Clifton Merchant Magazine - December 2010 by Clifton Merchant Magazine

Clifton Magazine • Volume 15 •14 Issue 12 • December 2010 CliftonMerchant Merchant Magazine • Volume • Issue 7 • July 3,3,2009

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Clifton Merchant Magazine is published the first Friday of every month at 1288 Main Ave., Downtown Clifton â&#x20AC;˘ 973-253-4400

Giving Thanks, Counting Blessings... By Tom Hawrylko

Merry Christmas and happy holidays from the Hawrylko kids, from left, Carly, Casey, Joe and Tom Jr.

his month’s edition is filled with joy and good tidings but tempered by a harsh bit of reality. On Nov. 4, Christopher Columbus Middle School teacher John Albert Greco died suddenly. At the age of 33, John had been married just three years to Karen Marie (Affinito) and his sudden passing while they were on vacation reverberated throughout northern New Jersey. As his obituary stated: “Words cannot describe how much he will be missed and the impact that he left on everyone.” While that is true, the teachers and staff at CCMS have essentially turned this tragedy into a learning moment. To get a sense of who John was as a person, turn to page 96 and read what his young charges and colleagues had to say of him.

The comments by the 6th, 7th and 8th graders provides some insight into John’s personality and how his genuine heart, sense of humor and kind soul were infectious to many who met him. John was a 1995 CHS grad and taught at CCMS for the past nine years. He was also the head coach for the Men’s lacrosse team at Montclair State University since 2003. In addition to his wife, John is survived by his parents, Susan and Albert, siblings Elizabeth and Robert, his grandmother, Pauline, and in-laws, Joseph and Christine Affinito. A legacy scholarship fund has been established; make donations to the John Greco Memorial MSU LAX Scholarship Fund, 4 Marble Ct, Unit 12, Clifton, N.J. 07013, c/o Albert and Susan Greco. 16,000 Magazines

are distributed to hundreds of Clifton Merchants on the first Friday of every month. Subscribe Page 79

1288 Main Avenue Downtown Clifton, NJ 07011

December 2010 • Clifton Merchant

Editor & Publisher Tom Hawrylko Business Manager Cheryl Hawrylko Graphic Designer Michael Strong Staff Writer Joe Hawrylko Contributing Writers Irene Jarosewich, Carol Leonard, Rich DeLotto, Don Lotz, Jack DeVries

Army PFC Robert Michael Nouri safely returned home from his first tour of duty in Iraq, and is back on his base at Ft. Bliss in Texas. As a combat engineer with the First Armored Division, Ready First Soldiers Old Ironsides Brigade, Bobby’s main duties overseas included nightly patrols around the city of Kirkuk, some 150 miles north of Bagdad, in a specialized convoy. His group routinely searched the dangerous roads in and around the city for improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and questioned suspicious characters. But the good news his mom JoAnn wanted to share— she visited him in Texas over Thanksgiving—is that her Bobby is back home, safe. She wanted to say thanks to the community for the prayers and ongoing support it shows for Bobby and all of our nation’s vets. After graduating from CHS in 2008, Nouri worked as an auto mechanic and in Oct. 2009, he enlisted and went to Army boot camp at Ft. Leonard Wood, Missouri. He is the son of JoAnn Nouri and Fred Nouri of Clifton. His siblings are Maria (Nouri) Maciejewski and Freddie. Hearing of these two stories, all of us at the magazine took a moment to count our blessings and to recognize we have much to be thankful for. Thus as we bring to you another Christmas and holiday edition, I want to thank our readers and advertisers for your support. As we enter our 16th year of publication, my family and I appreciate the trust and loyalty you have bestowed upon us.

Robert Nouri in 2009 before boot camp and a photo of the CHS ‘08 grad on the ground in Iraq. He just returned stateside after a year in the combat zone.

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December 2010 • Clifton Merchant

December 2010 â&#x20AC;˘ Clifton Merchant

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Wishing You and Your Families A Joyous Holiday Season and a Prosperous New Year

Happy Holidays From All of Us at...

P SHliOfton

st Shop Clifton

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This holiday season remember to Shop

Clifton First! Our city is home to hundreds of unique, family-owned shops and businesses

where you can find just about anything you need for gift-giving and entertaining.

Creature Comforts Since wind patterns attract migratory birds to Clifton, surprise your loved ones with a gift that will bring the weary winged wanderers right into their back yards. The bird bath shown here is just one of the many creature comforts available at Richfield Farms on Van Houten Ave. They also sell bird feeders, statues and even heaters to keep the water in your bird bath tepid and flowing. With seed and live food also available at many Clifton pet stores, there is much to give that would attract a flock of feathered visitors.

Clifton Arts Center Everything about the holidays is art. Christmas trees are decorated with a distinct personal touch. Menorahs for Chanukah are each as uniquely beautiful as snowflakes. Even the Coca-Cola cans, adorned with images of Santa himself, present an artistically imaginative design for the holidays. So why not take it further by visiting the exhibits at the Clifton Arts Center, located on the municipal campus, and see what creativity is buzzing about our community this holiday season? Admission is $3. Hours and info: www.cliftonnj.org. December 2010 â&#x20AC;˘ Clifton Merchant

Quackers & the High-Flying Society Give a membership to the New Jersey Audubon Society to your favorite naturalist. The kit includes a weekly rare bird alert, access to other resources online or over the phone and a magazine subscription. Visit www.njaudubon.org or call 908-204-8998. Better yet, take someone special on a picnic to Morris Canal Park on Broad St. Here, the ducks are so accustomed to visiting residents that they’ll waddle around at your feet as you enjoy your afternoon snack at one of the park’s tables. But don’t feed the fowl! Your company is enjoyment enough for them.

Handy Hardware Clifton’s only locally owned hardware store has thousands of items in stock, perfect gifts for any gardener or handyman. The gardener’s toolbox should contain quality pruners, knives, rakes, spades, and gloves tough enough for dealing with prickly garden situations. It’s better to buy just one or two quality tools than several cheap ones which won’t last, so go to Able Paint & Hardware on Van Houten Ave. Sometimes household tools just aren’t around Growing Trends when you need them, so Give your green-thumbed most anyone will apprefriends what they need to ciate a set of the basics— make their spring gardens pliers, hammers, ratchbloom. Create a gift basets, screwdrivers, and the ket filled with seeds, potlike—which the friendly ted plants, flowers and staff at Able can help you bulbs. You’ll find all of with. It is their old-fashthese ingredients at ioned service and basic Richfield Farms. Richfield know-how that will help also has bulbs in stock you select the right pick. that, with the right

Buying for Bird Watchers? Clifton and Garret Mountain Reservation are stops in the travels of migratory birds. A hike through the park or adjacent Rifle Camp Park will reveal hawks and other species. Allow your favorite bird watcher to see deeper into the 575-acre county park with a new pair of binoculars, available at Sports Authority in Clifton Commons. And to give the birder a primer on the types of winged creatures they may see in our area, purchase a guidebook from any local bookseller. 8

December 2010 • Clifton Merchant

amount of care and by placing near a sunny window, will force an early bloom this winter. Like Richfield Farms, Ploch’s Garden Center on Broad St. also has a gift center and a hothouse filled with a selection of ferns, plants and poinsettias, sure to liven up any holiday home or office.

Island Hoping... Coin & Stamps Themed stamps from countries across the globe makes a great gift. So do coins of various precious metals and lineage. Philatelists and numismatics know the widest and most beautiful variety of rare coins and stamps can be found at American Coin & Stamp in Downtown Clifton. Take a look at the silver 2003 Liberty Dollar or stop at this Main Ave. store for this year’s holiday silver ingots. They make a great commemorative gift. Coins sets can mark special dates, from births to anniversaries, and often increase in value. Fish Stories . . . Whether the person on your list is after bass, trout, blues, or whitefish, it does not really matter. What is important is that they enjoy the great outdoors. Given that fact, gift giving for the outdoorsperson comes down to items of quality and comfort and that means a visit to S. Meltzer & Sons. Whether it’s for fishing, hunting, hiking or climbing, Meltzer’s has it... and the staff to help you select the right gear. They offer a great selection of . . . And Other Tails poles, reels, lures, For hunters, hikers and climbers, guns and bows, as footwear counts. The right boots well as hooks, bullets, will enable them to comfortably pellets or arrows. And and securely trek the roughest terfor those especially rain. Find them at local stores cold days, when a such as Moda Shoes & Co. and hunter doesn’t want Marty’s Shoes in the Styertowne his or her trigger-finShopping Center. Another great ger freezing at the gift is a few pairs of thermal socks. Finally, safety is a pricrucial moment, fill a ority in the great outdoors, so when the hiker trips, a fishstocking with a couermen get soaked or the hunters get trampled, a wellple of hand warmers, stocked first aid kit will bring immediate relief. Fill yours special packets that up with the appropriate bandages, ointments and medicine chemically produce at Van Houten Pharmacy. heat when activated.

American Pinoy is at 1430 Main Ave. across from Main Memorial Park and sells products from the Philippines,Thailand, China, Korea, Japan and Taiwan. Noodles are the best seller along with various vinegars and fish sauce. Patis, a pungent fish sauce, is a condiment used to flavor many Filipino dishes. Fresh produce is a large part of the Pacific Rim cuisine and Pinoy carries popular Chinese long beans, bitter melon, mustard greens, sprouts, tamarind, ginger and eggplant.

A Lifetime Sport Take your family to Garden Palace on Lakeview Ave. or Van Houten Lanes in Athenia and let the fun begin. People of all ages and abilities can bowl so a gift certificate good for a few games is a great stocking stuffer. Visit the pro shops for gifts for the kegler on your list. Join a league sponsored by the either of the bowling centers and get in shape.

December 2010 • Clifton Merchant

Great stores & services at the Allwood Circle

’s io n to n A Barber Shop

ACME (973) 594-0590 AC Moore (973) 470-8885 Antonio’s Hair Stylist (973) 472-1011 Atlanta Bread Company (973) 777-2211 Avant Garde Salon (973) 778-0557 Bertelli’s Liquors (973) 779-0199 Chiropractic Center at Styertowne (973) 777-6995 Cleaners 2000 (973) 614-1400 F.Y.E. (973) 778-8759 Corbo Jewelers (973) 777-1635 Crystal Optics (973) 594-0020 CVS Pharmacy (973) 778-7630 Dollar Tree (973) 249-7530 Dress Barn (973) 249-0322 Dunkin Donuts & Baskin Robbins (973) 473-9631 Exchange Florist (973) 594-0700 Footnotes Bookstore (973) 779-6122 GNC (973) 779-1500 Kid City (973) 614-1111 Kim’s Nail Salon (973) 471-8118 Largo House Nail & Spa (973) 777-9784 Lucille Roberts (973) 262-3802 Moda Shoes & Co. (973) 777-4700 Modells (973) 779-5253 Pet Stuff (973) 778-1617 The Season’s Fine Chinese Cuisine (973) 777-8073 Radio Shack (973) 777-7931 Shereeds Ladies & Mens Clothing (973) 773-1673 Styertowne Bakery (973) 777-6193 Subway (973) 685-9992 Taste of Tuscany (973) 916-0700 US Post Office (973) 473-4946 Valley National Bank (973) 777-6283

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December 2010 • Clifton Merchant

International Shopping While Corrado’s on Main Ave. can still be called an Italian specialty store, the flavor here is international as the aisles, the foods and the shoppers all are diverse. In a shiny glass case that occupies the front section of the market are specialty cheeses which share the space with Italian specialities, such as provolotettines, mascarpone, ricotta, pecorino romano and parmesan. The next case down offers roasted red peppers, porcini mushrooms, prosciutto, cerignola, castelvetrano and dozens of fresh olives. Any ante-

pesto requires olive oil and Corrado’s has a 100-foot aisle of oils from countries around the world. Most of the customers shop Corrado’s specifically for the produce. On any given weekend day, the produce aisles look more like a European or Middle Eastern bazaar than Clifton.

Whether they are searching for aubergine eggplant, pungent garlic, fresh rosemary, or juicy fruit, their final goal is the same: to find ingredients for authentic homemade cuisine reminiscent of a distant homeland.

Crystal From the rare to the exquisite, Morre Lyons’ selection of Swarovski crystal represents some of the most intricate and beautifully detailed items in town. With special holiday designs, even an avid collector will have something new to appreciate this season.

• Echo “Touch” Texting Gloves • Faux Fur Glove Jewelry • Leather & Suede Chain Jewelry Accented with Crystal and Charms • Liz Palacios Jewelry • Huge Sterling Silver Jewelry Collection

973-472-6046 • Open 7 Days December 2010 • Clifton Merchant

C W f f t C h i t g w v b n o

December 2010 â&#x20AC;˘ Clifton Merchant

Cocktails this Party Season? Whether it’s shaking up martinis and manhattans for a family gathering, screwdrivers and amaretto sours for a festive party, or pouring the bubbly on New Year’s Eve, the best spirits and wines can be found right here in Clifton. Wright Wine & Liquors on Van Houten Ave., has found its niche with Polish wines, beers and other international flavors. You’ll find wine, cheese and much more at Stu Leonard’s at the Promenade Shops on Route 3. Shoppers Vineyard on Bloomfield Ave. has a great selection of single-malt scotch and always has a cold keg ready to go. The wine masters at Bertelli’s in Styertowne Shopping Center will help you find the right vintage at the right price for what you need to complement a dinner or impress your boss. Don’t forget to also visit Dan at Wine Country & Liquor Country on Rt. 46, near Downtown Clifton. If you don’t see what you want, ask the managers as any of these stores can place a special order. Cigar Aficionado on Your List? If so, a gift certificate to Jamie’s fits the bill. The sports bar and restaurant offers a fine food and drink in a casual setting near the Allwood Circle. The humidor there offers a fine selection of well made cigars and the staff will help any novice shopper buy the right smoke for that special guy. So for an evening out or as a gift, Jamie’s will make a nice impression. Other gift ideas? Fine cigars need to be cut to smoke so another essential gift is a cutter. Fire it up! But don’t think you can light a cigar like a cigarette. Stop in one of our local newstands and fill the stocking with a good lighter.

Coffees, Spices, Pitas A visit to Al Aqsa across from Main Memorial Park is like strolling through the fragrant markets of Old Jerusalem. Cumin, za’atar (a ground mixture of thyme, wheat, sumac sesame seeds and other spices), hot pepper and turmeric, some of the key spices in Middle eastern cuisine, greet you as you open the door. Once inside, visitors notice all the traditional favorites and some unusual offerings. Pita is a staple of the Middle Eastern diet and Al Aqsa sells all different types, from the standard white daily pita to Lebanese pits, Markouk and village bread. Tiny tea kettles with long handles, often carried by young boys in the Arab market during coffee breaks, are available, as well as famous Turkish coffee, other coffee and a wide variety of loose teas in exotic flavors.

Your Holiday Feast Begins on Main Avenue... Come to The Famous & Original (from Lexington Ave)...

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NEW! Great for Parties... Hot, Homemade Empanadas! December 2010 • Clifton Merchant

Pierogies, Kielbasy, Kiszka Down in Botany Village and along Van Houten Ave., itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not unusual to smell the scent of cherry wood wafting through the air. This is because the butchers at Polonia Meat Market in Athenia or the good folks at Stefan & Sons in Botany smoke their homemade kielbasa and other specialty meats. Local tree cutters provide the delis with their cherry wood and they burn it in the smokehouse built behind their stores. This allows them to make double smoked, chunky style, fine grind and regular kielbasa everyday. They also make a variety of homemade pierogies, which sell by the thousands during the holidays. There are also spare ribs, tender loins, bacon and home made soups. Pastries, jelly donuts, chrusciki (angel wings) and hearty breads are also available. European chocolates and candies round out the dessert offerings and Polish newspapers and greeting cards fill the void for news from home.

December 2010 â&#x20AC;˘ Clifton Merchant

International Greetings At Colonial Pharmacy on Clifton Ave., find Christmas and holidays cards in Ukrainian, Polish, Spanish and Russian, to name a few.

Nonpareil Dayton Homemade Chocolates, now in a modern sweet shop on Market St., has been serving Clifton since 1912. The business got its moniker from when it was located on the corner of Dayton and Highland Aves., in Passaic, and is still owned by the Mikardos family, pictured here a few yer ago. Generations of customers still come to the store, many from towns away, for their milk, white and dark chocolates year round. While

they sell more than just chocolate today, quality homemade chocolate is still the centerpiece of the

business and the family continues to operate in the same Old World tradition of their founders.

Build a Better Lollipop Panicked for some tasteful and unique gift ideas? Think sweet. Many Clifton chocolatiers still practice the Old World confectionary arts. And others, such as Janet Pavlowski, will even share some of their secrets. Her store, Candy Connection on Lakeview Ave., sells candy making suppliesâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;molds, chocolates and decorative itemsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;and most every ingredient one will need to cook up a gingerbread house or even a dozen or so chocolate Santa lollipops.

December 2010 â&#x20AC;˘ Clifton Merchant

Batter Up! It’s Polka Time! Question on tv’s Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?: Who is America’s polka king? The contestant won $250,000 by " " correctly answering Jimmy Sturr. This 18 $# % time Grammy Award winner & does polkas right and his good time music ! " " ' will get your next party started. Find Please check one: his CD’s at F.Y.E. in Styretowne or Approved: Barnes & Noble in X Clifton Signature Commons.

Baseball mitts, bats and clothing are classic gifts and Lefty’s on Bloomfield Ave. and Sports Authority in Clifton Commons offer a big selection. Add a pocket full of tokens good for the indoor batting cages at Lefty’s and your gift will be a in-the-park grand slam!

Note Changes ! % "

He’s Got The Beat... Who *%+knows, your son, daughter 1 ( ! or grandchild '* ," might be a music prodigy. them les1Get'+, #+ started with ( * %'&," sons at Menconi Music Studios on Lakeview Ave. In this file photo, instructor Pat Gesualdo helps 8year old Zachary Parker get the riff on the drums. The talented team of Menconi musicologists offer lessons on most any instrument.

Clifton Merchant

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Theatrical lessons are offered by the "#+ #+ at&Action $ Theater ,*'+, ,# (*'' & professionals ' + &', * $ , ," Clifton )- $#,/ Conservatory in Downtown and ' /'-* + #,Recreation .#$$ ((Department. * #& (*#&, the Clifton Performing arts such as dance and acting can relieve the stress of life by trans! 0#& you and your friends into an forming entertaining cast of characters. For others, it may lead to a career on the stage.

Music as American as... Across from the Post Office on Main Ave. in Downtown Cifton but a generation or two away is Clifton Music. Specializing in oldies, doo-wop and acapella sounds from the 1950’s, this shop sells the vinyl and CD’s and keeps promoting this classic Americana art form.

Happy Holidays!

POGORELEC LAW OFFICES John D. Pogorelec, Sr. - John D. Pogorelec, Jr. 840 Van Houten Ave. • Clifton, NJ 07013 Concentrating in the areas of... Medicaid/Elder Law, Real Estate, Wills, Probate & Landlord/Tenant John D. Pogorelec, Jr. 16

December 2010 • Clifton Merchant

Tel: 973-778-1604 • Fax: 973-778-0334

December 2010 â&#x20AC;˘ Clifton Merchant

Items courtesy Wheels

Silver & Pearls Jewelry is always a favorite gift and our hometown has many locally owned stores where you can purchase precious stones, gold, silver and pearls. Wheels at 1214 Van Houten Ave. offers the latest in costume jewelry, necklaces and other affordable silver items. There’ºs also a selection of candles, incense, gloves, scarves and other items. Lacki’s at 625 Van Houten Ave., offers an exclusive collection of diamond and stone colored jewelry

that has been carefully scrutinized by the store’s owner and graduate gemologist, Gregory Lacki. The store also features gold, platinum and sterling jewelry, appraisal services and watch service.

Blown Away Expecting a white winter? Give the gift of a clear driveway. Able Paint & Hardware on Van Houten Ave. sells and repairs snowblowers, and sells salt and back-saving shovels, so your recipient can keep sidewalks clear for seasons to come no matter how harsh the weather.

Kitchen Kitsch Decorate a mixing bowl instead of a basket to hold a collection of culinary treats for that crafty cook. Visit Castle of Nuts and put together an assortment of fresh nuts, seeds and sweets. Go on to Corrado’s and add jams and jellies, pastas and flavored teas or coffees. And any keen cook will appreciate some quality utensils. Mix all the ingredients and voila!—you’ve created the ultimate cook’s companion.

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December 2010 • Clifton Merchant

Bunion Surgery Relieves Pain, Helps Increase Physical Activity Bunions usually are due to inherited faulty foot mechanics which put abnormal pressure on the front of the foot. Pain is the primary reason patients seek medical attention for bunions. A majority of bunion surgeries are performed on women because they wear tight-fitting, highheeled shoes that worsen the underlying foot problem and cause abnormal stress to the joint. Good news for those considering bunion surgery: over 90% of the patients who had the procedure say they experienced significant pain relief, increased their physical activity and would recommend it to others. The patients surveyed by the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons (ACFAS) had surgery performed by a foot and ankle surgeon to correct bunions within the past 6 to 24 months. “Often those who can benefit from the surgery avoid it and continue to endure pain because they have heard that surgery doesn’t work and is excessively painful,” said Thomas Graziano, MD, DPM, FACFAS, a foot and ankle surgeon in Clifton. “The truth is advanced surgical techniques have allowed us to effectively correct bunion deformities with excellent outcomes in terms of pain relief and improved quality of life.” A bunion is the result of undue stress on the big toe joint, which causes a protuberance of bone or tissue around that joint. Bunions can be very painful, inhibit normal walking, and make it difficult to fit into some shoes. Contrary to popular belief, bunions are aggravated, not caused, by tight shoes.

Dr. Graziano told of one patient who returned to an active tennis schedule following surgery for severe bunions—on both feet. “The pain was so bad she couldn’t walk normally, wear decent looking shoes— much less play tennis,” recalled Dr. Graziano. “After the surgery, she’s playing tennis and regretting waiting so long to have the surgery done.” Call 973-473-3344 for more info.

Excessive high heel wear will lead to neuromas, hammer & claw toes, bunions or bone spurs. The solution? Wear higher versions only briefly, use insoles and as a last resort, consider minimally invasive surgery.

December 2010 • Clifton Merchant

Rotary Club Whether it’s two on a bicycle or four under a skateboard, wheels are where it’s at. We all remember the days of sitting on Santa’s lap and asking for a new bike—at Allwood Bicycles on Market St. with hundreds of cycles ready to roll—that wish can come true. Beyond bikes, safety and comfort are the

most important aspects of the sport, and bikers on your list will also appreciate a properly fitted helmet, new wheels, gears and tires, as well as clothing and other essentials to keep you rolling safely.

Johnny Cupcakes! Stumped on what to bring to a party this year? Spice up desert with a platter of baked goods from Mr. Cupcake, right next to Wheels on Van Houten Ave. Johnny and his signature cupcakes are legendary for their quality, and there's no better way to impress than showing up at a holiday party with a dozen of these scrumptious handmade pastries. Xtreme Scene & Skatium Skateboarders can safely and legally ollie and grind with a gift membership at SkateZone, a well-outfitted city-owned skate park in Dutch Hill. Basic annual membership begins at $30. For details, call the Clifton Rec Dept. at 973-470-5958 or go to www.cliftononline.com/

Celebrate

Clifton!

Our community’s diversity is truly our strength. Celebrate Clifton. Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays. Councilman Steve Hatala 20

December 2010 • Clifton Merchant

Second Hand Scores Thrift Stores can be a shopping goldmine By Joe Hawrylko

hopping on a budget this holiday season? You’re not alone. The economy forces everyone to get more creative in making that dollar stretch. Luckily, there’s plenty of places in Clifton shoppers can save a penny this year. The Helen Sanders Thrift Shop, located in the Daughters of Miriam complex off of Hazel St., may be tiny, but it is a treasure trove for second hand goods of all kinds. Helen Sanders and her assistant, Susan Rumpf, manage this small shop, which is just down the hall from the main entrance at the rear of 155 Hazel St. One of

The Helen Sanders Thrift Store at the Daughters of Miriam is managed by Susan Rumpf and Helen Sanders.

the main attractions is the diverse clothes selection for men, women and children, containing wares for all seasons. “Everything old is new again,” said Rumpf. Though the main shoppers are older ladies in the complex, she said that many younger women come in seeking a certain vintage items to complete a wardrobe. Shoppers can find old coats, jackets and hats for both sexes. Occasionally, gems like the $125 full December 2010 • Clifton Merchant

Some samples of the goods and prices at the Helen Sanders Thrift Store at the Daughters of Miriam.

length, deep chocolate ranch mink that was sold off just last week, will find their way into the store, but the key to finding such things is to stop by often.

“Things come and go so quickly here,” said Rumpf. She said the main attractions are the scarves, purses and hats. But there’s much more on hand at this location. There’s plenty of quirky and affordable items that you just won’t find under one roof anywhere else. Shoppers will see a shelf dedicated to softcover books, containing popular authors and some less known writers in a variety of genres. Helen has also

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December 2010 • Clifton Merchant

assembled a collection of vinyl records featuring a broad selection of musicians. And just a few feet from the crates of records are shelves with kitchenware. Silverware, martini glasses, goblets, candle holders and other items are mixed about with appliances like coffee and expresso markers. On another nearby shelf are a variety of cheap linens—king sheets go for just $3 a pop. Helen Sander’s Thrift Store also has a growing art collection, which is displayed on the walls behind the counter up front. And before paying, check out the card selection. These items go for anywhere from 10 to 25 cents, compared with $3 or more in a bigger store. And it all goes to a good cause. “All of the money goes to help the Daughters of Miriam,” said Rumpf. The staff, led by the venerable Helen Sanders, sits behind a small counter and can help you find anything you’d like in the store. The Helen Sanders Thrift Shop is open on Mon., Wed. and Fri., from 10 am to 3 pm. Call 973-253-5377. Much like Helen Sanders Thrift Shop, The Salvation Army, located just off of Van Houten Ave. at the Passaic-Clifton border, provides a wide variety of used goods. Here, the main attraction is the large selection of clothing. The employees at the store carefully sort items by color and by seasonal wear. Men can piece together a suit for just a fraction of the price of a retail store. If you search deep enough, you can find quality threads hidden in the racks—Alfani, Calvin Klein, Tommy Hilfiger and other name brands are all represented at the store. The Salvation Army also keeps a

modest selection of miscellaneous goods up near the front of the store. Shoppers can find gently used games, furniture, bags, shoes and other items. Sports like hockey or lacrosse aren’t cheap to get into. And if you’re shopping for a child just getting started, you more than likely want to save a few bucks just incase your child isn’t playing next season. For parents in this position, Overtime Sports is your savior. This locally owned sports consignment store offers a myriad of

equipment and apparel at affordable prices. “Everyone wants to get into new sports, but it isn’t always cheap,” said owner Ellen Anolik. But this consignment store—the only in North Jersey—allows someone to pick up a normally expensive sport like hockey or lacrosse for a fraction of the price. “It’s a great idea, perfect for our economy right now. People can’t afford all of the equipment for a sport like that,” she added. The inventory at Overtime con-

December 2010 • Clifton Merchant

stantly changes due to the nature of the business. “Right now, we mostly just have soccer, hockey, tennis and that stuff. It comes in dribs and drabs.” Overtime also features sweats, shirts and other wear-

Nivia Ivette D’Errico just opened Thrifty Treasures at 574 Clifton Ave. She offers antique dolls, gently used household items and a variety of clothing and more.

able gear from teams and clubs. Anolik also plans to eventually include other items, and possibly some exercise equipment. It’s best to check online (www.overtime-online.com) to see what is available, or call for an appointment at 973-779-2875.

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T raditions Another Month of Celebrations Faith, Food, Fun Mingle to Make A Joyous December

won their struggle against foreign Not long after we have finished By Irene Jarosewich occupation of Judea. However, when giving thanks and the leftovers from the victorious Maccabees entered Jerusalem, they found our Thanksgiving dinners have disappeared, a new their Temple to be in shambles. month of holidays will begin. This year, beginning As they restored order, only one vial of pure oil could with December 1 until the eve of the New Year, be found to burn in the candelabra during the re-dedicaClifton families will continue their cherished holiday tion of the Temple. Miraculously, the oil burned not for traditions. Combing faith, food and fun, throughout the expected one day, but for eight, until new sacred oil our town, December will be a month of celebration. could be procured. Festival of Lights Hanukah, which means “dedication” in Hebrew, is celebrated by lighting two candles the first night in a At sundown on Dec. 1, Hanukah, the eight-day menorah, the special nine-armed candelabra. Using one Festival of Lights will begin throughout Clifton’s Jewish candle to light the others, a new candle is added each community. The holiday is a cheerful and joyous celebraevening for eight nights in remembrance of the miracle tion of victory and miracles. In the second century BCE, of the oil and the victory of the Macabees. a small group of Jewish fighters known as the Maccabees December 2010 • Clifton Merchant

To celebrate their success, the Maccabees minted new coins, with an image of a menorah on the coin. This tradition is carried on today in the giving of Hanukah gelt – real coins or candy coins – to children throughout the holiday week. The children can use the coins in playing the dreidl game, which involves the expert spinning a four-sided top. Each player gets a turn to spin the top and depending on which side is facing up when it stops, they give or take pieces of gelt from the game pot. The spinner can take all, or the spinner can get nothing, can get half the pot, or must put pieces in. The dreidl game is an object lesson of life that any parent can love. In the Rosemawr home of Perl and Eugene Weinstein, the box of Hanukah decorations has come out. Devora, age 6, states with absolute certainty that the most favorite part of the Hanukah celebration is in the evening “lighting the candles in the menorah with Papa.” Rina, age 4, testing her eye-hand coordination, has begun to practice spinning the dreidl and Yehoshua, as the first grandson, will be receiving his grandfather’s silver menorah this year, a gift passed down through generations. Perl remembers playing the dreidl game as a child— she and her sister received $5 each from their father during Hanukah as gelt. “Even though we’re adults, he still gives it us each year,” she notes fondly and then smiles, “still five dollars, no adjustment for inflation.”

The miracle of the oil lasting for eight days in the Temple is reflected in the use of oil in preparing holiday foods. A sweet favorite is fresh doughnuts fried in hot oil. Abigail and Tzali Lazarus of Passaic Avenue and their three children Yonina, 6, Malka, 4 and Avi, 1 are big fans of a tasty caramel doughnut that Abigail prepares from a recipe her mother brought from Israel. However, the classic favorite in Jewish families who are descendants of immigrants from Eastern Europe is the potato latke – or potato pancake. The most basic recipe is peeled and hand-shredded (with scrapped knuckles as proof) raw potatoes mixed with beaten egg, salt, and spoon dropped to quickly panfry. This is the recipe that Perl prepares for her family, topped with applesauce or sour cream. When asked whether she uses anything extra, as some cooks do, for example, coating the latkes in cornmeal for an extra crunch, the response is stunned silence. Then she asks “Cornmeal. In latkes? Are you kidding me? Are you serious?” and laughs... “nothing extra and no shortcuts. My family would not allow it!” When the first meal is served, the dinner table at the Weinstein’s home is covered with a special Hanukah tablecloth Since the Weinstein’s extended family lives throughout the New York and New Jersey area. However, in keeping with their family tradition, during the first weekend, family members will come over to Perl and Eugene’s for a celebratory Hanukah meal with the extended family.

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At St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic School on President St. in Passaic, last year’s Praznyk, or St. Nicholas Feast Day pageant.

Feast of St. Nicholas Many Cliftonians still remember the days when December as a relatively quiet month before it became the non-stop commercialized frenzy of today. They may also remember how their neighbors, immigrants from Europe, celebrated the Feast Day of St. Nicholas on Dec. 6, or for those using the Old-Style calendar, such as Greeks, Ukrainians, and Russians, on Dec. 19. Among many European immigrants, presents were exchanged on the Feast Day of St. Nicholas, and not on Christmas Day. And many a child once found a small toy, or a chocolate bar under their pillow, or inside a shoe by their bedside, on the morning of St. Nicholas Day. For centuries in many cultures, St. Nicholas has been revered as a symbol of generosity and kindness, of caring for the vulnerable, for his love of children. As Greek bishop in ancient Turkey, he was known to carry small trinkets in his pockets that he would give to children as he traveled about. This one aspect of St. Nicholas became the basis of our modern day Santa Claus, the provider of presents.

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Even though the celebration of St. Nicholas Day has faded in general and the gift-giving has moved almost exclusively to Christmas Day, among some cultures, the celebration of St. Nicholas remains. Along with the presents and the fun, Ksenia and Alexander Salewycz of Windsor Rd. are hoping to instill in their two daughters Anna, age 7 and Sophia, age 4, other lessons from St. Nicholas, such as goodness and compassion. So while no parent can buck the gift-giving trend completely, in keeping with a family tradition that they learned from their parents, immigrants from Ukraine, Ksenia and Alex sit with their girls, tell them the story of St. Nicholas and then together write him a letter. Usually written the weekend after Thanksgiving, the girls explain, in Ukrainian, what they are thankful for, offer examples of the good things they have done throughout the year and end the note with a suggestion for a gift they would like. So that St. Nicholas can see it, the girls then leave the letter in a window for him to take, along with something sweet, such as a chocolate or a cookie. “St. Nicholas takes the letter and leaves walnuts in exchange,” said Ksenia cheerfully, “and then we know

December 2010 • Clifton Merchant

he got it. In December, we celebrate with a St. Nicholas Day pageant at our church. That’s when St. Nicholas arrives with gifts for all the children.” This tradition of a St. Nicholas day pageant is still maintained in many Ukrainian Catholic and Ukrainian Orthodox churches and community centers.

Teddy and Stanley Kwolek of Polonia Meat Market.

Christmas The celebration of the birth of Jesus is one of the two holidays most central to Christians worldwide. Derived from Middle English – Christ’s Mass - probably no other holiday combines the traditions of faith, food and fun more completely than Christmas. Celebrated on December 25, or on January 7 by those who celebrate according to the Old-Style (Julian) calendar, the holiday is steeped in tradition. For brothers Stanley and Teddy Kwolek, owners of Polonia Meat Market in Athenia, the preparations for Christmas begins in early December with advance orders for their smoked hams, Polish sausage, kielbasa, and prepared foods such as special Polish golomki, cabbage rolls stuffed with rice and mushrooms for the meatless Christmas Eve meal. In keeping with Polish tradition, the first meal of the holiday on Christmas Eve is meatless and other Polish specialties are served such as herring, or sledzie, in onions and vinegar or a salad of yellow peas and sauerkraut, along with the potato pierogi. However, Polonia does a brisk business preparing hams and sausages for the traditionally large family meals on Christmas Day. Teddy Kwolek, who learned the recipes and tech-

niques of preparing the smoked meats from his fatherin-law, a butcher in Poland for 50 years, prepares and supervises the smoking process personally in the smokehouse behind the store. This attention to detail is one of the reasons that Polonia’s hams are popular with non-Polish customers and the Kwoleks ship hams throughout the United States to be part of many a holiday meal. The families of the two brothers have kept the Polish tradition of decorating the Christmas tree the morning of December 24. “We used real candles back home when I was a child,” laughs Teddy, “and the fires! Oh, we used to have fires. Not here though no, no… not here!” However, Stanley’s grandson Alex helps maintain the tradition of handmade decorations for the tree, minus the candles. “We go to midnight mass at St. John Kanty on Christmas Eve,” said Stanley, “but on the 25th, we return for mass at the first church we attended in America, Holy Rosary in Passaic. A lot of Polish immigrants in this area first came to Passaic, and then moved to Clifton, Wayne, elsewhere. Now we come back once a year on Christmas and see each other in the old church. It’s a nice tradition.”

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December 2010 • Clifton Merchant

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Among Ukrainians, the traditional Christmas Eve meal is also meatless, and twelve courses are served. “I explain to my girls,” said Ksenia Salewycz, “that the twelve courses symbolized the Twelve Apostles, so they can better understand why they are sitting at table for three hours.” A music teacher at North Boulevard Elementary School in Pompton Plains, Ksenia carries on her family’s tradition of singing Ukrainian Christmas carols between the twelve courses, providing an uplifting pause and time for reflection. The Salewycz’s frequently spend Christmas Day with the family of their cousins Lidia and George Huk in Clifton Heights where carolers from Passaic’s St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Church will stop by for song and cheer.

New Years Eve Though not a religious holiday, New Year’s is definitely festive and fun. And while people do got out to restaurants and parties, many stay home to celebrate with friends and family. It is an especially unique tradition popular with individuals that have a Eastern European background. In the home of Alex Burakovskiy on Lenox Avenue, the tradition of entertaining friends continues. In the former Soviet Union, from where Alex emigrated in 1991, all religious celebrations were banned and New Year’s became the main winter holiday. Often celebrated at home, rituals of telling jokes, playing games, performing pantomimes became part of the evening’s plans. To be clever and amusing was the goal and guests came prepared to top one another with their talents. 30

December 2010 • Clifton Merchant

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Around a roaring fire, with plenty of food and drink, Alex continues the New Year’s tradition of mini-talent shows in his Clifton home. The Kwoleks also remember New Year celebrations as a tradition carried out in their homes. Several generations would come together for family meal to bring in the New Year. A big favorite and traditional for New Year’s Eve was the hearty bigos, a stew of onions, sauerkraut and smoked sausage to be fol-

lowed on New Year’s day with delectable sweets. Stanley Kwolek remembers his grandmother’s plum and apple cakes, and ponchyky, delicious homemade jelly doughnuts. Filled with good memories from their own childhoods, Clifton parents and grandparents strive to provide their children with warm memories of their own. And if Mother Nature provided a fresh coat of snow, the winter holidays would be complete. WEEKEND SPECIAL

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T raditions The Combination of Traditions Traditions from Athenia Find a New Home in Long Island Andrew Piotrowski, the principal of Christopher Columbus Middle School, will not be in Clifton this year for Christmas. He recently moved to Long Island where his wife Dr. Anna Piotrowski is a neurologist at Stonybrook University Hospital. As a result, this will be the first time that Piotrowski will be away from the large Polish community that was always a part of his holiday celebration here. While he and his wife will bring new traditions to their marriage, one of his favorite holiday traditions he will introduce to his new home is the exchange of the oplat-

ki, or thin wafers, at the beginning of the Christmas Eve meal. Sometimes a plate of the small rec-

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tangular wafers, which are embossed with Christmas symbols, are passed along around the table

Andrew Piotrowski and his wife, Anna, who is a neurologist in residency at Long Island hospital. Above, his dad Jozef, brothers Tom, Albert, and Adam with their mom Anna. At right, Tom, Albert and Andrew in the early days.

from guest to guest to share, or sometimes the oldest member of the family brings the wafer to each guest. A wafer is always broken as it is shared, and as a symbol of forgiveness for any past slights, the broken pieces are exchanged between two people, along with a blessing for good health and future prosperity.

Piotrowski’s immediate extended family is not large, whereas his wife’s family, who is Filipino, is quite extensive. “My parents continue to bring the oplatki for the entire family and it’s been fun each Christmas to see the traditions of our smaller family merge into the traditions of Anna’s larger family,” said Piotrowski.

In Loving Memory of our Founder e Season is a tim , es he Christmas on ed ember lov is th when we rem g n ri . Du d in heaven im fa y n a both here an m member the es on ed v lo season, we re r ed thei st u tr en e v a lies who h year. out this past to us through of a loved t after the loss a th ow kn e W bring spey season will a id ol h e th oments of one, nd tender m a s ie or em m ow that cial in God, we kn ases g in st u Tr s. es hristm sadn ling touch, C ea h is h h g u thro filled with ill again be w e, m co to yet d laughter. ason, hope, joy, an is holiday se th g n ri u d y nder love We pra you in His te d ol h ill w that God now and peace, both and give you r. e coming yea throughout th

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T raditions Hummus and Black Beans Lebonese & El Salvador Cuisines Nourish & Bless the Gathering

Barbara Fadul-Cheon has been a resident of Clifton since 1957 when her family moved to the United States from El Salvador Central America. Barbaraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s parents are Lebanese. Since there was no work and no opportunity for earning a decent living, Barbaraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s great grandparents moved from their northern Lebanon village to El Salvador in the late l890â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in search of prosperity and security. Thus, the Lebanese cuisine interfaced with the El Salvador cuisine setting the stage for the hummus and black beans ever present at Barbaraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s family Holiday table, year after year.

Lita Fadul now 84 and a great grandmother twice over and her five daughters. Barbara Fadul Cheon is the second from the right. The other sisters are from left, Vickie Pasquin, Rosie Kardashian (behind her), Mama Lita, Patsy Fadul, Barbara Fadul-Cheon and Chris Murphy.

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Barbara Fadul and her four sisters grew up in Clifton, attending St. Phillip School, Woodrow Wilson and CHS. Many of her friends remember the huge Christmas Eve buffet that Barbara’s mother always served after Midnight Mass. At those famous buffets you would find tabboule, hummus, stuffed grape leaves, pita bread and kibbe – all representing typical Lebanese food. Intermingled on the table you would also find refried black beans, tamales, tortillas, enchiladas and pupusas – the best of El Salvador cuisine! It is safe to say that many families where introduced to those two cuisines by being guests at the Fadul house.

When Barbara Fadul married Fred Cheon, Polish foods were added to the Holiday table. Fred’s mother made sauerkraut soup, kielbasa with kapusta (cabbage), pirogies poppy seed streudel, and polish babka which everyone devoured with gusto! The extended Fadul family, now numbering 28, is looking forward to another Holiday gathering where all the foods will bring memories of grandparents, parents, aunts and uncles no longer sitting at the table. Many praises and thanks will be voiced for the blessings that God has bestowed on all. Many prayers will be said for God’s Peace and Love to be felt throughout the world.

December 2010 • Clifton Merchant

T raditions Turning into George Bailey and Norman Rockwell By Christopher de Vinck In 1948, after my parents immigrated from Belgium, they moved into their house in Allendale, New Jersey. They arranged their furniture, unrolled the carpets, and hung along the wall of the front stairs six Japanese prints. They were beautiful blue engravings of Japanese women in ceremonial robes, a gift from my grandfather, who traveled around the world when he was a young man. Fortyeight years later, those framed illustrations still hang on the same wall, on the same nails, with the same wire, in the same house. Also in 1948, my father and mother drove to the local nursery and picked out their first American Christmas tree, a balsam pine: short needles, tall, round, fresh. The attendant tied the tree to the roof of their car, and they drove home.

Together, the Japanese pictures and the Christmas tree are locked in my memory as things that belong to Norman Rockwell, Hallmark greeting cards, The Reader’s Digest, Jimmy Stewart and the Ford Motor Company.

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My father pulled a silver bucket out from under the sink the day before Christmas in 1948, filled it with five or six large rocks, wedged

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the stump of the Christmas tree between the rocks, and placed the tree and bucket in the center of the living room. Each year, my parents drove in their Ford station wagon to the nursery to buy their tree, the same tree, it seemed to me. Each year, my father collected the same rocks, which he kept under the front porch; and each year, he placed the tree and the bucket in the exact same spot in the center of the living room. I knew it was the same spot for we could see, all year round, the circle in the carpet where the bucket sat each December. As I grew up, the Ford wagon continued to carry my sisters and brothers and me to the nursery as we all selected a tree, just the right one: a balsam pine, short needles, tall, round, fresh. On Christmas morning, it was the tradition in our house that we had to wait for everyone to wake before we

could rush down the stairs, and each Christmas I was the first one up. I’d jump out from my covers, shake my brother in the bed across the room, and run to the top of the stairs. There, I would wait for everyone else. They had to stand behind the first one in line: me. As I waited for my brothers and sister to leap from their beds, and for my parents to be roused, I sat on the top step and did what I did each Christmas: I looked at the distorted Christmas tree in the reflection of the glass that covered the Japanese prints. I could make out the tree’s outline, the bulbs, the tinsel, just like the trees I saw in the famous drawings of Norman Rockwell in the Saturday Evening Post that sat on the coffee table. One year, my sister Anne and I made Christmas trees out of old Reader’s Digest magazines. We were shown in school how to fold

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each page and then how to spray the finished product. That was our Christmas gift to our mother that year. Nostalgia is the exemplar of things past, not an accurate measure of reality, but a mere taste of pleasure once lived. This Christmas, I will be at my parents house once again for the 6th time. My father is 98 years old; my mother is 88; and I, well, I am eight, and I am standing at the top of the stairs looking at the distorted Christmas tree through the looking glass. And there is Anne, my sister. Yes, she is ten, holding her Reader’s Digest tree up to my mother, and my father just drove down the driveway in his Ford wagon – with Tiny Tim on his shoulders perhaps. Am I George Bailey in Frank Capra’s film “It’s a Wonderful Life,” groping for Zuzu’s petals, calling out to Clarence, standing by

the Christmas tree with my own daughter as a bell rings: “Look, Daddy. Teacher says every time a bell rings an angel gets his wings.” Am I Norman Rockwell painting a holiday scene through an open window: a boy leading his brothers and sisters down the stairs past the Japanese smiles on his way to Christmas past? I like to remember the way things were, and I am grateful that my parents are still alive and still living in the same house. Nothing has changed, really, not even the

boy. We try hard as adults to act our age, to bury foolish ideas and dreams; but each Christmas, just as the Hallmark corporation asks us to do with their pretty cards, I check the back of my own heart to make sure that the child I was and the adult I am are still the genuine product of my mother and father, who hoped that their beliefs in what is simple and good and brave and wise have made a difference in the child they gave over to a world that easily forgets the glow of the Christmas tree after December 25th.

Dr. Christopher de Vinck, a graduate from Teachers College, Columbia University, is the Language Arts Supervisor at Clifton High School; an adjunct professor of English Education at Montclair State University, and the author of 12 books. His best know work is The Power of the Powerless (Crossroad Books) a book on the struggles and joys of loving his severely disabled brother (see page 42). This essay is from his upcoming book ‘Moments of Grace: Days of a Faith Filled Dreamer,’ to be published next Spring.

December 2010 • Clifton Merchant

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T raditions Making Wine with Nonno A trip to Garfield Connects Generations and Continents

From left, the author’s dad, Mario De Chellis, with his father-in-law Michael Porfido. At right are siblings Rebecca and Antonio De Chellis considering grapes in their wine making tradition with Nonno.

power. After, we left the grape juice in This October, I took part in a big By Antonio De Chellis a barrel to ferment into wine. Lastly, we family tradition—making wine with put the wine in different containers to separate it from my Grandfather. It is a tradition that goes back generathe sediment. Now the wine is clean to finish fermentations in our family as my grandfather, or Nonno, has tion. All of the hard work was worthwhile when I saw been making wine for as long as I can remember. And the huge smile on Nonno’s face. so did his dad and Nonno. Now, as my Nonno is near Now, this tradition is the hands of my dad, my sister his eighth decade, he has passed the tradition on to me. and I. The knowledge my Nonno has passed to me In Nonno’s garage over in Garfield, he showed the enables me to make wine with my father and when I process of making wine to me. I took the responsibility grow older, I will be able to show my children and of the task because I knew he was ill. grandchildren also how to make wine. So, a day earlier, my father (Mario) and I took a trip The tradition can be passed on from generation to to Corrados and bought many cases of red and white generation for many years to come. From making wine grapes. Then, using Nonno’s old wine press machines, with Nonno, I have learned so much about our family, we crushed and pressed the grapes. My mom, Melinda, our traditions and Italian pride. That’s what my family told me the machines are at least 70 years old but they is all about—keeping a little bit of Italy in America. work like new. Both machines were operated by manDecember 2010 • Clifton Merchant

Power of the Powerless Oliver, left, and Bruno de Vinck

A Brother’s Lesson By Christopher de Vinck

grew up in the house where my brother was on his back in his bed for almost 33 years, in the same corner of his room, under the same window, beside the same yellow walls. Oliver was blind, mute. His legs were twisted. He didn't have the strength to lift his head nor the intelligence to learn anything. Today I am an English teacher, and each time I introduce my class to the play about Helen Keller, “The Miracle Worker,” I tell my students about Oliver. One day, during my first year teaching, a boy in the last row raised his hand and said, “Oh, Mr. de Vinck. You mean he was a vegetable.” I stammered for a few seconds. My family and I fed Oliver. We changed his diapers, hung his clothes and bed linen on the basement line in winter, and spread them out white and clean on the lawn in the summer. I always liked to watch the grasshoppers jump on the pillowcases. We bathed Oliver. Tickled his chest to make him laugh. Sometimes we left the radio on in his room. We pulled the shade down over his bed in the morning to keep the sun from burning his tender skin. We listened to 42

December 2010 • Clifton Merchant

him laugh as we watched television downstairs. We listened to him rock his arms up and down to make the bed squeak. We listened to him cough in the middle of the night. “Well, I guess you could call him a vegetable. I called him Oliver, my brother. You would have liked him.” One October day in 1946, when my mother was pregnant with Oliver, her second son, she was overcome by fumes from a leaking coal-burning stove. My oldest brother was sleeping in his crib, which was quite high off the ground so the gas didn't affect him, My father pulled them outside, where my mother revived quickly. On April 20, 1947, Oliver was born. A healthy looking, plump, beautiful boy. One afternoon, a few months later, my mother brought Oliver to a window. She held him there in the sun, the bright good sun, and there Oliver looked and looked directly into the sunlight, which was the first moment my mother realized that Oliver was blind. My parents, the true heroes of this story, learned with the passing months, that blindness was only part of

December 2010 â&#x20AC;˘ Clifton Merchant

the problem. So they brought Oliver to Mt. Sinai Hospital in New York for tests to determine the extent of his condition. The doctor said that he wanted to make it very clear to both my mother and father that there was absolutely nothing that could be done for Oliver. He didn’t want my parents to grasp at false hope. “You could place him in an institution,” he said. “But,” my parents replied, “he is our son. We will take Oliver home of course.” The good doctor answered, “Then take him home and love him.” Oliver grew to the size of a 10-year-old. He had a big chest, a large head. His hands and feet were those of a five-year-old, small and soft. We’d wrap a box of baby cereal for him at Christmas and place it under the tree; pat his head with a damp cloth in the middle of a July heat wave. His baptismal certificate hung on the wall above his head. A bishop came to the house and confirmed him. Even now, 30 years after his death from pneumonia on March 12, 1980, Oliver still remains the weakest, most helpless human being I ever met, and yet he was one of the most powerful human beings I ever met. He could do absolutely nothing except breathe, sleep, eat, and yet he was responsible for action, love, courage, insight. When I was small my mother would say, “Isn't it wonderful that you can see?” And once she said, “When you go to heaven, Oliver will run to you, embrace you, and the first thing he will say is 'Thank you.” I remember, too,

my mother explaining to me that we were blessed with Oliver in ways that were not clear to her at first. So often parents are faced with a child who is severely retarded, but who is also hyperactive, demanding or wild, who needs constant care. So many people have little choice but to place their child in an Institution. We were fortunate that Oliver didn't need us to be in his room all day. He never knew what his condition was. We were blessed with his presence, a true presence of peace. When I was in my early 20s, I met a girl and fell in love. After a few months I brought her home to meet my family. When my mother went to the kitchen to prepare dinner, I asked the girl, “Would you like to see Oliver?” for I had told her about my brother. “No,” she answered. Soon after, I met Roe, a lovely girl. She asked me the names of my brothers and sisters. She loved children. I thought she was wonderful. I brought her home after a few months to meet my family. Soon it was time for me to feed Oliver. I remember sheepishly asking Roe if she'd like to see him. “Sure,” she said. I sat at Oliver's bedside as Roe watched over my shoulder. I gave him his first spoonful, his second. “Can I do that?” Roe asked with ease, with freedom, with compassion, so I gave her the bowl and she fed Oliver one spoonful at a time. The power of the powerless. Which girl would you marry? Today Roe and I have three children.

Thank You!

for supporting my candidacy for Passaic County Sheriff. I will certainly miss serving Clifton as a member of the Police Department. I do however look forward to serving as your Sheriff and helping to keep our County safe, and an excellent and affordable place to raise a family. Please have a happy and safe holiday season.

Sheriff-Elect Rich Berdnik and Family 44

paid for by Berdnik for Sheriff

December 2010 • Clifton Merchant

Clifton Firefighters and Police Officers are Proud to Serve Our Community

From Clifton’s Bravest & Finest, We Wish All a Healthy, Happy & Safe Holiday Season!

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Clifton PBA #36 www.cliftonpba36.com • Clifton FMBA #21 www.fmba21.org December 2010 • Clifton Merchant

Cerebral Palsy Adult Center

The Respite Program By Pat Russo hen I started working at the Passaic County Elks Cerebral Palsy Adult Center in 1991, one of the first things I learned from my co-workers and supervisors, and from the men and women themselves, is that people with disabilities have the same needs as people without disabilities. There were buzzwords like “normalize” and “inclusion”. There were concepts, like “person-centered planning,” “circle meetings” and “pathways” – but ideas all

of this only confirmed what I have learned in 20 years working at the Center – we all need friends, we all need community, and we all need each other. With that in mind, we knew there was a need to start some weekend respite trips for the adults in our adult center program. Yes, their parents and caregivers needed a break on the weekends – a respite. But perhaps more important, our adults needed time for social and peer opportunities – time to build friendship, and memories together. And they need to have some fun!

View The Giblin Report Thursdays at 9 pm, Channel 76

Happy Holidays to All! Assemblyman Thomas P. Giblin 1333 Broad St., Clifton, NJ 07013 office: 973-779-3125

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December 2010 • Clifton Merchant

See our exclusive line of diamond & colored stone jewelery Gregory Lacki Graduate Gemologist

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December 2010 • Clifton Merchant

Staff from TD Bank donated turkeys and helped the children prepare 70 food baskets for needy children. If you or your group would like to support the work of the CP Center, call Executive Director Dr. William Weiss at 973-772-2600.

So last winter, we planned a schedule of trips and events. We camped overnight in a cabin near Long Beach Island. We participated in Shore Dreams for Kids, a day-long event featuring powerboat rides at Seaside Heights sponsored by the New Jersey Performance Powerboat Club and the New Jersey Elks’ South East District Special Children’s Committee. We took a ferry ride to the Statue of Liberty, and still laugh as we recall hanging on to our green foam crown hats on the windy boat. We traveled to Bear Mountain to the Oktoberfest, and can all still see Christian’s smiling face and fancy footwork as he moved to the cheerful polka music. While these adventurous trips were exciting, some of our most memorable moments were smaller and quieter. We gathered on a beautiful summer day for a $5 foot long picnic and rousing game of Uno. Later in the summer, we splashed around at a pool party and lunch hosted by Melissa’s family in West Milford.

December 2010 • Clifton Merchant

These trips are just the beginning for our families who need respite opportunities. They are also just the beginning for our adults who need social opportunities and experiences – to get together with some of their friends on a long and potentially uneventful weekend or just to have some fun planned for the weekends such as any of us might look forward to – to enrich our lives and deepen our experiences as friends. I am there as a staff person, but I am also there as a friend. I believe I can speak for the rest of the staff who participated in working these trips in saying that we all felt very blessed by these special days spent with the men and women we helped to support. As we enter 2011, we are grateful for the financial contributions from the Elks, from families, friends and fundraising, which help to make this fledgling program a reality. We are exploring ideas for next year’s trips, some of them successful repeats as well as some uncharted mileage on our open road and our open hearts.

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CLIFTON STUDENTS • CLASS OF 2012

Ask Our Clifton Students Why PC is Their School of Choice

Photos: Tim Macdonald, Image Art Studio

Pictured are some of the Clifton residents who attend Paramus Catholic High School. We welcome them and encourage you to ask these students and their parents why they have made PC their high school of choice. Please call or visit to learn more about Paramus Catholic.

CLIFTON STUDENTS • CLASS OF 2011

425 Paramus Road • Paramus, NJ 07652

December 2010 • Clifton Merchant

CLIFTON STUDENTS • CLASS OF 2014

• Class of 2010 earned $29,000,000 in scholarships and grants. Clifton graduates earned over $2.5 million of those scholarships and grants. • 126 courses, including 26 Honors and 16 AP level courses. • Cost effective tuition for families. • Large school offerings, small class size. • Stable, strong, and focused on the future.

About Paramus Catholic...

CLIFTON STUDENTS • CLASS OF 2012

201-445-4466 www.paramuscatholic.com

• Clifton students from the Class of 2010 were accepted to such prestigious colleges and universities as: Columbia, Fairfield, Fordham, Holy Cross, NYU, Penn State, Seton Hall, Stevens Institute of Technology, and the University of Miami.

CLIFTON STUDENTS • CLASS OF 2013

Photos: Tim Macdonald, Image Art Studio

Everything you need to make it a traditional holiday feast!

We’ll Mail Your Order! For two decades our family has run our meat market using traditional recipes, know-how and tender love and care. We begin with the highest quality meats, blend it with the finest spices and offer you food which praises the tastes and inspires the soul. We hope to see you soon!

• Pork, Beef & Meat Products • Home Styled Smoked Sausage • Salami & All Kinds of Cold Cuts • Holiday Hams & Traditional Foods • Hungarian Delicacies • Spices & European & Hungarian Sweets 52

December 2010 • Clifton Merchant

The Jozsa Family Marika, Andrew & Mike

Best Buddies with the Bidens

Connected for a Cause By Joe Hawrylko s reward for raising over $10,000 as captain of Georgetown University’s team in a charity bike ride to support Best Buddies International, Francesca Hemsey was invited by founder Anthony Shriver to attend a reception hosted by Vice President Joe Biden. Shoulder to shoulder with people like Michelle Kwan, David Archuleta, Chris Brown, Carl Lewis and others, the CHS Class of 2007 alum spent the October evening with some of the more influental people on Capitol Hill. “Mr. Shriver emailed me and asked me to come to the reception,” recalled Hemsey, who joined the organization as a freshman four years ago and this year is president of the support group at the university, which is located in Washington, D.C. “My freshman year, I went to a student activities fair and there was this girl with Downs Syndrome just smiling and being so cheerful,” she recalled. “That lovely spirit was just contagious and I wanted to join.” Hemsey had experience in caring for disabled individuals prior to college, helping care for her two seven year old cousins, Jacob and Michael, who are autistic. Her

grandfather, John Filippone (pictured inset), a member of the Knights of Columbus, also does volunteer work with disabled individuals and was a big childhood influence. When the opportunity arose in college to pitch in for a good cause, Hemsey volunteered her services. “Once I realized that how dynamic it was and how interesting, I decided to join,” she said. “It has a lot of influence over people. People here make an actual, tangible difference in people’s lives and that’s beautiful to think about.” “They don’t care who you are, they don’t care if you’re a president or you’re a pauper. They love you for you,” she continued. “I wish we all could harness that happiness and that fervor for living.” As president of the highly visible chapter, the lowkey Hemsey organizes events and attended the annual Best Buddies leadership conference in Indiana. The position requires skills that translate well into any field. However, Hemsey, who will graduate in May with degrees in new and small business management and marketing, as well as a minor in Italian, doesn’t plan on working in the non-profit world. December 2010 • Clifton Merchant

December 2010 â&#x20AC;˘ Clifton Merchant

“I’d rather get a job in a management position and do my advocacy work on the side,” explained Hemsey. “Working for a non-profit is more bureaucratic than I like. I want to be a part of a grass roots, being there, being a part of it, not in some office.” Her true passion is actually food—Hemsey dreams of a career in the food media field—and she’s trying to find ways to integrate work with Best Buddies and her interest in culinary arts. A few months ago, Hemsey founded a blog and forum—thebuddy-system.com—where she posts various healthy recipes for disabled people, who often have limited palates. “Some people develop comfort foods. Whatever they want, the caretakers will give them. Many people that I observed were on the overweight side” she explained. “Based on observations and reading, I’ve made recipes that I thought people would like and made it a bit more healthy. Even if it’s just substituting whole wheat pasta for regular.”

However, Hemsey said she’s neglected the site over the past few weeks because she’s been so busy with Best Buddies, preparing for graduation and other events. On Nov. 6, Hemsey returned home from Hong Kong, China, where she went to represent her school in the Citi Bank International Case Competition. There, she observed a company, then had to come up with a solution to a business problem in a timed, competitive environment. And her busy collegiate life is far from over: right after graduation this May, Hemsey will travel with the Georgetown choir to Italy to sing for Pope Benedict XVI at The Vatican. “It’s going to be a bit surreal,” she laughed. Hemsey, who took singing lessons as a child, has been with the Choir for three years. “In the Catholic faith, he’s the holiest man on Earth, so it’s kind of cool.” The trip will be her second time to Italy, and a fitting conclusion to her college years. “It’s been a great four years,” Hemsey said of her time in the nation’s Capitol. “I guess it can’t last for too long, otherwise it wouldn’t be as exciting.”

Light a candle for one who has passed...

Annual Holiday Memorial Program On Thursday, December 9th, 7:15PM We are opening our doors to assist individuals who have experienced the death of a family member or close friend. This program is our way of reaching out to families we have served, and to others in our community, to let them know that they are not alone this holiday season. Everyone is welcomed to attend our memorial program. The program is free. Reservations requested but not required. Please call 973-249-6111.

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At the Nov. 20 dedication of the PBA gym to honor fallen Clifton Officer John Samra, from left, retired Clifton Police Lt. Les Goldstein, members of the Samra family, and retired Clifton Officer Ross La Corte. He coordinated refurbishing the gym to honor Samra, a motorcycle officer killed in the line of duty on Nov. 21, 2003.

oss La Corte wants the new guys on the force to always remember John Samra, the only Clifton police officer killed in the line of duty. That’s why LaCorte, who retired from the Clifton Police Department a few years ago, has spent lots of his free time refurbishing the PBA gym behind city hall. His hard work paid off handsomely on Nov. 20, when fellow officers and Samra’s family turned out to see the gym dedicated in the fallen officer’s name. The building has been used as a gym by officers during off-duty hours since 1986. PBA 36 members last year decided to renovate the building—they added new equipment, bathroom, paint and more—and dedicate it to Samra. Most importantly, a plaque was placed at the entrance. “I wanted to make sure that everyone sees it when they walk in the gym every time,” La Corte said. “They will never forget who John Samra was. That is what our goal is, that he will never be forgotten.”

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Sham Mazejy, Patricia Siems and Vera Greco of the Woman’s Club of Clifton. New members are invited to join.

Garden State Honda’s General Manager Tim Hlavenka coordinated an October fundraiser to bring awareness and funds to the Susan G. Komen Foundation. The dealership, with locations on Route 3 in Clifton and River Road in Passaic, donated $6,752 to help find a cure.

The Woman’s Club of Allwood, organized in 1932 and a member of the New Jersey State Federation of Woman’s Clubs, is a service and social organization of women ages 21 and up. Their focus is service to the community at large, encouraging community out-reach to neighbors, working to improve awareness of special needs of citizens, and making health information available to the public. The Club meets the first Monday of every month at the Allwood Community Church, at the corner of Chelsea and Merrill Roads. For membership information, call 973-777-7325.

www.stefanandsons.com December 2010 • Clifton Merchant

When you’re shopping for loved ones at home, consider the thousands of troops abroad, who will be spending Christmas in a warzone. Clifton Cares will be collection donations for care packages for our soldiers in Iraq and Afghanistan. The following items are needed: Cookies (homemade or bought), Christmas candy, CDs and DVDs, white socks, puzzles, word searches, games, toiletries, razors and more. Children and scout troops are encouraged to write and send cards to soldiers as well. Thus far, over 400 boxes have been sent to the troops. Monetary donations to cover the $10 shipping fees are appreciated as well. Checks should be made payable to Lizz Gagnon and earmarked as Clifton Cares. Goods can be dropped off at the City Hall Tax Assessor’s Office. For questions about what to send, write to Gagnon at gags2120@aol.com, or call 973-818-8141. St. Nicholas Ukrainian Church of Passaic will host its 10th annual Christmas Giving Tree, which will runs through Dec. 11. The church is collecting gifts for 56 needy children, ages 1 to 6, in the Ternopil oblast in Ukraine. Take an ornament with a child’s name off the Giving Tree in the President St. church and return it by Dec. 11 with a wrapped gift bearing the child’s name. Cash donations are appreciated as well. The Church will also have a coat drive and warm weather clothing drive through Jan. 9. Call 973-779-0249.

founder of e are the sons of the , a family R.F. Knapp Construction ed in Clifton owned business found the beginning, nearly 50 years ago. Since Siding prodwe have been using Alcoa ens-Corning. ucts as well as GAF and Ow ing, gutters, We specialize in roofing, sid a call and us e leaders and windows. Giv int appo ment to we will gladly set-up an and go over a discuss your job needs . complete written estimate

The 18th Annual Clifton FMBA Local 21 Toys for Tots Drive, in cooperation with the USMC Reserves, is now in full swing. Drop off new, unwrapped toys at any Clifton Fire Station during this month. FMBA President Bob DeLuca has asked donors to shop in three categories: Newborns to 5, 6 to 10 year olds and 11 to teenagers. Monetary gifts can also be accepted. For info, visit www.fma21.org. The Downtown Clifton Food Drive to benefit St. Peter’s Haven will run through Dec. 15. Drop off items such as cereal, pasta, canned fruits and vegetables, soup, beans and others at any of the following businesses: Deluxe Cleaners, 1280 Main Ave., Spencer Savings Bank, 437 Piaget Ave., Ant Bookstore and Cafe, 345 Clifton Ave. and St. Peter’s Haven, 380 Clifton Ave. For info, call 973-253-1455. Clifton Mustang Band Alumni Association is hosting two Scholarship Fundraisers. The first is a Jan. 15 Atlantic City Bus Trip to Showboat Casino. at a fee of $30. The second is a Moonlight Bowling / Tricky Tray on March 12 at Wallington Lanes. Cost is $40 per Couple. For more information on the group, contact Ron Burrofato President of the CMBAA at 973-9318950 or via email rjb037@yahoo.com. Get more details at www.mustangbandalumni.org

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December 2010 • Clifton Merchant

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Weichert Realtors of Clifton hosts its 32nd Annual Toy Drive throughout this holiday season. Pictured here are Andrew Tisellano, Maureen Setteducato and Tony Sanchez with recently collected gift. The Weichert Office is at 791 Passaic Ave., at the Allwood Rd. intersection. To donate, drop off a new, unwrapped toy, which will be given to underprivileged children in the local area. For more information, call 973-779-1900.

The physicians and staff of Clifton Surgery Center on Route 46 West have inaugurated a toy drive this holiday season. Gifts will benefits various local charities. Left to right, is nursing supervisor Samantha Kennedy, Dr. Eugene Batelli, DPM, FACFAS of Affiliated Foot & Ankle Specialists with Clifton Surgery Center Administrator Michael Graziano. To donate a toy, call 973-779-7210.

December 2010 â&#x20AC;˘ Clifton Merchant

Jackie Hanrahan:

The Musher By Joe Hawrylko ention dog mushing around these parts and the first—and likely, only—thing that comes to mind is the famous Iditarod race up in the frozen tundras of Alaska. That type of stuff only goes on in the furthest reaches of the Arctic. Or so you thought. Jackie Hanrahan spent more than three years of her adolescence participating in this unique and grueling sport, racing dogs in the reaches of upstate New York. Now 46, she looks back fondly upon those years, even though all she has left to show for it are some faded photos, an aging flannel jacket with patches for the Garden State Husky Club and the World Championship Sled Dog Derby, and a few good memories. “It’s one of the most physical things you’ll ever endure. It’s so incredibly cold,” said the mother of three, who first learned of dog mushing through her friend, Bobby, who used to work at Glen’s Towing, which was off of Main Ave. “But you’ll also see beautiful, breathtaking sights; cascading trees covered in snow. Beautiful conditions, unimaginable blue skies.”

Jackie Hanrahan in the early 70s and in a current photo. 60

December 2010 • Clifton Merchant

Hanrahan, just 15 at the time, decided to go watch a weekend event with her friend, whose family raised and raced sled dogs. Seven days later, she was crammed into a big, old blue van with Bobby, his parents and 14 kennels containing large and powerful Huskies, Malamutes and Chinooks, on the way to the mountains to learn how to skillfully command a canine-powered sled. Dog mushing is done in a variety of competitive capacities—in the sport’s signature race, the Iditarod, mushing squads of 12 to 16 dogs trek across over 1,150 miles of Alaskan wilderness for nearly two weeks. Hanrahan, whose maiden name is Ferrence, typically ran much smaller events, either three or six dog sleds on courses anywhere up to six miles in length. Though not nearly as long as some races, the several hour long sprints that she competed in were an extreme test of skill and endurance. “We would train for three months in the Fall and then race for three months, January, February and March or so,” she explained. “I learned on a training rig with wheels on the back when there was no snow on the ground yet.”

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“You always take care of your dogs first,” said Hanrahan. “You’d be running and notice a dog’s paws would start bleeding because of all the ice underneath. So you’d have to dismount, secure your sled and get down and start breathing hot hair under their paws to warm it up.” The Cliftonite recalled a particularly long and grueling race during a blizzard, where she gave her dogs—nearing exhaustion— the last of her food: A can of Spaghettios, which Hanrahan heated and turned over to her faithful team of canines. “I crawled in my basket and just let them take me across the finish line,” she said. “They had been all over these trails over and over again, and I just left it to fate. I was freezing; ready to die. At that point, I didn’t care. But it’s instinct, that’s how they do it.” But a dog’s instincts aren’t always beneficial. “Hunters would sometimes be in the area and gut their kills out there,” she said. “You’re going by with Huskies that all of the sudden just turn into wolves. Then you have to separate these dogs that are just mauling a deer carcass.” In total, Hanrahan raced for a little over three years. Her best finish was second, though she lost the trophy many years ago. But Hanrahan doesn’t need the evidence to remind her of the great times she speeding across beautiful, frozen countryside. “It was beyond roughing it at times,” she laughed. “Trust me, I cried.”

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December 2010 • Clifton Merchant

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December 2010 â&#x20AC;˘ Clifton Merchant

A Running Life By Joe Hawrylko

From 389 Pounds to 26.2 Miles

t’s a cycle that’s entirely too easy to fall into but almost impossible to escape. Pack on the pounds over the holidays and renege on that New Years resolution and in a few months, that little extra flab around the waist turns into droopy arm fat, mushy legs or extra chins. Exercise becomes even more of a chore than before and wanton eating habits make dieting like torture. When you’re put in that position, it’s just easier to deal with the extra weight. At least that’s how Rick Nisbit viewed it. Now 41, he first started having weight issues in college. The dreaded Freshman 15 is supposed to be temporary, but Nisbit kept gaining well after graduation, peaking at nearly 400 pounds in 2007. But in June of that year, Nisbit had an epiphany. The accounting firm that he worked for hosted a boat cruise around the Hudson River. Nisbit didn’t know it until he arrived, but parking was nearly a quarter of a mile away from the pier and he walked each way in the sweltering heat by himself. “I was the last one on the boat and the last one on the bus home. I had chest pains, my back was killing me,” said Nisbit. “I’m a very proud person, so it was very embarrassing.” Even worse was explaining why he was so fatigued to his wife of 13 years, Michelle. She was hysterical; adamant that a heart attack was certain unless Nisbit took drastic and immediate measures to regain control of his life. December 2010 • Clifton Merchant

Clifton Roadrunners

The Clifton Roadrunners Club was founded in 1978 and is home to runners of all skill levels, from people like Rick Nisbit, who joined as a newcomer, to seasoned marathon runners. Group runs are held weekdays at Brookdale Park in Bloomfield, Saturdays at Rochelle Park and Sundays Englewood Boat Basin. Coach Freddy Evangelista also trains athletes to run more efficiently. There is a free, three month trial period. Membership is $20; $25.00 for families at same address. Students are free to age 21. For info, contact President Barbara Tupper by email Bobbaloonie@comcast.net or by phone at 201-991-8106. http://www.eteamz.com/cliftonroadrunnersclub/

December 2010 • Clifton Merchant

“That month marked the start of my journey, as I and my wife joined Weight Watchers,” he recalled. At the time, Nisbit weighed 389 pounds; his wife, 210 pounds. He was too large to do simple exercises at that point. “I had been experiencing severe lower back pains and sleep apnea for several years,” he said. “I could barely walk a half block without stopping to catch my breath” But the program gave the couple the structure and discipline they had lacked in previous weight loss attempts. Michelle began cooking healthy meals and enough pounds came off to resume exercise. “I started walking down the block, to the park, around the track,” Nisbit recalled. “I gradually built up to longer distances. We joined a gym. I started using the machines: Elliptical, stair-master and the treadmill.” After a year of dieting and light

exercise, he had lost nearly 100 pounds. Still, Nisbit’s journey wasn’t complete—he was still another 100 pounds off of his goal weight. But he was slim enough to do something he had been unable to do since college: Run. “I always wanted to but there was no way I could at that size at first,” explained Nisbit. “I started slowly, one minute on, one minute off. With consistency, I was able to build up to longer times and distances.” When going through such a massive, life-altering change, it’s important to have a good support system around. Nisbit said that joining the Clifton Roadrunners Club two years ago with his wife was instrumental in regaining control of his life. “You ask for help and people will support you and you’ll get through. Slow and steady, you get through,” explained Nisbit, who moved to Clifton five years ago. It’s the encouragement of total strangers that pushes you to go for an extra 10 minutes, to the peak of the massive hill you’ve been trying to get up clean for the past week. “We’ve all got each other’s emails. We go out together on Saturday and Sunday group runs,” he explained. “We compete against other run clubs and they also do bar-

started to get into fairly good running shape. After a couple of months with the Roadrunners, he developed the courage and stamina required to attempt competitive racing, a college dream that he gave up on long ago. Initially, he started out small with

Michelle and Rick Nisbit in a photo from December 2006.

5k (3.1 mile) and 10k (6.2 mile) events, gradually improving his time at each competition in 2009. The culmination of three years of

After a year of dieting he had lost nearly 100 pounds. Still, Nisbit was still another 100 pounds off of his goal weight. But he was slim enough to do something he had been unable to do since college: Run. becues, pool parties... it’s absolutely great, everybody helps each other out. It’s a great sense of comradery.” Eating right and in a regimented exercise routine, Nisbit not only continued to lose weight, but he actually

Asbury Park in the summers with her grandfather when she was little,” “When it was he explained. announced that a marathon would be held there, I signed up immediately. As they say, behind every great man is a better woman.” “As I got closer to the finish line,

hard work took place this October, when Rick completed the Asbury Park Marathon—his first full length, 26. race. “I chose the location as a tribute to my wife. She always went to

I kept thinking back,” Nisbit continued. “Three and a half years ago, I was barely able to walk and now I’m finishing my first marathon. I actually cried on the way to the finish line.” Michelle has picked up running as well, and plans to resume training for her first 10k after she heals from an injury. Nisbit plans to be by her side for that event, just like she supported him. “I wouldn’t say this is the end of the journey, but it’s been a goal all my life,” he explained. “I am a normal, everyday person that decided to take back his life. I wanted it that bad, and I made it happen.” December 2010 • Clifton Merchant

Mustang Pride

Walk-a-thon If you were not among those who came to Clifton Stadium on Nov. 27, mark your calendar for Nov. 26, 2011. Organizers say the Saturday after Thanksgiving is now officially Mustang Pride Day. For details, go to www.cliftonmustangpride.com.

December 2010 â&#x20AC;˘ Clifton Merchant

December 2010 • Clifton Merchant

Freshmen Beat Don Bosco on 11/27 to cap 7-1-1 Season

The Next Generation

Mustangs:

13 Clifton 12

Clifton 26 Ridgewood

on Bosco coaches said it was the first time the Clifton 38 Fairlawn 16 Clifton 36 North Bergen 16 perennial powerhouse had suffered a home loss at Clifton 32 Kennedy 8 the hands of a public school. For the freshman Clifton 14 Don Bosco 13 Mustangs that emerged victorious with a 14-13 score, it Clifton 30 Passaic 12 was an unforgettable win to cap an excellent season. 7 wins 1 loss 1 tie The Ironmen took an early lead, but a touchdown by Mustang Steven Naideck on the play after a turnover recovery and a missed two point conversion cut the lead to 7-6. After another Bosco score, Jimmy Sonzoni got the go-ahead TD and Jalil Mouzone got the two points to put Clifton up 14-13 for good. “Clifton's offense never gave the Ironmen another chance,” said Coach Metry Smeen. “They controlled the ball for nearly eight minutes, eventually killing the clock.” Smeen and Andrew Decker share coaching duties under the direction of Fighting Mustang Head Coach Ron Anello.

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CHS Winter Sports Preview By Joe Hawrylko

CHS

Some varsity hockey players, from left to right: Anthony Smerglio, Marcin Blazon, Anthony Tsouhnikas, Ryan Bergen, Brian Yip and Steven Davies.

fter breaking through the .500 plateau in 2009 with a 13-8-2, Clifton regressed, posting a 10-12 mark. However, Clifton finished strong and qualified for the playoffs, bowing out in the first round. Head coach Tom Danko, behind the bench for his 24th season, said key returning forwards combined with emerging young talent should allow the Mustangs to once compete for a State playoff berth despite graduation losses. Danko said that returning core of seniors Brian Yip (center), Anthony Smeriglio (right wing), Captain Ryan Bergen (right wing) and Ian Spears (right wing) will be the driving forces for the offense. “We have some pretty good, experienced forwards,” said coach. Each player has been on Varsity for a number of years; Yip and Smeriglio

December 2010 • Clifton Merchant

for all four. “They’ll be shouldering the load for us this season. They should provide plenty of leadership.” Senior center Marcin Blazon will be a key pivot for the Mustangs on the second line. His classmate, Anthony Tsouhnikas, will get in the mix at wing. Other Varsity forwards will include sophomore Caesar Fonseca, a centerman who can also line up at defense, and classmate Chris DiFalco, a right winger. Kayla Meneghin, a sophomore, will see time at left wing. The blueline will be anchored by sophomore Steve Shanley, who came on last year. “He’s looked very strong the last couple scrimmages,” said coach. Juniors John Dubinski and Anthony D’Anna will also log plenty of minutes at defense. In net will be either senior Steve

Hockey Dec 04 at River Dell

4:30 pm

Dec 10 Pascack Valley

7:10 pm

Dec 12 at Dumont

8:15 pm

Dec 17 Bayonne

7:10 pm

Dec 23 Fair Lawn

7:20 pm

Jan 05

at Bayonne

3:30 pm

Jan 07

at Dumont

7:10 pm

Jan 14

River Dell

7:10 pm

Jan 17

Ridgewood

2:00 pm

Jan 21

Tenafly

3:50 pm

Jan 22

at Paramus Catholic 2:30 pm

Jan 30

Ridgewood

Feb 01 at Summit

6:15 pm 6:00 pm

Feb 05 at Pascack Valley

9:00 am

Feb 07 at Fair Lawn

7:50 pm

Feb 11 Governor Livingston 7:10 pm

Davies, who came up from JV, or junior Sarah Scrudato, who was in the Varsity mix last year. “We’re going to try to play a little more controlled this year,” said Danko. “We’re a better team when we’re more responsible in our end.”

December 2010 â&#x20AC;˘ Clifton Merchant

CHS Winter Sports Preview t’s back to square one for the Mustangs on the hardwood, who finished last season with a disappointing 2-18 record. Mark Gengaro replaces Tommie Patterson at head coach, and Gengaro, who was in charge of the freshman team for the past three years, sees a lot of potential in the kids that played for him just a few years back “The players who are now seniors, I have coached them. I’ve coached pretty much all the players that will be in the program,” he said. “We’ll have to see all of the hard work we put in one, two, or three years ago pays off.” Gengaro will not be returning any full time starters from last year. Instead, he will have some students moving up from JV and bench players moving into full

December 2010 • Clifton Merchant

time roles. Junior Tim Brown is the most seasoned player, having started a couple games last year on Varsity at small forward. His play should dictate just how successful Clifton will be in what is shaping up to be a rebuilding year. While the growing pains will be evident at first, the coach hopes that the Mustangs will benefit from being in the same system for a couple of years. “My coaching philosophy is very similar to my teaching philosophy... I just happen to be teaching a sport,” said Gengaro. “Make sure the players are always learning and having a good time while doing it.” Joining Brown in the starting line up will be senior guard Mark Oliver, who, along with junior Joe Telup, came off the bench last year

on Varsity. Senior Michael Jurgowski will start at forward and junior Dondre McClain will play guard. The coach is still getting familiar with the skillsets of each of his players, and the bench will likely not be determined until a few weeks into the season. “We’re still figuring that out right now,” said Gengaro. “We’re still a very young team.” The coach feels that his team should come together and gel over the first few weeks of the year. Clifton’s new league, the Liberty Division, will feature plenty of rivals: The Mustangs will play Passaic, PCTI, Don Bosco, Kennedy and Eastside two times each. The familiarity between clubs should help with game planning, and bring out the best in the

CHS Boys

Basketball Dec 04 Hawthorne Chirstian 10:00 am Dec 08 Bloomfield Tech

4:00 pm

Dec 17 at Don Bosco Prep 7:00 pm Dec 21 Passaic

4:00 pm

Dec 27 Holiday Tournament

Joe Telup, Mark Oliver, Michael Jurgowski, Dondre McClain and Tim Brown.

Mustangs. It will also be a good barometer for just how far the team has come along. “My predecessor Coach

Patterson, he started building the program and I hope to finish what they started,” said Gengaro. “We want to be competitive here.

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Jan 04 at Eastside

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Jan 06 Wayne Hills

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Jan 08 Wayne Valley

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Jan 11 Kennedy

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Jan 13 Passaic County

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Jan 17 at Manchester

7:00 pm

Jan 18 at Bergen Tech

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Jan 20 Wayne Valley

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Jan 25 Don Bosco Prep

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Jan 27 at Passaic

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Feb 03 Eastside

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Feb 08 at Passaic County

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Feb 15 Kennedy

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CHS Winter Sports Preview

CHS Girls

Basketball

Lady Mustangs, from left: Eryka Baez, Felicia Castillo, Christina Ihle and Roselyn Flaz.

fter wrapping up his first season at the helm with a 716 record, coach Rob Tomesko is eager to get the season underway just to see how much Clifton, which will return nine letterwomen, has improved. “Kim Douglas was our leading scorer last year and she’s only a junior this year,” said Tomesko. The team’s success will likely revolve around Douglas, who will need to keep the scorekeeper busy for Clifton to reach its potential. That will also the quick Mustangs to play their up tempo style of game and move the ball.

December 2010 • Clifton Merchant

“We’ve got to be more of a get the ball and go, run and gun type of team,” said Tomesko. “We are going to play to our strengths.” Erika Baez and Christina Ihle both enter their third years on Varsity and will be joined by Roselyn Flaz, a senior with a good shot who came off the bench last year. Junior Samantha Pedrazza, a Varsity sub last year, was described as the team sparkplug by coach. Senior Felicia Castillo, in her third year on Varsity and sophomore Amanda Markovitz are two of just three forwards in the entire

Dec 03 Dec 07 Dec 10 Dec 17 Dec 21 Jan 04 Jan 06 Jan 08 Jan 11 Jan 13 Jan 18 Jan 25 Jan 27 Feb 03 Feb 08 Feb 10 Feb 15 Feb 17 Feb 22

at Brick Township Bridgewater at Kearny IHA at Passaic Eastside at Wayne Hills Wayne Valley Kennedy Passaic County Tech Bergen Tech at IHA Passaic at Eastside Passaic County Tech at Passaic Valley at Kennedy Lakeland Regional West Milford

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program and will balance a court that will be dominated by fast but smallish guards. Tomesko said that sophomores Jackie Bergen and Janine Giordano will also rotate in. “We should be competitive, at the very least, from an athletic standpoint,” said Tomesko. “We have a lot of athletes on this team that can run and do all that stuff. I’m feeling very positive.”

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CHS Winter Sports Preview CHS

Swimming Dec 02 Deb 09 Dec 13 Dec 16 Dec 22 Jan 06 Jan 12 Jan 13 Jan 18 Jan 20

Passaic County Tech West Essex at Passaic at Wayne Hills DePaul Paramus at Wayne Valley Ridgewood at Teaneck at Hacksensack

3:30 pm 4:00 pm 4:00 pm 4:00 pm 3:30 pm 3:30 pm 4:00 pm 3:30 pm 3:45 pm 4:00 pm

Cody Morrison, Michael Phillips, Billy Kaousius, Will Reveco-Green, Jessica Gonzaga, Marcela Callejas, Sarah Melnik, Kaitlin Fusco, Mildred Giron, Christine Osmak, Melissa Santoro, Nicole Sullivan.

t was another successful year for the Mustangs in the pool, as both the boys went 7-3 and the girls 7-2. However, Clifton was shutout in postseason swimming, coming up short in the league (Boys: 4th; Girls: 3rd) and in the invitational (Boys: 3rd; Girls: 2nd). Despite graduating a number of key seniors from those teams, head coach Andrea Bobby thinks her Mustangs can have another successful year if the kids feed off of the experience of the more veteran swimmers. For the boys, senior Jovany Avendano, a backstroke specialist, will be the top swimmer. “He could be a top five in the state,” said Bobby. The coach said she will use Avendano in a number of events, and that he will be the foundation for the relay team. Ryan Santiago will be another key senior and will compete in

December 2010 • Clifton Merchant

the breaststroke and relay events along with junior Derek Leeshock. Senior Will Reveco Green is a top butterfly swimmer, but will also be used in other events. Cody Morrison is the sprint specialist, fellow seniors Billy Kaousius and Michael Phillips and Junior Ryan Amicowill look to fill holes created by graduation. The top Mustang for the girls will be senior Sarah Melnik, a versatile swimmer who specializes in the breaststroke. Bobby said she plans to build the relay team around Melnik. The coach said two sophomores, Christine Gustafson (butterfly/back) and Samantha Poulis (middle dist) will join in relays. Other senior girls include Christine Osmak, Marcela Callejas, Kaitlin Fusco, Mildred Giron, Nicole Sullivan, Melissa Santoro and Jessica Gonzaga.

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CHS Winter Sports Preview

CHS

Wrestling

Seniors, left to right: Tom Trommelen, Ahmad Alfawair, Chris Christides, Ahmad Obeidallah, Christian Castano, Alvi Ghaznavi, Juan Beltran and Orkhan Karimov.

ast season, the Mustangs overcame the loss of eight senior starters to post a stellar mark of 167. Though graduation did strip Clifton of its two captains and top wrestlers from that year, the rest of the roster is almost entirely intact from the previous campaign. Head coach Dan Geleta isn’t exactly shy about his expectations for 2011. “We lost our two captains from last year’s squad, but otherwise, most of the kids are coming back,” said coach. “We are expecting a pretty good year this year.” That kind of optimism is expected due to the return of three starters that broke the 25 win plateau in the 2009-2010 season: Senior captain Tom Trommelen (285 pounds), junior captain Anthony DePasque (112 or 119 pounds) and Ahmed Bidas, a senior who competes at anywhere from 160 to 189 pounds. Each went on to represent Clifton in the districts and regionals.

December 2010 • Clifton Merchant

“We’re expecting them to make it to the states again this year,” said Geleta. Going beyond those three key grapplers, there’s plenty of talent in the Mustang system. Geleta’s strong lineup will feature the following seniors: Ahmed Obeidallah (119 or 125), Francisco Jiminez (135), Alvi Ghaznavi (152) Orkhan Karimov (152-160), Ahmed Alfawair (185-215) Chris Christides (145), Christian Castano (171-189) and Kevin Cruz (285). “The lower weight classes are still pretty young,” explained Geleta, now in his fifth year at the helm of the Mustangs. “We have over 25 freshman on the team this year on JV and some will be with us on Varsity.” Thus far, two freshmen, Jean Dubouis (103 pounds) and Maurice Marsilla (112 pounds) will start the season on Varsity due to strong play in camp. The 119 weight class is an open competition and at 125, jun-

Dec 15 Dec 18 Dec 22 Dec 28 Dec 30 Jan 05 Jan 07 Jan 08 Jan 12 Jan 14 Jan 15 Jan 19 Jan 21 Jan 22 Jan 26 Jan 28 Jan 29 Feb 05 Feb 09 Feb 18 Feb 19 Feb 22 Feb 25 Feb 26 Mar 03 Mar 04 Mar 05

Maroon/Grey Challenge 7:00 pm Mustang Tourny 9:00 am Passaic County Tech 6:00 pm Nutley 10:00 am at Bloomfield Tourny 10:00 am at Eastside 6:00 pm Passaic 6:00 pm Quad at Cranford 10:00 am at Kennedy 6:00 pm Ridgewood 6:00 pm at Union City Tourn. 10:00 am at Paramus Catholic 7:00 pm Morristown 6:00 pm at W. Milford/Bloomfield 10:00 a m at Hackensack 7:00 pm at Union City 5:00 pm at PCCA Tourny 10:00 am at Ridgefield/Becton 10:00 am at Hasbrouck Heights 7:00 pm at NJSIAA Districts 4:00 pm at NJSIAA Districts 9:00 am at NJSIAA Regionals 4:00 pm at NJSIAA Regionals 4:00 pm at NJSIAA Regionals 9:00 am at State Finals 4:00 pm at State Finals 9:00 am at NJSIAA Finals 9:00 am

iors Omar Naser and Richard Naut return to their starting roles. Juniors Eynar Ladezma (130), Shawn Lopez (140) and freshman Jim Sonzogni (145) round out the lower weight classes for the Mustangs. “We’ve got 15 freshman with experience this year, most I’ve had in my five years,” said Geleta, who applauded the efforts of the Mustang feeder system. “Our goal is to win the second annual Mustang Heritage Invitational and hopefully, win districts and make States.”

m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m

CHS

Bowling Clifton bowlers, from left, include Stephanie Cherico, Robert Marakovitz, Kortney Casperino, Andre Casado, Ashley Brandecker, Harry Litchfield, Sonja Shirak and Mike Sorber.

he bowling squad improved last season, with the girls placing second in the league and the boys, third, and Brian Smalls hopes that with the extra offseason work will translate into wins. Currently, the girls seem to be the stronger lot of the two, led by Sonja Shirak, a senior captain averaging 209, good for 13th in the

State. The other girl bowlers are seniors Kortney Casperino, Stephanie Cherico and junior Ashley Brandecker. The boys are headed by senior Mike Sorber, who averages in at 195. Senior captain Andre Casado comes in with a 193, and is followed by senior Robert Marakovitz and sophomore Harry Litchfield.

Dec 07 Dec 09 Dec 13 Dec 15 Dec 17 Dec 21 Jan 04 Jan 06 Jan 10 Jan 12 Jan 19 Jan 21 Jan 25 Jan 28 Jan 31 Feb 02

at Don Bosco 4:00 pm at Passaic 4:00 pm at Eastside 4:00 pm at Wayne Hills 4:00 pm at Kennedy 4:00 pm at Passaic County Tech 4:00 pm at Bergen Tech 4:00 pm at Wayne Valley 4:00 pm at Don Bosco/IHA 4:00 pm at Passaic 4:00 pm at Eastside 4:00 pm at Passaic County Tech 4:00 pm at Pascack Valley 4:00 pm at Lakeland 4:00 pm at West Milford 4:00 pm at Kennedy 4:00 pm

“On paper, we’re good. We gotta see how we do at the lanes,” said Smalls. “It’s a good group of kids.”

December 2010 • Clifton Merchant

CHS Winter Sports Preview

CHS

Ana Andrade, Ana Carballo and Priya Shah. Middle: Zakiya Bakker, Desiree Douglas and Kriss Zambrano. Ektaa Rana, Indira Silverio and Karina Carmichael.

new year and another new league, but expectations are the same as always in Clifton. Both the Clifton, and the girls earned the County crown for the fourth consecutive year. And Lady Mustangs also placed second in the State Sectional. Though the girls graduated two stellar athletes in Emily Urciuoli

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December 2010 • Clifton Merchant

and Kerry Sorenson, the venerable head coach John Pontes believes that his squad is more than capable of filling the holes to keep the machine moving right along. Senior Karina Carmichael will lead the ladies in pole vault and hurdle events. She will be joined in those events by up and coming sophomore, Nicole Buttel. Junior Monica Miazga will be Pontes’ ace for track events, capable of logging competitive times in virtually any event. Senior Indra Silverio will leader the sprinters, competing in the 400. She will be joined by her classmate, Kriss Zambrano, who also does jump events. Senior Ektaa Ranna will lead the distance runners and she will be supported by sophomores Yuria Yuasa and Gabrielle Gonzaga. Seniors Desiree Douglas and Ana Andrade are the team’s top shotputters.

Track Dec 18 Dec 19 Dec 28 Jan 05 Jan 12 Jan 16 Jan 19 Jan 20 Jan 24 Jan 28 Feb 07 Feb 11 Mar 01 Mar 12

at FDU Holiday Classic 9:00 am at FDU Holiday Classic 9:00 am at Holiday Relay 9:00 am at Universal Inv 3:30 pm at Shot/High Jump Meet 5:00 pm at NJSIAA Group4 Relays 5:00 pm at Pass. County Champ 5:00 pm at Shot/High Jump Meet 5:00 pm at Shot/High Jump Final 5:00 pm at Big North Champs 4:00 pm at Varsity Classic Inv 4:30 pm at NJSIAA Group 4 Champ 4:00 pm at Easter States Champ 5:00 pm at Natl Scholastic Champ TBA

“We’re going to be best on track events,” said Pontes, who has a squad of 48 girls. “Everything from sprints right through distance events. Where we are going to be a little bit weak are the throws and jumps, but we have good numbers and good experience.” Though the boys were not quite as good as the girls last season, the team does have the number advantage this year, starting the year with 75 boys, with each class represented nearly evenly.

am am am pm pm pm pm pm pm pm pm pm pm BA

From left: Kevin Calalpa, Noe Lara, Kishan Patel, Vtsal Shah, Elvis Daniele, Tracy Jackson, Danny Green and Wojciech Losos.

Senior Dan Green will be one of the top runners and will compete in distance and middle distance events. His classmate, Elvis Danielle, will also run in middle distance events, as well as sprints. Other distance runners include senior Kevin Calalpa, junior David Monclova and Jessie Boria, a sophomore. Seniors Noe Lara and Tracy

Jackson will lead the sprinters. Senior John Sunday will compete in throws and the long jump. Junior Mohammad lel-Zaghah is the team’s top shotputter. “We lost quite a bit of experience, but I think we have enough back with our numbers that things should be pretty good,” said Pontes, who has been involved with winter track

for over 30 years. “We’ve definitely got a shot of winning our division and league and advancing a few people to the County individual championships at least.” “It will be another good season,” said coach. “The kids that stay are always great. They’re hard working and dedicated. That’s what it takes to be successful in anything.”

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The 2010 Optimist Cup

Mustangs 42 Indians 0

urkey probably tasted better than ever after this holiday victory. The Mustangs, led by Joe Chiavettaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s two rushing touchdowns, galloped right over their arch rival Passaic in this annual clash. Angelo Minuche, Dondre McClain and Sungmin DeFries also scored in the win, which gave Clifton a 43-35-5 lead in the all-time series.

Merry Christmas and many thanksfor for and many thanks continuedsupport support your your continued

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December 2010 â&#x20AC;˘ Clifton Merchant

Ve t e r a n s Pa r a d e : N o v e m b e r 7 , 2 0 1 0 Clifton saluted those who served our nation in our annual Veterans Parade on Nov. 7. Staged on Main Ave. and high stepping at 2 pm from the Passaic border to Main Memorial Park, the photos on these pages are of those who participated—led by the Marching Mustangs—and those who came out to cheer and salute our nation’s veterans. The event concluded at Main Memorial Park with short speeches, perhaps the most notable by Korean War Veteran Joe Sidor. Photos by Michael C. Gabriele and Tom Hawrylko

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December 2010 â&#x20AC;˘ Clifton Merchant

Ve t e r a n s Pa r a d e : N o v e m b e r 7 , 2 0 1 0

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December 2010 • Clifton Merchant

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December 2010 â&#x20AC;˘ Clifton Merchant

CHS Student of the Month By Joe Hawrylko Ektaa Rana has been a well rounded student in her four years at Clifton High School. She’s a member of countless clubs, runs track in all three seasons and is stellar academically. Though she’s not yet sure where she’ll be next fall—Rana is mulling offers from Drexel, Kane, Richard Stockton and Duquesne—the Student of the Month knows she’ll be studying physical therapy. It’s a decision she reached thanks to the many wonderful experiences she’s had, both in and out of school. “In my sophomore year, my mother (Varsha) was fitted for a pacemaker and I cared for her as she recovered,” said Rana. She became interested in physical therapy, and later that year, joined the athletic training club under the direction of Trainer Tom, whom Rana knew from the track team. “Trainer Tom (Cutalo) has been a great influence in my life,” she said. “He’s a great guy. He helped me find a therapist to shadow in Montclair.” Though there’s many different branches of physical therapy, Rana is most familiar with sports therapy, since she is on hand at many athletic functions. After four years of running under the watchful eye of the venerable Coach (John) Pontes, Rana knows the value of a good trainer— and a great mentor. “I love Pontes. He’s one of those people that changes you for the better,” she said. “He’s one of the people here that knows me the best.” The coach spurred Rana’s interest in helping others two years ago, when he arraigned for the thensophmore to run as a spotter for a disabled person in the Clifton

Stampede. “We ran together the whole race. It was great. I’m going to run with her again this year,” said Rana. “I don’t like seeing someone down. At the end of the day, we’re going to be in this world together.” Rana, who originally joined track as a means to stay close with her older brother, Harshit, said mentoring others is a value that was instilled in her at a young age. “My older brother is my biggest influence, he’s always been there to guide me through troubled times,” said Rana, who captained the cross country squad this year, which won its County and League, and is currently competing in the States. Rana may soon bring her bright personality to St. Joseph’s Hospital, where she’s interviewing for a volunteer therapist position. She hopes the experience will help her decide on what to do in college. “I think I’m pretty motivational,” she said. “I think it’s a career that’s a good match for my personality.” Rana competes in the 800 and 1,600 meter events, and is a two time first team and second team AllLeague honoree. She also received

All-County honorable mention. “I just like to help people and be a part of the community,” she said. “I don’t really like to sit around.”

December 2010 • Clifton Merchant

Marc and Missy Fazio celebrated their fifth anniversary on Nov. 18. Noelani Coronel turns 11 on Dec. 9 and her daddy Noelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s birthday is on Dec. 7. Van Houten Ave. jeweler Frank Lacki turned 84 on Nov. 2 and his gemologist of a son Gregory celebrates his 54th on Dec. 5.

Birthdays & Celebrations

Send dates & names...tomhawrylko@optonline.net Ann W. Kissel....................12/1 Corinne Miskowsky............12/1 Mannan Amin ...................12/2 Mike Gerardi ....................12/2 Lauren Lawler ....................12/2 Bryan Nolasco ..................12/2 Allison Ahdieh ...................12/3 Patrick Lotorto ....................12/3 Bridget Rice.......................12/3 Sharon Tichacek ................12/3 Phyllis Galambos ...............12/4 Timothy Gumann................12/4 Michael Kester...................12/4 Michael Vinciguerra...........12/4 Rosemary Kuruc.................12/5 Laura Mikolajczyk..............12/5 Michael Ressetar................12/5

Pat Collucci .......................12/6 Marilyn Gossinger .............12/6 Margaret Kungl .................12/7 Mark Mecca......................12/7 Robert Raichel ...................12/8 Chris Sadowski..................12/8 Jamie Osmak.....................12/9 Daniel Fonesca Ramos .......12/9 Mark Surgent.....................12/9 Andrew Tichacek ...............12/9 Tyler Roger Vandenberghe ...12/9 Michael McEnerney .........12/10 Bob Snelson ....................12/10 Joey Cofone ....................12/11 Kathleen M. Marshall.......12/11 Diane Meyer ...................12/11 Joseph Rutigliano .............12/11

Carlos & Dayana Sotamba celebrate their second anniversary on Dec. 6!

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December 2010 â&#x20AC;˘ Clifton Merchant

For info, call Aquatics Dept. 973-773-2697 ext. 31

Boys & Girls Club of Clifton

Andy Kent.....................12/13 Danny La Gala..............12/13 Ray Capilli ....................12/14 Mary Kate Kuruc ...........12/14 Michael Murolo .............12/14 Steven Crawford............12/15 Marie Visicaro...............12/15 David Brock ..................12/16 Hannah Grace Kulesa....12/17 Jacqueline Gencarrelli....12/18 Anne Gerardi................12/18 Samantha Bassford ........12/19 Nick Link...................... 12/19 Jayen Montague ............12/19 Jessie Ducos ..................12/20 Amy Marino..................12/21 Michelle McEnerney.......12/22 Suman Pinto ..................12/22 Joey Cristantiello............12/24 Soumya Gunapathy .......12/24 Ryan John Hariton..........12/25 Eric Soltis ......................12/25 Thomas Montague .........12/26 Venessa Collucci............12/27 Melissa Cordes..............12/27 James Mazza................12/29 Steven Bivaletz ..............12/30 Hunter Conklin ..............12/30 Tom Melfi ......................12/30 Courtney Pinter..............12/31

Mustang David Ricca and Indian Delreese Delgado broke bread at the Optimist Clubâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hot Dog nite Nov. 18.

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December 2010 â&#x20AC;˘ Clifton Merchant

In Memory of a Teacher & Friend Students and teachers who knew Christopher Columbus Middle School technology teacher John Greco, 33, who died on Nov. 4, were asked to share their memories and stories... A few of the comments are listed below.

When the Pinta team was called for the Honor Roll assembly, Mr. Greco was handing out the shirts for Student of the Month. As people were getting called up, no one expected my name to be called, especially Mr. Greco. When they called my name, Mr. Greco’s jaw dropped to the ground and he said, “Impressive, Manny” and smiled at me. I will never in my life forget those words and Mr. Greco’s face. Manny Lascarro Grade 8 His infectious smile. I can’t think of any memory when John wasn’t smiling or joking. Mr. Nick DeStefano In Technology class, we had to build machines with Legos. I didn’t have a partner, so Mr. Greco helped me all the time. I miss Mr. Greco so much already. Zachary Sjosward Grade 8

John Greco, above and below at right, with fellow teachers at CCMS.

Definitely Reese’s candy. He loved them and offered extra credit for them! He remains the best-Lego-Reese’s-loving teacher in CCMS! Kody A-Karim Grade 7

December 2010 • Clifton Merchant

He told a joke and it was so funny that a kid fell off of his chair! I think of a good man and I will miss his humor. Marc Urena Grade 8 When me and my friend Eddi walked into the tech room and said, “I like eggs!!!” He looked at us and said, “I like bagels!” with a mouth full bagels. It was so funny we couldn’t stop laughing. Angel Almazo Grade 8 He taught me to never hold a grudge. Once we argued but then the next day I came in, he smiled and said “Good Morning Moncada.” I asked him why he was being nice and he simply replied “I have to see you for two more years, why be mad forever”? He was just an amazing guy. But Mr. Greco, “Until we meet again, in my heart is where I keep a friend.” Alex Moncada, Grade 8 His smirk and his jokes and his amazing heart. I love you Mr. Greco. Matt Blum Grade 8

That’s John between his dad Al and mom Susan. Others pictured include George, Kristen, Luke, Robert, Elizabeth, John’s grandmother, Joanne and his sister Dana. At right, is John’s wife Karen (Affinito).

I never saw a frown on his face... always happy. Amauris Peralta Grade 8 Mr. Greco’s smile could light up the City of Clifton. Ms. Hope Foley An overall classy guy who didn’t brag about his success as a teacher and coach. A man who always concerned himself about the well-being of others. Ms. Karen Vuksan He stood out as the heart of our school. One memory I will have forever of Mr. Greco is when I have him a Jets book and he kept encouraging me to go and play for the Jets. Maurice Greene Grade 7 I play Clifton Lacrosse and he would ask me who we played and come cheer for us. He said when I went to college, he would draft me to MSU. Anthony Schwiederek Grade 8 His determination, passion and love for his profession were undeniable; it just radiated out of him. Slavka Simic Grade 8 I will remember him as a big colorful box of Legos, ready to make magic. Kevin Biernat Grade 8 Mr. Greco was literally the best teacher you could wish for. I miss him deeply and wish his family well. I surely hope they khow amazing of a teacher and friend he truly was. Meghan Sekanics Grade 8

In the lunch room when I was doing one of the Clifton Junior Mustang cheers and Mr. Greco joined in cheering, “Dynamite”. He felt so proud knowing he had dated a cheerleader in high school! Samantha Valentin Grade 8 His singing in homeroom.

Kevin Muso Grade 7

He told me that I’m a good kid. That made me feel good inside. Tyler Sims Grade 7 He was the heart of the school. He made learning fun for me. Daniel Martinez Grade 7

His door was always open; he was fun, caring, cool. Dennis Lichtenberger Grade 7

In the lunch line, he’d say, “Thank God it’s not taco day, because I can’t stand the smell of tacos!” Emely Meza Grade 8

He would always tell us how to take something hard, and make it easy. Joshua LaMadrid Grade 7

When I was new to the school, I had no friends. He found someone for me to sit with in the cafeteria. Genesis Ramos Grade 8

I will miss him saying, “Hip! Hip!” and I would always answer, “Jorge!” Jorge DeLaCruz Grade 7

Mr. Greco would play music on the computer and he would start singing along just to have fun. I will miss Mr. Greco’s attitude and personality the most. He’s one of the best people I have ever met. Angelyka Santos Grade 7

The first day of school, I was new and I didn’t know anybody. I thought no one was caring about me because nobody wanted to hang out with me, but then when I walked into the Tech room, Mr. Greco greeted me with a “Welcome.” I will always remember that reached his hand out to troubled students. John DaSilva Grade 7 When I think of Mr. Greco, I think about Legos and computers and drawing supplies, about building cars, miniature buildings and mechanical objects. Making dream homes, cars and robots on the computer. Drawing and sketching different things, such as stars and buildings. He has inspired many students. Edward Castillo Grade 7

I called John one Saturday morning with a pair of Giants tickets for the following day. John’s initial reaction was “Burkee, what are you kidding me?” I explained that they weren’t for him, the die-hard Jets fan, but perhaps someone he knew. John said he had two players on his MSU lacrosse team who had never been to a game. John was willing to take money from his own pocket for the tickets, needless to say I told him to put his money away. I looked at John with a different set of eyes. He changed from a boy I had watched grow up to a man with a heart of gold. Mrs. Cathy Burke December 2010 • Clifton Merchant

Even though Mr. Greco was kind of strict and everything, he was an awesome guy with a big heart. Yamile Almonte Grade 8

When he liked the way I did his projects and used them as an example. That meant a lot to me. Cora Tam Grade 7

He always made us feel special when he commented on our accomplishments. Fadid Bushka Grade 6

When I had him as my teacher last year, we always sat by each other and he’d always crack jokes on me. Julia Ramos Grade 8

Being patient and helpful is what he did. When I think of Mr. Greco, I don’t think of him as a teacher, I think of him as another kid like me. I will miss Mr. Greco’s unique personality and ways of teaching. Megha Barot Grade 6

I had the pleasure of teaching John Greco and then working with him years later as a teaching colleague. He enjoyed telling his students how well he did in my Language Arts class, but they thought he was joking. One day, after cleaning out his parents’ basement, he located a research paper he completed while in my class. He proudly passed the A- paper around the room, truly surprising many of his students. One student boldly asked, “What was Mr. Greco really like as a student?” I just smiled and replied, “He was bright and funny—like you see him today. However, his mother holds the record number of parent conferences in one year.” John laughed as heartily as the students in his class. And yes, after 20 years of teaching, I can say that Mrs. Greco still holds that record! Mrs. Teresa Lewandowski

He was first a student in CCMS while I was teaching and then grew up to be a wonderful young man that I will never forget... always happy, thoughtful and wellmannered. I would make him peanut butter and jelly sandwiches because he told me that I would make the best he ever ate! I would leave it for him in a brown bag in the main office in the morning and also fill it with a drink, snacks and dessert. I would write on the bag: For- John Love-Mom. Within an hour I would receive a thank you note. Mrs. Meredith Sieper IHe climbed out of the window to get his pizza! Klaudia Szweczyk Grade 7 It was always as if he was like my dad because he cared so much and we got to be close. Georgina Carballo Grade 7 In 6th grade when we did Legos, he would go on his computer and then control my computer from his. He would write all over my screen! He used to call me “Ham and Cheese”. George Hamwi Grade 7

He had a friendly and charismatic personality. He would have a cheerful smile, always say “hello”. Ms. Ruth Valdes He would say, “You guys are so mature and I wouldn’t mind if I had you as my children. I would never say you are the best, even though you are good, I love my other children too!” Leslie Hernandez Grade 6 He would make a harsh day all better! Victoria Soltys Grade 6 He wasn’t just a teacher, he was like a friend. Garrett Kloock Grade 6 Whenever you had a problem, he could make your frown turn upside down. My whole class and I were sad when he passed away. He left us with satisfied hearts though, because of all the things he did for us. Now that he is gone, we should follow in his footsteps so he can be remembered. Andy Rivera Grade 6

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He taught me to make extraordinary things with Legos. Everyday I would be so excited to go to his class wondering what we would make next. When I think of Mr. Greco, I think cool, polite and energetic. I will miss that “Hello, Josiah!” in the morning.

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He took the time to understand us. Liana Vazquez Grade 6

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