3 redevelopment of the former Hoffmann-La Roche property.
“Something a lot of people didn’t know about, but a lot are worried about, is how that’s a lot of apartments,” Mejia said of developer Prism Capital Partners proposing 1,087 units.
Silva.
“When I attended Clifton, it was extremely overcrowded. We don’t have another empty school to possibly hold students in,” he added. “We don’t have enough officers or emergency responders for them.”
Top priorities for Mejia include finding grants, investing in modern stormwater drainage systems, and promoting green infrastructure.
“One of the biggest things is definitely contacting our congressman and saying, ‘These are the issues. I see you’ve helped other cities around us with the same issue — can you help address this, please?’” said Mejia.
Mejia holds two degrees from Felician University — a bachelor’s in Business Administration and an MBA in Innovation and Entrepreneurial Leadership. He works in higher education leadership.
Edward Nunez
Edward Nunez is proud to say that he’s a “regular guy”, not a politician. Nunez, 48, has lived locally for about 16 or so years and is a Clifton homeowner for the past five years. He and his wife, Angela, have raised sons Renee,
Edward Nunez and George
CITY COUNCIL - SPECIAL ELECTION
25, and Xavier, 16, in town. Renee is a PCTI Class of 2017 grad and Xavier is entering his junior year at CHS.
Nunez is concerned about the way municipal leadership represents our city. “The council is not gelling,” said Nunez. “I think they are all great individually, but it is becoming a problem when they’re arguing amongst each other. That represents us.”
Another concern is the difficulties that he’s heard from individuals who are trying to open up a business in town. In 2023, he said he spoke with a woman who tried to open a restaurant in Clifton and went through the process of securing a location, going to City Hall, and opening the permits.
“She saved her money by waitressing and saved $30,000. Her American Dream was to open a restaurant and she chose Clifton,” said Nunez. “It took [the city], for whatever reason, eight months to tell her that she can’t put a restaurant there because it’s not slated for a restaurant.”
“What happened was she put a down payment on the lease, spent money on construction, and was told in eight months what she could have been told in five minutes,” he continued. “It would have saved her a lot of money and time. She lost her $30,000 and was so devastated that she left Clifton.”
Nunez is the owner and general manager of Pro Auto Brokers in Paramus and he is also a Realtor for eXp Realty since 2003. Through his knowledge of cars, he has proposed that residents spend roughly $20 to buy a transmitter blocker box and blocker pouch to combat the surge in thefts and robberies. Namely, car thefts.
“I was at the podium speaking about it and everybody started buying these things,” said Nunez. “It can’t stop all of [the crime] but, if thieves can’t find the key in your home, they’re not going to steal the car, because they can’t turn it on.”
Nunez emphasized that he’s eager to represent everyone in Clifton. For him, it means taking the time to understand the many cultures and listen to the public’s concerns.
“My actual campaign is called: Solution-Based,” said Nunez. “I come with solutions, I don’t come with complaints I want to unite instead of divide to make Clifton a better town.”
George Silva
George Silva is running to finish what his good friend and mentor Lauren Murphy started. Silva, 74, is committed to advocating for two specific groups that the late councilwoman cared about: the homeless and animals.
“Lauren was just a very caring person and was always trying to help people,” recalled Silva. “That’s what I’m going to try to do.”
A Clifton resident for over three decades, Silva declared that “what you see is what you get” with him. He is a mail carrier for PCTI and was also a Clifton business owner for 20 years. Silva owned Competitive Casket, which was located in the Historic Botany Village. Silva burst on the scene about three decades ago as the co-founder and a trustee for the Historic Botany Village Special Improvement District, a group of volunteer Botany Village residents, business owners and Clifton citizens whose main focus is to revitalize and redevelop the historic district.
He also managed Crib & Teen City in the Pine Brook and Springfield stores, plus previously owned Van Tassel Funeral Home in Bloomfield.
The Iselin native’s involvement for over 30 years in Clifton is what he encourages the voters to consider when selecting a candidate.
He is also a former co-president of the Dutch Hill Residents Association, vice president of Friends of Passaic County Parks, president of the Clifton Cable Committee, and a member of the Action Clifton Committee. He also served as a liaison for former Assemblyman Thomas Giblin and now is liaison to Senator John McKeon.
“I used to go to every Council meeting and for some 25 years, I never missed a budget meeting. I know the parts of the wheel and how [things] work,” said Silva. “Working for Assembly people as a liaison for Clifton will help me get the red tape cut and get things done for Clifton.”
The issues, as he sees them, are clear. One of them is stabilizing taxes, which he notes Clifton as having done, but he added that “sometimes taxes have to go up to keep the city running the way that it’s been running.”
He supports hiring more police officers and re-doing the salary structure to retain them. Seeking grants is one option, but Silva doesn’t see it as a “lifetime” solution. Eventually, he said, the city has to absorb it.
“At one time, Clifton had one of the best police departments of any in the state,” said Silva. “So that’s something we need to get our minds together on and address.”
“I want to try to get things done at Council meetings instead of what’s going on now with the yelling and the screaming,” he said. “The Council doesn’t get along with each other, and that doesn’t help anything. I’m loyal and honest,” Silva added. “I’m in tune with many of the cultures of Clifton. I’m ready to go.”
Rodney De Vore – Democrat
Rodney De Vore is a newcomer seeking a seat on the Board of County Commissioners but, first and foremost, he wants people to vote. Even if it’s not for him.
“Throughout the campaign for the Primary, we had people out there saying, ‘I’m not voting,’” he said. “My response was: ‘Why not?’ … How do you change [things] if you don’t vote? I said to the person, ‘I would love for you to vote for me but, more importantly, I want you to vote. Without voting, you don’t have a voice.”
De Vore, 55, emphasized that if constituents seek evenly distributed two-party representation on the Board, the solution is straightforward. “When you vote,” said De Vore, “people listen to you.”
De Vore’s background attended William Paterson University and for the past 33 years he worked at Passaic County Technical-Vocational Schools. He taught English and History for 17 years and is now the Dean of Students/ Discipline Coordinator. If elected, De Vore said he would recuse himself from decisions related to PCTVS.
The lifelong Paterson resident ran over a decade ago for the Paterson School Board. But his “boots on the ground” experience came during his time working as a community liaison for Assemblywoman Shavonda Sumter.
“What I learned with her is sometimes you just have to listen,” said De Vore. “Ninety percent of the time, people just wanted to be heard.”
Some of De Vore’s biggest takeaways that he brought back to her were concerns about senior services. There were individuals, he added, that weren’t aware of what was coming down from the state for tax rebate, relief, Medicaid, and Medicare.
“That’s why I’m passionate about getting into office and dealing with the senior services, social services, and veteran services,” said De Vore. “Those three services, education, and youth are my platform.”
As for Clifton, De Vore has spent weekends this summer attending events like flag raisings, one held in Botany Village, and he’s attended two meetings in the public li-
brary with city Democrats. The concerns that he’s spoken with residents about range from open space and infrastructure to recreation and park accessibility.
“I appreciate how the county has gotten grants and put money into the parks for lighting and certain equipment,” said De Vore. “I will continue to do that.”
De Vore added that he would also encourage the use of money to maintain and improve shared services. He also looked to the Hamilton House as a shared service and noted an importance in how it is utilized to educate over 5,000 students.“My job as a commissioner includes maintaining and making sure that our youth have the resources available outside, as well as inside, the classroom.”
Cassandra “Sandi” Lazzara – Democrat
Effective county government for incumbent Commissioner Cassandra Lazzara looks like filling positions with qualified individuals. “If you look at the Engineering Department, our engineers are top notch. Our acting Sheriff Gary F. Giardina was the Chief of Police in Clifton,” said Lazzara, 68. “It is all about putting the right people in and they’ll always make you look good, because they know what they’re doing.”
Lazzara is a Paterson native and lifelong county resident who, in 2016, was first elected to the Board of County Commissioners. If elected for a fourth term, the Little Falls resident wants to continue a tradition of Veteran Stand Down. The first event was April 20 at Passaic County Technical-Vocational Schools with access to services like VA healthcare, public benefits, non-profit services, medical screenings, housing, and more.
The dedication and unveiling ceremony for the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall was May 18 as well. The wall honored the over-58,000 lives lost in the Vietnam War, including 83 natives of Passaic County.
“We can’t just ‘talk the talk’, we have to ‘walk the walk,’” said Lazzara. “We can say, ‘Thank you for your service’, but how do we show that?”
Rodney De Vore and Cassandra Lazzara.
Lazzara is the Board’s Deputy Director and is currently the Chair of the Public Works committee and serves on the Administration & Finance and Budget committees. Lazzara emphasized that as the middle layer of government in between the municipalities and the state, the Board brings in the funds so that “we can help the people.”
COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
“Clifton is a big city, and we do a lot with Clifton,” she said. “We deliver about 50,000 meals per year to individuals who are shut-in. For almost 5,000 seniors, we provided paratransit rides for doctors’ appointments.”
“We’ve done a lot of work in Weasel Brook Park,” Lazzara added. “Probably over $2.5 million — with a new spray park, the Vanderhoef-Westervelt House, new basketball courts, and drainage.”
The effort put into the parks is a big source of pride. From 2001 to 2022, over $5.8 million was awarded through the Open Space, Farmland, and Historic Preservation Trust Fund to Clifton. That included: $200,000 for the Stefan Tatarenko Memorial Park Improvements (2022), $75,000 for the former U.S. Animal Quarantine Station, now the Clifton Municipal Complex (2020-21), and $246,600 spread across 2015 to 2018 for City Green Eco-Center.
Lazzara spent over 25 years in education. She holds a bachelor’s in Human Ecology from Montclair State University and an M.Ed. in Administration & Supervision from William Paterson University.
Following in her father Joseph Lazzara’s footsteps — he was a County Freeholder for three terms in the 60’s — Lazzara believes that good government means helping people. “People shouldn’t be afraid of the county government or reluctant to reach out to us,” she said. “It’s not always easy with 520,000 people, but we help any way that we can.”
John Bartlett – Democrat
John Bartlett knows when it comes to infrastructure that Passaic County is where people travel from, to, and through. Along with serving as the Director of the Board of County Commissioners, Bartlett is the Passaic County representative on the North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority. The responsibility entails making sure county destinations — whether the Great Falls or major employ-
ers — are easily accessible. “It’s making the commuting experience one that works, including connectivity from places like Clifton to where people work like New York City, Newark, and Hackensack,” said Bartlett, 52. “We are always looking for opportunities to work with county commissioners within the other counties and the NJTPA to make sure we are doing the best that we can.”
Bartlett received his bachelor’s degree with honors from Brown University and was a Raoul Wallenberg Scholar at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. He was educated at Harvard Law School and is a partner in Murphy Orlando LLC. The Wayne resident is married to Dr. Khyati Y. Joshi and the couple have an adult son.
During his 12 years on the Board, his through line was doing infrastructure work and pursuing federal funds that he could bring into the county, which he hopes to continue for a fifth term. A separate area of focus where Bartlett saw his ability to add “real value” was Census collection.
“In 2019 and 2020, I was making sure we were doing our outreach in five languages and explaining to people the importance of the Census and that it is safe,” he said. “We were working against, at that time, a couple of issues. Including the politics of it.”
The other obstacle was conducting a Census in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic.
“Who would want to answer their door due to the public health issues?” said Bartlett. “With my organizing skills and the other folks and communities that I could bring together, … we achieved the highest self-reporting rate in Passaic County in at least 40 years. I have done efforts like that throughout my career.”
That translates to the work that he said he has achieved with his Board colleagues. Passaic County’s Moody’s Rating for 2024 is Aa1 stable, with a resident income equal to 99.4% of the U.S. median and full value per capita at $109,089.
Bartlett noted in his time on the Board, the county has experienced five credit rating upgrades. Key factors that Moody’s outlines as upgrade possibilities include growth in the available fund balance above 35% of revenue and a sustained decline in long-term liabilities.
John Bartlett and William Cytowicz.
“Over the course of my 12 years, we’ve accumulated a surplus that has helped improve our county’s credit rating, which improves the interest rates that we get when we borrow money,” said Bartlett. “We’ve done that with 0% tax increases in six of the last eight years.”
William Cytowicz – Republican
William Cytowicz’s “pay it forward” mentality is one that he traces back to his mother. Whether leading the Scouts or serving on the West Milford Board of Education, Cytowicz is committed to volunteerism. It’s what he hopes to bring next to the Board of County Commissioners.
“I think there needs to be a greater balance of ideas,” said Cytowicz, 39, about effective county government. “It’s why having a Republican hopefully win in November is hugely important. Having a single-party system one way or the other is a big impediment to greater successes.”
Cytowicz is originally from Staten Island and grew up in West Milford, where he lives today.
He holds degrees from Passaic County Community College — an Associate of Arts in Criminal Justice (2007) and an Applied Associate of Science in Accounting (2019). He earned a Bachelor of Music in Jazz Studies – Vocal Performance (2015) from MSU.
Cytowicz is in his second term on the West Milford Board of Education, first elected in 2016. “I’ve made contacts throughout the county as a student of Passaic County Community College and, for a time, William Paterson,” he said. Cytowicz said he brings a collegial demeanor and is willing to roll up his sleeves to ensure “there’s a team effort” when it comes to accomplishing tasks. One of those tasks includes cleaning up voter rolls.
“I believe a legislative portion of the commissioner’s role is to ensure there is a program to set up a time period between ensuring voter rolls are 100% clean and unifying towns in that effort,” he said. “There is plenty to be done to make sure that people who move are [accounted] for.”
According to NJ.gov, the main way that counties receive “Inactive” voter notifications is via sample ballots that are distributed prior to an election. Ballots returned as undeliverable or moved out of the county or state result in a voter being given an “Inactive” status. Voters must then either update their voting record or appear to vote and complete a required form prior to the second federal general election after the notice date.
Another focus for Cytowicz is illegal immigration, which he said will “continue to hurt municipali-
Assad Mujtaba.
COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
ties throughout the county.” “When the federal government is in charge, it’s really tough to make any movement in making changes for immigration,” said Cytowicz. “But I have a hard time dedicating our widely spread resources to something that I feel is bad policy and is causing a great humanitarian crisis.”
He is encouraged on the county level by other efforts. What he believes benefits Clifton is the support of the park system and the completion of infrastructure projects. Cytowicz is eager to contribute his “outsider point-of-view.”
“It’s hard to say that I would do if elected,” said Cytowicz. “I do have an open set of ears and will absorb what the county has to offer.”
Assad Mujtaba – Republican
Learning the needs directly from the residents across Passaic County’s municipalities is what Dr. Assad Mujtaba considers good governing. A Clifton resident for just over five years with his wife, Mehjabeen, and daughters Leviza, 15, and Eliza, 10, he owns Mujtaba Clinic on Clifton Ave.
“My goals are working on affordability, security, and infrastructure,” said Mujtaba. “I’m reachable and I’m very personal.” Joking, he added, “The worst way to see me is paying a copay if you have a copay.”
Mujtaba earned his Doctor of Medicine and MBA in Atlanta and holds a Postgraduate in Internal Medicine from the University of Edinburgh. Mujtaba later transitioned to nursing with a Master of Science in Nursing and a PostMaster’s Advanced Certificate in Family Practitioner from Molloy College. He completed his education with a Doctor of Nursing Practice from NYU.
Health services is another area that he would like to facilitate greater knowledge or awareness. “I think a lot of people are not as connected as they should be,” said Mujtaba. “If you are not seeking preventive care [all sorts of health issues] become a thing. The need for seeking care and knowing how to knock on the door is one of the things that I’ll be a big proponent of [as a commissioner].”
Mujtaba said he recognizes that the needs for Passaic County residents vary across municipalities, with some of these needs overlapping. The discussion returned a few times to affordability. “Right now in any polls, not just our county, the biggest thing that people are not happy with is the economy, finances, and feeling like affordability is not there anymore,” said Mujtaba.
One idea he suggested was assigning the seven commissioners across the 16 municipalities or creating liaisons to communicate what is happening in different towns. It is a potential solution that Mujtaba said would have benefitted Clifton prior to the decision to work on Allwood Road.
On June 26, more than 20 members of the public lined up to speak — and, in some cases, express anger or frustration — about the plans for safety improvements to Allwood Road. Running from Main Avenue to Broad Street, Allwood is traveled by approximately 20,000 vehicles daily, passing through a light industrial area, a retail zone, two cemeteries, and a largely residential section.
“The county commissioners are thinking green, which is a great strategy, but there are county roads that haven’t been fixed. Grove Street has potholes,” said Mujtaba.
Mujtaba is a proponent of “spending less and finding areas where we’re overspending.” That involves auditing the county’s $493 million budget to ensure that the government does not go above or charge more taxes.
“County residents need more of an input into where tax dollars are spent,” he said. “For Allwood Road, Clifton didn’t get an opinion, despite it being a main road for us.”
Despite numerous requests by us for an interview, incumbent Republican Commissioner Nicolino Gallo did not respond to our emails and phone calls.
Marla Saracino – Republican
Marla Saracino is running on the Republican ticket for Passaic County Sheriff. But, at the end of the day, she is in touch with her roots.
“I’m a cop’s cop. Not a politician,” said Saracino, 46. “To me, it doesn’t matter what party people are supportive of. I think in general it’s time for a change.”
Saracino would be the first Republican to hold the seat since the late Edwin Englehardt in 2001. Saracino is running on a platform of four key topics, and she feels — with her 25-year career at the Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office — that she can deliver change.
“I feel like the Sheriff’s Office is a great department, but I also feel like I can bring honor and integrity back to the department,” said Saracino.
Saracino’s first two priorities are “guarding against the New York City migrant crisis threatening our community” and continuing the fight against the opioid epidemic while improving access to addiction treatment. Her third priority is cracking down on car thefts and violent home invasions — the former a big cause of concern amongst Clifton residents this year, particularly within the Rosemawr section.
Her final priority as sheriff would be to “expand community policing efforts in our local towns.”
“That’s really my boots on the ground philosophy,” said Saracino. “[I want to] stop crime, keep the community safe, and help my community. I was born and raised in Passaic County. That’s something that I take pride in.”
Saracino emphasized that each of the county’s 16 municipalities has different needs. Each has its own crimes and areas of concern, so efforts would be dictated on a case-by-case basis.
“Passaic County is so diverse,” said Saracino. “I think the Sheriff’s Office right now is comprised of a lot of great officers, detectives, and brass. I think for me, it’s more about redistributing them. Putting them where I believe there are areas of concern.”
“I would do that in conjunction with … all of the local police chiefs,” she continued.
Saracino’s education background is a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from Marist College and master’s degree in Administrative Science from Fairleigh Dickinson.
In October of 1999, Saracino joined the Prosecutor’s Office as an investigator in the Juvenile / Pre-Indictment Processing / Grand Jury Unit. She has worked her way up through the ranks in the Narcotics Task Force since March of 2001. Ranks have included Detective, Detective 1st Grade, Sergeant, Lieutenant, and Captain since July of 2019. This past May, she received a Meritorious Unit Citation at the Passaic County 200 Club’s 2024 Valor Awards.
After rising through the ranks of a male-dominated profession, she is now the first woman to run for Passaic County Sheriff. Saracino’s desire to work hard is also personal. Saracino, who lives in Wayne with her wife and 10-yearold daughter, wants to set a good example.
“I believe that I still would have had to work hard [regardless of my gender],” said Saracino. “But sometimes you have to work harder when you are a female, because you are viewed differently for no other reason.”
“But … if you keep your head down and do the job, you’ll be presented with opportunities to better yourself,” she added. “I tell my daughter, ‘If you put your mind to it, then you can do anything you want to do.’”
Thomas Adamo – Democrat
On Day 1, Thomas Adamo knows how the Passaic County Sheriff’s Department functions.
The Democratic candidate has worked in the Sheriff’s Office for the past 29 years. In 1995, he began his career as a Corrections Officer. He later transferred to Patrol Division, then became detective and was assigned to the Sheriff’s Anti-Crime Unit and later the NJ DEA Task Force.
Other ranks have included Sergeant with the Sheriff’s Motorcycle/Traffic Unit and Detective Lieutenant as the Commanding Officer of the Narcotics Division, Internet Crimes Unit, and Criminal Investigations Division. In January of 2017, he became Detective Captain with the com-
Marla R. Saracino and Thomas Adamo.
mand of the Special Investigations. In 2009, Adamo received the Valor Award from the Passaic County 200 Club.
“My goal as sheriff is to ensure that all of Passaic County is a safe place to live, work, and visit for everyone,” said Adamo, 48.
Born in Paterson, Adamo is a proud lifelong county resident. His degree is from Fairleigh Dickinson in Public Administration. He resides in Wayne with his wife, Ariana, and children Christian, 12, and Austin, 10.
Adamo pointed to past successes, including the reallocation of certain officers with the closing of the Passaic County Jail. As a member of the Police Chiefs Association, Adamo heard many concerns about transporting arrested individuals or hospital watches.
“We did things to get officers back on the road faster, like building a transport unit,” said Adamo. “Now, if a Clifton officer makes an arrest, the officers can go bang up the paperwork. They don’t have to transport the individual to jail, and they don’t need to wait if an individual needs to go to the hospital. We handle most of that.”
Cyber crime is another pressing issue that Adamo plans to continue pursuing with “the most up-to-date technology to combat malicious cyber predators.” He’s also committed to ensuring that the Fugitive Warrant Squad is properly staffed.
“That is one of the core functions of the Passaic County Sheriff’s Office. Our responsibility is to make sure every attempt is made to apprehend [these] individuals.”
Adamo comes from a law enforcement family. His late father, Michael, was a Paterson Police Officer for 27 years and President of the Paterson P.B.A. Local #1 for 17 years. Older brother Joey is a retired Paterson Police Officer and younger brother Michael has served as a Clifton Police Officer for 20 years.
Adamo emphasized that working in county government requires communication to “get things done.” He added how from 2022 to 2023, the Sheriff, County Commissioners, and
the County Administrator helped the Sheriff’s Office lower its budget by about $1.5 million.
“We can’t just overspend,” said Adamo. “In the [Primary Election], I ran with [the message that] I’m fiscally responsible. In the last five or six years, we were actually able to lower the spending budget for the Sheriff’s Office.”
The first day of Adamo’s retirement was Aug. 1. Like his father, who was a Republican Passaic County Freeholder from 1988 to 1998, Adamo sees a Second Act in politics.
It wasn’t an easy decision, particularly after Sheriff Richard Berdnik’s unexpected passing on Jan. 23. Berdnik (CHS 1978) had nearly two years remaining on his term.
“I didn’t want to look back a year from now and say, ‘What if?’” said Adamo. “I see this as an opportunity for a new career — and a rather long one.”
Hope and Promise AT FIRST LUTHERAN
By Ariana Puzzo
Pastor Jeff Miller is always happy to talk with new or familiar faces, or guide people on their faith journeys. Sitting in his office during the dog days of summer was no exception. The 22-year pastor of First Lutheran Church, 1337 Van Houten Ave., was coming off of a busy few weeks.
He recently attended the ELCA National Youth Gathering with eight church youth in New Orleans, from July 16-20. The Monday after his return, he spent hours following the Route 3 tractor-trailer explosion as a volunteer chaplain for the Clifton Fire Department on the scene.
Fast forward to the muggy Friday morning in his office, he was discussing with our magazine all of the alreadycompleted upgrades at First Lutheran. Contractors passed by the office’s window in the meantime with a separate window replacement.
Supply chain issues are always a concern, so Pastor Jeff is not only grateful but surprised to see them. They aren’t the only ones that he waves to during our time speaking. Despite their ongoing construction, the church’s environment is welcoming. In no small part due to the man who stands at the helm.
“I’d love to see us grow and continue to be not only relevant to our community and our world but continue to make a difference in Jesus’ name in the world,” said Pastor Jeff, 58, about the future of the church. “To be a sign of
hope and love and forgiveness in this world. To continue to reach people of all ages and backgrounds. To help them grow into the people that God created them to be.”
God’s Goodness
Aside from mild traffic on Grove Street and Van Houten Avenue just past 9 am, all was quiet at First Lutheran on that first Friday in August.
Pastor Jeff opens the doors under the church’s new canopy, just to the right of a newly-installed, wheelchair accessible ramp. Walking into the office, the AC counteracts the hot and humid day. For the next two-and-a-half hours, we discussed everything from how he came to embrace his calling to how First Lutheran and the community embraced him over two decades ago.
Raised in Metuchen, Pastor Jeff was the middle child of his family with parents who were “very active in the church.” Whether they served as part of Church Council, sang in the choir, or at Sunday School, faith was always part of Pastor Jeff’s childhood.
“My parents were always the last ones out of the church,” he said. Praying before every meal and reading The Bible at home were commonplace. But Pastor Jeff didn’t plan on his eventual calling. He wanted faith as a part of his college life, which is how he ended up at Lenoir Rhyne
Hope and Promise
College in Hickory, North Carolina. One of two Lutheran colleges in the U.S. at the time with a forestry program.
“Put me near water, and I’m happy,” said Pastor Jeff. “Get me in the woods … and all of the stress goes away.”
Entering the seminary didn’t happen right away. He completed undergrad with a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy. He then studied for one semester at the Institute for Christian Studies in Toronto before returning to a church camp that he attended as a child.
He worked at Koinonia Family Camp in Highland Lake,
NY, teaching kids about the environment from a Christian perspective. It’s God, he said, that led him the entire time to where he is today. Pastor Jeff earned his Master of Divinity while at Lutheran Theological Seminary in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. Along with required courses, he spent each year assigned to local churches for Sunday morning worship and observed, learned from, and spoke to local pastors.
The future pastor already had some experience preaching since the age of 17, but he still faced an internal battle during seminary.
“I felt this call, but I didn’t know if I wanted to do it, because it’s so different from a normal job,” said Pastor Jeff. “All the way through seminary, I really struggled with that.”
“I always wanted to care for people, love people, and help people work through things, whether it was joys or sorrows, and help them see that God is at the heart of all goodness in the world,” he continued. “Bad things come from sin … and the devil, but God helps us … through those things.”
A Community with Potential
Following his ordination in 1993, Pastor Jeff had two calls before he came to Clifton.
He spent four or five years in Trevorton, Pennsylvania in the middle of the coal mining region. The rural town that he described had two churches and the city church consisted of about 50 people. Driving to the grocery store meant driving 20 miles and leaving the town.
Pastor Jeff’s next stop was down on the Jersey Shore in Tuckerton. The big draw was that he would be closer to home and his mother after they had recently lost his father to cancer. But it also allowed him to meet another ultimately important woman in his life.
“[My wife] Kim’s family were members of the church where
Hope and Promise
I served,” said Pastor Jeff. “She was teaching in Little Egg Harbor and had recently moved back home.”
In the late 90’s, a group of young people in the church spent time at the beach together. Many of them were school teachers and that’s how the couple first connected. The couple wed and have lived in Clifton since April of 2002. Kim teaches second grade at School 2, and sons Josh (CHS 2021) and Aaron, a rising senior, were or continue to be involved in Clifton Baseball and Soccer, respectively.
“Clifton looked like a good place to raise a family,” said Pastor Jeff. “The school system was good. Aaron is down at the soccer field at Coach Rossi’s camp. So we raised our kids here.”
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First Lutheran also held tremendous appeal. They could send the boys to the sinceclosed Grove Hill Nursery School and Pastor Jeff saw potential in the church and the young people living in the community.
Ultimately, it wasn’t only his decision to come to Clifton. “The way that it works in the Lutheran Church,” said Pastor Jeff, “is every year, we can let the bishop know if we’re open to being moved or not.”
He added that two out of three powers must support a move: the congregation, the pastor, and the bishop. The pastor next fills out some paperwork and the bishop tries to find the best fit.
“I hadn’t heard of Clifton, so it wouldn’t have been on my list, but we don’t go out looking,” said Pastor Jeff. “We see paperwork for a congregation and I have to say, ‘No’ before we move onto another church. It allows God to work in the midst of all this, without comparison shopping.”
Matching Beliefs
Living in the parsonage means that Pastor Jeff’s commute to work is as simple as walking down Grove Street. On that walk throughout the week, but particularly on
The Miller family from left: Aaron, Jeff, Josh and Kim with their pooch Brooke.
Sundays, he’s able to reflect on how the church has stayed the same and evolved.
There are about 300 families today, which he says is similar to the number of families 22 years ago. There’s still an undeniable decline in attendance, which he noted just about every church or religious organization has witnessed, not just due to the coronavirus pandemic.
“A lot of people work Sundays now. A lot of people care for elderly parents who don’t live right here, so their weekends are [spent] caring for their parents,” he explained. “Also, I think fewer people go to church on a regular basis.”
That doesn’t mean the congregation or its pastor have stopped investing in the church — or the long-term goal of preparing the building for future generations. Some improvements made have included new flat roofs, which were insulated and pitched to shed standing water; replacing the lighting for added illumination and lower energy use, expanding existing restrooms, and adding an additional ADA/family restroom.
The church has additionally expanded the narthex/lobby area to better accommodate fellowship after worship and installed windows to make the church more visible in the community. That isn’t the only visibility improvement either.
“The exterior wall was sealed from weather and stucco-treated to make the cross more visible as a sign of God’s love to all who pass by,” said Pastor Jeff. “Exterior entrances [are also now] protected from the elements by new canopies, and accessible ramps, handrails, and handicap parking were added to truly be welcoming and accessible to all.”
Pastor Jeff noted that they’ve taken their cues from those who came before them. On April 22, 1893, the church was organized as The Swedish Evangelical Lutheran St. Ansgar Church of Passaic. Twenty-three adults and 21 children of Swedish descent built the first church building, located at 63 Jackson St. in Passaic.
In 1926, the congregation built a new edifice at 73 Washington Ave. in Clifton and changed the name to First Lutheran Church of Passaic and Clifton. By 1965, the cornerstone was laid for a new church building. On March 6, 1966, First Lutheran Church dedicated its current building.
For over 130 years, growth and giving has taken many forms. First Lutheran has collected food, provided gift cards to public school families struggling at Christmas time, helped distribute food gift cards all year, provided emergency response for neighbors, and gathered winter coats for school children.
Through First Lutheran’s Positive Change Ministries mission, members all collect change during a given month. Once per month on Sunday morning, there’s a special collection and the change is given to a ministry outside of the church. Pastor Jeff added that the amount collected exceeds $2,000 per year.
“This congregation is very generous and has always looked outside of themselves, and that’s been [true] for its entire history here,” said Pastor Jeff. “It is not something new that I brought, but it definitely matched who I am and what I believe.”
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Lasting Support
One question that people ask Pastor Jeff? “What do I do during the week,” he laughed. “I am the only full-time employee here … so I do a lot of administrative work.”
Hope and Promise
The other paid staff consists of a part-time parish administrator and a double-serving organist and choir director. Everyone else, he continued, are volunteers, including the Church Council. There is an annual meeting for the congregation to approve “every penny spent in the budget.”
Witnessing the outpouring of support for the church’s Capital Campaign was remarkable. The discussions for the upgrades began before he became pastor. During Pastor Jeff’s first year in First Lutheran, a Master Plan was created. Although the church benefitted from how the folks who built the church left them with no debt, the finances were not there for the extensive renovations, so a long-term plan was developed. Eventually, it started to shift around 2017-18 when the church received a few estates from the recently deceased members of the parish.
In November of 2019, they created a Capital Campaign and in one day received over $300,000 in pledges. Early work began December of 2022 and intensified in summer of 2023. Since those initial pledges almost five years ago, the church has received over 90% of the money.
“We didn’t know once COVID hit if people would fulfill their pledges or even if they could,” said Pastor Jeff. “[A lot of] it is faith. If you believe that God wants you to do something, He’ll provide what you need to do it and you [won’t] always know where it’ll come from.”
Perhaps finding that faith is easiest when looking into the eyes of the children who attend 10 am service on Sundays.“I love having the kids in church, hearing them laugh and making noise,” said Pastor Jeff. “Any time kids are around, we have a sign of hope and promise.”
There’s a place for everyone at First Lutheran. Since March of 2020, the congregation has had many church “visitors” during their weekly livestreams that still continue four years later. Go to firstlutheranclifton.com for info.
MUSTANG
There was a time when a 3-7 record was common in Clifton. Mustang fans didn’t like it, but the state of the program was such that few were shocked when winning football was nowhere to be found in the fall.
Those days are long gone, however, thanks to the stewardship of head coach Ralph Cinque, who has presided over a decade of success highlighted by a North II, Group V championship in 2021. So perhaps it says something that 2023 was so frustrating for the Mustangs.
MUSTANG SPORTS SPORTS
FOOTBALL
Sep 6 Eastside 7pm
Sep 13 Passaic 7pm
Sep 20 @Morristown 6:30pm
Sep 27 Eastside 7pm
Oct 4 Bayonne 7pm
Oct 18 @PCTI 6pm
Oct 26 @East Orange 1pm
“It is nice to know that 3-7 is a really big disappointment, whereas in some past years, it might be like “okay,’” Cinque said. “Six of our seven losses last year were against playoff teams. All of them made it out of the first round.”
Indeed, the Mustangs were simply outmatched in many of their outings last year. This year, they are getting back to basics, and plan to utilize a Wing-T to beat opponents on the ground.
In order to do so, they will need their fairly experienced offensive line to control the line of scrimmage. Three members of that front five started last year, namely senior center Isaac Cazimoski, senior right guard Justin Gaviria
and junior right tackle Aiden Romero. They will partner up with senior left tackle Aayush Rana and senior left guard Najay Luna, with sophomore guard Jayden Walker as the sixth lineman.
Their experience will be critical in the success of a young running back group that consists of junior running backs Joe Dumeng and Joel Vera and senior fullback Jassin Gaviria. The three have little paper trail on their skills, with all three new to the varsity scene. Cinque believes their toughness and desire will guide them.
“They want to be good,” Cinque said of his backfield. “They aren’t seasoned yet, but they don’t want to lose. I think that is where the line comes in. We are going to have to grind out wins.”
Euriel Watt is a player to watch for Clifton. The sophomore running back is shifty and dynamic and can turn into a real homerun threat for the Mustangs. Senior David Alvarez, a fullback last year, will be in the mix, as well.
Sophomore E.J. Valentin has shown leadership skills beyond his years. He will be the Mustangs’ new quarterback and has demonstrated command of the huddle and a grasp
Sports Stories by Tom Szieber • Photos by Andrei Daskevics
of the Clifton offense this preseason. If he can avoid trying to do too much, he should be able to guide his team to some victories. Sophomore Messiah Campbell, another capable athlete, could contribute under center, as well.
Valentine’s downfield weapons will include wide receivers Chase Avellan, a senior, and Jayden Mouzone, a sophomore, along with senior tight end Omar Rosario. Vera will split out in pro sets.
Clifton brings back some experience on its three-man defensive front, with Cazimoski playing the nose and Justin Gaviria on one edge. Luna has been getting solid reps on the opposite side.
Yandel Molina, a sophomore, has cracked the lineup at strong side linebacker. He will play opposite from Rosario, who will cover the weak side. Dumeng and Jassin Gaviria will be the Mustangs’ inside backers.
Vera and Mouzone will line up on the corners, with Watt serving as the
Nickel back. Alvarez returns at strong safety, while Avalon and Valentine handle free safety duties.
Senior Joe Geleta is back to kick and punt.
Without the slew of household names that Clifton has had in recent years, it would be reasonable to wonder if the Mustangs’ most recent renaissance was coming to a close. Their 35-0 loss on opening day against Ridgewood won’t quell any such concerns. But Cinque, who enters his tenth year with a 54-38-1 re-
cord, doesn’t believe that is the case.
“We have good freshmen numbers and big freshmen kids,” he said. “We have a lot of sophomore talent. I think we have another run in us in the next [several years].”
“A lot of the same faces that are around that played integral parts of the resurgence are still here. This staff, for the most part, stood the test of time. We made the decision that we are going to stick together. We are all Clifton guys and we want the best for this town and team.”
CHEERLEADING MUSTANG SPORTS
Degante, Emily Fantry, Olivia Erszkowicz, Shannel Martinez. Coaching Staff: Head Coach: Gina Fersini, Assistant Coaches: Sarah Post, Samantha Feliciano, Laura Tunnell.
The Clifton cheerleaders had a marquee season last winter, winning the Big North Liberty Division title (going 8-0 in division competition and 10-1 overall) and NJCDCA Intermediate All-Music All-Girl State Championship. And while competition season won’t resume until December, the Mustangs are back in their fall post on the sidelines for Clifton football.
Five seniors—Ava Acuna, Veronica David, Elizabeth LaTorre, Alexa Miller and Jade Teo—will lead the team. All four are bases except for Teo, who will fly.
“We have five seniors, so not too many,” said head coach Gina Fersini. “They all do a great job providing leadership, especially Elizabeth and Alexa, my senior captains. They started working with the underclass girls in July and took the reins from the get-go.”
The Mustangs are extremely athletic, as shown by the presence of seven tumblers, including backspot Olivia
Erszkowicz and main bases London Jenkins and captain Amilia Betances, all juniors, and backspot Zoe Bodden, a sophomore.
The balance of the junior class consists of backspots Sebastian Camacho, Lila DeVenio and Jayla Perez, side bases Betzy Degante and Allison Mendez, and flyers Melenny Inoa and Brianna Thieu. Two additional sophomores, side base Emily Fantry and flyer Jaliyah Reyes, will be part of Friday nights’ performances, as well.
The Mustangs’ future is bright, as Fersini has a talented freshman contingent including side bases Adrianna Guillen, Madison Krawiec and Shannel Martinez, main bases Sydney Krawiec and Isabel Romero, flyers Arianna Rodriguez and Alissa Roman, and backspot Julia Szurlej.
“It is so nice to have [the young talent],” Fersini said. “That is why we thought it was important to keep everyone at the varsity level. They are our future.”
Bottom row from left: Brianna Thieu, Jade Teo, Captain Amilia Betances, Captain Alexa Miller, Captain Elizabeth LaTorre, Alissa Roman, Jaliyah Reyes. Middle from left: Melenny Inoa, Isabel Romero, Madison Krawiec, Sydney Krawiec, London Jenkins, Ava Acuna. Top from left: Jayla Perez, Sebastian Camacho, Veronica David, Julia Szurlej, Lila DeVenio, Zoe Bodden. Missing from the photo: Adrianna Guillen, Allison Mendez, Arianna Rodriguez, Betzy
MARCHING BAND MUSTANG SPORTS
Here are some of the Marching Mustang seniors photographed at band camp during mid-August: Above from left: Jonathan Avancena, Diego Gervacio, Chelsea Hoang, Francesca Schiavone, Jorge Rivas, Lorna Harvey, Tristan Rivera, Grace Romano.
The 86th edition of Clifton’s Mustang Marching Band hard at work since the start of Band Camp on Aug. 19, wrote director Bryan Stepneski. In addition to performances at every varsity football game, the Marching Mustangs will perform at the North Jersey Band Fes tival on Oct. 27, the West Milford Tattoo on Nov. 9, and Under the Lights, a season finale at Clifton Stadium on Nov. 27.
More seniors at band camp above the soccer pitch at CHS: That’s Alexis Schleicher in center of page on the bass. Above from left: Jose Torres, Christopher Sanchez, Rory Pacheco, Hailey Casserly, Yasmine Mills, Cesar Estrada, Aidan Reilly.
If you are a perennial power like the Clifton boys soccer program, it is nearly impossible to sneak up on anyone.
The Mustangs never have a low profile, but they will have several returning veterans who will be tough to scout, as they return from injuries that prevented their participation in last year’s run to the North I, Group IV final. Those returnees, combined with a number of key contributors from 2023’s 15-2-1 season, will now look to finish the job and take home a sectional championship.
“We are always grateful because we won our league undefeated, won the county and made the sectional finals last year,” said eleventh-year head coach Stan Lembryk. “It is always a tough loss [to lose in the final]. But the cool thing
is that we return 12 kids from last year’s team.”
Among them are junior forward Simon Deossa, an allleague player who tallied 23 points (nine goals, five assists) last fall. A valuable hold-up player, Deossa is physically strong and adept at grabbing second-chance opportunities. His skill set is a complement to that of fellow forward Jaden Romero, a senior who missed much of last season with a concussion.
“Jaden’s pure speed and athleticism separate him,” Lembryk said. “He has a very innate sense around the goal.”
Junior Oliver Quintana will be part of the offensive rotation, as well, a year after leading the Mustangs’ junior varsity squad in scoring.
Fernando Puertas, a starter last season, is back to lead the Clifton midfield. Lembryk lauds Puertas as the team’s “quarterback,” noting that he “runs the show” for the Mustangs. He expects the senior to have a breakout, dominant final go-around at the high school level. Seniors Jomar Landa and Maksym Kotsiaba and junior Lucas Chen round out the first midfield group. Versatile sophomore Aiden Masri will see time, as well a pair of sibling athletes who missed 2023 with season-ending injuries, sophomore Emre and junior Tarek Pescocan.
Senior standout Justin Leach will lead a Clifton defense that allowed just 13 goals last season. He will be flanked by senior Aaron Miller, another topflight defender. Senior Adilson Zabaleta and junior Mykola Datsyk complete the impressive group.
BOYS SOCCER
Sep 10 @Eastside 4pm
Sep 12 Wayne Hills 4:15pm
Sep 14 N Val. Demarest 1pm
Sep 17 @Bergen Tech 4:15pm
Sep 19 @Passaic 4:30pm
Sep 24 JFK 4:15pm
Sep 26 @PCTI 4pm
Oct 1 Eastside 4:15pm
Oct 2 Gill St. Bernard’s 7pm
Oct 8 Bergen Tech 7pm
Oct 10 Passaic 4:30pm
Oct 15 @JFK TBD
Oct 22 @Bergen Cath. TBD
Oct 28 PCTI 4:15pm
Oct 30 @Hackensack 4:15pm
“I think this is a really solid back four,” said Lembryk. “Defensively, we have been rock solid. To have these guys back, they definitely will be bigtime leaders for us.”
Senior Nate Phillip is the new starter in the goal for Clifton, with former starter Cam Zutic now competing for Drew University. Athletic with stellar feet and timing, Phillip should transition into the role seamlessly, with sophomore Robbie Nielson ready to spell him when needed.
The roster is one that figures to make 2024, well, normal for Clifton in the sense that it expects to contend for every available championship. Lembryk and the Mustangs are ready to go.
“We have a great staff and put a lot of time into this,” Lembryk said. “So, when young kids come in, there is an expectation.”
MUSTANG SPORTS GIRLS SOCCER
It’s year two of the Amanda Gryszkin era of Clifton girls soccer, and the Mustangs are looking to build on their respectable 8-9 finish last year.
To do so, they will need to be better on both ends of the pitch, as they had far too many games last season in which they couldn’t score and were scored on frequently.
Gryszkin has confidence that this team will do so. “Absolutely,” she said of whether Clifton can build on their 2023 performance. “I think we are starting to jell. It is just a matter of how fast the girls can grow into the game.”
The midfield appears to be the strongest position group. Junior Zaina Aburomi is back to start for the third consecutive year, bringing experience and leadership to the table. Talented freshman Abby Rascher will play alongside her. Rascher has good footwork and vision and confidence that is unlike your average ninth-grader.
Senior Meagan Valido and junior Kiara Carrera will complete the starting midfield, with freshman Julia Zybura seeing significant time, as well.
MUSTANG SPORTS
GIRLS SOCCER
Sophomore Melissa Garth and freshman Elsa Schimpf form a young but skilled pair of forwards who will bring energy to the offense. “Since last week, our offensive players have been connecting, figuring out each other’s tendencies,” Gryszkin said.
Sep 7 @Verona 10am
Sep 10 @Pascack 6:30pm
Sep 12 @Wayne Hills TBD
Sep 14 West Milford 11am
Sep 17 Bergen Tech 4:30pm
Sep 19 Passaic 4:30pm
Sep 26 PCTI 4:15pm
Sep 28 Lyndhurst 11am
Oct 1 @Eastside 4pm
Oct 8 @Bergen Tech. 4:15pm
Oct 10 @Passaic 4:30pm
Oct 15 @Cedar Grove 4pm
Oct 22 Immac. Heart 4pm
Oct 24 Pequannock 7pm
Oct 28 @PCTI 4pm
Oct 30 Hackensack 4:15pm
Defensively, the Mustangs are green. Seniors Mia DeVita and Kayla Acuna are back after seeing some time last season and will take the field alongside freshman Julia Grabowski and junior Jenna Alawi. Sophomore Nicole Velasquez and junior Hannah Francis will also be in the mix.
Their support will be critical, as junior Gianna Colon will be a first-year starter in the goal. With strong instincts, she played effectively at the sub-varsity level. There are enough building blocks on the Clifton roster to allow the Mustangs to compete each game. They will simply need to continue to improve throughout the year; plateauing could be problematic down the stretch.
As long as Clifton takes a game-bygame approach, they should be very much in the thick of the playoff race.
Last season wasn’t always pleasant, but the Clifton girls volleyball team gained a lot in the way of experience. The Mustangs were 7-17 in 2023 but return a battle-tested roster this fall that hopes to get to the next level.
“Growth,” second-year head coach Steven Alvarado said of what he’s observed in his team this preseason. “A lot of growth in the girls.”
The Mustangs did go 3-3 in their final six matches and earned a North I, Group IV playoff appearance, but lost far too many times in straight sets. To change that, they will need big production out of outside hitters Mikaella Francisco and Alyssa Pawlik.
Francisco, a junior, is an excellent all-around player who moves from the setter spot she occupied last season to help Clifton generate points. Pawlik, a senior, led the Mustangs in kills, digs and service points last year and has the ability to do it again.
“Mikaella knows the game very well,” said Alvarado. “She plays at the highest level, so we are going to try and take advantage of that. Alyssa can get up and approach the ball and spring very quickly, and that is really going to benefit us this season.”
Junior libero Iarexy Casas—who played high-level volleyball in Peru— has the potential to be a dominant back row player. Casas has a knack for getting hard-to-reach digs and should help the Mustangs play in-system. Juinor Carolina Ferrada will start at setter, with junior Gabriella Esperancilla poised to see time there, as well. Junior middle blocker Michaela Mercado could be in for a breakout year as a defender and scorer, while senior Jemilia Sanchez and junior Alnatur vie for time next to her in Clifton’s 6-2 offense. Junior Valeria Veliz and senior Juna Crawford will both be in the rotation on the right side. The group has talent. Now, it is about putting it all together. If their offseason is any indication, these Mustangs are ready to do it.
GIRLS VOLLEYBALL MUSTANG SPORTS
Sep 7 TBA 9am
Sep 9 @Wayne Hills 4:15pm
Sep 11 Passaic 4:30pm
Sep 13 @Eastside 4pm
Sep 16 PCTI 4pm
Sep 18 Passaic Valley 4pm
Sep 19 Paramus 4:15pm
Sep 23 @JFK 4pm
Sep 25 DePaul 4pm
Sep 26 Parsippany 4:15pm
Sep 27 Bergen Tech 4:30pm
Sep 30 @Passaic 4:30pm
Oct 4 @Indian Hills 4:15pm Oct 7 Eastside 4:15pm
Oct 9 @Caldwell 4pm
Oct 10 @Wayne Valley 4:15pm
Oct 17 @Lacordaire 4pm
Oct 21 @PCTI 4pm
Oct 24 JFK 4:15pm
Oct 28 @Cedar Grove 4pm
Oct 29 Hackensack 4:15pm
Oct 31 @Bergen Tech 4:15pm
Clifton girls tennis is young—very young. The Mustangs lost a bulk of their 2023 roster, including star first singles player Anias Jenkins, who won three Passaic County individual titles, and will look to rebuild under new head coach Elizabeth Parisi.
An assistant the last two seasons, Parisi has swapped roles with longtime head coach Chad Cole, who is now a member of Parisi’s staff.
Clifton, who went 6-9 last year and are seeking their first winning campaign since 2017, will look to start anew with senior Viviana Santiago likely playing first singles. A consistent server, Santiago has a solid forehand and finesse.
The remainder of the singles group will, in some order, consist of sophomore Sophia Zeisel and senior Ann Jaimes. Like Santiago, both are steady and reliable.
TENNIS MUSTANG SPORTS
Sep 6 @Eastside 4pm
Sep 9 PCTI 4pm
Sep 12 @Union City 4:15pm
Sep 13 @Bergen Tech 4:15pm
Sep 16 Passaic 4:30pm
Sep 18 @JFK 4pm
Sep 20 Hackensack 4:15pm
Sep 23 @Lakeland 4:15pm
Sep 25 Eastside 4:15pm
Sep 27 @PCTI 4pm
Sep 30 Bergen Tech 4:30pm
Oct 1 Union 4pm
Oct 7 @Passaic 4:30pm
Oct 9 West Milford 4:15pm
Oct 11 JFK 4pm
“Sophia has a great backhand, forehand and ground strokes,” Parisi said. “Ann has a consistent serve that always lands in the box.”
The Mustangs’ doubles teams are still taking shape, though freshman Layla Judeh and junior Maura Coleman will be in the mix.
“I want these girls to learn the game because they are fairly new and fairly inexperienced,” said Parisi. “I want to see improvement throughout the year, and I have already seen major improvement from all my players.”
Yet, although the roster is full of newness, Parisi believes its development will benefit greatly from the presence of Cole and fellow veteran coach Ann Tate on staff. Their experience should shorten the Mustangs’ learning curve significantly, and by season’s end, they should be at a much higher level than the one at which they started.
“Coach Cole and Coach Tate, I am so lucky to have them,” Parisi said. “I really lean on them for advice. Our communication is really great. And these girls are some of the nicest, most supportive, friendly, encouraging kids. I have never seen a bad group of girls [in Clifton].”
MUSTANG SPORTS
GYMNASTICS
Sep 12 Holy Angels 4:30pm
Sep 18 Wayne Valley 4:30pm
Sep 24 @West Milford 4:30pm
Sep 27
Oct 1
Oct 9
@Mult. Schools 5:30pm
@Wayne Hills 4:30pm
@Mult. Schools 5pm
Last season was a season of progress for head coach Amy Glenn and the Clifton gymnastics squad. The young but talented Mustangs recorded a pair of wins for the second consecutive year—no small achievement for a program that had gone eight years prior to 2022 without one—and showed that teams will have to work hard to beat them this fall.
They now look to build on the strides made last season, both in victories and performance.
“It is not necessarily always about wins that make you successful,” Glenn said. “When the girls go out there and are hitting their routines, being clean, watching their scores improve, that is what I consider a successful season.”
Junior Briana Zalawadia, a first team All-Passaic County honoree on vault last year, returns looking to take her performances to the next level. A “free spirit” according to
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Glenn, she will compete all-around for the Mustangs.
Her twin sister, Brinda Zalawadia, possesses impeccable technique and will compete all-around, as well. Brinda shines on beam, an event for which she earned second team All-Passaic County recognition.
“When I get a little rattled, I know I can look to [Brinda] and she is like ‘don’t worry, we got it,’” Glenn said. “She is everything that I look for in a gymnast.”
Sophomore Bianca Alcantara, another second team AllPassaic honoree, will be back competing all-around, excelling most on bars. Alcantara has put in work in a private gym this offseason, and Glenn is hopeful that her efforts will translate to enhanced difficulty of her routines.
Melinda Tajerian, a senior, will round out the lineup competing all-around, but specializes on vault. Glenn hopes to add several gymnasts to the roster before opening day.
Lamarr Olive has done it all, but he is back to do more. Already a Clifton cross country legend, the senior returns in 2024 for a final high school campaign and is widely seen as the top runner in Passaic County. The only question is whether his coattails can lead the Mustangs to team success.
“Lamarr is putting in the work and the miles,” said longtime head coach John Pontes. “He is very cerebral and enthusiastic about doing more. He is good about staying healthy, too.”
Olive won division and county titles last season and performed well-enough in the state sectional meet to advance to the group competition.
MUSTANG SPORTS
CROSS COUNTRY
Sep 7 TBA 9am
Sep 14 TBA 9am
Sep 21 TBA 9am
Sep 23 TBA 4:30pm
Sep 28 TBA 9am
Oct 5 TBA 9am
Oct 9 TBA 3:30pm
Oct 24 TBA 3pm
Oct 26 TBA 9am
Nov 2 TBA 10am
Junior Anthony Pichardo will be a key contributor for Clifton, who won the Big North Liberty Division and finished second in Passaic County in 2023. Pichardo is a program player who has valuable experience as part of very good teams and could have a breakout year. Two other juniors, Christian Cabanilla and Tapan Mistry, will be difference-makers, as will senior Declan Eineker, whose 6’2” frame and long strides make him a runner to watch.
Nov 9 TBA 10am
Nov 16 TBA 11am
“We might be a year away, but I would be disappointed if we are only third [in our division],” Pontes said. “Having Lamarr with them this year, they will come along and be better than they think they are going to be.” Clifton’s girls are similarly composed, with underclassmen as the core of the squad.
They will be led by junior Alexis Smith, who Pontes expects to be a first team AllPassaic County honoree at season’s end. If the Mustangs are to be able to replicate or exceed last year’s division-second place, county-third place finish, Smith will need to be steady and consistent.
Sophomore Ashley Vargas, juniors Nadine Judeh and Hilary Batista, and senior Halla Mohamad will all be major contributors this fall. If they can stay close together in races, Pontes says, they will all be better off, as will the team.
“There are not a lot of others in the county putting in the work [the way we are],” Pontes said of both teams. “And our numbers are increasing after COVID. We are looking forward to this season.”
VALUE OF FOOTBALL
By Tom Szieber
Derrick Stroble has a message for the young kids—and their parents—in Clifton who are apprehensive about playing football: do it, because it is life-changing.
A starting running back and cornerback on Clifton High School’s 2006 North I, Group IV championship team, Stroble began playing the game at age six, playing for the Clifton Colts and the Clifton Junior Mustangs before suiting up for CHS.
His youth coaches helped ignite a love for the game. The experience made him tougher, more confident and more prepared to handle adversity as an adult.
coach at
Also
in
are Clifton Stallions Nicole Tahan and Jr. Lacrosse player Jared Burgan. Standing with Stroble are Clifton Midget Leaguer Ben Brody, Mustang softball player Amy Pasternack and bowler Kevin Riebesell. At bottom is Clifton Crossing Guard Barbara Tolvay at School 5, on the job then for 15 years.
It is because of those exemplars of personal growth that Stroble is dismayed by the somewhat low numbers on the Junior Mustangs’ rosters.
Now the head coach of CJM’s 10U squad, his observation is that media coverage of the sport for nearly two decades has caused some kids and parents alike to avoid the gridiron. The fear of injury seems to have garnered more attention than the benefits of suiting up.
“The main challenge that I have seen is just not having enough players,” Stroble said. “Parents are scared of what they hear about the sport. But we are here to teach these kids and keep them safe. The kids we do have are great, though, and so are their parents. We want to work with parents to get the best out of each player and give them the best experience possible.”
That young Clifton Colts player is Derrick Stroble, the same 30-something
left.
seen
August 1998
Like many football programs and leagues at the youth, high school, college and even professional levels, the Junior Mustangs are, and have been, taking measures to ensure players’ safety.
Every CJM coach must be certified by USA Football and comply with its safety precautions for youth tackle football. The program is equipped with new, state-of-theart helmets. And in the event of an emergency, the Junior Mustangs plan to have an on-site ambulance for every game, so that immediate medical attention is always available.
“We have coaches that have played the sport for many years and know the game, including proper technique and the safest practices,” Stroble said. “It’s not dads out there coaching their sons to be stars. The kids’ safety is of the utmost importance. We build comraderie safely and teach from the ground up.”
To Stroble, the pros of playing football strongly outweigh the cons. It was a part of his life he would never trade—and one he
hopes to aid his players in replicating.
“Being part of a football team is like being part of a big family,” he said. “We want all kids to have fun and make new friends while also learning to respect each other and become responsible young men. On the field, the kids interact with peers from all different walks of life and learn how to be part of something greater than themselves. Every minute is well worth it.”
MUSTANG REUNIONS & MORE
CHS Class of 2014 reunion is in November but the date is not yet set. It will be either Nov. 8 or Nov. 15. Join the class’s FB group at “Class of 2014 CHS Reunion.”
CHS Class of 2004 reunion. On Nov. 30 at 6 pm, walk right in The Shannon Rose and catch up with 2004 Mustangs at the 20th reunion. No tickets. Cash bar.
CHS Class of 1984’s reunion is Oct. 5, 6:30 pm at Franklin Steakhouse, Fairfield. Join “Clifton High School Class of 1984” on Facebook for details.
CHS Class of 1974 reunion is Nov. 8, 7 pm at the Mountainside Inn, Hazel Rd. Tickets are $85. Email Lucretia (DiMartino) Rotella at cresinger30@gmail.com.
Power of One Christian Coaching and Outreach Ministries walkers meet at Richardson Scale Park, 680 Van Houten Ave. Mondays and Wednesdays at 8 am for an hour walk. The walk is free and so is parking in the lot.
The Echo Youth Program is recruiting for its 14-week Fall 2024 semester, which runs from Sept. 9 to Dec. 13. Open to New Jersey youth ages 14-24. Apply today. Develop life skills while getting paid internships, job training, mentorship, and career opportunities. Visit echonj.org.
The Clifton Garden Club will hold its monthly meeting Sept. 10 from 6:30-8:30 pm at the Allwood Library, at 44 Lyall Rd. Linda Rohleder, founder and president of Wild Woods Restoration Project, will give a presentation on her work to restore local woodlands. Guests are welcome. Questions? Call Donna Fantacone at 973-473-0577.
Support Clifton Recreation and its programs at JC Marketplaces’ upcoming Flea Markets. Stop by Main Memorial Park (1395 Main Ave.) on Saturdays, 9 am to 4 pm, on Sept. 14, Oct. 12, Nov. 9, and Dec. 14. For vendor info, contact JC Promotions, Inc. at 201-998-1144.
St. John Lutheran Church will host its Annual Yard Sale on Sept. 14 and 21 from 9 am to 2 pm. The church kitchen, 810 Broad St., will be open. Vendors will be inside and outside with plenty of parking behind the church. Call to reserve your spot: 973-471-7177.
St. John Kanty’s Church Picnic is Sept. 8 on the parish grounds, 49 Speer Ave., from 1-10 pm. Enjoy Polish and American foods while America’s Polka King, 18-time Grammy winner Jimmy Sturr and his Orchestra, takes the bandstand from 3:30-6:30 pm. Raffles and children’s activities will be available. All are welcome. For more info, call the parish at 973-779-4102.
First Lutheran Church, 1337 Van Houten Ave., will host a Renewal Celebration on Sept. 15 at 10 am with Rev. Tracie L. Bartholomew, the Bishop of the New Jersey Synod of the ELCA. Fellowship and Open House will follow the celebration from noon to 2 pm. All are welcome.
The Latino Leaders of Clifton’s 2nd Annual Hispanic Heritage Month Carnival is at Main Memorial Park on Sept. 19 and 20 from 6-11 pm and Sept. 21 and 22 from 1-11 pm. Register early online for the 33% savings on each ticket. Free popcorn voucher with every online purchase of $15 or more. LatinoLeadersofClifton.org.
The 3rd Annual Mexican Flag Raising is Sept. 21 at 11 am on the great lawn of Clifton City Hall. The first-ever flag raising was organized by Board of Ed Commissioner Richard Mejia and was held in September, 2022. Past programs attracted guest speakers and performances.
Greg Komeshok and Jimmy Sturr in 2017.
Share Summer 2024 photos: Clifton Cable TV Editor Mike Solomon and his team requests photos taken from Memorial Day to Labor Day, 2024 to create a Channel 77 slideshow that made you, your family and friends laugh and smile. Deadline is Sept. 15. Email photos, along with your name and info to: Cliftoncable7740@cliftonnj.org or msolomon@cliftonnj.org.
City Green’s 20th Anniversary Celebration will be a night under the stars and overlooking the farm on Sept. 28. The evening will begin at 5:30 pm at City Green Farm Eco-Center, 171 Grove St., and honors Senator Cory Booker and The Henry and Marilyn Taub Foundation. Tickets are $150 per person. Take part in the 50/50 raffle or participate in an interactive sponsorship opportunity. Shop at the City Green boutique stocked with handmade botanical items and City Green-branded merchandise. Volunteers, donors, farm stand customers, and local leaders who steward their own garden projects will be in attendance. Questions? Visit citygreenonline.org.
City Green, with founder Jennifer Papa, Claudia Urdanivia and Todd Gustafson, marking their 10th anniversary in April 2014.
THE ARTS
The Clifton Arts Center is planning visual exhibits for the years 2025 to 2030. Professional visual artists and art groups are encouraged to help enliven the CAC’s exhibition space by showcasing their professional work. The CAC provides roughly 1,800 sq-ft of modern, welllit, and upgraded HVAC gallery exhibit space on the grounds of the Municipal Complex, 900 Clifton Ave. Proposals are welcome by professional individual and group artists on a rolling basis. Members of the Advisory Board of Trustees of the Clifton Arts Center and city staff of the Office of Arts Center review submissions. Application submissions must be presented and prepared in their entirety. For additional info, visit the CAC online at cliftonartscenter.org. To submit: email Roxanne Cammilleri at rcammilleri@ cliftonnj.org or call 973-472-5499.
Michael Gabriele’s landscape and still-life pastels will be exhibited throughout September at the Glen Rock Public Library, 315 Rock Rd. The opening reception on Sept. 8 from 2-4 pm is free and open to all. His pastels have been displayed at the prestigious Butler Institute of American Arts in Youngstown, Ohio, and the Salmagundi Club in New York, during the last four years as part of the annual juried exhibitions for Allied Artists of America. The George Segal Gallery at MSU selected his pastels five times for its annual “Art Connections” juried exhibition series, 2007-2016. Gabriele has also written five books on New Jersey history, all published by The History Press. He’ll present a program and PowerPoint slideshow on Sept. 19, from 7-8:30 pm, at the Glen Rock Library on his book, “Colonial Taverns of New Jersey.” Copies available for sale (cash only). Visit glenrocklibrary.org or call 201-670-3970.
The Clifton Association of Artists starts its 2024-25 season on Oct. 7 at 7 pm with a meeting at the Senior Barn, across from the Dog Pound, on the City Hall grounds. Meetings are the first Monday of the month with a demonstration of someone’s artwork. Each meeting is two hours with a break for homemade baked goods. Email Tom Dzubina at caacliftonnj@gmail.com to receive a membership form. Dues are $25 and include access to shows during the year.
In anticipation of our 30th year of publication next year, Clifton Merchant Magazine is in the process of digitizing issues for our permanent records. Thanks to historian Tara Fueshko’s efforts, we are already well on our way. But we also need your help. One missing magazine is December, 2000. If you held onto a copy of this issue, reach out to us by calling our office at 973-253-4400 or by emailing cliftonmerchant1288@gmail.com. Let us know your name and provide us with your phone number so that we can get in touch about safely borrowing and returning the issue.
Clifton Education Foundation hosts an Endless Summer fundraiser Sept. 25, noon, at Shannon Rose. Join retired administrators, secretaries, teachers, paraprofessionals, maintenance, custodians, bus drivers, support staff and lunch aides, all retired Clifton BOE employees. Reunite with colleagues and friends and support the CEF. All proceeds fund grants in every Clifton Public School. Buffet for $35 with a cash bar. RSVP by Sept. 13. Mail donations to: Loretta Ahmad, 19 Maple Hill Road, Clifton, NJ 07013. Checks to: Clifton Education Foundation. Contact Kim at cefcommdirector@gmail.com. Instagram: @cliftoneducationfoundation.
Join the Mental Health Center of Passaic for a Halloween Tricky Tray on Oct. 25 at the Boys & Girls Club of Clifton, 181 Colfax Ave., from 6-10 pm. Admission: $25 and includes one sheet of small prize tickets. Purchase a full table of 10 for $225 by Oct. 1 for discount. Must purchase a full table together. Bring your own food and drink and participate in the 50-50 raffle. Proceeds benefit specialized mental health services for children and families in Clifton and Passaic. Email events@mhep.org or call 973-473-2775 ext 202 for more info.
The city’s 9/11 memorial ceremony will be held on Sept. 11 at 9 am at the City Hall Memorial Garden. The 30- to 40-minute gathering includes a Presentation of Colors, speakers, and a reading of names for those we lost on that fateful day. A community-led memorial service will be held at the 9/11 Memorial on City Hall property at 6 pm. All community members are invited to share memories, honor the fallen, and reflect upon the day. Rain or shine.
Will they finish it in 2024?
For months, work was full speed at 691 Clifton Ave. Then it was April and we noticed there was no sign of workers. The windows for the unprecedented 300unit apartment building remained unfinished. Even the decorative brick facade laid there in wait.
Despite reaching out to city officials and Kevin X. Codey, the developer of the former Black Prince Distillery, we weren’t receiving conclusive details about why the project was stalled other than the subcontractors were needed on other assignments.
“The developer’s agreement offers no timeframe for project completion,” Villano told us in April. “But obviously it is to the developer’s benefit to expedite and finish the construction, rent the space, and start making money back. We can’t regulate how fast he works.”
Things shifted in the final week of August. Workers appeared onsite and the still-unnamed project, at the corner
of Paulison and Clifton Ave., resumed. Despite reaching out for Codey as we went to press for this magazine, we received no response about the project’s estimated completion or about when information on the units would be made available online.
NJ Property Records showed that the Black Prince Property sold for $8,150,000 on June 8, 2021. Codey, the owner of Clifton Station Developers, LLC, is also the developer for Danbro Properties. The group is headquartered in Caldwell.
Clifton Rec’s Halloween Festivities are Oct. 27 at the City Hall Municipal Complex. The Halloween Parade & Costume Contest begins at 12:15 pm and parade along Van Houten Ave. to City Hall. No pre-registration required. The Harvest Fest is 11:30 am to 4:30 pm, featuring hayrides, arts & crafts, carnival booths and food concessions. Prices range from $0.25 to $2 for games and rides. Cash only. More info? Call Clifton Rec at 973-470-5956. Weather hotline: 973-470-5680. Participate in the Scarecrow Building Contest with judging on Oct. 27 at 2 pm during the Harvest Fest. Register by Oct. 18 on cliftonrec.com. Drop off scarecrows between Oct. 21-25. Free to enter for Clifton residents only. Drop off your pies between 1-1:30 pm for the Apple Pie Baking Contest at the Harvest Fest. Pre-registration is required. More info at cliftonrec.com.
BE A FIRE SAFETY SPONSOR
Clifton Magazine and Clifton FMBA 21 members will publish the Clifton Fire Safety Coloring Book in October. Sponsors are needed to help spread the message of fire safety. To become a sponsor, call Tom Hawrylko at Tomahawk Promotions: 973-253-4400.
From elders to youth, Americans of Ukrainian heritage celebrated the 33rd year of Ukraine’s Independence from Russia on Aug. 24 on the great lawn of Clifton City Hall.
Birthdays & Celebrations - September 2024
Nick Hawrylko is 29 on Sept. 12 and his mom Cheryl Kastrava turns 66 on the same day. Elena Rose Latiano will be 20 on Sept. 7. Fanny Chem & Joey Angello celebrate their anniversary on Sept. 2. Eddie Bivaletz will be 36 on Sept. 8.
Send dates & names...
Cameron Cummings turns 1 on Sept. 9! Emily Kasa Peterson daughter of Joe Peterson (CHS ‘06) and Erin O’Neill Peterson turned 4 on Sept. 1. Her cousin Maxwell Yoda turns 7 on Sept. 30. John and Debbie Tauber, Clifton’s Emeritus Animal Control couple, celebrate their 46th anniversary on Sept. 2nd. Deb’s birthday is Sept. 3rd.
Michael Capwell 9/1
Allison Di Angelo ....................... 9/2
Liam Robert Martin 9/2
Bill Federowic 9/3
Dave Gabel................................ 9/3
Jennifer Martin 9/3
Sharon Holster 9/4
Natasha Mendoza .................... 9/4
Joseph Shackil ............................ 9/4
Eric Wahad 9/4
Linda Ayers 9/5
Christy Gordon .......................... 9/5
Mohammed Othman 9/5
Ana Stojanovski 9/6
Darren Kester ............................. 9/7
Helen Albano 9/8
Shannon Carroll ......................... 9/8
Liz Tresca 9/8
Geoff Goodell 9/9
Annamarie Priolo ....................... 9/9
George Andrikanich 9/10
Nicole Moore 9/10
Dolores Wyka .......................... 9/10
Ronnie Courtney ....................... 9/11
Andrew Orr 9/11
Andrew Shackil 9/11
Lee Ann Doremus ......................9/12
Wayne Funke 9/12
Thomas Wayne 9/13
Sarah Bielen ............................. 9/14
Anthony Dorski 9/14
Emily Duchnowski .................... 9/15
Manny Monzo 9/15
Hagar Ibrahim 9/16
Stacey Corbo ........................... 9/16
Mav Cubero 9/16
Nancy Ann Eadie 9/16
Joe Genchi ............................... 9/16
Jaclyn Scotto ............................ 9/16
Cindy Murcko 9/17
Kathleen Gorman 9/18
Amanda Meneghin ................. 9/18
Dawn Smolt 9/18
Daniel Smith 9/18
Gloria Turba ............................. 9/18
Charles and Phyllis (Pecci) Nouhan will celebrate their 70th wedding anniversary on Sept. 18.
Mickey Garrigan 9/19
James Graham ......................... 9/19
Rickie Ojeda ............................ 9/19
Louis DeLeon 9/20
Sara Gretina..............................9/21
Lynne Lonison ............................9/21
Annamaria Menconi 9/21
Peter Skoutelakis 9/21
Valerie Carestia ....................... 9/22
Beverly Duffy 9/22
Ryan Gorny 9/22
Timothy St. Clair ....................... 9/22
Keith Myers .............................. 9/23
Brian Salonga 9/23
Brian Engel ............................... 9/23
Pam Bielen ................................ 9/25
Deanna Cristantiello 9/25
Donato Murolo 9/25
William Wishard ...................... 9/26
Corey Genardi 9/26
Saverio Greco 9/26
Richard Van Blarcom ............... 9/26
Kenneth Chipura 9/28
Barbara Mascola 9/29
Thomas E. Moore ..................... 9/29
Mary Perzely ............................ 9/29
Ryan Lill 9/30
Lauren (Hrina) Meade 9/30
Greg & Margaret Nysk celebrate 24 years of marriage Sept. 17.
PASSING AT 87
That’s 54 year-old Mayor Bill Pascrell in September, 1991 at the Great Falls, when he hired my firm, Tomahawk Promotions, to promote the 200th anniversary of the City of Paterson, which began in 1992. Bill’s love for his hometown has been well-documented upon his passing on Aug. 21, at the age of 87. Elected to Congress in 1996, he served 14 terms as an outspoken progressive who vigorously opposed President Donald J. Trump and focused on legislation to help “regular Americans pay their bills.”
