Clifton Merchant Magazine - August 2005 by Clifton Merchant Magazine

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Clifton Merchant Magazine • Volume 10 • Issue 8 • August 5, 2005

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Lifeguards Sal Farino, Anthony Calo, Jennifer Montanile, Sergio Roa and Rizkullah Dogum at Bellin’s Clifton Swim Club on Main Ave. The pool has been a Clifton landmark since its founding in 1930. Discussion are now underway for the development of the 2 acre property. The plan is for 30 units of senior housing, nine storefronts or offices, possibly a bank for an anchor and parking for 130 vehicles. Next door, the former Herald News building will become a Passaic School. The site made the NJ Schools Construction Corp’s list, (as did the former Gorney & Gorney property on Hazel St. in Paterson) providing funds for that purchase and construction in various Abbott districts. Recent Clifton History Our series continues circa 1996 and runs into1998 when this photo was taken of the yellow and black Clifton Bike Cops. Clifton Merchant Magazine is published monthly at 1288 Main Ave., Downtown Clifton • 973-253-4400

Celebra ate Clifton by Tom Hawrylko

he evening was hot and sultry at Downtown Clifton’s Salsa Night on July 14. The music and the people, even hotter. They began to show up at around 6 to party at the festival on the corner of Clifton and First Aves. Most brought chairs and grabbed a drink or something to eat as they had a chance to enjoy the dj or one of the opening acts, which included a Mexican Mariachi singer and some young Peruvian dancers. But around dusk, as the 12-piece Orquesta Cadencia took to the stage, those in the audience found it difficult to stay seated. The rhythm could be heard for blocks and before long, people were moving to the beat and dancing under the stars ‘til 11 pm. Congratulations to Downtown Clifton for embracing the reality of today’s city and offering a program that reflects it. Over the past decade, Clifton has become so very diverse. That diversity is seen in the variety of merchants in the business district. There are restaurants serving foods of American, Arabic, Mexican, Italian and Polish cuisines, to name a few, as well as a jazz dinner club. There are two bakeries—one Turkish and one Columbian. 16,000 MAGAZINES are distributed to hundreds of Clifton Merchants the first Friday of Every Month. HOME DELIVERY $15/year in Clifton $25/year out of town CALL 973-253-4400 entire contents copyright 2005 © tomahawk promotions

August 2005 • Clifton Merchant

There is a classic American oldies record shop and a second music store which specializes in the Latino sound. All these businesses are representative of the people that live, work and shop in our community. This is Clifton today—diverse and becoming more of a melting pot— in every neighborhood, every day. As Clifton evolves, people from every neighborhood and from every culture need to get to know their neighbors and recognize that the resources of all are needed to help move our city forward.

You don’t have to come to a Downtown Clifton festival to get that started, but it sure makes meeting people easy. Instead, extend a hand over a fence, walk next door and say hola! or whatever to a new neighbor. Start a conversation. Once again, bravo to Downtown Clifton for the Salsa Show. Next up is a 50’s Party on Aug. 11, then a Columbus & Pulaski Day Festival on Oct. 8. Get involved. Not just because you’re old Clifton, Polish or Italian—but because this is where you live, it’s your hometown.

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Clifton Merchant • August 2005

Diverse e? You Bet. “This is our greatest asset. You get to see different opinions and views from all over the world,” said Richie Shackil. “There is not just one religion, not one way to play a song, not one way to think.”

story by Joe Hawrylko

t takes a lot to get a rise out of Richard Shackil, a mild-mannered Clifton resident of 15 years, but when you denigrate his hometown, he will surely get fired up enough to put pen to paper. In the July 8 edition of the Herald News, an exCliftonite and current Totowa resident Adrian Krygsman wrote a letter to the editor, stating that Clifton was on the decline with homes that had rotting porches, crumbling steps and worn-out aluminum siding. Krygsman wrote, “...cities are a reflection of their citizens, and ebb and flow with the influx of new ethnic groups and change.” After reading the article, Shackil, a lawyer with his own practice in Paterson, wasted no time and wrote a response by the end of the day. “I was definitely angry,” laughed the normally very mellow Shackil. “This guy doesn’t even live in Clifton anymore. I didn’t like the fact that he was throwing stones at Clifton.” Shackil fired back and noted that while it is true that houses may not look the same as they did 30 or 40 years ago, this should be attributed to the fact that houses are just 30 or 40 years older, not poor code enforcement.

August 2005 • Clifton Merchant

Over time, houses undergo normal wear and tear and will not look the same. “The upkeep of a house is something that not everyone can afford,” added Shackil. “It isn’t cheap and regardless, I believe all residents take a great deal of pride in their homes and do try to care for them to the best of their ability.” While statements about houses angered Shackil, it was really the veiled comments about Clifton’s citizens that set him off. “The writer attacked our diversity,” Shackil explained. “This is our greatest asset. You get to see different opinions and views from all over the world. There is not just one religion, not one way to play a song, not one way to think.” Shackil made it a point that he is not defending just Clifton, but Paterson, Passaic and other urban cities as well. “All of the greatest ideas came out of large cities, with their different cultures and people,” he claimed. “No great thinkers ever came out of the Boonies.” He likened the perceived do-nothing image that immigrants sometimes receive to how Irish, Italian and other European immigrants were treated in the early 1900’s.

“The so-called ‘dirt’ of our cities and schools will later become our doctors, lawyers and accountants,” claimed Shackil, a second generation Syrian who resides in the Albion section. “European immigrants also lived in small cramped houses for years. It just takes a few generations for families to get set up.” While Shackil is a staunch supporter of Clifton, he believes the government should do more to educate voters. “We need to get immigrants and other less represented groups more involved with city politics,” added Shackil, who noted that areas such as Botany Village, which has a high immigrant population, is under-represented. “Many of these people truly do not understand the workings of the government and voting.” He also said some areas of Clifton such as Rosemawr and Upper Montclair have a louder voice and a greater influence in city politics than other sections, such as Dutch Hill, Lakeview of Botany Village. Shackil suggested that one way this problem could balance out would be to implement a district representative style of government. “A ward style government would give you equal representation,” he added, predicting it would result in greater voter participation and civic involvement. Towns such as Edison, Wayne and Paterson both run these governments and have enjoyed success with them.

“We need to get immigrants and other less represented groups more involved with city politics.” – Attorney and Cliftonite Richard Shackil

“I think it would work much better than what we have now.” When asked if he would consider trying to institute some of the changes he spoke about by running for City Council, Shackil simply gave a sly smile and said, “After 22 years in law, a different adventure would be appealing.” For now however, Shackil is simply content living in the area that he is in now, something he does not see changing any time soon. “In Clifton, as in our neighboring cities, I can eat food from all over the world. I’m not stuck with ‘white bread’,” he wrote. “I can food shop, go to the doctor or hospital, get a hair cut, go to a restaurant or tavern, buy clothes and do a host of other things, both necessary and delightful, without ever having to get into an automobile. You can’t do that in the newer, shinier suburbs. If the oil ever stops flowing, I know where I’d rather be.” At Clifton Savings, service is our most valuable commodity – just as it has been since we opened our first branch in 1928. Today, with a branch network in Passaic and Bergen counties, it’s central to all the financial services we provide. While we’ve grown, we’ve never lost sight of our basic mission: to help our customers reach their financial goals. True to our motto,“service is our language,” we’re proud that anyone calling during business hours speaks to a Clifton Savings representative, not just a recording. A small thing? Not when it comes to serving our customers.

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Recent Clifton History

Main Mall

fter City Hall and the Police Station relocated in 1980 from Harding and Main Aves. in the heart of the old Main Mall Business District to its present site on Van Houten Ave., the business district we now call Downtown Clifton declined. With a dwindling number of visitors and shoppers, long time retailers such as Industrial Stationers, Moe & Arnie’s Mens Shop, Carolina Jeans Factory Outlet, Epstein’s and J.O. Grand eventually closed, one after another. The last big hit was the boarding up of the Clifton Theater (shown above in Oct. 1995) which was on the corner of Clifton and Main Avenues. The building, once the anchor of the shopping district, remained blighted and its marquee in shambles until its demolition on Jan. 19, 2001, shown in a photo on the following page. In retrospect, many involved in the decision to relocate City Hall from Harding and Main Aves. decried the move, calling it ill advised and recognizing it as a turning point in the evolution of Downtown Clifton.

Time has since marched on and the old City Hall is now owned by the VBC Corp. which converted the building into offices. New businesses have filled the vacancies left by the former retailers and a new Downtown Clifton Economic Development Group was created to manage Main Ave. from the Passaic border to Piaget Ave. Feb. 6, 1996 is the starting point for the latest installment of our series entitled Recent Clifton History, a project which recalls events which shaped the Clifton of today Thanks again to all who helped by providing photos or information, especially the staff at the Clifton Library. But we need more help. Readers who have photos and info (business openings, civic events, political news) from 1998 to the present they’d like to share for publication should write to editor Tom Hawrylko at Clifton Merchant Magazine c/o Tomahawk Promotions 1288 Main Avenue, Downtown Clifton, NJ, 07011 Call 973-253-4400 • tom.hawrylko@verizon.net. Clifton Merchant • August 2005

Feb. 9, 1996: Michael Fencik opened Varrelmann’s Bakery on Main Ave. in Clifton with high hopes. Nearly a year later, all that’s left is an empty store, a sign in the window apologizing for closing and a few trays of stale butter-rich spritz cookies in a display case. “I tried desperately to make a business there,” Fencik, who also co-owns a successful bakery by the same name in Rutherford, told The Record on Feb. 9, 1996. “But there just wasn’t enough business to pay the bills. We tried. We just couldn’t make a go of it.” Fencik’s mistake, he says, was locating the bakery in the heart of Main Mall, Clifton’s downtown shopping district. Once the center of retailing, Main Mall is now forgotten, stale and crumbly, much like the spritz cookies. It’s a problem mirrored in other cities across North Jersey, such as Hackensack, Passaic and Paterson. Once the hub of activity, these downtowns lost their appeal as the population shifted to the suburbs and shoppers flocked instead to the malls—Willowbrook, Paramus Park, Garden State Plaza and Riverside Square. In Clifton, city officials hope to reverse that trend and revive the downtown with a $500,000 proposal that includes new sidewalks, fancy lamp posts, pretty planters and matching benches and garbage cans. 10

August 2005 • Clifton Merchant

“When City Hall left this area, it ceased to be the center of town. There’s no reason to come down here anymore.” –Lou Marino, owner of Main Shoe Repair

If the plan sounds familiar, it is. It’s the same approach that others have tried over the past two decades, with mixed results. Some experts say it is often tantamount to throwing away taxpayer money. Clifton itself has been down this road before, without success. In the late Seventies, the city embarked on a plan to beautify Main Mall, which stretches from the Passaic border to Piaget Ave. But merchants say the effort did little to attract new shoppers and in some cases hurt business. The planters make it difficult for people to get out of parked cars. The brick sidewalks are hard to maintain. The lights are broken more frequently than not. City officials promise it will be different this time around. Steve Lopez, the planner and landscape architect hired by the city, says the sidewalks will be mostly concrete, the

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The Walgreening of Clifton and Main Aves: The Clifton Theater, once located at the intersection of Clifton and Main Aves., as it was being constructed in Oct. 1937. (Photo courtesy of Mike Corradino.) On the facing page, a photo of the structure as it was being demolished on Jan. 19, 2001. And on the page which follows, a recent photo of the same intersection.

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planters won’t be intrusive, and the lighting will be sturdy and bright. The planner is also proposing zoning changes to prevent storefronts from being used for such things as machine shops and requiring new merchants to adhere to the building’s architecture when upgrading facades. Lopez, merchants and others in the city hope all of that will help draw shoppers from the ubiquitous shopping centers that line Routes 3 and 46. Critics, though, say that’s just wishful thinking. “We can’t reinvent the past,” Rutgers University economist James Hughes told The Record. “The historic retail activities of downtown has been taken over by the malls and power centers. We’ve had over a quarter of a century of sustained deterioration. Bricks and mortar aren’t going to do it by itself.” Lopez says his architectural plans are only one component in bringing new life to Main Mall. 12

August 2005 • Clifton Merchant

Merchants along Main Ave. are eager to see the improvements get started, but they harbor a healthy dose of skepticism. Many said the most important thing the city could do is improve parking. He says the first effort failed because it stopped with streetscape improvements. This time Lopez is recommending that the city create a special improvement district that would be able to raise taxes and spend the money exclusively on Main Mall and a loan program for remodeling building facades. Donald Smartt, a Verona-based economic development planner who has worked on many downtowns, including Rutherford, Englewood and Elizabeth, says merchant involvement is the key to a successful shopping district. “I always tell a city not to spend

money until the private sector has put a commitment on the table,” Smartt says. A Community Development Block Grant will pay for the rehabilitation, which will cover two blocks in either direction from the intersection of Main and Clifton Aves. Construction on the sidewalk could begin as early as the spring, City Manager Robert Hammer said. The City Council will decide on the other improvements, including lighting, benches and planters. City officials are also looking into the possibility of buying a run-down movie theater at the intersection of Main and Clifton Aves. for a conservatory.

Merchants along Main Ave. are eager to see the improvements get started, but they harbor a healthy dose of skepticism. Many said the most important thing the city could do is improve parking. Susan Cook, manager of Little Expressions children’s clothing shop, says one municipally owned lot is filled daily with New York-bound commuters. “The commuters aren’t an asset,” Cook says. “They are here before the stores open and return after the stores close.” Lou Marino, who owns Main Shoe Repair, says he’s in favor of anything that will bring more customers into his shoe repair shop. At one time he employed two helpers but now barely has enough work to keep himself busy. On a weekday afternoon the shop is empty. A tv talk show fills the void. The mustard-colored, shingled walls and layers of dust on the shelves are indications that business isn’t what it used to be.

Lou ‘the Shoe’ Marino, owner of Main Shoe Repair, standing near his storefront on Main Ave. back in Feb. 9, 1996, as he considers the renovations taking place.

Marino, like just about every other business owner on the strip, laments the day more than 15 years ago when City Hall and the Police Station moved from Main

Ave. to another section of the city. “When City Hall left this area, it ceased to be the center of town,” Marino says. “There’s no reason to come down here anymore.”

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Dec. 27, 1995: Public officials donned hard hats and a crowd of over 100 supporters of historic preservation gathered on Valley Rd. to witness the beginning of the restoration of the local landmark, Lambert Castle. The 19th Century sandstone mansion, built in 1892 by silk baron Catholina Lambert on the side of the mountain overlooking Paterson and Clifton, will be restored to its former glory (as pictured above in a circa 1900 postcard.) The $3.3 million renovation would be financed by a combination of county, state and federal funds. Jan. 1, 1996: The city came into compliance with a nine-year-old federal regulation limiting the amount of compensation that can be accrued by municipal employees. The city will pay over $900,000 already owed in accrued overtime over the next three to five years. Employees will be limited to 480 accumulated hours.

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Jan. 6, 1996: Clifton, along with the entire East Coast, felt the wrath of mother nature as she dumped from 20 to 30 inches of snow. Governor Whitman declared a state of emergency and the Passaic County Office of Emergency Management followed suit as virtually the entire city was closed down.

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August 2005 • Clifton Merchant

Jan. 8, 1996: Clifton took advantage of a free state service that reviewed municipal operations in each of the city’s departments. The program was administered through the NJ Treasury Department and offered an objective review of all operations in all departments. A team of six state officials will complete the review over an eight week period then offer a summary report. The program has saved at least one area municipality millions of dollars and decreased their tax rate by 12 percent.

Jan. 20, 1996: The Clifton Junior Mustangs football team’s clubhouse at Main Memorial Park is hit by two mysterious fires. The first blaze was in the field-house and the very next day a trailer used by the football team caught fire. The equipment lost was worth about $80,000.

Moe & Arnie’s Calls It Quits Feb. 1, 1996: Moe & Arnie’s Men’s Shop located on Main and Clifton Aves. closes its doors after 45 years. The landmark business at 1138 Main Ave. created a following over the years. The store was opened by Moe Rosenthal in 1950 and passed on to Moe’s daughter Marilyn and her husband Arnie Alberts. Arnie and Marilyn said they were looking forward to retirement and spending time with their grandchildren.

Feb. 18, 1996: After five years of vacancy and a near demolition to make way for a supermarket, the Globe Products building on Bloomfield Ave. near Scoles Ave. will become home to a wallpaper manufacturer. March 6, 1996: Over 300 residents attended a meeting looking to reform the state’s formula for funding public schools. The issue – out of control property taxes as it relates to public education. March 1996: Roy Rogers on Route 46 and most other Roy Rodgers in the tri-state area shut down. The new Boston Market chain takes over the Clifton location near Valley Rd. April 2, 1996: The landmark ITT Research Tower bordering Clifton and Nutley is demolished to make room for a new residential development. The tower was built in the 1940s and was used by scientists to study and develop microwave communications systems.

March 24, 1996: Councilman Richard Stockinger (above) dies of a heart attack at age 62. Stockinger, a member of the governing body for 14 years, had been undergoing chemotherapy. He was remembered as a family man, devoted to youth programs for the city. His death leaves a vacancy on the seven member Council. His colleagues can either appoint a successor by April 24 or hold a special election in November.

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April 7, 1996: Once again Clifton homeowners face a potential tax increase as high as $241 on the average $170,000 home. On a lighter note, Late Night host David Letterman paid an impromptu visit to Clifton, wandering door to door with his tv camera crew and his contagious grin. After a busy day of socializing, Letterman grilled a few steaks at a neighborhood home.

May 1, 1996: New businesses include Bridal Gardens, 284 Lakeview Ave. and Kirk’s Goodyear Tire Store, 1346 Main Ave. May 16, 1996: The Daughters of Miriam Center on Hazel St. marks its 75th year with a series of programs, including an Anniversary Goods and Services Auction offering vacation packages to incredible tickets to sporting events.

May, 1996: Residents and passersbyes were treated to a sneak peek of ‘Donnie Brasco,’ a film featuring Johnnie Depp as a cop (above) who infiltrates the mob. Various scenes are shot at a home on Abbe Lane, off of Van Houten Ave. Others are filmed on Main Ave., near Madison Ave. facing the Clifton Camera Shop.

June 24, 1996: Firehouse 6, on Broad St. and Van Houten Ave., shuts down for renovations. Repairs on the 64 year old firehouse are expected to take 3 to 5 months.

May 17, 1996: A roaring fire overtook an abandoned warehouse on Ackerman Ave. near the banks of the Passaic River. It took four hours for Clifton firefighters, with aid from neighboring municipalities, to get the fire under control. The Safas Corp., a building connected to the warehouse, was unharmed and no injuries were reported. 1074

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May 31, 1996: Senator Bob Dole of Kansas (below) and his wife Elizabeth, joined Clifton residents in honoring fallen war veterans. Dole, campaigning for President, visited the Allwood ceremony that morning. He made a short speech and walked with Clifton Veterans before a crowd of roughly 5,000. Also in attendance were incumbent Congressman Bill Martini, who was in a tough race with challenger Bill Pascrell, then Paterson’s mayor..

July 1996: Citizen’s Advocate Elsie Seabert (above) displayed her chart high and proud at a City Council meeting, pointing out to all an error of $677,802 in the district’s school debt service. The miscalculation resulted in an over billing of 1.4 tax points which resulted in a savings of $23.90 per household in Clifton

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Federal Mortgage Offers Senior Citizens A Reverse Mortgage

or some 32 years now, Anthony A. Accavallo, shown here, has been helping make the American Dream become a reality, right here in Clifton. As President of Federal Mortgage & Investment Corp. at 1111 Clifton Ave., Clifton, he and his firm have written millions of dollars worth of mortgages which have allowed people to purchase homes. And while that work has been fulfilling, Accavallo said he is getting his greatest satisfaction these days by helping senior citizens with reverse mortgages. A reverse mortgage is a special kind of mortgage loan for seniors. “It is a safe, easy way to turn your home equity into tax-free cash,” he continued.

“Unlike a home equity loan, you do not have to make monthly payments. Instead, a reverse mortgage pays you. More importantly, you do not have to repay the loan for as long as you live in the house. It’s a great way to keep your home and get money from it at the same time.” The name “reverse mortgage” describes exactly what the mortgage is — it is the exact opposite of a conventional mortgage. That is, with a conventional mortgage the borrower pays the lender but with a reverse mortgage, the lender pays the borrower. In the past, a senior citizen in need of money would have to take out a loan against their house and immediately start making monthly payments again or sell their home.

How do I qualify for a Reverse Mortgage? It’s simple. You and your co-borrower must be at least 62 years old. You must own your home free and clear or have just a small balance on your existing mortgage. Best of all, there are no income or credit requirements to satisfy. How can I receive my money? You can receive it in several ways: •Equal monthly payments as long as you live in your home •Equal monthly payments for a certain period of time •As a line of credit you can draw upon as needed, for whatever reasons •As a lump sum draw at closing •A combination of the above, to meet your requirements.

But a reverse mortgage allows seniors to borrow against the equity they already have in their home... and they never have to make a monthly payment. Each reverse mortgage candidate is required to attend a free counseling session with a local independent housing agency approved by FHA (Federal Housing Administration). Candidates are encouraged to bring other family members with them to help in the decision-making process. “This process ensures that the borrower understands the program fully and aides them in determining whether or not a reverse mortgage is for them,” said Accavallo.

When must I repay the loan? You must repay the loan if you no longer live in your home. In the event of your death, your heirs can choose to repay the loan and keep the house or sell the house and repay the loan, What are interest rate charges & fees? •An adjustable rate of interest is charged on reverse mortgages •Closing costs are typical for any mortgage closing and all may be financed •No out-of-pocket expenses at closing Are Reverse Mortgages safe? •Yes, FHA and FannieMae guarantee the payments you receive •FHA and FannieMae also guarantee you will never owe more than your house is worth — no debt left on estate

Federal Mortgage & Investment Corp. Not a Government Agency Mortgage Bankers Licensed by NJ Department of Banking & Insurance Licensed by NY & CT Department of Banking 1111 Clifton Avenue, Clifton, NJ 07013

1-800-788-1184 www.federalmtg.com Clifton Merchant • August 2005

May 22, 1996: The long awaited $5.5 million expansion of Woodrow Wilson Middle School commences. The construction, at 1400 Van Houten Ave. is expected to be completed by Sept., 1997. It will add 15 new classrooms, eight smaller multi-purpose rooms, four group activity rooms, an all purpose room and additional athletic facilities. June 5, 1996: Over 250 of Mayor James Anzaldi’s friends and family attended a Knights of Columbus function on Main Ave. to honor Anzaldi as Man of the Year. June 16, 1996: After nearly six years, one of the city’s most effective charity organizations calls it quits. Clifton Cares was run by four volunteers who could no longer keep up with its demands. The organization had provided food and clothing for the city’s needy families which have increased 37% since its inception.

July 2, 1996: The second annual Clifton Summer Rock ’96 takes place at Clifton Schools Stadium. The concert is a fundraiser for the CHS Project Graduation as well as Clifton Against Substance Abuse. Among the performers are ‘The Flying Muller Brothers’ (pictured above), ‘Matt Garbo’, ‘Fear of Falling’, ‘Dissent’, ‘Kidney Thieves’, and ‘Mazred’.

Buying or Selling... call Darius Zub • Expanded Ranch 3BR, 21/2 BA.....Hanover • $539,000 • Colonial 4BR, 3BA................East Hanover • $689,000 • Cape Cod 4BR, 11/2BA......................Clifton • $429,000 • Condo 2BR, 1BA..............................Clifton • $269,900 • 2 Family 6BR, 21/2BA...............Passaic Park • $494,900

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August 2005 • Clifton Merchant

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Ask Ellen De Losh of Clifton Ave. Ave, who’s the Best Siding & Roofing company in Clifton...

...She knows! Affordable Home Services, owned and operated by the Federle family, have been satisfying Clifton homeowners for three generations. We offer only the finest in material and workmanship, and provide you a lifetime guarantee on all products installed on your home, such as G.A.F. roofing, Alside, Alcoa and Royal Woodland Vinyl Siding, Ultra Maxx insulated Vinyl Replacement Windows and Andersen and ThermaTru door systems. We have been using these fine quality products since 1947 and that is why we back them with a lifetime guarantee. Sincerely,

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72 St. James Place • Clifton • 9 7 3 . 4 7 3 . 4 8 3 0 Clifton Merchant • August 2005

Did You Step Up To Help The Marching Mustangs? CHS Band Parents set $100,000 Goal To Purchase 200 New Uniforms

June 22, 1996: Marching Mustang Band members will be at your door over the next few day but they won’t be high-stepping or playing any toe-tapping music. What they need is your contributions. That’s because the Showband of the Northeast needs to raise thousands of dollars to replace worn out uniforms, many of which are threadbare and shabby. Vice-Chair of the CHS Band Parents Association Larry Krewer stated that the first priority is to raise $30,000 for an initial payment this summer so the uniforms can be ordered immediately and delivered by Sept. Krewer added that the goal is to raise $100,000, which covers the full cost of 200 new uniforms. Band uniforms were about 10 years old and had been tailored and altered numerous times. 22

August 2005 • Clifton Merchant

Band enrollment is expected to rise and without these new uniforms, many talented kids would be forced to sit on the sidelines. In this era of budget cuts, the Clifton Board of Education couldn’t provide the financial support it has given in the past. That’s why the kids are going door-to-door to raise funds. Krewer noted Pompton Lakes recently eliminated its entire high school music program because of budget constraints. Imagine a parade or the annual Memorial Day programs in Clifton without the Mustang Marching Band, or a budding musician forced to the sidelines because there are not enough instruments or uniforms. Can’t happen in Clifton, you say? Don’t be too sure. They probably thought the same thing in Pompton Lakes.

S T Y E RT OW N E S H O P P I N G

C E N T E R

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SIDEWALK SALE August 11,12,13th Use This Directory of Stores When Shopping at our Sidewalk Sale: The Chiropractic Center at Styertowne 973-777-6995

Corbo Jewelers 973-777-1635

Valley National Bank 973-777-6283

Bertelli’s Liquors

GNC 973-779-1500

Shereed’s Ladies & Mens Clothing 973-773-1673

Cleaners 2000 973-614-1400

The Season’s Fine Chinese Cuisine

The Shoe Doctor 973-777-4700

Pet Stuff 973-778-1617

973-777-8073

AC Moore 973-470-8885

Taste of Tuscany

Coconuts 973-778-8759

Marty’s Shoes 973-471-4140

Alice’s Cards & Gifts

973-916-0700

973-773-2422

Styertowne Bakery

The Artisan’s Touch 973-471-0001

The New Brava For Women 973-777-1385

973-777-6193

Footnotes Bookstore 973-779-6770

Fascination Beauty Salon 973-473-6105

The Shoe Gallery 973-777-4700

Dress Barn 973-249-0233

US Post Office 973-473-4946

Kid City 973-614-1111

Exchange Florist 973-594-0700

The Men’s Gallery 973-777-4700

ACME 973-594-0590

Antonio’s Hair Stylist 973-472-1011 Kim’s Nail Salon 973-471-8118 Celebrations 973-458-8200

973-779-0199

Dunkin Donuts & Baskin Robbins 973-473-9631 CVS Pharmacy 973-778-7630 Atlanta Bread Company 973-777-2211 Dollar Tree 973-249-7530

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Clifton Merchant • August 2005

Aug. 1, 1996: The expansion of Clifton High School commences. Sept. 15, 1996: More than 300 members, families and friends of Albion Place Memorial VFW Post 7165 celebrated its 50th anniversary with a dinner at Three Saints Cultural Center in Garfield.

Oct 11, 1996: The Hot Grill, at 669 Lexington Ave., celebrates the good old days with its 35th anniversary.

July 26, 1996: A groundbreaking with Clifton Mayor Jim Anzaldi and Passaic Mayor Margie Semler takes place in Botany Plaza for the new Pathmark Super Center. Construction is expected to be completed by Thanksgiving. Built on a former mill along the Clifton/Passaic line at the Passaic River, the 110,000 square foot Botany Plaza is anchored by Pathmark, women’s apparel retailer Fashion Bug and other smaller shops. A Big K-Mart (in Passaic) is yet to be built. Nearby construction of Route 21 and the interchange at Routes 46 and 80 by the New Jersey Department of Transportation in Botany is also being discussed—again. The highway from Newark now ends at Monroe Street in Passaic. An interchange is to be constructed in Clifton near Randolph and Lexington Aves. This last portion of Route 21 has been planned for over 30 years. When complete, this will provide a link between Routes 21, 80 and 46. The route follows the Dundee Canal which will be mostly filled. Officials predict the highway’s completion will have a positive impact on the retail trade in both Botany Plaza and historic Botany Village.

The biggest accident could be your choice of attorney. Jack Corradino. The someone who cares. Professional Care. Corradino Law Offices • Casey Building 935 Allwood Road • Suite 240 • Clifton 973-574-1200 • www.corradinolaw.com 1684

August 2005 • Clifton Merchant

Aug. 11, 1996: Clifton Main Memorial Library (the rendering above is of the ‘new’ building which was officially dedicated on Nov. 10, 1991) launches a series of events to mark its 50th anniversary. Among the activities, a boat ride, a book sale, a visit to Montclair State University for an evening of theatre, and a jazz concert. Below is a photo of the opening of the first Clifton Memorial

Library on Jan. 31, 1953. Before this permanent structure was dedicated on Piaget Ave., the library was housed in a storefront on Main Ave., near the intersection of Clifton Ave., as well as other locations.

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Sept. 25, 1996: St. Peter’s Haven, Clifton’s homeless shelter which is on Clifton Ave. and affiliated with St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, celebrates its 10th anniversary with a Volunteer Recognition Night and Awards ceremony. Nov. 1, 1996: Detective Captain James Territo retires after 28 years at the Clifton Police Department.

Nov. 1, 1996: Quentin Roosevelt Post #8, American Legion, donates a third defibrillator to Clifton. Nov. 6, 1996: Sacred Heart Church at Clifton and Randolph Aves., begins a yearlong centennial celebration with the cleaning of the church bell, which was cast by an Italian immigrant using scrap metals collected by parishioners.

Frank Carlet Ushers In Clifton Commons Project Oct. 26, 1996: Attorney Frank Carlet leads a proposal by developers, The Related Companies, for a $200 million dollar project on the adjoining sites of Automatic Data Processing and International Telephone and Telegraph Co. near the Nutley border—now known as Clifton Commons. He said the development would generate about $4.7 million in taxes and add $200 million in ratables, which delighted the Planning Board. To make approval by the Planning Board an easier task, the City Council, in August 1996, approved the re-zoning of these 100 acres along Route 3 to meet the anticipated needs of the project. By late in 1997, after 16 hearings before the Planning Board, a new entertainment/retail center, Clifton Commons, is approved by the City Council for the former ADP site on Route 3. It’s probably the largest single ratable approved in Clifton history. The major hurdle of the project stemmed from a 31-year-old Alcoholic Beverage Control ordinance stipulating 800 feet between establishments serving alcohol.

Nov. 20, 1996: After finishing their halftime routine at a football game, members of the Mustang Band formed up for an unscheduled routine. The members created a horseshoe and encircled their startled director Robert Morgan by way of saluting him on his 25th anniversary at the band’s helm. His son, Dan, stepped forward and pinned a flower on his lapel and the band struck up “What I Did for Love,” a signature number of the ensemble for years.

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August 2005 • Clifton Merchant

Pass on 8th Place Finisher Councilman Chuck Rohde sent a fax saying that he could not attend the meeting “due to circumstance beyond my control,” thus forcing a decision to hold a Special Election. Consequently, at an April City Council meeting called specifically to vote for Jankowski’s appointment, Rohde did not show. Instead he sent a fax saying that he could not attend the meeting “due to circumstances beyond my control,” thus by default forcing a decision to hold a Special Election. The Nov. 5 election would feature seven candidates vying for the remaining 18 months left on Stockinger’s term. The candidates included: Results of the Nov. 5, 1996 City Council Special Election: Ed Welsh . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5,243 Raymond Goetschius . . . . . . 2,494 Nicholas Lordi . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,485 Robert Baran . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,437 Walter Jankowski . . . . . . . . 1,126 William Swain Jr . . . . . . . . . . . 527 Joseph Yeamans . . . . . . . . . . . 314 Total Votes Cast: 12,626

• William Swain Jr., Democrat, 38, of Richland Ct., a private detective. • Nicholas Lordi, Republican, 33, of Robinson Terr., a certified public accountant who served three months on the Board of Education in 1994. • Joseph Yeamans, Republican, 53, of John Alden St., an attorney, writer and a former teacher. • Robert Baran, Democrat, 67, of Madison Ave., a retired banker and former Councilman from 1970-78. • Ed Welsh, Democrat, 43, of West Second St., an insurance salesman. He was the Vice Chairman of the Planning Board and a member of the Clifton First Civic Association and Clifton Against Substance Abuse. • Walter Jankowski, Democrat, 65, of East Ninth St., a field monitor for the NJ Division of Motor Vehicles. • Raymond Goetschius, Republican, 52, of Doherty Dr.; a retired Clifton firefighter and former President of Local 21 of the Firemen’s Mutual Benevolent Association.

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The death of Councilman Richard Stockinger on March 24, 1996, has left a vacant seat on the seven member governing body. By tradition, but not law, the six other City Council members would turn to the eighth place finisher of the previous election to fill Stockinger’s unexpired term, which ends in July, 1998 In order for this to happen, at least four of the six Council members must vote for the replacement’s appointment by April 24. If the City Council does not cast their votes by then, the law stipulates that a Special Election would be held on Nov. 5 in which voters would elect a seventh member. Press reports indicate Walter Jankowski, the eighth place finisher of the May, 1994 election, was a lock for the endorsement. Council members Chuck Rohde, Gloria Kolodziej, Peter Eagler and Mayor James Anzaldi publicly said they would vote for him. However, a series of strange events changed that. Council members Don Kowal and Chuck Rohde each reported receiving anonymous letters claiming their political career in Clifton is “dead” if they did not appoint Jankowski. Jankowski’s chances of being appointed to the Council seat were further tarnished after he publically claimed in news reports that Passaic County Sheriff Edwin Englehardt was influencing both Kowal and Rohde, two fellow Republicans. Jankowski said to a reporter: “He (Englehardt) has throat cancer. He can go at any minute while they (Rohde and Kowal) could have long political futures if they play their cards right.”

1-800-676-GTFM Clifton Merchant • August 2005

Nov. 6, 1996: With help from his hometown, Paterson Mayor William Pascrell Jr. defeats Cliftonite William Martini for the 8th Congressional District seat. The victory for Pascrell, pictured below, a Democrat, ended Martini’s two year Republican interruption of a 35 year Democratic reign in the district, which covers Clifton and parts of Passaic and Essex counties.

The election was marred by ruthless mudslinging, mostly from Martini’s Republican camp. Martini, at right, focused on Pascrell’s ethics and his political record for a majority of the campaign and even made personal comments about Pascrell and his family. In the final days leading up to the election, Martini concentrated his media attacks on depicting a bleak and sinister Paterson that rotted under Pascrell’s leadership. Infuriated Paterson voters turned out in record numbers and gave Pascrell a hometown lead by 17,000 votes, which would be an insurmountable margin to Martini, even with strong numbers in his hometown of Clifton and other suburbs. Pascrell went on to capture more than 52 percent of the votes—nearly 7,000 more than Martini. After conceding defeat, Martini publicly wished Pascrell good luck, the first kind words directed at his opponent in recent memory.

Pascrell called Martini’s campaign sleazy. During his celebration at The Brownstone, Pascrell, who said all along he tried to run a positive and unifying campaign, looked around at the ethnically diverse room and instructed supporters to do the same. “Then you’ll see the difference between them and us,” he concluded. 1767

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Nov. 17, 1996: St. Peter’s Episcopal Church celebrates its 100th anniversary. Led by the pastor Rev. Susanah Smith, the church’s charity work is well known within Clifton and surrounding communities. The Clifton Ave. congregation has at the heart of its mission St. Peter’s Haven, the Clifton Ave. homeless shelter and food pantry, which has been serving the area’s needy since 1987.

Dec. 6, 1996: Fire Department Chief Walter DeGroot (above) retires after 37 years with the department. Jan. 1, 1997: Bell Atlantic implements the 973 area code to meet the over-demand on the 201 area code. 1019

Clifton Stallions Soccer

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August 25 & 26 6pm - 9pm Soccer is open to all boys & girls between the ages of 5 to 13. Volunteer to coach or assist. Get Involved. Help keep this program successful. Clifton Merchant • August 2005

Jan. 8, 1997: On the crime scene …Clifton police raid a Lakeview Ave. massage parlor after complaints from neighbors and a one month undercover operation. Three women were arrested and charged 1355

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with prostitution. Later in the month police would raid a second ‘spa’ on Mt. Prospect Ave. and arrest two more women for prostitution. Jan. 9, 1997: A 31-year old Van Riper Avenue man was arrested and charged with attempting to murder his girlfriend with a chemicalsoaked cloth while she lay sleeping alongside her 5 month old daughter. The girlfriend managed to struggle free and ran out of the house seeking help. When police arrive, they found what appeared to be a freshly dug grave in the basement floor. The hole appeared large enough to bury a body and a shovel, blanket, and pile of dirt were nearby. The girlfriend was treated for minor wounds and a restraining order was issued on her boyfriend. Just days later he was arrested and charged with attempted murder.

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Feb. 1997: As part of an on-going centennial celebration, the parishioners of Sacred Heart Church gather on a Sunday to view a wide screen videotape of their history, “The Sacred Heart Story.” Feb. 9, 1997: Clifton teachers peacefully picket in front of Woodrow Wilson Middle School on Van Houten Ave. and Clifton High School on Colfax Ave. The teachers, whose contract expired in June 1996, asked the Board to settle. A mediator will meet with the union and the Board for further negotiations. 1774

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March 1997: Merchants Barry and Sherry Rosenfeld of Dundee Floor Covering, at 421 Broad St., celebrate their 70th anniversary. Rosenfeld’s father, Morris, began the business in Passaic in 1927.

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Feb. 23, 1997: Baseball Hall of Famer, Yankee Phil Rizzuto, visits Woodrow Wilson Middle School’s Baseball Card Club. He chatted with students, signed autographs, and impressed upon the students the importance of hard work. March 1, 1997: Clifton Police Captain Robert Kelly retires after 30 years with the force. March 10, 1997: Members of the Delawanna Citizens’ Association give ‘cautious’ support to the $200 million Clifton Commons retail/ entertainment center. Across town, Botany Plaza holds the grand opening for the new Pathmark on Randolph Ave. The supermarket was intended to be completed in time for Thanksgiving but took longer than expected.

April 6, 1997: Former Congressman William Martini tosses a shovel of dirt at the ground breaking ceremony for the renovations at the Boys & Girls Club. Founded in 1947, the Boys Club offered recreational activities for young lads. In 1966, the Girls Club was founded to provide similar opportunities for young women. Finally, in 1986, the Clubs consolidated and officially became the Boys & Girls Club of Clifton. Plans for a renovation of the Clifton Ave. building were set in motion during the early 1990’s after membership grew to over 2,000. Over $4 million dollars was raised to expand the existing facilities. The Nicholas Martini Foundation (of which Bill Martini heads) launched the campaign, which also received funds from families, businesses, banks and corporations.

April 13, 1997: School 15, serving Dutch Hill, celebrates its 75th anniversary. Both the band and the chorus performed and a walking tour of the school was provided.

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August 2005 • Clifton Merchant

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May 7, 1997: Businesses come and go…Suzy Home Makers celebrates its grand opening at 700 Rt. 3 West, while the Grand Union supermarket located on the corner of Lexington and Clifton Aves., closes. May 30, 1997: School 9 on Brighton Rd. marks its 75th anniversary. Students bury a time capsule to commemorate the event. June 15, 1997: Givaudan Roure, the international fragrance and flavor manufacturer long associated with Clifton, began laying off dozens of white collar workers after deciding to shut down its plant on Delawanna Ave. In total Givaudan will eliminate about 200 jobs. Separately, a West Orange corporation received final approval to conduct a multi-million dollar renovation at the former BASF office building on Broad St near Chitteden Rd. to build ‘spec’ Class A office space.

Historian David Van Dillen Clifton, family and God were at the core of David L. Van Dillen’s soul, who died on July 5, 1997. As city historian, Van Dillen would receive hundreds of letters from people requesting information about his beloved city and he’d answer every one, said his wife Dorothy. From the time he was eight years old, Van Dillen had an interest in history and genealogy sparked by his mother who was the historian of the Athenia Reformed Church. She left behind many notes and documents about the city, which he investigated. Among his published works were a 300 year timeline history of his hometown, which Clifton Merchant Magazine published in 1998. Van Dillen was also the author of the Clifton Sampler, which celebrated the city’s 75th anniversary. Before retiring in 1985, he was a sales representative for Scott Foresman Educational Publishers.

An Army Air Corps veteran of World War II, he was a member and historian of Quentin Roosevelt American Legion Post 8, Clifton. Looking back on his 77 years, David Van Dillen fulfilled many roles, including husband and father to five. “I had a wonderful 54 years with him,” concluded Dorothy. 1762

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July 27, 1997: A demonstration march early in July results in a meeting between city administrators and Arabic leaders. The North Jersey Arab-American Civic Organization’s president, City Manager Robert Hammer, Police Chief Frank LoGioco and eight Arab-American citizens discussed the problems the Arabic community had experienced in dealing with some officers on the Clifton Police Department.

Nutley/Clifton Border Dispute Aug. 27, 1997: Just as lawyers and developers for the proposed Clifton Commons on Route 3 were finalizing plans with Clifton officials, they hit a bump in the road. The City of Nutley announced they would file suit against The Related Companies, and the City of Clifton. Nutley citizens fear that the quality of life in their residential community would deteriorate once the proposed megamall and its traffic were introduced. They also noted that their concerns were not addressed by the developer nor the Clifton Planning Board. Some Nutley residents have formed a group, saying that they will boycott the megamall, as well as any of the franchises that rent space in the complex.

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August 2005 • Clifton Merchant

Sept. 7, 1997: John Dubravsky (above) is sworn in as Fire Chief. Dubravsky has been with the Clifton Fire Department since July 1968. One hundred and eighty of Dubravsky’s colleagues would attend a testimonial dinner held in his honor in January. Sept. 24, 1997: Aaron Halpern, former principal of the Clifton High School, dies. Halpern served in the Clifton school system for 43 years, the last quarter century as the high school’s principal.

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APY*

1-YEAR CD

APY*

2-YEAR CD

For more information, visit your Clifton State Farm Agents for your insurance and financial needs.

Thomas Tobin, Agent

Bill G. Eljouzi, Agent

1033 Clifton Avenue Clifton, NJ 07013 Bus: 973-779-4248 thomas.tobin.icgi@statefarm.com

178 Lakeview Avenue Clifton, NJ 07011 Bus: 973-478-9500 bill.eljouzi.hg5e@statefarm.com

LIKE A GOOD NEIGHBOR, STATE FARM IS THERE. * Annual Percentage Yield as of 5/18/05, rates subject to change without notice. Minimum balance to open an account and obtain the stated APY is $500. A penalty may be imposed for a withdrawal prior to maturity. Certificates automatically renew at maturity at the then current rate for the same term. Some products and services not available in all areas. State Farm Bank • Home Office: Bloomington, IL • statefarm.com®

1724

Clifton Merchant • August 2005

Grown at Ploch’s – Clifton’s Oldest & Largest Farm One of the last remaining parcels of agricultural land in the area

F r uits

Ve g e t a b l e s

FROM THE GARDEN STATE

We’re Fresh! F ro m Ar ugula to Z u c c h i n i . . .

our tomatoes, corn, peaches and other produce are grown in Clifton on our Grove Street Farm and fresh-picked every morning so it’s top quality on your dinner plate that evening!

Stop and visit Lin’s Country Gifts & Crafts for Baked Goods, Ice Cream & Italian Ice.

PLOCH’S FARM 148 Grove St. • 973.778.6463

A Clifton Tradition Since 1867 Hours: Tue.-Fri. – Noon to 6pm • Sat. 9am to 5pm • Sun. 10am to 4pm 38

August 2005 • Clifton Merchant

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Sept. 24, 1997: The City Council voted to pass three ordinances to deter truck traffic on Valley Rd., forcing restrictions on trucks entering and exiting Dell Contractors at 650 Valley Rd. Neighbors have been complaining that Dell, owners of the rock quarry, had become a nuisance. The ordinances must pass a second reading before becoming law. Representatives of Dell have already said they will cease operations at the quarry and move out of the city within the next five years. Oct. 4, 1997: The Knights of Columbus Perez Council #262 marks 100 years of service. Oct. 14, 1997: Robert Rizzoti is named Clifton’s Director of Economic Development. Oct. 22, 1997: The city changes Gregory Ave. to a one way street heading north. The change was approved in response to growing concern for the safety of elementary School 15’s students.

Sept. 21, 1997: CEO and Chairman of Town & County Developers James J. Bovino announced plans to purchase the vacant Shulton factory complex, demolish the buildings, change the use of the property from industrial to residential and build over 600 townhouses. An unspecified number of the homes will be for set aside for senior housing. Pictured above is Bovino and Mayor James Anzaldi on Dec. 22, 2000 for the ceremonial demolition of the art deco Shulton structure on Colfax Ave.

Come Hungry. Leave Happy.™ 680 Rt. 3 West Clifton, NJ 973-471-7717 www.ihop.com

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Clifton Merchant • August 2005

Sekulovski Farm West Caldwell, NJ

Paterson Farmers Market East Railway Ave., Paterson Open Daily: 7am-6pm

973-742-1019 Some Farmers Here Wednesday - Friday All Farmers Here Saturday & Sunday

Meet Our Farmers...

...and Their Produce

Adickes Farm

Our Farmers Grow & Sell These Crops and More

Bader Farm Breezy Valley Farm Dagelle Farm Don Donohoe Farms Farms View Healthway Farm Hurley Farm Paul Donoho Farms Ricky’s Produce Rolling T’s Sammis Farms Sekulovski Farm Selle Farm Sleepy Hills Orchard Windy Maples Farm

Meet Our Merchants... AG&S

Peaches • Apples Melons • Plums Pears • Quince Jersey Tomatoes Heirloom Tomatoes Flat Red Onions Potatoes of all kinds Corn • Squash Brussels Sprouts Cabbage Beans • Arugula Pumpkin Flower Broccoli Rabe Parsley Root Celery Nob Green Garlic Red Carrots White Radishes Winter Squash Large Variety of Peppers

Beef and Beyond El Campesino Farmers Market *

El Rancho International* Farmers Deli Fruti Mex Jerusalem Halal Meat Seasonal Walk Spinella Garden Center Spinella Produce Green Valley Produce *open till 9pm

August 2005 • Clifton Merchant

Breezy Valley Farm of Newburg, PA

Ricky’s Produce of New Hampton, NY

Dried Fruit Spices & Herbs Fresh Fruit & Produce Roasted Nuts Tropical Specialty Items Meats & Halal Meats Chicken • Grocery Items Cold Cuts • Sandwiches Grilled Items Seasonal Plants Wine Grapes

Bader Farm of Pine Brook, NJ

80th Anniversary...

Nov. 9, 1997: Givaudan-Roure shifts another 100 workers employed in the legal department, information systems, human resources, finance and administration, out of Clifton. The positions were relocated to offices in Totowa and Cincinnati, Ohio. Givaudan officials say they expect to be completely moved out of Clifton by the end of 1998. The city will miss its tax ratables and handicapped adults will miss the annual holiday party that Givaudan employees have hosted each of the past 26 years.

Clifton’s New Benjamin Moore Dealer!

Able Hardware 745 Van Houten Ave. Oct. 19, 1997: Despite the construction going on at the recently purchased Valley Regency, which was the former Robin Hood Inn, over 300 attend Clifton’s 80th Anniversary Celebration. The casual event included no program and guests enjoyed a wide variety of great food, entertainment and many were impressed with the first glimpse of renovations at the Regency. City Council members were all on hand as were politicians from every corner of the county turned out to shake hands before November’s election. Candidates had made it known that Clifton was to be an important political battlefield, with 37,772 registered voters. Seats up for grabs included County Freeholder, State Senate, Assembly and Governor. The 80th Anniversary Dinner Committee included Peter Eagler, Phyllis Bivaletz, Doreen Delancy, Ellen De Losh, Mary Genthon, Dawn Kaiser, Mayor James Anzaldi, Keith Oakley, Joan Robertson, Timothy Shanley, Norma Smith, Stefan Tatarenko and Joan Umhoefer.

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C.Genardi Contracting Inc • Clifton

973-

772-8451

R OOFING • S IDING S EAMLESS G UTTERS A DDITIONS & A LTERATIONS Clifton Merchant • August 2005

Nov. 15, 1997: Lambert Castle opens its doors for the first time in two years as the Passaic County Historical Society hosts its annual Holiday Boutique. Nov. 23, 1997: After nearly a year and a half without a contract, more than 60 percent of the members of the certified teaching staff of the Clifton school district voted to accept a new contract. The contract calls for an eleven percent increase over a three year period. Dec. 10, 1997: Clifton Taxpayers Association calls it quits after eight years. The CTA enjoyed significant activity and was instrumental in engaging city, county, and state leaders on a wide range of issues facing Clifton. Dec. 17, 1997: Stefan & Sons Meat Store at 246 Dayton Ave. in Botany Village, (left) celebrates 15 years. The family owned and operated business features smoked and fresh meats as well as Polish delicacies.

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Acupuncture Services

August 2005 • Clifton Merchant

973-778-0013

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Heart Disease... ...of any type can be alarming but much of the worry and concern can be eliminated.

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By selecting the highest qualified physicians who then select the finest resource, the Eastern Heart Institute at PBI Regional Medical Center.

Take heart with our heart experts.

Chief of Cardiology Dr. Elliot Brown

Choosing a hospital is as critical a decision as choosing your doctor. As Chief of the Cardiology Department at PBI Regional Medical Center, I could tell you about our technology, state of the art equipment and procedures such as our Electrophysiology Department that rivals any in arrhythmia detection and treatment or our newest version of nuclear medicine that perfects diagnosis of coronary artery disease. I could brag about how impressive was our inspection and review by the Joint Commission on the Accreditation of Hospitals...

BUT I really want to tell you about the incredible care and treatment that patients receive at Our House. I know this from personal experience as I was a patient at PBIRMC recently. I can assure you that my care was impeccable from the moment I appeared at the Admitting Office, through my entire stay and discharge. There is no better care anywhere. I am proud to be a member of the PBI Regional Medical staff, proud of the advances made by the Center and its up to date care—but most of all I am proud of my colleagues and the family of caregivers who work together to make every patient’s stay a comfortable healing experience. When you want the best—it’s right here—close to home. Give your Heart to Someone You Can Trust.

Clifton Merchant • August 2005

Back Pack Safety Check During the months of August/September… bring your school-aged child AND their backpack to Clifton Chiropractic & Physical Therapy for a “safety check” and a “back to school back-check” ALL AT NO CHARGE!!!

Did You Know: That new research reveals an alarming danger associated with childhood backpack use... That it is estimated that almost 5,000 emergency visits each year are the result of injuries related to backpacks... That backpack injuries can be prevented!!!

Chiropractic Care: Natural Treatment Medical research suggests that continued use of heavy backpacks has been linked to scoliosis, posture problems and back and neck injuries. Early detection and appropriate treatment can prevent progressive spine deformities which occur in approximately 2-5% of the US population. Call 973-742-3400 today for a complimentary consultation.

Clifton Chiropractic & Physical Therapy 248 Edison St., corner of Valley Rd., Bobbink Center

973-742-3400 We care for your health,

1010

Naturally!

Siblings Dr. Suzi Schulman & Dr. Jeffrey Schulman

August 2005 • Clifton Merchant

Councilman Will Retire Lester Herrschaft announced in Jan., 1998 he would not seek reelection, thus leaving an opening on the seven member body. Herrschaft, 72, served on the appointed Board of Education for decades and for the last 12 years on the City Council. In April’s Clifton Merchant cover story, he offered his comments on the upcoming May 12, 1998, City Council election. Mayor James Anzaldi is a hard-working politician, a classic politician. He’s Clifton’s public relations man.” Peter Eagler is an achiever who’s not a grandstander. He has quietly accomplished much. To me, he’ll always be a good kid.” Ed Welsh: “I took Eddie under my wing when he just started. Now he’s coming into his own.” Mr. H sees strength in ‘the Slavic ticket’... Gloria Kolodziej is a quality person that does her homework and is not afraid to tackle the tough issues. She’s smart and hard-working.” Steve Hatala has gotten a lot of support and he’s got a campaign in place. He has good business qualities and he’ll be a smart addition to the Council.” Stefan Tatarenko is Clifton’s future. He’ll make a good Councilman. He’s got a big career ahead of him.” Donald Kowal served the city well for many years. Don works hard and he’s smart.” Herrschaft took note of the following candidates... Nick Veliky got a good shot. Nick might bump one of the other candidates off. He’ll be back either way.” Bob Sidoti is a good candidate for the future. It’s not his time. He’s a good kid.” Joe Latiano is a longtime Cliftonite. I always liked Joe.” Anzaldi, Kolodziej and Welsh all have a good shot at becoming mayor, said Herrschaft. “Gloria stands out right now but it’s hard to call,” he claimed. On rumors of the sale of the Styertowne Shopping Center... Herrschaft said within weeks, McCrory’s sign will come down and a new tenant will start renovations. Who will it be? And is the center for sale? Wait until the next edition of Clifton Merchant to find out.

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973.253.0570 From Lakeview Ave • Enter on Mina Ave • Exit on Rosalie Ave Clifton Merchant • August 2005

Feb. 1998: Clifton Savings Bank donates $150,000 to the Boys & Girls Club and challenges other local banks to collectively contribute $450,000 to the fund. Those in attendance include Kenneth Van Saders, John H. Peto, Gary Foerster, George Held, Dolores Colucci, John A. Celentano Jr., Florence Cannizzo, Frank J. Hahofer, Raymond L. Sisco, Joe C. Smith and Thomas Miller. “With more than a dozen banks in town, I am confident they will meet the challenge,” said Van Saders, President of Clifton Savings. He was right. PNC Bank gave a $50,000 gift within days. Jan. 25, 1998: School news... a case of tuberculosis is diagnosed in CHS. City health officers would test about 200 students and staff members resulting in 13 positive test results. ...State education officials approve plans for a publicly funded charter school to open on Valley Rd. Clifton’s Board of Education officials fight the project, stating they would appeal the state’s decision because the local school board would be required to pay for the charter school.

Jan. 28, 1998: Market St. rezoning will allow cafes and other restaurants ordinarily not allowed in the shopping area to operate. Feb. 27, 1998: Last month Cliff Hall, the man of bronze who stood outside the entrance to City Hall since Oct. 1994, left for Rio de Janeiro…or so residents thought. The sculpture actually went to be cleaned and waxed. Cliff—whose real name is ‘Point of View’— returned via a DPW truck and resumed his position near City Hall.

R.F. K NAPP C ONSTRUCTION R OOFING • S IDING • G UTTERS • L EADERS

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March 4, 1998: As work progresses on the final link of the long awaited Rt. 21 extension which is to connect Rts. 80 and 46, the residential and commercial areas south of Rt. 46 in the Lexington-Trimble Ave. neighborhood is a shambles, best avoided at all times. Merchants have complained for months that the construction and lack of a ramp into the shopping district will take a toll on Botany Village businesses, who say a Route 46 ramp is needed.

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August 2005 • Clifton Merchant

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{ lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a journey }

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Registration August 27th - September 1st

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973-684-6868 www.pccc.edu Continuing Education begins throughout the Fall. Call 973-684-6153 for a CE Schedule.

Nothing so near can take you so far! 1321

Clifton Merchant â&#x20AC;˘ August 2005

Celebrating Dr. Doerr’s Life In his 44 years of practice at his Allwood Rd. office, Dr. Alphonsus L. Doerr attended to the infirmities of many. Before he died in 1997, it was estimated he also delivered over 10,000 babies, many of them Clifton residents. If you attended Clifton schools, chances are you encountered Dr. Doerr. He served as Clifton Schools Physician for 25 years. He was also affiliated with the General Hospital Center at Passaic for over two decades, where he served in the Emergency Room and other departments. If you were sick or simply needed a routine check-up, chances are you stopped in at his office, or Dr. Doerr visited you, at home. Beyond his professional side, Dr. Doerr was a character and and a staunch Cliftonite. As a tribute to him and his years of service, Dr. Doerr was featured on the cover of the March 1998 Clifton Merchant Magazine. Dr. Doerr is survived by his wife Esther and their seven children John, Joseph, Carol, Mary, Susan, Alphonsus Jr. and Deborah. The three boys followed in dad’s footsteps Illustration by Jacquie Kiernan and have gone on to become doctors. 1188

How Do You Measure

UP?

How much coverage should you have? Should you need homeowner’s insurance for your Clifton home, call us. We will personally measure your house and provide you with our recommendation.

Ernest T.

CHEIDEMANN REAL ESTATE & INSURANCE 1297 Main Avenue • 973-478-5967 Providing Homeowners Coverage for Generations.

August 2005 • Clifton Merchant

Bridget Lydick, ACSR and E.J. Scheidemann, Broker

History will Continue We will continue publishing this timeline of the not-so-distant past and hope to receive photos and information from you. Send us notes and news of what you think should be included. While we will consider all submissions, we reserve the right to edit or reject information. Send info to Clifton Merchant Magazine, Tomahawk Promotions, 1288 Main Avenue, Downtown Clifton, NJ 07011. Call 973-253-4400 or email Clifton historical tiffs and tidbits to tom.hawrylko@verizon.net. John is a radiologist practicing in Clifton and at the time of this article, Joseph was a physician in rehabilitative medicine and a Fellow of the American College of Rehabilitative Medicine and Physiatry in West Port, Massachusetts. Alphonsus Jr. was a senior resident in plastic surgery and reconstructive hand surgery at Tampa General Hospital in Florida. (The three now own a practice on Clifton and Van Houten Aves.) As for his daughters, Susan and her husband develop real estate projects in Evergreen, Colorado. Deborah is a currency trader in New York. Carol is a medical secretary at her father’s office and Mary resides in Franklin Lakes with her husband Richard.

Gentle, Effective Pain Relief from:

1759

• Headaches • Neck & Back Pain • Shoulder & Arm Pain • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome • Lower Back Pain • Sciatica/Leg Pain • Disc Problems • Muscle & Joint Pain

e hope you had a wonderful summer month of July. August will hopefully bring as many beautiful days to all of you. We will be attending the JA Jewelry Show in the Jacob Javitz Center, New York, starting July 31. Due to the Lyons Den column deadline, this event takes place after the August edition goes to print. Therefore, we look forward to sharing what’s in store for the fall and holiday season in our next column. It promises to be an exciting time in the jewelry industry. Turquoise has been one of summer’s most popular colors and all signs are that it will continue to be strong throughout the year. The biggest seller this summer has been ankle bracelets in both white and yellow gold. We have a variety of styles with and without gemstones—which add to summer’s fashion fun. This month we will continue our spring/summer sale. We have a large selection of yellow gold. Items include costume, sterling silver and Swarovski jewelry. Come take a look! You just might find something to suit you or a friend! The birthstone for August is peridot. Peridot was mined in Egypt centuries ago and was brought back to Europe by the crusaders. It was believed that peridot helped develop ones mental abilities. Today, most peridot is mined in the state of Arizona. Have an “Awesome August” and we will talk to you next month.

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This column was originally started by our founder, the late Murray Blumenfeld. In his spirit, we continue its publication.

DR. LENNY KRUGLYAK

CHIROPRACTOR

RICHFIELD SHOPPING CENTER 1354 CLIFTON AVE • CLIFTON • 973.777.4329 www.morrelyons.com 1295

Clifton Merchant • August 2005

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Tongue-and-Groove Plank • Provides fastener free surface • Offers 11% more coverage than lumber • Brushed surface provides the look of wood • Available in 12’, 16’ and 20’ lengths

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Whether it’s around your Clifton home or at your weekend getaway, K&S and TimberTech can help you build a maintenance-free deck. K&S is a Stocking Dealer and that means we’ll have what you need in stock and at the best price.

Ornamental Railing System • Attractive “bread loaf” top rail styling • Complete with post covers and post caps • Precut baluster kits available • Available in 6’ and 8’ kits

TimberTech comes in • Redwood • Grey • Cedar

BUILDING SUPPLY INC.

236 COLFAX AVE • CLIFTON

973.473.3118 50

August 2005 • Clifton Merchant

Zoning issues

Acquackanonk Gardens by Joseph R. Torelli

obert Staw was just trying to be a good neighbor. When Laura Sakevich asked the retired WWII Navy Chief Petty Officer in 2001 to sign a petition that would allow her to subdivide the property on which her Clavarack Rd. home stood, Staw, who lives a few of doors away, saw no reason to object. Neither did about 130 of his neighbors who also signed the document. Now, the character of their quiet neighborhood is changing as a result of their generosity. According to Staw, he and the other signers thought the petition was exclusive to Sakevich’s lot and that no other property in their historic Acquackanonk Gardens neighborhood would be affected. They were wrong. By agreeing to the petition, they actually nullified a key provision in their deeds that prohibited the subdivision of all the lots within Acquackanonk’s borders. Staw and his neighbors contend they were unaware that the petition applied to any lot but Sakevich’s. “She told me when she came to my house that she only wanted to subdivide her property,” recalled Staw. “I never thought any other houses in here would be involved.”

A Brief History Acquackanonk Gardens is a quiet, tree-filled neighborhood of 200+ homes that were built by the federal government during WWII to temporarily house workers from nearby defense plants. Workers from such companies as Curtiss-

Wright in Paterson and Bendix Aeronautical Corporation in Teterboro streamed into Clifton to take up residence in the carefully designed, quiet rural community located between Van Houten Ave. and Clavarack Rd. When the war ended the homes were offered for rent and for sale to returning veterans. Those who bought them had to agree to several stipulations, or covenants, created by the federal government to ensure the

area would remain true to its original design. One of those covenants read, “No lot…shall be subdivided into smaller building lots.” That covenant, and all the others attached to the Acquackanonk deeds, were to remain in effect until 1975, at which time they would be automatically renewed for successive periods of ten years – automatically renewed, that is, unless a majority of property owners agreed to change or cancel any or all of them.

☛

Clifton Merchant • August 2005

Andersen Windows & Doors We Buy Them By The Truckload! We’re a small company that thinks big. Price: At K&S, we buy Andersen windows and doors by the truckload. That means you get great prices from a locally owned supplier. But unlike the big chains, we’ll give you more… Service: At K&S, we make our living on service. So when you deal with us, you’ll talk to the same knowledgeable sales person day after day.

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BUILDING SUPPLY INC.

236 COLFAX AVE • CLIFTON

973.473.3118 52

August 2005 • Clifton Merchant

On July 23, at an organizing rally in Acquackanonk Park, residents met to discuss the future of their neighborhood.

The Sakevich petition contained the signatures of 56% of the people who then owned property in Acquackanonk Gardens. And since part of it read, “We the undersigned…do hereby vote to lift the deed restrictions which prohibits subdivision of any lot…” the petition was accepted by the Passaic County court and the ban was lifted. Property owners were free to subdivide their lots, as long as they complied with Clifton zoning laws. Several property owners have since taken advantage of the opportunity to subdivide by applying to the Clifton Planning Board for approval. A number of them have razed the original homes on their property and replaced them with one or two larger homes on the now subdivided lots. And the trend is continuing, which is upsetting many. A home on Stuyvesant Place was “bulldozed about six months ago,” said Acquackanonk homeowner, Joyce Handzo, “and there is a gaping hole on the property while the owner waits for a hearing by the Planning Board. Why is the city allowing this?”

About the Petition Eliminating the restriction on subdividing has clearly rattled homeowners and tenants in Acquackanonk. Many who voted to lift the ban are angry because they claim they were misled by Sakevich when she circulated the petition in 2001. Like Staw, they say they were never actually shown the petition but were led to believe they were approving the subdivision of Sakevich’s lot only.

A home on Stuyvesant Place was “bulldozed about six months ago,” said Joyce Handzo, “and there is a gaping hole on the property while the owner waits for a hearing by the Planning Board. Why is the city allowing this?” For her part, Sakevich, who no longer lives in Clifton, said she never intended to deceive her neighbors. “When I went around, I showed the petition to everybody,” she contended. “All I wanted was to reduce my property taxes by subdividing.” She added that she was a single mother of three at the time, and the taxes had become “an albatross” for her. Sakevich went to attorney John Celentano who prepared a petition which she took it to her neighbors for their approval. A few refused to sign, but most seemed glad to help her out. “Believe me, I really did not know that it would upset so many people,” she said. Celentano is now Chairman of the Board of Clifton Savings Bank and no longer practices law. He said that he represented Sakevich and several other clients from Acquackanonk Gardens over the years in matters pertaining to the subdivision ban. Celentano said property owners had been encumbered by their inability to subdivide. “It was clear from the master deed that the

☛

Clifton Merchant • August 2005

only way to lift the ban” recalled the former attorney, who was speaking without benefit of case files, “was by majority vote of the property owners.” He said he drafted the petition according to the requirements of the deed, which he believed all property owners had. When it was returned with more than the required number of signatures he filed it with the county. “There really was no other way to do it,” he said.

Taking a Stand Whether they were misled or not, Acquackanonk residents are now organizing to take action. Handzo, along with Joe Motyl, Joyce Sunshine and Karen Schulz, is spearheading a drive to form a new civic association that will, among other things, try to have the subdivision ban reinstated. Handzo and the others have met with Mayor James Anzaldi,and have asked the Planning Board to stop approving applications for subdivision and redevelopment. “I sympathize with them,” said Anzaldi, “But there’s not much the city can do. As long as they comply with Zoning ordinances when they subdivide and build, the Planning Board really can’t stop them.”

Acqu

ackan

onk

1215

Celebrate Styertowne!

A photo from 1942 of one of the standard designs used for housing in Acquackanonk Gardens. At right, a renovated home and the standard design it once was. The homeowner doing the renovation said the plans approved by the city allowed an additional 30 inches of height, which he felt was too tall for the neighborhood.

He noted that when the board did reject a subdivision on Garrabrant Rd. a few years ago, the ruling was overturned in court. “The court said that because no city ordinances would be violated, we had no cause to deny the request,” said the mayor. “Organizing is the right thing to do,” added Anzaldi. “It does seem to me that starting a petition, like the one that got the restriction lifted, may be a good way to start.” The organizers have also sought support from City Planner Dennis Kirwan. Kirwan is responsible for the city’s Master Plan, a key tool in helping Clifton map its future. They told him they were disappointed that Acquackanonk is not mentioned

anywhere in the Master Plan, which is the definitive statement of the city’s goals, objectives, policies and standards for ongoing physical, economic, and social development. Kirwan said that Acquackanonk is considered a smaller community within Maple Valley which is addressed in the Master Plan. “But that’s not the issue,” said the City Planner. “The Master Plan is only a guide; nothing in it prevents developers from building as long as local ordinances are upheld.” Despite their initial lack of success, Handzo and her fellow organizers are not about to quit. At a recent organizing rally held early on a Saturday morning in Acquackanonk 1317

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August 2005 • Clifton Merchant

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Park, more than 50 of their neighbors showed up to voice support. About 25 residents showed up at last Thursday’s Planning Board meeting. “It’s important that everyone knows what’s happening here,” said Linda Scholts who was at the rally. She has been renting a home on Clavarack Road for more than 17 years. “This redevelopment is changing the entire character of the neighborhood,” she continued, “and, worst of all, it is eliminating affordable housing. We are quickly losing the quality of life that Acquackanonk has to offer.”

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Does George Silva have a

Chance? • Ma y, 20 06 — — Cit y Co un cil Ele cti on s

story by Joseph R. Torelli

hen George Silva decided to open his storefront business in Botany Village nearly six years ago, he knew he’d be facing many challenges. Located in Clifton’s oldest and most colorful neighborhood, Botany had become economically depressed and physically rundown since its restoration as a charming, turn-ofthe-century gaslight village 30 years earlier. Decades-old family businesses were closing shop and leaving the neighborhood when Silva arrived. But the Dutch Hill resident remained undaunted, opening his Competitive Caskets showroom on Botany’s Square, selling caskets at discounted prices (he is also an owner in a Bloomfield funeral home) and setting about to improve conditions in the old shopping district. He joined the Botany Village Merchants’ Association and became its President a short time later, emerging as the organization’s—and the neighborhood’s—most animated and vocal advocate. The outspoken Silva could often be seen and heard reminding city officials of the district’s value, and relentlessly urging them to provide more resources and better services to the area. In 2002, Silva worked with Johnny Penkalski, the Nikischer family, and others to regroup as the Botany Village Task Force. The non-profit organization, which has since been joined by residential property owners, won a hard-fought victory in May of this year when the City Council voted to designate Botany as a Special Improvement District. That designation has already brought about improvements to Botany, such as more lighting, cleaner streets and additional security for the district. As a result of his activism, Silva has been urged by neighbors and others across the city to apply his brand of high-octane energy to improving the rest of Clifton by seeking a seat on the City Council in the upcoming May, 2006 election.

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August 2005 • Clifton Merchant

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Changing Government Silva says he is up to the challenge. After considering the opportunity to serve a broader constituency, he decided to run, and true to form, wasted no time in seeking a better understanding of the issues facing the rest of the city and its residents. “I spoke to the Lakeview and Dutch Hill civic associations,” he said, “and they told me that what the Council needs are new people and new ideas. These people don’t believe that their local concerns are being addressed seriously by the present Council.” Silva said that one of the ideas he will be promoting is a change in the basic structure of Clifton’s city government to make it more responsive to the electorate. He wants to scrap the current system that elects seven council members at large every four years. Silva is in favor of one with staggered terms, where Council members are elected from each of several clearly defined wards on an alternating two year basis. “It will be a lot easier to unseat three or four Council members who don’t perform up to speed every two years,” he said, “than it is to try to replace a group of seven people once every four years.” Silva also thinks that there ought to be limits on how long a Council member can serve. Noting that several current Council members have been serving for more than 20 years, he said, “Three terms should be enough

“The Planning and Zoning Boards should be required to notify each and every resident and merchant in an area when they are asked to rule on something that would have a major impact there.” –2006 City Council Candidate George Silva

for anybody. This Council has become a country club where they come together every four years to help each other get re-elected.” He restated that staggered terms and ward representation will make it easier for serious candidates to mount formidable challenges. Silva said that he favors term limits for the Planning and Zoning Boards, as well, and thinks members of both should be more accountable to city residents. “The Planning and Zoning Boards should be required to notify each and every resident and merchant in an area when they are asked to rule on something that would have a major impact there,” he said. Silva said the current regulations requiring notification only to residents who live within a specified distance from a property for which a use variance is being sought, are inadequate.

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Next Steps Making the decision to run for a Council seat in next May’s election was easy for the energetic and determined Silva. Getting elected will be much tougher – and he knows it. “I’m starting nine months before the election because it will be tough to beat these seven people (the incumbents) and anybody else who decides to run,” he said. “This Council has a knack for suddenly becoming friends with each other every four years, and that makes the job of someone new getting elected a lot harder.” Silva’s campaign theme is ‘The Candidate for the People.’ “Neighborhoods like Botany and Dutch Hill haven’t been represented by members of their community for years,” he said. One of his campaign promises will be to host meetings in each community on a scheduled basis to keep residents connected. “I’m going to make sure people know what’s happening in this city, especially if it will affect their neighborhood.” Silva has not yet named a campaign manager, nor established a fundraising plan. But he remains confident in his ability to attract supporters. “I’ve been involved since the day I got here,” he said, referring to his early years in Botany Village. “Right now, I’m by myself, but I’m working hard to attract workers and funds in order to beat this system.

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Enough...

Cliftonite has seen by Joseph Hawrylko

ob Eiserle believes he speaks for many when he says that he’s had enough. “The current Council is obsessed with housing,” said Eiserle. “They would build on the green power line tract on Allwood Rd. if given the chance!” While that’s a stretch, the Richfield resident does have a valid point: development in Clifton has gotten out of hand. “When I came here, Clifton was mostly farms and small houses,” added Eiserle. “It was a suburb of Passaic.” “Now we are loaded with these townhouses, which I feel will be the slums of the future, for the sake of ratables,” said Eiserle, who noted that farms, open space and industrial tracts have all fell victims to thousands of housing units: condos, townhomes, senior housing and rentals. “Ratables are supposed to make taxes go down, not up, like they have for the last few years,” he said. “The city hasn’t delivered on their promises of lower taxes.” Affordable senior housing complexes have been heralded by politicians as a great plan to keep the growing elderly population in town, while at the same time boosting ratables. However, Eiserle believes that these projects have had a more negative impact. “Senior housing projects affect everyone,” added Eiserle. “There may be age limits on many of the townhouses, but who’s regulating who the seniors sell their houses to?” In the past, developers and city officials have stressed that people moving into developments such as these would be from Clifton and would not add to the burgeoning population. But Eiserle claimed that when a senior sells their home, it is usually bought by a young family with many kids. Eiserle criticized the negotiating tactics of officials in Clifton who approve of these developments. Plans are often not thoroughly considered and leave city residents to deal with the repercussions, from traffic problems to overcrowded schools. He added that streets in some new developments were approved with substandard streets which fire trucks cannot easily pass.

August 2005 • Clifton Merchant

After calling us to discuss the lead story i n July’s edition, we contacted Bob Eiserle for his thoughts.

“When Clifton officials negotiate with developers, they only look at the positive: ratables. What they don’t look at is the negatives: traffic impact, how it will affect our schools and the quality of life,” added Eiserle, who offered his opinion on the topic. “What we should have done was force developers to build a school to accommodate the children of the new families that will buy their houses.” The ongoing development of retail space is vexing to him as well. “On one side of town, you have the Market St. retail district, Styertowne Shopping Center, Costco and the massive Clifton Commons project, which is still growing, all within two miles of each other,” griped Eiserle. “And now the city is trying to draw more people to Downtown Clifton for shopping? The market is over saturated.” Eiserle explained that a large part of the problem is the so called big box retailers—mega chain stores such as Home Depot

“Walgreens, with its meeting place under the big clock, is supposed to anchor Downtown Clifton, but who actually wants to meet there?” –Bob Eiserle

ability prevent him from actually running for elected office. “You feel frustrated because you don’t want to move out of Clifton,” said Eiserle. “But you can see that we are on a downward slide. Why is the City Council so avid in building on every tract of land and then wail about the fact there is no room for another school?” Even though his circumstances prevent him from running, Eiserle has his eyes set on May 2006, when all seven City Council seats will be up for reelection. “I hope that new blood will be available for the taxpayers to choose from,” added Eiserle. “I, for one, will not vote for any incumbent.”

and Costco—that drive small mom and pop stores out of business. He cited the loss of the hardware store on Market St. as an example. Eiserle, who was President of the Clifton Arts Association in 2000, stated that if the old Clifton Theater on Main Ave. was restored into a cultural center, it would have been a better draw then the Walgreens and new US Post Office that stand in its place. “Walgreens, with its meeting place under the big clock, is supposed to anchor Downtown Clifton,” scoffed Eiserle. “Who would actually want to meet there?” Although he has bright ideas and a passion for his town, Eiserle acknowledges that his age and dis-

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Daughter’s

Journey

by Stephanie Pekarsky

Julian Kotlar was born in a small village in Ukraine on the Fourth of July. As a man who honors both his Ukrainian heritage and his American present, he has a sense of humor about sharing his birthday with the famous Uncle Sam. In the process of attaining American citizenship, he was asked what’s so important about the Fourth of July? “Why, it’s my birthday,” he replied, with a smile. But in July of 2004, at his 80th birthday celebration surrounded by his kin, and by the men from Ukraine who had become a sort of second family to Julian, he put all jokes aside. “He spoke very eloquently about what independence really means to him, as a Ukrainian,” recalled his daughter, Christina Kotlar.

Saving a Culture In 1942, in the midst of World War II, UPA—the Ukrainska Povstanska Armiia— (Ukrainian Insurgent Army) was formed. An underground militia with enemies on all fronts, they fought for a nation’s soul and sovereignty. Facing deportation or execution from the Russian regime and betrayal by the Germans, Ukrainians had no one to turn to but the youth of their nation. In August of 1943, a 20-year-old Julian bade his family farewell and walked into the forests near Dudynce, in the hope of protecting the Ukrainian way of life and the people he loved the most. He left his family to join the UPA. “These were young boys who had nothing to lose,” Christina explained. Day by day, the Ukrainian culture and people were aggressively being eradicated, by both the Nazis and the Russians. Family and Cliftonites Christina Kotlar and her dad Julian, whose years as a member of friends were being shipped off to Siberia, the Ukrainian Insurgent Army during World War II she documented in a film. never to be heard from again.

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Clifton Merchant • August 2005

Ukrainski Povstanska Armiia Ukrainians by the millions were being slaughtered and starved in the thick of World War II and when forced to select between the Russians and the Germans, some Ukrainians united with the Germans, standing against the Soviet Communists who sought to wipe out Ukraine’s people, language and culture. The Ukrainian patriots saw WWII as a possibility…an opportunity for independence. But it wasn’t long before they learned of the Nazis’ plans to colonize and enslave the Ukrainian people. As the Ukrainians began to organize, the Germans immediately quashed their plans, arresting and executing members of the fledgling government. In October of 1942, the Organization of Ukrainian Nationalists formed a military branch — UPA the Ukrainska Povstanska Armiia, the Ukrainian Insurgent Army. They were essentially a guerrilla group who took to the Carpathian Mountains, or lived around the cities, protecting Ukrainian villagers and farmers against the Soviets and the Nazis.

While their battles did not change the course of history, these thousands of young men and women — Upisty—saved Ukrainian people and its culture. Hated by the Soviets and the Nazis, association with UPA was done at great risk. If a family was known to be connected to someone within the UPA, they would be deported or killed. The majority of UPA soldiers never had formal military training. Some Ukrainians who were former regular Polish or German soldiers trained the recruits. Without a government to fund them and provide guns or uniforms, they were forced to snatch the weapons dropped in the killing fields, and to alter enemy uniforms in order to make them their own. The villagers who they guarded supported the UPA but in 1947, Upisty were still underground and the Soviets wanted them gone. To stop their support system, the Soviets began to deport entire villages to Siberia. With no support for the UPA, it became difficult for them to carry on. They were ordered to disband, to escape to the American zone in Germany so as to continue to chronicle the truths in Ukraine’s history, constantly discredited by the Soviet regime.

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Ukrainian villages were looted, women raped, children killed, men forced to serve in either the German or Russian armies. And the greatest tragedy of Ukraine—the artificially created famine of 1932-1933 in which Stalin killed 8 million Ukrainians in the country often called the breadbasket of Europe— was still a recent nightmare. Now, throughout World War II, Ukraine bore the brunt of the Nazi drive to Stalingrad and the Red Army counteroffensive. Four million civilians would be killed and 2.2 million were taken to Germany as laborers.

A Call to Arms Seeing the slaughter of their culture and community, Julian and thousands of other men and women joined the UPA. Upisty—the freedom fighters—lived by skills they taught each other and the kindness of villagers they protected. They survived in the woods, lived in bunkers, performed ambushes as those in the field decided or as they were directed by the network of the Organization of Ukrainian Nationalists.

UPA soldiers at the American Zone, 1948. Julian Kotlar is first from left kneeling.

Training was not official nor professional but rather a mix of skills. Many Ukrainians had trained with the regular Polish and German armies but when they heard of the Ukrainian underground fighters, they joined their kinsmen and shared skills. “They were all trained to be able to take leadership positions,” said Christina. “If one died, another immediately took his place.

“If one died, another immediately took his place. Everyone else accepted that transition. That’s why they were able to be such a strong fighting force.” –Filmmaker Christina Kotlar

Everyone else accepted that transition. That’s why they were able to be such a strong fighting force.” Long after the war, in 1947, UPA was still underground, now focused on protecting villagers from the Soviets. To break the UPA, villagers were deported to Siberia and Julian and the other Upisty were advised to head for the American zone in Germany, which they did.

Uncovering His Story Of her father’s time in the war, Christina said, “They put it away, this part of their lives, to have a normal life.” She and her two sisters only knew dribs and drabs of his story, pieced together from dad’s offhand comments over the years.

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For example, while watching Saving Private Ryan, the recent WWII movie, Julian murmured, “Oh yeah, it was like that.” From these and other comments over the decades, Christina and her sisters began to draw some hazy assumptions of their father’s experiences. Then recently Julian told Christina that back in the 1950’s he wrote a chapter for the Chronicles of UPA, an encyclopedic collection of primary source material published in Canada and written by both the enemies of the Ukrainians and the partisans themselves. He had written about his five years of living in the Carpathian Mountains as an Upista. In reading these accounts of her father’s life, Christina knew she had to tell his story. “I needed to explain what Ukrainian is,” she said. “In dealing with human nature,” she continued, “you can hear the best stories…the most heroic stories…and the worst stories. I choose to focus on the heroic stories.” She also tends to focus on the stories that are closest to her heart. The self-proclaimed historian of her family also seeks to tell the stories that honor her heritage. “I’ll start personal,” she says, “but then turn universal again.” And so, a story that began with her father unveiled a historical chapter about the Ukrainian people, and their struggle — with the help of the UPA — to gain freedom. Christina is a documentarian/filmmaker and over the past few years, she has produced and directed her dad’s story in a film called A Daughter’s Journey.

Taras Shevchenko’s first collection of poems, Kobzar, (The Bard), was published in Ukrainian and celebrated the history and folklore of Ukraine. Soon Shevchenko’s poems evolved from nostalgic to an indictment of rulers and advocacy for a free Ukraine. He moved to Ukraine’s capital, Kyiv, in 1846 and joined the Brotherhood of Sts. Cyril & Methodius, the first modern Ukrainian organization with a political ideology. He was arrested in 1847 and sentenced to 10 years in Siberia for a collection of his unpublished poetry, satirizing the oppression of Ukraine by Russia and the russification of his homeland. Despite being excommunicated, he continued writing in Ukrainian, both in prose and poetry, and his work was circulated. After his release, he was soon re-arrested and then banished to St. Petersburg, the capital of Russia, where he was forced to speak and write only in Russian. Taras Shevchenko remained under police surveillance until his death at the age of 47 in 1861.

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Preserving the Past

This woodcut by Neil Khasevycz offers an UPA propaganda message, likely modified from the Russian original. It reads: “USSR Jailer of Nations.” On the flag, the translation from Ukrainian: “Freedom for All Nations! Freedom for All People!” There is also a Tryzub, the national symbol of Ukraine.

Throughout the day on Saturday, July 30, she premiered a rough version of the film at Soyuzivka, a nearby Ukrainian resort, as part of a weekend reunion and a scholarly day of discussions about the role of the UPA in Ukrainian history. The remaining Upisty all in their 70s and 80s, came from surrounding states to see the film and an exhibit of memorabilia, including German, Russian and Ukrainian versions of the Chronicles of UPA which Christina had on loan from the University of Toronto. All weekend, the old soldiers were in a talkative mood. Friends and family ventured to say that the fresh air in the rolling hills of the Catskills reminded the veterans of their daring days in the Carpathian Mountains. Saturday evening, Julian and the other Upisty even built a bonfire and sat with generations of their loved ones as they sang songs from their youth, sharing their stories—not of war—but of freedom, family and the good lives they have lived since their service as youthful Ukrainska Povstanska Armiia. In their lifetimes, they had seen the good, the bad and finally the amazingly unexpected—Ukraine’s Independence on Aug. 24, 1991. In mining their stories, Christina has come to realize the importance of her film. Like most who have lived through horrible times, the veterans are understandably reticent to discuss their time during the war. They also still fear repercussions from the communists who continue to discredit Ukraine and the UPA. However, Julian and the other one-youthful patriots have become comfortable explaining things as Christina asks more complicated questions seeking to document a legacy for UPA. Christina Kotlar hopes to present both the UPA exhibit and A Daughter’s Journey here in Clifton, perhaps on the 14th anniversary of Ukraine’s Independence, which will be marked with a raising of the nation’s blue and gold flag at Clifton City Hall on Aug. 24, at 5:30 pm.

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Not-SoFamous Bartender

Clifton’s

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or Jerry Parent, a 30 second brush with fame left him with a lifetime of memories and a few dozen residual checks. Old time Clifton residents remember Parent as the owner of All in the Family restaurant, which is now Bogey’s, located on the corner of Fenner Ave. and Valley Rd. Parent’s wife, Barbara, and his kids Denise, Cheryl, Colleen and Jerry all had a hand in the business. Beginning in 1972, Parent and brothers Bill and Ray served up great eats at this local watering hole, featuring classic Americana food and Parent’s famous sliced steak sandwich.

Jerry Parent with Rodney Dangerfield.

However, countless others across America remember Parent as the Miller Lite Not-So-Famous Bartender, a role that came about by happenstance. In 1978, Parent’s late sister Mildred was giving dance lessons to an advertising executive who mentioned they needed an Irish-looking bartender for a new commercial. She referred them to her brothers.

After an interview with Miller Lite casting personnel, Jerry Parent went in and shot a few takes for the director, who said he would inform him if he was needed. The next week, Parent received a call saying that he had been hired and would be sent to Las Vegas to do a commercial with comedian Rodney Dangerfield.

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Jerry Parent’s family on daughter Colleen’s wedding day. From left, Cheryl, Denise, son in law, Joe Re, Colleen, Jerry and Barbara, and Jerry jr.

Parent. “It took nine hours to make, including the three hour lunch everyone but me took.” Parent made $5,000 for doing the shoot and an extra $300 for each time the ad aired over the next year it ran. He first viewed the commercial while playing pool with friends at the old Towne Grill on Main Ave. “The commercial was great for business,” reflected Parent. “People would come in and eat and ask me about it and tell me how great it 1274

But just before he was going to fly out, Parent received a call saying the shoot would be delayed a month because Dangerfield had a bad case of sunburn. Then the shoot was almost set back again the next month when the day before he was to leave, Parent’s father passed away. “I wasn’t going to go but my family all said to go, so I went and shot the commercial,” said Parent. The legendary commercial featured Parent working behind the bar, a regular guy who drinks Miller Lite, unlike the celebrities who had appeared in previous Miller Lite ads. Dangerfield approaches the bartender and asks for Parent’s autograph. When Dangerfield asks Parent if he wants his autograph, the Cliftonite replies “Not really,” as a nod to Dangerfield’s I Get No Respect skit. “Rodney Dangerfield was a regular guy,” Parent said of his acting partner. “He had holes in his ghinni tee just like you and me.” The commercial was a part of Miller’s revolutionary ad campaign that began in 1975. It featured people like baseball manager Billy Martin, baseball owner George Steinbrenner and other celebrities. These skits introduced Miller Lite as the first light beer and were a huge hit which launched the lite beer category. “The 30 second commercial seemed like it took forever,” said

was.” Parent would be featured in two more commercials, one with pool champion Steve Mizerak and the other a reunion of all past Miller Lite commercial personalities. Even with his fame, the time came in 1987 when Parent sold All in the Family due to liquor liability issues. He would then open a luncheonette which he sold and later returned to Main Ave. in Clifton to operate Pop and Joe’s Diner for two years.

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send Clifton business news to Tom.Hawrylko@verizon.net

Clifton Chiropractic & Physical Therapy celebrated its 10th anniversary on July 23 with an open house. Guests were entertained with food, prizes, face painting and free chair massages. Clifton Chiropractic, on the corner of Edison St. and Valley Rd. in the Bobbink Shopping Center, was founded in 1995 by Dr. Suzi Schulman, who now operates the practice with her brother, Dr. Jeff Schulman. They are pictured here with their staff and family, who together made it a memorable day. American Legion Post 347, 148 Lake Ave., is doing their share to support the Troops in Iraq and Afghanistan. Lead by Commander Michael G. Gimon, the Post is sending packages filled with useful and fun items to the 42nd Support Command. If you would like to donate items, call 973-546-9876.

Higher Elements Recording Studio, 730 Clifton Ave., is set to open on Aug. 18. Clifton artists Allison Petrucciello, Michael Diaz and Faheem Jackson offer production and recording for all genres and styles, in audio and video. Petrucciello is an artist and engineering specialist, Diaz is another artist and also a producer and Jackson produces and works as a DJ. The studio hopes to expand their services to video editing and film services sometime in December. For more info, call 973-757-9556. Zen Sushi, 433 Piaget Ave., is Cliftonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s second sushi restaurant. Owner and chef Allan Lee pictured here, prepares Tokyo-style food at his establishment. Zen Sushi, which delivers, can also cater a birthday, wedding or business event with party trays and other special dishes. Zen Sushi is open Tuesday to Sunday from 11:30 am to 2:30 pm and 4:30-10 pm. Call 973-253-7979.

Gambling Problem? 1-800-GAMBLER CALL

OR VISIT

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Clifton Merchant â&#x20AC;˘ August 2005

Do you love the sounds of Doowop? Then stop by Downtown Clifton at the corner of Clifton Ave. and First St. for the 50’s Block Party on Aug. 11. From 5-11 pm, join the fun and sign up for the jitter bug and hula hoop contests. Or if dancing isn’t your thing, check out the classic car show. There will also be food, drink, prizes and memorabilia throughout the night. For more information, call 973-253-1455. The Fifth Annual Festival in the Park at Randolph Park in Botany Village is a four day event sponsored by the Botany Village Merchants. There’s food, rides, carnival games, raffles, entertainment and plenty of free parking. On Sept. 2, the festival runs from 6-10 pm and on Sept 3-5, from 3-10 pm. Visit www.botanyvillage.com. New Jersey’s Festival of Hungarian Culture is Sept. 9 through Oct. 15 at the Lambert Castle Museum. There will be exhibits and historic photographs depicting Hungarian culture from both here and the homeland as well as concerts, discussions about Hungarian folklore, lectures and films. Hours are 1-4 on Wednesday through Sunday. Call 201-836-4869. St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Church, 216 President St., Passaic, parish picnic is Sept. 11, from noon to 8 pm. Food and drinks, kids’ games and live Ukrainian orchestra.

The Van Houten Ave. Street Fair should not be missed on Sept. 18. From 11 am to 5 pm, Van Houten Ave. will be filled with entertainment, vendors, rides for children, a petting zoo and pony rides. Rain date is Sept. 25. For more info or to become a vendor, call 973-473-0986 or 973-773-0802. The Ukrainian Orthodox Holy Ascension Church, on Broad St., parish picnic is Sept. 19. All are welcomed. Call 973-471-8131. St. John Kanty’s Picnic is at the church grounds in Athenia on Speer Ave. on Sept. 25 from 1 to 7 pm.

The St. Stephen’s Day Picnic is Aug. 21 at the Hungarian Club, Garfield. Festivities follow the 11 am liturgy at the church. Hungarian food, pastries and games for the kids. Info: call Clifton’s Hungarian Hustler Teddy Harsaghy at 973-340-0975.

“FESTIVAL IN THE PARK” • Carnival Rides • Great Food • • Plenty of FREE Parking • Bring this Coupon and receive FREE ticket per child for a ride of their choice Limited amount of tickets available A minimum of FREE tickets will be given out on a first come first served basis

August 2005 • Clifton Merchant

Copiers, Printers & Fax Machines For All Your Printing/Copying Needs Business Cards • Envelopes Letterheads • Typesetting & More Call Victor Terranova Today!

973.478.6180 1458

1642

Why Fight The Holiday Traffic? Join Us For the th Annual

“FESTIVAL IN THE PARK” Sponsored By The Botany Village Merchants Association Friday Sept nd pm pm Saturday Sept rd pm pm Sunday Sept th pm pm Monday Sept th pm pm

At Randolph Park Botany Village Clifton (Randolph Park next to Sacred Heart Parish) For more information visit our website:

www botanyvillage com Bring the coupon on the facing page and receive FREE ticket per child for a ride of their choice Limited amount of tickets available A minimum of FREE tickets will be given out on a first come first served basis

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• Food • Kiddie Rides • • Carnival Rides • • FREE Raffles • • Entertainment • • Plenty of FREE Parking • Clifton Merchant • August 2005

Day camp for girls: Your daughter does not have to be a Girl Scout to enjoy herself at Lake Rickabear Girl Scout Day Camp. Located in Kinnelon, Lake Rickabear offers a variety of activities and learning experiences for growing girls on a 40-acre spring-fed lake surrounded by 292 acres of recreation area and woodland. Transportation is included in the camp fee but pricing varies, so call: 973-248-8200.

Stan Lembryk’s Soccer Camp for boys pre-k to 8th grade is on Aug. 15-19 from 9 am to noon, at WWMS. Lembryk is the CHS girls soccer coach. Cost is $120. Call 973-686-1764.

The Junior Jackals Dance Team is holding camp at School 3 from Aug. 15-19 or Aug. 22-26, with 912 year olds attending 9 am to noon and kids 13 and older from1-4 pm. The Metrostars Soccer Camp is on Aug. 15-19 in Clifton at a site to be determined. For ages 7-16, camp is from 9 am to noon and costs $105 while the 5 and 6 year old camp begins at 1:30 to 3 pm and costs $65. Fee includes a Metrostars ball and t-shirt, evaluation and a ticket to a Metrostars game.

D3 Dancenter

1716

Clifton’s Soft Lacrosse Camp runs on Aug 15-19, from 9 am to noon at Albion Park. Open to children in kindergarten through grade 4, Soft Lacrosse is a non-contact sport featuring a three-pass rule to build skills and promote teamwork. Fee of $105 includes camp jersey.

Skateboard Camp at Clifton’s Skatezone. Anyone ages 6 and up can come to learn how to skate or to refine their skills. The camp is held on Aug. 22-26, with an advanced session at 9 am to noon and a beginners session from 1-4 pm. Price is $79. Skaters are encouraged to bring their own gear otherwise rentals are available for an extra fee.

“Home of the Award Winning D3 Junior Dance Troupe”

Pre-School thru Adult Classes Ballet • Tap • Jazz• Hip Hop • Acrobatics Modern • Cheer Dance• Belly Dancing • Yoga

CHS Track/Field Camp: Coaches Andrew Piotrowski and John Pontes hold camp on Aug. 8-12. For ages 7-13, camp is 9 am to noon and introduces track & field and developing speed and stamina. For ages 14-18, camp is 4 to 7 pm. There will be pole vault, sprints, hurdles, distances, throws and jumps. Price is $120 for ages 7-13 and for ages 14-18 the camp is $140. Call 973-473-5060. CHS Boys Varsity Soccer Coach Joe Vespignani will run camp at School 2 on Van Houten Ave. for kids ages 3-12 Aug. 8-12, from 5:30 to 7:30 pm. Cost is $80. for info, call 973-334-0207 or go to VespignaniSoccer.com. The Girl Scouts’ Art to Wear camp is Aug. 22-26 at the Clifton Community Rec Center on Main Ave. Campers will create puppets, masks, sets and act out their own plays. For girls in grades 1-3 or grades 4-5. Registration is $49.

TENAFLY ENAFLY PEDIATRICS EDIATRICS 1135 Broad St., Suite 208 • Clifton • 973-471-8600 Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 am – 5 pm Wednesday 8:30 am – 8:30 pm (for check-ups, too!) Sunday 9 am – 12 noon • www.tenaflypediatrics.com

Fall Registration: August 30 & 31 4 pm – 8 pm September 7 & 8 4 pm – 8 pm

Dr. Maury Buchalter

Dr. Joanne Aranoff

Dr. Robert Jawetz

Dr. David Wisotsky

1143

September 10 10 am – 3 pm

Classes begin September 12 605 Van Houten Ave • 973-773-9997 MEMBER ELITE DANCE FORUM & PROFESSIONAL DANCE TEACHERS ASSOC.

August 2005 • Clifton Merchant

We welcome new patients in Clifton and our other locations! Tenafly 32 Franklin St 201-569-2400

Fort Lee 301 Bridge Plaza N. 201-592-8787

Paramus 26 Park Place 201-262-1140

Oakland 3 Post Road 201-651-0404

Join your neighbors around the campfire at the 5th Annual Albion Park Family Camp Out from Aug. 19-20 beginning at 6 pm and ending the next day at noon. This event is sponsored by the Clifton Special Police, the Clifton Fire Department and the Clifton Recreation Department. A family of four is $8 to register or $3 per person. Back to School Splash: Kids will be going back to school soon so the Rec Dept. is sponsoring a day of swimming on Aug. 24 at Bellin’s Pool on Main Ave. The fun begins at 10 am. Minimal fee. Art Camp for children in grades 25 is Aug. 15-19, from 9 am to noon at the Clifton Arts Center. Campers will be introduced to various mediums. Cost: $79. Hockey Camp at Floyd Hall Arena for kids aged 5-12 runs from Aug. 22-26, 9 am until noon and is $105. Participants can bring their own equipment or use the rental services. Price is $90 a session. Summer Fun With Science Camp for kids in grades 1-3 is Aug. 15-19 from 9 am to noon. Engineering, chemistry, machines, cameras and coded communication are covered. Registration is $99. Just Cheer is from Aug. 22-26 for girls in grades 3-7 at Holster Park

The FAMOUS Lexington Ave. Pirogi Shop is BACK!

16 Varieties! • Potatoes & Cheese • Potato • Sauerkraut • Pot Cheese • Mushroom • Pot Cheese & Potato • Broccoli • Spinach

The Clifton Recreation Dept’s summer camps are some of the best deals in town. Above are kids at School 15, located in Dutch Hill. From outdoor fun to art classes and even robot building, you can find it all here. For info on the events listed on these pages, call 973-470-5956. from 9 am to noon. The $90 registration fee includes a t-shirt. Radical Robot Camp runs from Aug. 15-19 from 1 to 4 pm and is open to children in grades 4 and up. Kids will build robots and then run them in Robot Races. Fee $125.

The Space, Science and Rocketry Camp will be held on Aug 22 - 26 from 9 am to noon. Campers will make model rockets and learn what it is like living and working in space. The class fills ups fast. Registration is $125.

There’s nothing like the taste of food made by experts!

PIROGI DINNERS

HOMEMADE PIROGI

• Pizza • Prune • Cabbage 1295 Main Ave. • Clifton • Blueberry NEW! Hot Empanadas! • Apple Mon - Fri 8 - 6 • Sat 10 - 4 • Meat • Apricot & Cheese www.HomemadePirogi.com • Broccoli & Spinach With Pirogi this good, it doesn’t pay to make them at home.

973.340.0340

1311

Clifton Merchant • August 2005

Moonlight bowling for the Sych family: On July 21, Dennis Sych and his family were the victims of an electrical fire that destroyed their home. To help the Sych family put their lives back together, Garden Palace Lanes, 42 Lakeview Ave., is sponsoring a fundraiser. For $40 per couple, participants get three games of bowling, rental shoes, food, drink specials, music and plenty of fun. Games are played under lazer lights using Scotch Doubles format. For info, call Bob Zutterman Jr. at 973-478-5750. The Theater League of Clifton will host a poolside barbecue fundraiser on Aug. 28 from 3-7 pm at 15 East Parkway, Clifton. The newly established Theater League is a way for Clifton’s performing artists of all ages to pursue their interests on stage and behind the scenes of a community theater. Tickets are $20 and $10 for students and seniors. Call 973-458-9579. The 68th Sash Night hosted by The Central of Polish Organizations will honor Michael Lasek, Grand Marshal of the 2005 Passaic, Clifton and Vicinity Contingent at October’s Pulaski Parade in NYC. The 2005 Miss Polonia will also be selected on Aug. 28 at 3:30 pm in the Polish-American Cultural Center, 1-3 Monroe St., Passaic. A Polish buffet will be served and there will music by Zambrowiacy. Semi-formal attire. Donation $40. Call 973-779-0077.

Bowling at Garden Palace. As part of the Clifton Rec summer programs, participants knocked down a few pins before hoping on this school bus with their counselors to go back to ArtSport locations throughout the city.

BOYS & GIRLS CLUB OF CLIFTON

Gingerbread House Day Care Center – State Certified – Immediate Openings (Limited Space Available)

Ages 2 1/2 - 4 Years Old (Must Be Potty Trained)

For Information Call: 973-773-2697 x43 Ask for Miss A.

Now Accepting Applications For September 2005 78

July 2005 • Clifton Merchant

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Open 7:30 am to 6 pm

1592

Downtown Clifton presents:

Reminisce at the...

50’s Block Party Thursday, August 11 • 5 pm to 11 pm Municipal Parking Lot #8 Corner of Clifton Ave. and First Street Live performances by:

Reminisce, The Creations, and Nicky Addeo. Featuring Events: Jitter Bug & Hula Hoop Contest Classic Car Show – featuring the cars of yesteryear. Anyone with a Classic Car and who would like to participate in this event should call 973-365-0049 to register their vehicle. Prizes will be awarded. Guests can register that night to participate in our Jitterbug Dance and Hula-Hoop Contests. Prizes and memorabilia as well as food and drink will be on hand. Don’t forget to bring your lawn chairs and plan to spend hours with the family. For more info, on this and other events in Downtown Clifton, call 973-253-1455

ENTER FREE RAFFLE Win One V.I.P LEAD EAST LABOR DAY PRIZE PACKAGE Includes: • 2 Admission Passes to the Car Show • 2 V.I.P. Front Row seats to 1pm Acappella Concert. • 2 V.I.P. Seats at Concert featuring Johnny Maestro & the Brooklyn Bridge. Sponsored by: Appleton Productions, “Lead East” Come to 50’s Block Party Thursday, August 11, 2005 in Downtown Clifton! Name: ______________________________________________ Address:____________________________________________ City:______________________________Zip:_______________ Phone:______________________________________________

Deposit Coupon in box on Thursday, August 11, 2005, between 5pm & 9pm. Box located at D.C.E.D.G. Tent, Municipal Parking Lot 8. Corner of Clifton Ave & First Street. Drawing at 9:00pm. Winner must be present! Clifton Merchant • August 2005

Birthdays!

Visit us in Downtown Clifton: 1103 Main Ave • 973-473-4999

We Don’t Sell Parts… …We Sell Service Machine Shop On Location No Order Too Large Or Small FREE DELIVERY

Max Joseph Moore celebrates his 1st birthday on August 6th

Karen Lime ................ Michael Urciuoli ........ Kevin Ciok .................. Mark W. Mikolajczyk.. Ed Gasior Sr. .............. Sean McNally ............ Charlie Stek................ Chiara Cristantiello ..

Two Stores In Clifton 973-473-1997

973-473-4999

802 Van Houten Ave • Clifton Mon-Fri 8-6pm • Sat 8-5pm • Sun 9-1pm

1103 Main Ave • Downtown Clifton Mon-Fri 8-6pm • Sat 8-5pm • Sun Closed

Our Other Locations: 201.843.8040

201-845-8353

136 Essex St • Rochelle Park Open Sundays

101 Route 46 West • Saddle Brook Open Sundays

201.391.3333

973-857-2600

5 Hawthorne Ave • Park Ridge New Location

614 Pompton Ave • Cedar Grove New Location

201. 261.0411

973-694-2228

59A E. Ridgewood Ave • Paramus New Location

973.338.9292 1278 Broad St • Bloomfield New Location

8/2 8/2 8/4 8/5 8/6 8/6 8/6 8/9

DESIGNS ADVANTAGE 97 Monroe Street • Garfield Embroidery • Screen Printing Promotional Items

1168 Hamburg Turnpike • Wayne New Location

973-423-1700 93 Goffle Rd • Hawthorne New Location 1036

Maria Gomez-Davenport ~ Se Habla Espanol

Visit us in Athenia: 802 Van Houten Ave • 973-473-1997 80

August 2005 • Clifton Merchant

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973-478-2001

Congratulations to Nancy & Michael Ressetar who celebrate their 24th wedding anniversary on 8/15. Wishing you many more happy years!

Proud Clifton Grandmothers from left, Louise De Molli with her granddaughter Isabella Rose DeMarco, born on July 8, 2005, and Arlene Bross with her grandson David Patrick Doremus, born on July 22,2005.

Luis Olave ................ Emily Hawrylko ........ Michelle Smolt ........ Yuko Angello ............ Christopher Antal .... Peter Bodor .............. Tom Hawrylko .......... Jessica Oliva ............ Maria Pinter.............. Daniel Wolfe ............ Alexandria Veltre ....

8/11 8/12 8/14 8/15 8/15 8/15 8/15 8/15 8/15 8/15 8/19

Michael Melendez .. 8/20 Mayas Dalko ............ 8/23 Cara Cholewczynski 8/24 Joanne Pituch ........ 8/24 Robbie Lucas .......... 8/25

Best wishes to Nancy Ressetar who retired on July 1 after teaching Spanish at Clifton High School for 35 years.

Belated Nuptials on 6/26 Joseph and Gina Corradino

Gelotti HOME MADE ICE CREAM

ITALIAN ICES • SOFT ICE CREAM SHERBERT • YOGURT • CAKE • GELATO

8/26 8/26 8/26 8/27 8/28 8/31 8/31

hair nails color

1385

Theresa & Tom Albanese celebrate their 52nd wedding anniversary on 8/8.

Eileen Gasior ............ Cameron Popovski.. Ann Soltis .................. Adam Brandhorst .... Peter Fierro Jr. .......... Kathleen McKenny Hisham Obaid..........

FREE SUNDAE Buy One Ice Cream or Yogurt Sundae, Get Another

FREE With This Coupon Coupons May Not Be Combined.

Call Sheryl at 973.365.0220 to make an appointment. 88 Market Street, Clifton

2 00 OFF

Any Size Ice Cream Cakes Coupons May Not Be Combined.

194 Bloomfield Ave., Caldwell • 973-403-9968 –– 2 Union Ave., Paterson • 973-595-1647

Clifton Merchant • August 2005

City Manager Al Greco, pictured below, tossed out the opening ball at Jackal’s Stadium when the Clifton Optimist Club sponsored a community night there on July 12. For info on other Optimist Club programs, call Bill Bate at 973-881-4771.

The Quick Draw Contest at the Downtown Clifton Post Office: The US Post Office at 1114 Main Ave. will host a drawing contest for kids ages 4 to 10 on Aug. 17. From 11 am to noon, kids and parents can enjoy refreshments and cool off in

the lobby. Winners will be selected for various age groups and prizes will be awarded which will include gift certificates to some local stores and movie tickets. For details, see Maria Sharpe at the front counter or call the Post Office at 973-249-7527.

Dr. David R. Moore, Chiropractor

www.fitspine.net

Dr. Moore and Jack the Jackal have teamed up to bring Baseball and Family Fun to Clifton. From now until Labor Day, all new Patients and current Patients who bring in Friends or Family Members, will receive 2 Free tickets to any Jackals home game. This could be the best "Adjustment" to your summer!!

Mon • Wed • Fri Chiropractic Health Center 241 Crooks Ave • Clifton • 973.253.7005

Sports Injuries • Car Accidents Family Practice 82

August 2005 • Clifton Merchant

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Tue • Thu • Sat Elmwood Park Athletic Club 690 River Dr • Elmwood Park • 201.794.0155

years of r ice to Ou Community Serv Est. 1905

East Ridgelawn Cemetery... ...invites you to visit our Mausoleum on Main Avenue to see the inspirational art adorning our new building. Within the Mausoleum, our artist has painted a serene and peaceful view, entitled ‘Eden’, where visitors can pause to celebrate the lives of those who have passed.

At the Mausoleum... Visits are unlimited and unaffected by the weather. Crypts are located in the building and convenient for elderly and handicapped. Mausoleum entombment provides greater Peace of Mind & Security. • non-sectarian • niches

• mausoleum • garden graves

monumental graves • no obligation pre-need counseling financing available one-year at no interest on easy monthly plans

East Ridgelawn Cemetery 255 Main Avenue, Clifton, NJ 07014 for more information with no obligation call:

973.777.1920

Tomahawk Promotions 1288 Main Avenue Clifton, NJ 07011

PRSRT STD US Postage PAID CLIfToN, NJ PeRMIT No. 1185

NICKâ&#x20AC;&#x2C6;TSELEPIS Broker/Owner

TOPâ&#x20AC;&#x2C6;1% REALTORS Direct Line 973-340-1107 Selling? Call Nick and start packing!

Call Toll Free

877-833-2365

Buy or Sell A Home With Us & Use This Truck!

Most Homes Sold In Clifton! *

*Nick had most listings sold in Clifton, more than any other Agent. (Source - IMS Incorporated/GSMLS)

Free Report #1

Find Out What the Home Down the Street Sold For To hear a brief recorded message call

1-866-831-4517 ID# 1741 Call anytime 24/7

Clifton

$649,000

Clifton

$599,000

Clifton

$529,900

Greek Store & Building Greek Store in the center of Clifton. Along with a 3 store building which include the store, 5 rooms apt. for rent and a loft nice size property for parking. Ask for Nick.

Maple Valley Section Long established church in the area with a large sanctuary. Ground level has recreation room, KIT, nursery, conference room and lavatories for both men and women.

Beautiful Mother & Daughter One Family home in a great area. 3 large bdrms, Living Room, Dining Room, Eat-In-Kitchen, 2 and 1/2 baths, 2car garage.

Call 877-833-2365

Free Report #2

Moving Up! How to Avoid Getting Stuck with Two Homes To hear a brief recorded message call 1-866-826-9875 ID# 1772 Call anytime 24/7

Clifton

$370,000

Clifton

$369,900

Clifton

$389,456

Nice Colonial House Charming colonial with chestnut trim, hardwood floors, brick fireplace, private side door to beautiful pinewood, Fin bsmnt. 50 fruit trees in fenced-in yard. Ask for Wendell Maki. Call 877-833-2365

Move in Condition New kitchen, new furnace, new windows and much more, finished Bsmnt. with bath. Near NY trans. 3 bdrms, 1 full bath and 2 and 1/2 baths. Ask for Maria Carrera

Well Kept Home Features 3 bdrms, full bath, Dining Room, Eat-In-Kitchen. Living Room, Powder Room. Ask for Tom/Peggy Lubanski.

Call 877-833-2365

Clifton

Free Report #3

Selling? 27 Quick & Easy FixUps to Sell your Home FAST & FOR TOP DOLLAR! To hear a brief recorded message call 1-866-831-4517 ID# 1723 Call anytime 24/7

Visit us online at:

$324,900

$439,000

Clifton

$475,000

Great Starter NYC Skyline view, fantastic location, 2 Bdrms, 2 full baths, fin. bsmnt, central air. Ask for Tom/Peggy Lubanski.

Very Spacious 1 Family Home One family with lots of potential. Finished Bsmnt with 2 rooms, a FB and separate entrance. Finished Attic. Ask for Pat Elmahdy.

Spacious 2 Family Home Unit 2 is perfect for a large family, featuring 4 bdrms, 2 baths, LR, DR, ELK and large deck. Ask for Wendell Maki.

Call 877-833-2365