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Clifton Merchant Magazine • Volume 15 • Issue 6 • June 4, 2010
Free, Please Take One
Join us in Congratulating the Class of 2010
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Clifton Merchant Magazine is published the first Friday of every month at 1288 Main Ave., Downtown Clifton • 973-253-4400
2010
Letters
Clifton Merchant Magazine 1288 Main Ave. Clifton 07011
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to the
Editor
I just wanted to commend Rich DeLotto and Robert Wahlers on the Faces of Clifton’s Fallen Heroes stories. The tremendous, detail-oriented effort they put into these articles was absolutely amazing. The stories clearly illustrate their research and dedication to the fallen, their legacies, their families and their sorrowful losses. Your staff should be honored for their excellent reporting and touching articles about these veterans. We tend to forget as time goes on but Rich and Robert brought it all back as it should be— not just every Memorial Day—but capturing it as a part of history. My three Uncles who have since passed served in WW II and were part of the Normandy Invasion. They only spoke of the good times in Paris and Italy, although I always knew they saw the horrors of war as 18 and 20 year old men, so far from home. When I consider what they went through and then read the stories of these Vietnam veterans, I was personally and deeply connected. I wanted to commend and thank these reporters for a tremendous job well done! God bless them. Joseph Macaluso, CHS 1976, Oak Ridge
The Faces of Clifton’s Fallen Heroes: Your magazine has provided a great service to these and all Vets and their families. Old Vets like me appreciate the fact that in 2010, many still remember and honor Vietnam Veterans. I am sure that your article touched the hearts of all those who are in any way connected with veterans of all our nation’s conflicts. Thanks to your writers, Rich DeLotto and Robert Wahlers, and all others who contributed to this magazine. Special thanks to you for this very special tribute. COL. Jim Kennedy, (US Army, Ret) CHS 1960, Louisville, KY
In regards to your May 7 edition, it was very thoughtful and patriotic to dedicate this issue to our American fallen heroes. What I find disturbing is that some of your advertisers are honoring America’s veterans on Memorial Day. Memorial Day, originally called Decoration Day, was first celebrated on May 30, 1868 to honor America’s war dead. Veterans Day came about when Germans signed an armistice agreement on November 11, 1918 that went into effect at 11 am— hence the 11th day of the 11th month at the 11th hour. Armistice Day, now known as Veterans Day, was declared a legal holiday by President Harding on November 5, 1921. We celebrate Veterans Day to honor American military veterans. We celebrate Memorial Day to honor our war dead. James Kopec Clifton 16,000 Magazines
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June 2010 • Clifton Merchant
Editor & Publisher Tom Hawrylko Business Manager Cheryl Hawrylko Graphic Designer Rich McCoy Staff Writer Joe Hawrylko Contributing Writers Irene Jarosewich, Carol Leonard, Rich DeLotto, Don Lotz, Jack DeVries
Pictured is John Bilenski of Olympia St. who died in action in Vietnam, a photo provided by Bob Gursky, now of Montgomery, PA. John was a 1958 CHS grad, noted Gursky: “At our 50th reunion we did acknowledge John’s service and sacrifice as we did for Willis Van Ess, jr., another class member who died on the ill-fated Nov. 8 1961 plane crash of recruits going to Army boot camp.”
Mary (Dando) Rabolli and her husband Charles. Mary is the sister of Thomas Dando’s (pictured center on our cover) and stopped to thank us for remembering Tom and the other men who died while in service to our nation.
The staff, clients and volunteers of St. Peter’s Haven Community Food Pantry want to extend sincere thanks to the City of Clifton, its residents and local postal workers. On May 8, the Clifton Postal Workers/Letter Carriers conducted a most needed food drive to benefit The Haven’s Community Food Pantry. Last year at this time our food pantry provided food to 700 individuals. This past April we fed more then 1,120 people. This is an increase of nearly 70%—our gift of caring will make a difference to people who would not only be struggling with hunger, but also struggling to provide for the basic needs of their families. The families that need to come to the Haven Food Pantry for assistance—those in need of our emergency transitional housing program and those ooking to improve both their lives and that of their families by participating in our ESL program—are fortunate to have so many caring people in our community. The Haven is also very lucky to be supported by people willing to step beyond what is comfortable and familiar... by those willing to reach out to others they have never met but want to support and empower to achieve something better for themselves and their families. On behalf of so many in need, we are most appreciative. Marsha Dettelbach Hook, Executive Director St. Peter’s Haven, 973-546-3406
June 2010 • Clifton Merchant
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On annual send off to the graduating class is always a favorite project to compile. On the following 70 pages, we have surveyed and interviewed dozens of members of the Class of 2010. What follows are glimpses into the lives, dreams, hopes and plans of these kids— our community’s graduating seniors—as they embark upon life’s journey. Some you will recognize. Perhaps they were a receptionist at your dentist’s office, or waited on you at a Clifton dining establishment. Others you may know as your neighbors, or as Mustangs from the athletic fields or the theater programs of CHS. But I hope that as you page through this edition, you’ll find kids that you don’t know, surprising you by saying things that are really thoughtful, kind and warm. Our annual salute to our graduates is always a gift to write and a pleasure to present to their parents and our readers. I hope you enjoy it. by Tom Hawrylko
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June 2010 • Clifton Merchant
Table of Contents Their Greatest Achievements . . . . . . . .9 Clifton Offers a Second Chance . . . . .14 The 2010 Unsung Heroes . . . . . . . . . .16 When September Comes . . . . . . . . . . .27 Their Greatest Influences . . . . . . . . . . .32 CHS Senior, City Council Candidate . . . .44 The Class of 2010 Top 10 . . . . . . . . . . .49 Fond Memories of School
. . . . . . . . .55
Where Will They Be in 2020? . . . . . . .63 Senior Employment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .68 Memorial Day Photos . . . . . . . . . . . . .74 Music in the Neighborhoods . . . . . . . .78
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CLIFTON: Move right in to this 3-bedroom cape, with updated kitchen, newer windows and doors, 2 full baths, hardwood floors, & carpet. Privacy fence surrounds an expansive back yard. Garage. MLS#: 2774600. $299,000.
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CLIFTON: Comfortable and clean raised ranch by long time owner. Comfortable, easy living on main level w/ full, finished grd level for extended space. 3 Bdrms, 2 Baths, possible in-law suite. 2 Car Garage. MLS#: 2774370. $425,000.
LITTLE FALLS:Tri-level townhome in Inwood. Bsmt rec room, 1/2 bath & laundry/utility rm. 1st Floor has EIK, LR/DR, f/pl, and sliders to patio. Second level M/bdrm w/fulbth, 2nd bdrm has f/lbth w/Jacuzzi. MLS#: 2766055. $295,000.
GARRET HEIGHTS: Low Taxes on this 2 B/R first floor unit. Lg. Mster Bedrm / with lots of closets, Master Bath & Spa Tub and shower. Woodburning F/P gives the open airy unit a cozy feel. MLS#: 2737725. $269,000.
CLIFTON: Well maintained large 2 family w/hardwood floors. Remodeled kitchens w/great floor plans. Dormer in Back makes this house deceivingly large. Off street parking and Park like back yard. MLS#: 2773195. $319,000.
BELLEVILLE: Move in to this Custom Cape. Form. Drm, newer EIK & 2nd flr 1/2 bath in Spacious Master BR, 2 fin. rms in Bsmnt, Charming yrd. End of no-through St. Ext. freshly painted. Dormer. MLS#: 2768451. $278,900.
June 2010 • Clifton Merchant
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June 2010 • Clifton Merchant
Q&A
Over the last 12 years, what was your greatest achievement?
Leonard Wieczerzak: Through all of elementary and middle school I was really not that attentive in school and my grades most definitely showed that. High school really changed that for me and for the past two years I have been on the academic honor roll and this past April, I was honored at the Academic Awards Dinner at the Westmount Country Club. This was really big for me and it made me realize how far I’ve come. Chris Birkner: Getting into a welding program. Christine Diaz: Being inducted into the National Honor Society and making Distinguished Honors all four years. Danielle Marsilla: Surviving high school. As fun as it may be it is difficult to get through. I have been able to maintain good grades as well as playing sports and working. I have conquered the hustle and bustle of high school and to me that is a wonderful achievement. Paulina Stefaniak: Getting accepted to William Paterson University which was my number one choice of colleges. Hetal Lad: Taking on the classes that I desired and being able to excel in them. Holly Romanek: Opening up. I used to be afraid to speak up. Not any more, though. Jake Wilson: Becoming the salutatorian of my class. Christian Jaeger: Surviving! After 12 years, I’m still in one piece. Jennifer Moran: Finally graduating from high school!! Kerry Sorenson: Getting both an
Andrea Villanova: Playing for the U19 National Northeastern rugby team and being selected into the pool for the U21 USA National rugby team in 2008. academic scholarship and an NCAA track scholarship to Fordham University. Jon Nikischer: Fracturing my skull playing CHS ice hockey. Kevin Meade: My greatest achievement was just making it through high school while still enjoying it and being able to make the choices that I wanted to. Vanessa Pinto: Being able to successfully balance out school, soccer, student council, and other activities throughout high school. James Komar: Being a part of the volleyball and wrestling teams.
George DelVillar: Honor roll through high school. Bryana Arlington: Graduating in the top 20% of my class and getting accepted into every college I applied. Hudson Veloso: Making Honor Roll all four years and being one of the four seniors awarded at the academic awards dinner. Christopher Lainson: My greatest achievement in the last 12 years was graduating from high school. Daphne Bienkiewicz: During my senior year I made first team allcounty in the two sports I love, cross country and swimming. June 2010 • Clifton Merchant
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Daniel Bartlett
Melissa Ayers
Daniel Bartlett: I was able to play three varsity sports all four years. Ryan Gradzki: Being able to perform in Giants Stadium with the Mustang Marching Band. Nicholas Lichtenberger: Being a part of the Mustang Marching Band and becoming the Drum Major. Alonzo Thomas: To help the Mustangs win the 2009 indoor track league championship. Kevin Aquino: Being the first in my family to be accepted to a state university. Melissa Ayers: My greatest achievement was being in the top 10 of the graduating class of 2010. Michelle Ferrara: Probably being on distinguished honor roll for all four years and winning two Passaic county championships in soccer, 2007 and 2009. Justyna Felusiak: It has to be a tie between being ranked 7th in my class and being invited to attend the Inauguration of President Obama through the Presidential Youth Inaugural Conference. Anahi Gonzalez: Everything I did was an achievement. Anayzah Thomas: Being a part of three productions and being the president of ERASE club. Fernando Reynoso: Graduating, earning honor roll in my second marking period in senior year, and making friends by being myself. 10
June 2010 • Clifton Merchant
Alec DeGraaf
Elena Mauro
Sharice Larode: It would have to be graduating high school with good grades and participating in cross country. Josean Moquillaza: Going to the state championship three years in a row for Clifton varsity soccer; winning state sectionals three years running (Clifton varsity soccer); one county championship; one county runner-up - honorable mention. Jonathan Monge: Graduating, passing every year, and being one of the first to be accepted to a university. Marcin Konefal: Being the first person in my immediate family to go to college. Roxanne Lapeña: Being able to finish high school and travel around the world on my own. Monali Patel: My greatest achievement in the last 12 years was completing my art portfolio, and the Clifton Gallery showing of it. Francesca Kareivis: My greatest achievement was being the secretary of the Key Club and being invited and attending L.M.T.I. Summer Leadership Conference. Sylwia Zubek: My greatest achievement in the last 12 years was just getting through school and making it the best experience of my life. Also, in high school, making the volleyball team, making varsity for more than two years, and becoming captain my senior year.
Brandon Lonison
Joseph J. Seider: Selling a piece of art I made in art class for $1.68 at the Art Show. MaryKate Wrigley: Graduating in the top 100 of my class. Vera Atamian: Being inducted into the National Honor Society, National Art Honor Society as well as receiving Distinguished Honors. Elena Mauro: Being in inclusion classes and being in band. It was hard but I made it through. Brandon Lonison: Graduating. Charlene Gustafson: Winning the county title in swimming in my junior year. Alexa Patti: My greatest achievement in the last 12 years would have to be surviving sixth grade. I transferred to Woodrow Wilson from a small Catholic school and was so nervous around so many new people that I vomited. Jennie Tietjen: My greatest achievements have been being named student of the month, always making Honor Roll, and making National Honor Society. Chandni Mistry: Completion of my Walgreen’s Pharmacy Internship. Hayfa Alasfar: During my middle school years, I didn’t put effort in my grades. My greatest achievement for the past four years was finally realizing how important school is and doing better.
Grounded At Age 17. No sports. No parties. No dating. No phone calls. Like too many other high school kids in the past, get caught just once drinking and driving, doing drugs or the wrong combination of these, and you’re grounded. That’s final. Be smart and be safe as you graduate high school.
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June 2010 • Clifton Merchant
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Q&A
Over the last 12 years, what was your greatest achievement?
Hassan Hemeid: Surviving school and not getting into any serious trouble/problems. Anmar Jobran: I always loved studying since first grade. I have been getting A’s in all my subjects, so being an A student for the last 12 years has to be it. Reem Ibrahem: I think putting my art portfolio together took a lot of hard work and dedication, and therefore my greatest achievement. Mizar Hameid: Learning how to take things easy, day by day, and to do one thing at a time. Agnieszka Kapusta: My mom, she has pushed me to do my best. Victoria Korty: My greatest achievement definitely has to be when I filmed a music video on a rooftop in NYC. Christina Kata: Staying alive. Angelica Paluch: My greatest achievement in the last 12 years was to overcome my shyness and be able to open up to people easier. Megan Termyna: Some of my greatest achievements include being inducted into the National Honor Society, graduating in the top 10% of my class, and being named an Edward J. Bloustein scholar. Rosalia Longobardo: Donating to Oasis, and just coming this far and getting good grades. Chris Rangel: Finishing CHS. Pooja Kumra: Making it to 12th grade without getting left back, trying to graduate and keep my job. Rinam Seijari: Getting comfortable meeting people. Amanda Scardigno: Being named to the Honor Roll all four years. Lesly Moraes: Graduating CHS! 12
June 2010 • Clifton Merchant
Julio Rivera: Making it to my final year of high school. Marko Milosevic: Finding a job as an electrician. Staphany Diaz: Being accepted to my college of choice, William Paterson University, with a scholarship, as well as graduating as a top 20 student in my class. Emily Urciuoli: Winning the State Meet of Champions in outdoor track as a junior. Despite the ups and downs of my career, one thing is certain: I will always be a state champion. No one can take that away from me. Sofia Black-D’Elia: Being cast in the Skins pilot (originally a UK series, like The Office) this year. I was selected from a pool of over 3,000 young actors. Vasil Martiko: Going from college prep classes to AP classes and making Honor Roll. I finally understand that nothing is impossible as long as you work hard. Rafelina Reyes: Graduating. Jessica Bielen: Making the Distinguished Honor Roll all four years and getting into every college that I applied to. Lisa Belford: Just getting through high school, passing everything. Natalie Del Guidice: Winning a championship in a singles cheer division at a cheerleading competition with only two days notice to learn my cheers and practice. Ala’a Baker: Maintaining my grades for Distinguished Honors. Najat Helwani: Surviving 12 years. Corey Meyer: Making the Honor Roll each year since the third grade.
Jake Gebbia: Knowing that all my hard work will pay off and I am going to graduate high school and attend Montclair State University. Shanoui Gunn: I had it rough growing up and wasn’t really doing the right things, but when I moved to Clifton in my sophomore year, I used that as a clean slate and got back on the right track. My greatest achievement is graduating high school while maintaining good grades along the way and racking up a few medals in track and field. Giancarlo Enriquez: Being accepted to all five colleges I applied to. George Grosz: My greatest achievement was becoming captain of the football team and receiving a scholarship to AIC. Also, making the North-South All-Star Game. Adi Salmeron: Learning to appreciate others and learning to give and not to expect to get back immediately. However, faith will lead me to a gift. Chelsea Rae Alessio: Making the Honor Roll twice in my senior year.
Cassandra Porter: Being accepted to FIT to study fashion, which has always been my passion. Of the 1,600 people that applied, only 200 were accepted into the fashion design program, and I’m proud to say that I’m a part of FIT’s Class of 2014! Laurence Singh: Since I consider my religion to be the most important thing in my life, I would have to say that my service to God in June of 2007 was my greatest achievement in the last 12 years. As part of my religious duties, we volunteer our time to teach the Bible's message to our neighbors. That month, I served as an auxillary pioneer, which meant that I volunteered to give 50 hours in ‘the ministry’ that month. I finished the month with 63 hours volunteered. It was very rewarding, satisfying, and refreshing. I had a lot of fun with my friends, and felt closer to God than I ever had before.
Nick Lavender: When I was named 1st Team all County for Basketball as a Junior. While my senior year in basketball became a disappointment, another highlight was in the County game vs Passaic Valley when I scored 21 points in first half. But then in the end of the first half I ripped my hand against the backboard.
June 2010 • Clifton Merchant
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A Second Chance Shanoui Gunn aims high: a career in the Air Force Story by Joe Hawrylko Less than three years ago, Shanoui Gunn’s future was clouded in uncertainty. The Newark native had no reason to believe she would go to college. Her grades were terrible. Gunn was unmotivated. Her own mother wondered if Gunn would even live to graduate from high school. “I grew up in Newark and went to school there,” she said. “I was just really bad. Fighting, cutting school, not really doing the right things.” “Before we moved, I got into a really bad fight,” explained Gunn. “Weapons and police were involved. My mom was like, that’s the last straw. I don’t want you winding up dead or something like that.” Carol Gunn started looking for a new home. Eventually, she settled on Clifton. Carol expected that a new city and different environment would at least keep her daughter out of trouble. But no one could have possibly envisioned that the girl who looked like a potential dropout would become an Honor Roll student. “In my sophomore year, I came to CHS,” said Gunn. “I took it as a clean slate. Sophomore year, I kept to myself. I got involved in track. It was kind of like get yourself together mode for me. I just came to school, did my work and came home. And ever since then, I’ve been a good student.” When considering sources of inspiration, she attributes her turnaround to her late grandmother, Melvina. “She always told me you can change your life at any time. You can be whatever you want to be,” recalled
Gunn. “She passed away my sophomore year. I think that’s most of the reason why I kept to myself and my motivation for getting it together. I felt like if I failed, I’d let her down.” After boosting her grades, Gunn looked for some positive outlets and joined the track team. The sport kept her out of trouble, and the comradery with teammates gave her a new set of friends and a positive influence.
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June 2010 • Clifton Merchant
“Track coach Mr. Pontes. He’s an influence for everyone,” she said of the longtime teacher who is retiring. “He’s awesome, always pushing us, trying to make us do better in school, in track and in everything.” The CHS Senior will head to Norwich University in the fall. She plans to enroll in the Corps of Cadets program, which allows students to pursue a degree and gain military experience before enlisting. Gunn has decided to join the Air Force. “It’s unique. It’s basically a military college” she explained. Gunn plans to study computer security and minor in English. “Freshman and sophomore year, they give you a taste of it. In your junior and senior year, you decide if you want to be an officer.” Days start early at Norwich, with drills and classes taking up much of the day for students. That kind of structure appealed to Gunn during the application process. “Probably the fact that it’s a disciplinary school. It’s strict,” she said. “I won’t do anything stupid, whereas other schools, you might not get punished that badly when you do something bad. In a military lifestyle, if you do something, you’re in trouble.” Gunn’s interest in the armed forces is not much of a surprise. Both sides of her family have a history of service in several branches of the miliary.
Her mother, Carol, had a lengthy career as an Army nurse. Her cousin, Bryan, is a Ranger currently deployed in Afghanistan. “My dad, he is an aerospace engineer,” said Gunn. “I’ve always been fascinated with computers. This kind of deals with both in a way.” Though she was aware of her family’s history in the military, Gunn first became interested in enlisting after her younger sister, Shannon, enrolled in a Naval Cadet program shortly before the family’s move from Newark. Gunn’s mother enrolled Shannon to prevent her daughter from following the same troubled path that Shanoui was on at the time. “She was marching with everyone,” recalled Gunn, who added that her sister plans on joining the Marines after high school. “There were all these color guards with all these people. I was kind of jealous. She takes ROTC really serious.” Despite her interest in the program, Gunn was unable to enroll after moving due to her poor grades. By the time her marks had improved, it was already senior year. However, her interest in the military never waned. She anticipates on being a family trailblazer—contributing to the Gunn military history by being the first to join the Air Force. “No one has ever joined the Air Force in my family,” laughed Gunn. “So why not?”
June 2010 • Clifton Merchant
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Heralding the Unsung Story by Domenica Perrone Who is the unsung hero of the CHS Class of 2010? Who are the graduating seniors who have done random acts of kindness, been courageous in the face of adversity or simply made a difference by just being who they are? Clifton Merchant Magazine asked me to talk to my classmates and ask them to identify these heroes. At CHS, one can easily look to the diversity found in the hallways. By diversity, I not only mean different races, but also students with varied interests, ambitions, and lifestyles. What we found among the nearly 700 seniors is that there are many heroes who walk the halls and there are many reasons for their selections. Senior Class President Ariel De Leon nominated Robert Klinger. “He ran for City Council, he works hard and is president of the Wisdom and Knowledge Club,” said De Leon. Volunteers are plenty, too: Carolina Rodriguez and Trisha Torley noted Francesca Kareivis while Karym Gadea said Melissa Smith should be mentioned for all the time she helps out at the animal shelter. George Grosz said Paul Herlbut is a real hard worker and June Student of the Month Saagar Bulsara (who will be profiled next month due to space constraints) said Priya Shah should be recognized for all the work she did on the yearbook and as a class leader. The kindness of Vania Masilang was cited by Anahi Gonzalez. Kelsey Wojdyla nominated Marching Mustang Sorab Kochhar, who also works hard in school and is also a kind and caring person. The inner strength of Olivia Pipala is recognized by Randy Porga. “She has her own unique personality and doesn’t give into peer pressure,” he said. Jose Olivera nominated Chris Alfonso—the only person who has not picked on Jose in high school. Brionne Ramsingh remembered Kimberley Rozborski, his best friend who died of leukemia last year. Jake Wilson said Cassandra Porter should be recognized for her work with cancer charities, remembering her little brother David who died of cancer in 2006. Salutatorian Jake Wilson doesn’t receive enough credit for his hard work on everything from student council to the plays, said Emily Urciuoli. Andrea Villanova and Robert Klingler nominated Emily Urciuoli: “Not for athletics or academics, but for mod16
June 2010 • Clifton Merchant
esty, volunteer work, determination, and kindness.” Chris Morales cited Edwardo Gonzales as a kind, strong kid who works very hard and is a good person. Brianna Stemmler nominated Mustang hurler Alex Lesch as “the only person to never do her wrong... plus he helps her with math homework.” Zac North sent a shout out to Randy Porga: “He made it to graduation.” Elisa Woo suggested Natalia Callejas who tutors, is helpful with her family and is a selfless person. Natalia Callejas looks up to Jefferson Fingueroa: “Although he appears big and tough, he never picks on others, defends those being picked on, is helpful, works hard to help his mother. Plus he is a great brother, good student and a reliable and respectful individual.” Naji Nelson is motivated by Tyler Best who works hard at the Boys & Girls Club and is a good friend. Joe Seider said Ariel De Leon is the type of person who has never been angry with anyone, is a strong leader, and “he passed chemistry.” Julio Rivera likes the independent spirit of Cynthia Szablowski who works hard to achieve her goals. Domenica Perrone (above) was May’s Student of the Month
The Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC) has distinguished our surgical center from many other facilities for providing the highest quality of care to its patients and for our safe work environment. Status as an accredited organization means Clifton Surgery Center has met nationally recognized standards for the provision of quality health care. Our thanks to you—our patients—neighbors and health care professionals—for helping us achieve this honor. Below from left: Dr. Eugene Batelli, Head Nurse Samantha Kennedy, Dr. Jeffrey Miller, Administrator Michael Graziano and Dr. Vahe Hagopian,
June 2010 • Clifton Merchant
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Q&A
Who is the unsung hero of your class?
Christina Kata: Laurence Singh. Nice and smart. And he has a sixpack! Who knew?! Angelica Paluch: Danielle Comacho is the unsung hero of our graduating class. She does so much for everyone and is one of the sweetest people I know. If anyone needs help with homework or notes that they missed she will take time out of her busy day to show a helping hand. I would like to thank Danielle for all the things she did for me, and although she is the unsung hero of our class, she will forever be noticed by me and all the people that she helped. James Sahanas: Dan Thomas! Pooja Kumra: Rinam Seijari. Rinam Seijari: Pooja Kumra, unique because she’s the best. Anahi Gonzalez: There are many unsung heroes, not just one.
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June 2010 • Clifton Merchant
Kerry Sorenson: Laurence Singh (pictured center with his mom Shirown, dad Roy, and brother Andrew). He is witty, hilarious, on a full ride to Stevens Institute of Technology, is ranked third in our graduating class, can get a marking period grade of 100 in AP calculus, is a huge movie buff, and is the nicest guy in CHS.
Schedule your surgery at Clifton Surgery Center. We are a three room state of the art, nationally accredited, physician owned facility. Smaller and more service oriented than hospitals, patients and their families benefit from the convenience and lower cost. PODIATRY Thomas Graziano, DPM, MD 1033 Clifton, Ave. Clifton, NJ 07013 973-473-3344 Jeffrey Miller, DPM 1117 Route 46 East, 2nd Floor Clifton, NJ 07013 973-365-2208 Eugene A. Batelli, DPM 1117 Route 46 East, 2nd Floor Clifton, NJ 07013 973-365-2208 Zina Cappiello, DPM 886 Pompton Ave, Suite A-1 Cedar Grove, NJ 07009 973-857-1184 Glenn Haber, DPM 140 Grand Ave. Englewood, NJ 07631 201-569-0212 John Mc Evoy, DPM 152 Lakeview Ave. Clifton, NJ 07013 973-340-8970 Kevin Healey, DPM 152 Lakeview Ave. Clifton, NJ 07013 973-340-8970
Call your Physician about scheduling your surgery at Clifton Surgery Center. Matthew Welch, DPM 6506 Park Ave. West New York, NJ 07093 201-662-1122 Anas Khoury, DPM 235 Main Ave. Passaic, NJ 07066 973-473-6665
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PAIN MANAGEMENT
Michael Gaccione, DC 26 Clinton St. Newark, NJ 07012 973-624-4000
Ladislav Habina, MD 1117 Route 46 East, 2nd Floor Clifton, NJ 07013 973-357-8228
Terry Mc Sweeney, DC 600 Mount Prospect Ave. Newark, NJ 07104 973-485-2332
Kazimierz Szczech, MD 1033 Clifton Ave. Clifton, NJ 07013 973-473-4400 Binod Sinha, MD 1117 Route 46 East, 2nd Floor Clifton, NJ 07013 973-777-5444 Todd Koppel, MD 721 Clifton Ave. Clifton, NJ 07013 973-473-5752
OPHTHALMOLOGY Charles Crowley, MD 1033 Clifton Ave. Clifton, NJ 07013 973-472-6405
GENERAL SURGERY Kevin Buckley, MD 1100 Clifton Ave. Clifton, NJ 07013 973-778-0100
ENT Stephen Abrams, MD 1070 Clifton Ave. Clifton, NJ 07013 973-773-9880
Edwin Kane, MD 1100 Clifton Ave. Clifton, NJ 07013 973-778-0100
ORTHOPEDICS Kent Lerner, MD 17 Jauncey Ave. North Arlington, NJ 07031 201-991-9019
Ramon Silen, MD 1117 Route 46 East, Suite 301 Clifton, NJ 07013 973-779-4242
Meet Dr. Gary Nackman, MD of...
njVeinCare Advanced venous therapy 1355 Broad St. Clifton 973-778-2222
www.njveincare.com June 2010 • Clifton Merchant
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Back on Your Feet:
After Bunion Surgery!
Dramatic Improvement: A patient’s foot before & after surgery.
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.
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June 2010 • Clifton Merchant
Over 90% of the patients who had bunion surgery 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. “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. 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, high-heeled shoes that worsen the underlying foot problem and cause abnormal stress to the joint. 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.
Paulina Stefaniak
Joe Tahan
Paulina Stefaniak: Victoria Korty. She’s a very intelligent and helpful girl. She has a lot of talent in the CAST field and will one day make a great director. Jon Nikischer: Any student who will be joining the armed forces after graduation. Christian Jaeger: Kyle Parkin for sure. He is always working very hard behind the scenes making things happen. Andrea Villanova: Emily Urcioli. Though she is highly accredited for her track and field accomplishments, little tribute is paid to all the work she puts into bettering the school, the track team, and every club she is involved with. She also encourages her peers to better themselves. Michelle Boustani: Dan Thomas! James Komar: Vasil Martiko is more than a friend. I believe he is the unsung hero of the 2010 CHS class. Although he is not the valedictorian or the all-star quarterback, he is still a great student who is involved in the school. I don’t think there is one person who doesn’t like Vasil. He can make a boring class fun and is always there for you, making him the unsung hero. Roxanne Lapeña: Siddhi Shah. She has worked hard and diligently in all her classes. She takes pride in everything she does. She does everything to better others.
Daphne Bienkiewicz
Christian Jaeger
Christopher Lainson: Joseph Seider who single-handedly built up the marching band trombone section from nothing. He simultaneously did this while getting excellent grades and being a tremendous leader. Daphne Bienkiewicz: Monali Patel is the unsung hero of our graduating class. She is unique in every single way. Her insane personality is what keeps me going to school every day. Kevin Aquino: Tommy Devito. What makes him unique is that he is made fun of but doesn’t let it faze him; he keeps on going with his life. Jake Gebbia: EJ Egyed. He is a very smart and athletic friend of mine. He plays soccer and swims for the swimming team. He is successful in the classroom and always pushes himself to take the toughest courses. He deserves recognition. Sharice Larode: I elect Brittany Myer. She is unique, charismatic, and really funny once you get to know her. At first she is really quiet, but is a whole other person when she shows love and care for her family and friends. Jennie Tietjen: Cynthia Szcblowski is talented, very smart and excels at everything she does. Josean Moquillaza: Kevin Aquino because he is a hardworking student who provides for himself and his family. He is very smart and has so much potential. He is a great friend and loves to be active.
Jennie Tietjen
Jonathan Monge: Tommy Devito. He truly is a great person. Many people don’t realize it, but I do. Marcin Konefal: Harsh Naik. He is the man. Krystie Santos: I don’t think there’s only one unsung hero. There were many in the class who were special for the community, or personal heroes for one student.
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June 2010 • Clifton Merchant
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Francesca Kareivis: Danielle Camacho. She is a gentle and kind. Whenever something is wrong she is the first person to help you.
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June 2010 • Clifton Merchant
Fernando Reynoso: It has to be Fernando Reynoso. I have been wanting this done forever and it will be a pleasure and privilege having this opportunity. I have been a great friend to everyone and a lot of people know me. Joseph J. Seider: Christopher William Lainson. He is the man. He plays baritone saxophone in the Marching Band. It is the most important instrument, but never receives any recognition. He is unique because he is the only man in the class of 2010 that plays baritone saxophone. MaryKate Wrigley: Dominick Marrone. He is a great friend, and he is entering the military after graduation. He will be in Missouri attending a 20 week bootcamp. Charlene Gustafson: The unsung hero of the graduating class would be Emily Urcioli. She is a tremendous student and an amazing athlete. She has worked harder than anyone I’ve seen and I know she will succeed in her dreams. Mizar Hameid: Jessica Miles. Brandon Lonison: Myself, Brandon Lonison. I have lived through a lot of adversity that I haven’t shared with anyone. I’m sure there are a lot of others out there like me. We belong to a special club.
No Limits!
Move better, feel better, play better. At Affiliated Foot and Ankle Specialists your comfort is our concern. Ankle replacement implants have dramatically changed in their ability to imitate the structure and movement of the natural ankle joint. As specialists of ankle surgery, we invite you to come in for a consultation and discuss your path to freedom and mobility.
Dr. Jeffrey Miller, DPM, FACFAS Dr. Eugene Batelli, DPM, FACFAS
We now have three convenient locations Clifton Office: 1117 Rt. 46 East 973.365.2208
Teaneck Office: 751 Teaneck Rd. 201.238.1595
Sayreville/Parlin Office: 2909 Washington Rd. 732.727.5502
Visit our patient education center online and make your appointment today!
www.ipodiatry.com June 2010 • Clifton Merchant
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Doing it for Dave
Story by Joe Hawrylko
Cassanda Porter draws inspiration from her late brother Cassandra Porter was just 14 years old when she heard the news: Her baby brother, David, was diagnosed with cancer. The prognosis was not good. The three year old had a Stage III Wilms’ tumor, which is one of the more advanced stages of the cancer that predominantly afflicts young children. “My sister and I had to step up and take care of my two younger siblings,” said Porter. After being diagnosed in June 2005, David succumbed to his illness 14 months later on Aug. 25, 2006. “Sometimes family would come over and help but it was mostly me and my sister that took care of them that entire summer.” “It helped me to mature so much, even beyond having to care for my siblings,” she continued. “Just realizing how much he had to go through, yet there was so much more in life that I had to yet experience that he never experienced.” Though it was hard to realize at the time of his passing, Super Dave’s short life had a profound impact on his oldest sister. Those four years shaped Porter’s personality, gave her maturity uncommon for people her age and indirectly ignited a passion for fashion, which the CHS senior is determined to turn into a career. “My mom, when we were little, she made us outfits for Easter,” recalled Porter. “We would have these cute little Easter dresses and my grandma was also very big on making quilts. I loved to dress good, so instead of going out to buy the clothes, why not go out to make them?” In the summer prior to freshman year, during the height of Dave’s cancer treatments, Porter’s grandmother took her to pick out patterns to craft a homemade skirt. It was just meant to be a distraction from the stressful monotony of taking care of her siblings. “Ever since then, I’ve been sewing non stop,” laughed Porter. Crafting her own clothing became Porter’s way of coping with the stress of running the home while her parents tended to Dave. “I would spend countless weekends just sewing,” she said. “It makes it seem like that’s all I’d do, but to me, it’s not like that. It’s something I enjoy.” When scheduling for her freshman year, Porter decided to explore her new hobby further by enrolling in a fashion course at CHS with Mrs. BelBruno. 24
June 2010 • Clifton Merchant
“I was the one who helped everyone in my class,” she added. By her sophomore year, Porter made the decision to explore career opportunities in fashion. With encouragement from her parents, she enrolled in non-credit courses at FIT. Porter took seven classes at the New York City school, including a portfolio building course that was vital in preparing for the required interview for admission. “They know how nervous you are, so they make it really relaxed,” she said. “They pick out your flaws and little things you can work on. They don’t want to hurt your feelings.” Porter was also accepted into FIDM in California, but ultimately chose the highly regarded FIT because of the school’s location. Despite her busy schedule, the soon-
to-be graduate plans to remain involved with her family’s charity, The David Nicholas Foundation. Formed after her brother’s passing, the Foundation exists to financially and emotionally assist families of children who are currently undergoing treatment for cancer. The Porter Clan is currently reviewing applications for 2010. “I haven’t been able to speak with the two previous people we supported,” said Porter. “They were too sick to come to David’s Day or too sick to speak with.” The main fundraiser for the Foundation is David’s Day. There are three main elements to this special event: motorcycles, green decorations and, most importantly, having fun. This year, David’s Day will be held on July 10 at the Masonic Lodge, 1476 Van Houten Ave. The event begins with a motorcycle ride at 11:30 am, followed by a picnic at 1 pm. (visit www.thedavidnicholasfoundation.org for info) “Besides those who knew him, this is the only way people get to know him,” added Porter. “Not many people got to meet him.” But this CHS senior doesn’t limit her participation in charity events to just the David Nicholas Foundation. Porter will also be participating in the Relay for Life on June 12 with Tri-M, a team comprised of the CHS band, orchestra and singers (to donate: http://main.acsevents.org/site/TR?pg=team&fr_id=2073 7&team_id=743966). She’s also planning on donating to Locks of Love once her hair reaches the appropriate length.
“It kind of ties in with David because when he lost his hair, our entire family wanted to shave their heads too,” said the senior, who previously donated to Locks of Love as a sophomore. “I was only 14 [when David first got sick] so then I was afraid to do it... but then I realized it’s not that big of a deal. It’s hair, it grows back.” In a way, everything that Porter does traces back to her brother. Dave’s strength during his 14 month battle with cancer was inspiring. His ability to smile and make people laugh, even after a grueling day of therapy, is exactly what drives Porter to succeed in life. “Sometimes it is overwhelming but I kind of enjoy having a lot of things to do,” she explained. “I feel like I’m using my time to the best of my ability and not just sitting home watching TV.”
Have Clifton Merchant Mailed.
but due to problems with Bulk Mail Delivery $27/YEAR SUBSCRIPTION Sorry we no longer offer a $16 rate for Clifton Subscribers.
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Meet Dr. Charles D. Crowley and his Associates Todayʼs lifestyles require good eyesight, 24/7. Thatʼs why it makes sense to have your eyes carefully examined regularly. At Associated Eye Physicians, we take the time to thoroughly examine your eyes, test eye function and diagnose eye problems. What distinguishes Associated Eye Physicians? For starters, we offer all your vision needs under one roof, from contacts to cataracts. Next, we are renowned for our eye care and offer one of the finest private practices in northern New Jersey. Finally, expert physicians and personalized care. Our doctors have more than 60 years combined experience in vision care and will make your visit a positive one. —Dr. Charles D. Crowley
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Dr. Ceaser Pitta specializes in diseases of the retina including Macular Degeneration, Diabetic Retinopathy, Macular Holes, Macular Pucker as well as Detachment surgery. Landolfiʼs Michael Dr. expertise in cataract surgery including no-stitch cataract multi-focal and surgery intraocular lens implantation which reduces the need for glasses after surgery.
Q&A
Where will you be in September?
Megan Termyna: Attending the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences at Rutgers University majoring in pre-veterinary medicine. Rinam Seijari: College, because of my counselor. Angelica Paluch: In Felician College double majoring in nursing and teaching. I decided to go there because of their nursing program. Victoria Korty: I will be attending the School of Visual Arts in NYC as a film major. I decided on film after I fell in love with film making in my junior year. Rosalia Longobardo: College. My decision was made because I want to be successful in my life and college provides what I need. Christina Kata: Brown University, busy Emma Watson-hunting.
Pooja Kumra: I will be in college because I want to be successful. Adi Salmeron: I will be in college. I reached that decision because I want to do something that is good for myself, to bring my family’s name even higher. Jessica Bielen: Montclair State University. It was always the school that I wished to attend. Rafelina Reyes: I will be attending Montclair State University. Of all of my choices, it was my best option. Marko Milosevic: Montclair State, because it’s nearby and has the major I want to study. Dominick Marrone: In Missouri for boot camp for the Army Reserves. I reached that decision because I felt that it is my obligation to serve this great country because it has given so much to me.
Alexandra De Liberto: Attending LIM College in the City. I would love to learn more about fashion and marketing, and this was the perfect college to pursue that industry.
June 2010 • Clifton Merchant
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June 2010 • Clifton Merchant
Corey Meyer
Chelsea Rae Alessio
Corey Meyer: Montclair State University. Although I was accepted by numerous colleges, I chose Montclair so that I can continue to volunteer in my community. Ala’a Baker: Studying nursing at William Paterson University. Staphany Diaz: I will be attending William Paterson University. Amanda Scardigno: At Montclair State, majoring in education. My high school English teachers were a great inspiration. Lesly Moraes: Centenary College in Hackettstown offers me all I need. Chris Rangel: Passaic County Community College. George Grosz: Attending American International College in Springfield, MA. I made it there due to my hard work on and off the field. Cassandra Porter: The Fashion Institute of Technology because it not only allows me to receive the best hands on degree in fashion design, it is also in the heart of New York, a city of endless possibilities. Vasil Martiko: Rutgers New Brunswick. It’s in state and has a very diverse campus, like CHS. Giancarlo Enriquez: Rutgers Newark. It is not too far from home and because I will run cross country and track for the Scarlet Knights. Lisa Belford: At Passaic County Community College in Wanaque. It’s small and easy to adjust to.
Andrew Nader Saad
Lauren Hrina
Andrew Nader Saad: Passaic County Community College to study computer and video production. After, I will enroll in the predental program in Union College. Najat Helwani: Studying pre-med at Montclair State University. They offered me enough money to attent MSU for the next four years. Natalie Del Guidice: William Paterson University I have been accepted into the nursing program and honors college with a scholarship. Julio Rivera: I’ll be attending Bergen County Community College. When finances are an issue for college, you go to plan B. Emily Urciuoli: Yale University. I spent countless hours weighing the pros and cons of Yale and finally decided—just before the deadline— that Yale is where I will be the happiest and most secure on a route to a great career. Chelsea Rae Alessio: Bergen County Community College. I want to save money before going to a four year college. Sofia Black-D’Elia: Mason Gross School of the Arts as an acting major. It’s the third best acting program in the country... and I didn’t get in anywhere else, haha. Francesca Kareivis: I will be attending Rutgers University. Rutgers has been my dream school since freshman year.
Vasil Martiko
Reem Ibrahem: After discussing it with my parents, sister, and counselor, I have decided to attend Bergen Community College in order to save my family the money. In the long term, going to Bergen would only affect me in a positive way. Kaila O’Brien: Montclair State. I decided to go there because I am not positive as to what I want to do, so I didn’t want to go too far. Lauren Hrina: Montclair State. I decided I wanted to stay close to home where all my friends will be. Vera Atamian: I will be attending Montclair State University. Chandni Mistry: St. John’s University in Queens, NY. I arrived at this decision because the school offers a great Physician’s Assistant program, and the location is in the “city of my dreams – NYC”. Anmar Jobran: Montclair State University studying Bio-Chem, because I love science and especially chemistry. Jennie Tietjen: At William Paterson studying Speech Pathology. I decided to attend Willie P. because it is known to have a great program for Speech Pathology. Brandon Lonison: Rutgers because I wanted a good school with a nationally known name. Anayzah Thomas: Manhattanville College in Purchase, NY, the only school I had my heart set on. June 2010 • Clifton Merchant
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Q&A
Where will you be in September?
Joseph J. Seider: College—my mother told me to, so I applied. Hayfa Alasfar: In college and hopefully working on becoming a social worker, so I can help people that need someone there for them. My own social worker influenced me. She helped me in a lot of areas which made me want to help people. Hassan Hemeid: I will be attending Caldwell College in West Caldwell. MaryKate Wrigley: I will be in college. I have not chosen which one. Sylwia Zubek: I will go to Felician College for nursing. I reached my decision because I wanted to commute to school and stay close to home. Felician College has a good nursing program, and has been my dream school ever since. Agnieszka Kapusta: For the first two years at Kean before I transfer. Jessica Miles: I’’I’ll be at either Wesley College in Delaware or Mt. St. Vincent in New York. Kamila Kolodynska: Montclair State University. I wanted to stay close to home. Jesus Cabrera: WPU. Charlene Gustafson: Rowan University where I will study Communications. The school is a good distance to be on my own, has an excellent communications program, an excellent swim team. Elena Mauro: Going for a degree in Early Childhood Eduction at Bergen Community College. I was looking at other community colleges and found this to be the one that felt most comfortable for me. Monali Patel: At NJIT in the architecture program. It is a major that involves my favorite subjects, the arts and sciences. 30
June 2010 • Clifton Merchant
Mizar Hameid: I will be attending Bergen Community College in Paramus. I just need to work hard, wrap things up in Clifton and get ready for my big step up in life. Tricia Torley: My love for film editing brought about my decision to go to Full Sail University, a film school in Winter Park, Florida. Reena Mehta: Seton Hall University in South Orange. It is a great school being it has a law program and that it was a private college. I thought it would be a great place for me to go. Domenica Perrone: Boston, MA at Emerson College. That was my first choice school. It’s perfect for me. Jon Nikischer: The beautiful Paris Island to become a U. S. Marine. I reached this decision by God. Danielle Marsilla: Dorming at William Paterson University studying communications. I reached this decision because of the amazing CAST program at CHS. I felt very passionate about the communications field after taking CAST for three years and knew that was what I wanted to pursue. And WPU has a good communications program. Roxanne Lapeña: Fullerton College in California. I wanted to experience new things. Laurence Singh: I knew that I wanted to commute so that I could still live at home. I also knew that I wanted to go into engineering; I just wasn’t sure of what field. At Stevens Institute of Technology, I don’t have to declare an engineering major until my third semester. Also, Stevens has an incredible co-op program, allowing me to graduate, not only with a degree, but with years of work experience.
Leonard Wieczerzak: I will be attending Lincoln Tech in Mahwah studying automotive technology. In high school I took the automotive technology elective and almost instantaneously I was sure that this was what I was going to do for a career. Marcin Konefal: Penn State. Great school, rich history. Sharice Larode: Attending Kean University. I made this decision my junior year of high school and receiving the acceptance letter made my decision final. Courtney Scheibner: At WPU studying nursing. Fernando Reynoso: In the United States Army, graduating from basic training. I want to serve my country, and want to take the opportunity now that I am able to. Jonathan Monge: William Paterson University. I decided to attend that college because of my career interest in criminal justice. Alonzo Thomas: I will be studying music at Globe Institute of Technology in New York. I will also run on the track team.
Vanessa Pinto: Rutgers New Brunswick because I can live away from home but still be close. E. J. Egyed: Rochester Institute of Technology in NY which offers the most in the information and science technologies area. Nicholas Lichtenberger: William Paterson University. Melissa Ayers: Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C. majoring in music education. Catholic was my first choice. Michelle Boustani: Bergen County Community College, then to William Paterson University for Spring 2011. Michelle Ferrara: At Fairfield University, not only a good fit major wise, but also a good one financially. Hetal Lad: Rutgers taking classes in biology. Rutgers was my goal. Hudson Veloso: At NJIT, majoring in architecture because it is one of the best schools in NJ for architecture. Paulina Stefaniak: WPU. I reached that decision at an open house after realizing it was the college for me.
Jake Wilson: NYU Stern. It’s one of the most prestigious business schools in the country, and it’s located in my favorite place in the world. Jake Gebbia: Montclair State University; it was easier for my family financially and I’m close. Christopher Lainson: NJIT, the best place to get an engineering degree. Daniel Bartlett: Penn State. I felt it was the best fit academically for me. Kevin Aquino: Montclair State. I prefer to stay close to home. Bryana Arlington: At Marymount Manhattan College. I have always loved the city, so I figured what better place for me to be living and learning. The school is also small and private so I like the idea of having a more personal college experience. Kevin Meade: Kean University because it is the best fit for my career. Krystie Santos: FDU. I reached that decision after weeks of looking. James Komar: Villanova University, majoring in nursing because of their excellent program and school spirit.
Ryan Gradzki: Kean University. Kerry Sorenson: At Fordham University. I’ve always aspired to run track for a Division 1 school. Jennifer Moran: Dover Business College to be a medical assistant. Christian Jaeger: Kean. I wanted to stay local and it was best for me. Andrea Villanova: Penn State, a large school, not too far from home. And the coaching staff and rugby team is exactly what I was looking for. Anahi Gonzalez: MSU. Daphne Bienkiewicz: Rutgers University gave me the best financial aid; it is an exceptional school. George DelVillar: Kean University and it has my major, criminal justice. Holly Romanek: Montclair State University. It’s close and affordable. Chris Birkner: To a trade school. Christine Diaz: Rutgers in New Brunswick. I like the environment and their engineering program. Angelica Zapata: MSU. Josean Moquillaza: Rutgers Newark.
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June 2010 • Clifton Merchant
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Q&A
Who was your greatest influence?
Christine Diaz: By far, my parents, because they are genuinely hard workers who support my every decision, and have taught me that I can overcome any struggle that comes my way. Jake Wilson: My mom, who always pushed me to work to my full potential and “keep my eyes on the prize.” I owe a lot of my success to her. Michelle Ferrara: My teachers and coaches because they inspired morals and knowledge that span far beyond any classroom or playing field. Kerry Sorenson: John Pontes. Along with being my coach for 11 seasons of track and cross country, he has inspired and motivated me to go after my dreams. Nicholas Lichtenberger: My greatest influence was my Italian teacher, Mrs. Rossi. She enforced honesty, which is now very important. She also taught me that if you push yourself hard enough, you will get a great reward. Jon Nikischer: Chesty Puller. Sharice Larode: That would be my mother and grandmother. Kevin Aquino: My brother. Krystie Santos: My mom.
Hudson Veloso: My dad because he always pushed me to get better grades and he told me to do something productive with my free time. Roxanne Lapeña: My aunt. She always believed in everything I did. She supported me, always. She gave me advice for everything I went through during high school. Anayzah Thomas: My 11th grade history teacher, Mr. Henry. Melissa Ayers: Mr. Morgan. He truly impacted me as a student and musician. Daniel Bartlett: My brother was always pushing me to do better and be the best I could be at both sports and school. James Komar: Mrs. Brach, my calculus teacher. She always found a way to make math fun, and always tolerated us in class. Christopher Lainson: My greatest influence are my parents. Alonzo Thomas: Coach Pontes was my greatest influence because he always taught me valuable lessons that will follow me both on and off the track. Fernando Reynoso: My brother, my mother, and by observing fellow classmates make mistakes and me not doing the same wrong thing.
Francesca Kareivis: Mrs. Turk, the Key Club advisor. She is a great woman, and I hope to be like her one day. Kevin Meade: My family. They supported me with everything that I did and will continue to support me. Holly Romanek: My 7th and 8th grade english teacher, Mrs. Herwitt. She inspired me to become a teacher. I also have to include my mom and Babcia. Jonathan Monge: My father. Daphne Bienkiewicz: My cross country coach, Mr. Pontes. Marcin Konefal: Mom. Christian Jaeger: My parents kept me motivated to try and achieve my best.
To the Class of 2010...
We Applaud Your Achievements Assemblyman Thomas P. Giblin State of New Jersey 1333 Broad St., Clifton, NJ 07013 office: 973-779-3125
www.assemblymangiblin.com 32
June 2010 • Clifton Merchant
Jennifer Moran
Kevin Meade
Justyna Felusiak: Definitely my parents, who were there supporting me every step of the way. Thanks Mom and Dad! Josean Moquillaza: My mother. Vanessa Pinto: My family who pushed me to succeed. Jennifer Moran: My parents because they always believed in me and supported me in everything I did. Also my sisters Glen Coco and little hodi, my partners in crime. Hetal Lad: My parents and their experiences. Ryan Gradzki: Corey Meyer and Kevin Meade. Leonard Wieczerzak: My auto technology teacher, Mr. Wash. He proved to me that nothing is impossible and that when you are faced with hurdles you jump over them. Jake Gebbia: My parents. Bryana Arlington: Mr. McCunney and the CAST program definitely had the biggest influence on me in Clifton High. It helped me figure out a career path that’s right for me. Paulina Stefaniak: My two greatest influences in all four years in high school were Ms. Craig (retired in 2007) and Mrs. Tietjen. Chris Birkner: My parents. George DelVillar: Mom and dad. Michelle Boustani: My parents are absolutely amazing and have always encouraged me to do my best.
Agnieszka Kapusta
Christopher Lainson
Angelica Zapata: My Mom. She is my inspiration. Domenica Perrone: Mrs. Zarabi. Agnieszka Kapusta: My mom, she has pushed me to do my best. Jessica Miles: The greatest influences in my life are my parents. They have shown me how hard work can pay off. They taught me how to work hard for something that I want and I love them for that. Alexa Patti: My greatest influence is my sister. She is the eighth wonder of the world when it comes to being accomplished in school, and I strive to be just as good. Charlene Gustafson: My former coach Vlad. He was with me since I was 11 and has helped me become the person and athlete I am today. Kaila O’Brien: Mom. She has taught me everything I know. She is my best friend and I don’t know where I would be without her. Brandon Lonison: My brother, Steve Lonison. Vera Atamian: My parents support me and are so proud. Monali Patel: Gregory House. He taught me that even if you suffer, you have to make the best of it and move on. I can’t forget my Aunt, Taral. Jennie Tietjen: My greatest influences are my parents because they are always there for support when needed and always pushing me to do my best.
Vera Atamian
Anmar Jobran: My coach and my parents were because they encouraged me to be a track and field athlete and also helped me to become a better person. Sylwia Zubek: Coach Doktor, my varsity volleyball coach. I’ve been on varsity for three years and he taught me how to be a good leader and become a stronger person and that’s how I became captain my senior year.
Andrea Villanova: Through my life, my father has shown me the benefits of working hard and the consequences of laziness, but through the priorities he has helped me to set, he also has shown me the importance of having fun. He is also my largest source of support and my greatest cheerleader. June 2010 • Clifton Merchant
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Victoria Korty: Mr. McCunney. He has taught me numerous things related to film production and really inspired my career goal. (The students pictured here from left, Tricia Torley, Victoria Korty and Sean Steinfeldt were cited by Mr. McCunney as three outstanding and gifted workers). Mizar Hameid: Ms. Lynn Dee Becker, speednotes/college key boarding teacher, and my mom. Laurence Singh: Both my parents have jobs, sometimes even holding down multiple jobs so that my brother and I can live comfortably while receiving the best education possible. In recent years, especially, it has been a struggle. But my parents have managed to not let my brother or me feel the brunt of this difficult situation, while also keeping us aware of what was going on. I know that this has been a hard balance for them to maintain, and I deeply appreciate it, as well as the love they’ve shown me through all my life. They have taught me the value of hard work, kindness, and integrity. They are two of the biggest reasons that I have been as successful as I have. Reem Ibrahem: My mom with my sister coming in second. My mother always knew the advice to give and when to give it, easily became my guiding hand through the years. Kamila Kolodynska: My mom. She kept me going whenever I felt like I was falling. Jesus Cabrera: The CHS football and wrestling coaches. Elena Mauro: My parents and guidance counselors. 34
June 2010 • Clifton Merchant
Joseph J. Seider: John F. Kennedy, the greatest president. Chandni Mistry: My mom was my greatest influence. She encouraged and supported me in every decision of my high school career. Hayfa Alasfar: My parents because they always encouraged me and pushed me to succeed. One thing they always told me was to not make the same mistakes they made, and to think of my future. Hassan Hemeid: My mom, who always tells me to do my best at anything I do, and to never lose hope in something you want in life. MaryKate Wrigley: My parents. They have taught me so much, and have instilled confidence in me. They have helped me become the person I am today. Andrew Nader Saad: In the last 12 years, I’ve had many positive and negative experiences. I was influenced much by my mom, who always encourages me. She strongly believes that there is hope, and that with God, all things are possible. Rafelina Reyes: Family and friends. Adi Salmeron: My greatest influences right now are teachers and my old best friend that I’ll never forget. Ala’a Baker: My parents support me in everything I do.
Alexandra De Liberto: My parents. They always taught me to do my best and never give up. Marko Milosevic: My brother, Sergio made me into who I am today. Vasil Martiko: Mrs. Brach Christina Kata: Myself. Cassandra Porter: My greaatest influence is my brother, David, because he showed me no matter how bad your situation appears to be there is always a way to overcome your obstacles in life. George Grosz: Everyone that helped me succeed, from my teachers, coaches, Joe Carini, my strength coach, to my parents, they all had a huge influence on me. Staphany Diaz: My parents, for unconditional love and support. Chris Rangel: My parents. Corey Meyer: My older brother, Robert Meyer, who always taught me to strive for excellence. Julio Rivera: Jesus Christ. Lesly Moraes: Family and friends. Amanda Scardigno: My family always encouraged me. Lisa Belford: My mom Whenever things got tough, she was always there to push me through it. Pooja Kumra: My older sister and boyfriend.
Natalie Del Guidice: My sister, Erica proves that hard work pays off because she is in the accelerated teaching program at Rutgers University in New Brunswick. She will graduate with her Masters. Najat Helwani My aunt. Her advice has helped me through a lot of difficult situations. She also encourages me to continuously fight for what I’m worth. Shanoui Gunn: My mom is my back bone and support system. She is the one person always there for me, good times and bad. She has never let me down and after all that she’s done for me, I refuse to let her down. Giancarlo Enriquez: My parents because they have always believed in me and support me in everything I do. Sofia Black-D’Elia: My parents! Chelsea Rae Alessio: My mom, because she does everything: work, clean, cook and it’s a good influence to have because that’s how I want to be. Emily Urciuoli: Without a doubt, my parents, who have been to every sporting event and have supported me with every decision. Track Coach John Pontes for being more of a mentor and inspiration than I could have imagined. Rinam Seijari; My sister. Rosalia Longobardo: My mom, Sylvia and Francesca. James Sahanas: My mom, Coach Pontes, and close friends. They have always been there to lead me in the right path and make sure I never give up.
Angelica Paluch: Mom. I love her with all my heart and no matter what it was that I chose to do in school she supported me 100%.
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June 2010 • Clifton Merchant
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Mom Knew Best
Story by Joseph Hawrylko
Megan’s greatest influence is also an awesome advocate Megan Termyna is a prestigious Bloustein Scholar, having placed in the top ten percent of her class while taking several Honors and AP courses. She’s also a four year member of the elite Marching Mustangs, serving in the color guard, and has played on the Lady Mustangs lacrosse team for the past three years. In what little spare time she has, Termyna volunteers at the animal shelter. Not bad for a kid who, in just the first grade, was diagnosed with ADD, hearing issues and a reading disability—and was subsequently dismissed by doctors and teachers as someone who would never succeed academically. “My mom’s a teacher. In the first grade, she noticed I wasn’t learning the way my other sisters were,” she recalled. When Termyna’s mother, Karen, approached the school, administrators said that there was no reason for the test. Instead, she went to a private doctor, who delivered the prognosis and insisted that Termyna was destined for a life of mediocrity. Despite the results, the school was unwilling to help. “They said they couldn’t help me until I started failing, doing extremely poorly or started showing behavioral problems,” recalled Termyna. “They said she’s going to be one of those kids who slips through the cracks. She doesn’t have the hyperactivity part of ADD, so she won’t get the attention she needs. Ironically, they also found that, despite the hearing loss, I’m a very strong auditory learner.” That wasn’t the answer mom was expecting, and she certainly wasn’t about to allow her daughter to lag behind in school.
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“In the second grade, I would have giant pieces of chart paper, and I’d have to write all of my spelling words five times in different color markers,” said Termyna. Her mom, who teaches fourth grade at School 15, would come home and help her daughter study each evening. “It was really hard to overcome,” she recalled. “All of my other friends were outside riding their bikes, and
I was inside learning how to spell and read, doing extra work. I have to work twice as hard as everyone else just to do half as well. Kids made fun of me. I got teased a lot, especially if I had to read in front of the class.” Throughout most of elementary school, Termyna was reading at a level two to three years behind her peers. It wasn’t until fifth grade that she caught up... and then, in her own words, ‘it just clicked.’ “I made the Honor Roll for the first time in the sixth grade. That was exciting,” admitted Termyna. The drastic improvement was a result of her own hard work and her mother’s never-ending support—no drugs or corrective surgery. “My mom’s really proud of me, but she always says don’t get too full of yourself,” she laughed. In high school, Termyna elected to take honors classes, and eventually moved up to AP. Even after the switch, her marks consistently remained high, allowing Termyna to finish in the top ten percent of her class, while juggling her duties in the Marching Mustangs, girls lacrosse and the year book committee. Still, despite naturally overcoming her disabilities, Termyna concedes that school can still be a challenge. “Homework still takes a long time. I’m a chronic procrastinator,” she laughed. “A simple worksheet that’s maybe 25 questions will take me an hour and a half, where as it will take others maybe 45 minutes.” Termyna’s only regret while at CHS is that her heavy workload as a senior—she is taking AP English, biology and chemistry—has forced her to temporarily quit volunteering at the animal shelter, where she’s been a fixture since she was 12. However, after graduation, Termyna
plans to return before leaving for Rutgers, where she plans to major in pre-vet. “I just always really loved animals,” she laughed. “My first word was dog. Things were kind of set after that.”
And as far as Termyna’s greatest influence? “My mom because when everyone else didn’t believe I would amount to anything, she encouraged me to work hard and do my best. She is responsible for helping me become the person I am today.”
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Q&A
What was your favorite class?
Rafelina Reyes: I would have to say Mr. Meck’s biology class. Who can forget the cell song? Or the t-shirt of our digestive system? (which, in fact, is still hanging in my closet.) Cassandra Porter: Junior year, Mr. Henry’s history class. Although we had an enormous workload it was worth because I enjoyed the class and learned more than in any other. Domenica Perrone: English with Dr. Greenwald! Marko Milosevic: Auto tech with Mr. Wash. Vasil Martiko: Business management with Mr. Lopresti. Great fun. Julio Rivera: English with Ashworth, chemistry with Lincoln, and history with Henry. Giancarlo Enriquez: My favorite class was French because Ms. Graff made the three years fun. She was a great person and I learned a lot.
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June 2010 • Clifton Merchant
Amanda Scardigno: English. Brian Vidaurre: Math, because Mr. Ewas is the best. Shanoui Gunn: Pre-calculus with Mrs. Brach where the jokes go on forever; gym with Mrs. D’Argenio and our over the top class; health with Mr. Pontes; drama with Mrs. Eisenmenger; working with Ms. Cali and Alexa in office work; and laughing away the whole period in physics junior year with some of the previous seniors (Elo and Chels)! Staphany Diaz: Ms. Graff’s French IV because it feels like a family. Reena Mehta: CAST. Chelsea Rae Alessio: Health class because Mr. Pontes is hilarious. Natalie Del Guidice: AP psychology because the topics truly fascinated me. It is interesting to learn how the brain develops and affects each person individually.
Hudson Veloso: Technical drafting. I took it all four years and I learned how to draw buildings and objects on the computer using CAD programs. Jessica Bielen: Ms. Anderson’s honors English class junior year. Jennifer Moran: Mr. Doktor’s computer class, biology with Mr. Meck. Chris Rangel: Mr. Marucci’s.
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Ala’a Baker: I enjoyed all equally, but sign language was really fun. Lisa Belford: Mrs. Roger’s English. Sofia Black-D’Elia: It’s a close call between Mr. Bell’s and Mr. Roger’s history classes. Julio Rivera: Senior French class because we had known each other for four years and became a family. Laurence Singh: Even though I am a math and science person, we read the greatest stories sophomore year English and Literature: Ender’s Game, Lord of the Flies, Julius Caesar, Twelfth Night. We also had some very fun and creative projects. Corey Meyer: Environmental science. Josean Moquillaza: Environmental science. Anmar Jobran: Environmental Science with Mrs. Steransak. Mrs. Steransack with Al DuBois, Clifton’s Recycling Coordinator and students during a class on recycling plastics.
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June 2010 • Clifton Merchant
Francesca Kareivis: My favorite class was Mrs. Steransak’s Environmental Science Period 2. Kevin Aquino: Environmental science. Lauren Hrina: Environmental Science with Mrs. Steransak.
Emily Urciuoli: Mr. Roger’s European history class. I don’t think I have learned more about history, modern affairs, or about myself than in his riveting discussions. Alexandra De Liberto: Senior year English with Mr. Ashworth.
Education is the Key Edwardo Gonzales embraced America’s opportunity Story by Joseph Hawrylko He heard it all his life, from both family and friends: A good education will lead to success. Edwardo Gonzales’ parents believe in that concept so much they took their savings and used it to send the 10 year old to New Jersey to live with older siblings in 2002. In a new country, thousands of miles from home, he labored to learn English. Gonzales assimilated into a new culture, worked hard and now finds himself on the cusp of graduation—the first in his family to attend college in the United States. “I actually came with my mom, but she had to leave after a couple months because my dad was getting sick,” explained Gonzales. “We were a close family. That was the first time we split. He kind of felt emotional and started getting sick. I have a lot of family in Mexico too.” Unwilling to waiver on the commitment to their son’s education, Gonzales’ parents made the decision to leave their child in the care of his three older brothers and three sisters. “I didn’t really know what was going on,” said Gonzales. “The only memories I have of Mexico is everything that happened when I came over.” “They’re my parents. I see them a lot but mostly my brother, Jose,” continued Gonzales. “He went to college in Mexico. He encourages me to focus on my education.” Gonzales first lived in Passaic, where he attended middle school. “Most people there were Hispanic, so at first I felt like I kind of fit in.,” he recalled. “But I came to a land that I did not know too well. Every street felt the same.” ESL courses in school helped Gonzales gradually learn English. After a couple of years of living in his new country, he began to feel at ease in American culture. When the Gonzales family moved to Clifton five years ago, it became apparent that the youngest sibling had marks high enough to pursue a higher education. “It’s sometimes nerve wracking,” Gonzales said of his own standards of keeping his grades high. “They support me a lot. If I do something bad or I’m not doing it as good as they think I should, I’ll probably disappoint them.”
The past four years of hard work were rewarded with an acceptance letter from New Jersey Institute of Technology in Newark. However, ever conscious of the sacrifices made to give him such an opportunity, and given the cost of NJIT, Gonzales said he will likely begin his studies at Passaic County Community College, earn an Associate Degree and then transfer. The budget-conscious graduate has expressed an interest in engineering as a career, making NJIT Gonzales’ top choice. But even if he ultimately chooses to pursue a different career, Gonzales knows he now has the opportunity to do so, thanks to the sacrifices to his family members. In the end, he’ll express his gratitude by earning a Bachelor Degree—or maybe even higher degrees. “My family, encourage me, a lot every day,” he said. “All of them tell me education is the key. It’s important to me for my future.” June 2010 • Clifton Merchant
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Chris Birkner
Christine Diaz
Tricia Torley: Drama, freshman year with Brandon, Sean, Jess and Carolina. Najat Helwani: Chemistry class sophomore year. I not only left the class learning some chemistry, I also got some life lessons. Christine Diaz: Dr. Greenwald’s English class. Paulina Stefaniak: My all time favorite class was beginning microsoft word with Ms. Craig. Jonathan Monge: Environmental science with Ms. Steransak and English II with Mr. Hirsh.
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George DelVillar
Hayta Alasfar
Kevin Meade: Ms. Saddik’s English honors class. Krystie Santos: Mr. Henry’s honors history class sophomore year. Angelica Zapata: English is my favorite subject and I’ve had the pleasure of having great teachers: sophomore year with Ms. Halbrecht and senior year with Dr. Greenwald. Vanessa Pinto: First period CAST with Mr. McCunney. Sharice Larode: My favorite classes would be French 4 with Ms. Graff, speednotes with Ms. Becker, and English with Ms. Saddik.
Hudson Veloso
Roxanne Lapeña: Mr. Lappin’s physics class, junior year. Michelle Ferrara: I have a few but mostly because of my teachers. Mr. Rogers for AP Euro who I had as a freshman and senior, as well as Ms. Graff who I have had for French since sophomore year. Justyna Felusiak: Definitely business law with Mr. Lopresti. This was when I was first introduced to different types of law and the first time I got to explore my interest in law. Marcin Konefal: Mr. Harding’s AP history class. Please turn to page 46
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306 Said Yes to Bobby CHS Senior & City Council Candidate Though he was ultimately unsuccessful in his bid for a City Council seat on May 11, Bobby Klingler is certain that his future is in politics. He envisions himself as an individual whom residents can approach for answers, someone who helps shape concensus, creates momentum for change and sees it through. “It was very inspiring to see how Obama was able to rally the people behind his cause,” said Klingler of the 2008 Presidential campaign. “I pretty much followed and studied elections before I decided to run and then I learned more and more about politics.” Though he did not win one of the seven open seats, the CHS senior said the experience alone made his campaigning efforts worthwhile. “Mr. Frankel (who was Klingler’s freshman computer teacher and a mentor) said only good will come of this,” added the senior. Klingler’s bid for a Council seat was partially impeded when he contacted the city’s legal department and learned that he needed to be 18 years and 54 days old to have his named placed on a ballot. Because he did not meet that criteria, he ran as a write-in candidate. That meant voters would have to actually punch in his name into the computer at the voting booth, rather than click a button below his name on the ballot. He finished with 306 votes. So how did he decide to run for an elected office at the age of 17 year and 311 days of age? “My biggest inspiration is definitely my mom [Rose],” he said. “She’s not in politics, but my mom is very inspirational to me.” Klingler, who will head to Drew University in Madison this fall on an academic scholarship to study political science and law, said he also drew inspiration from other youthful politicians across the nation. And then there was 2009 CHS grad, Carlo Santulli, who ran for the Board of Ed last year. “I decided I was going to run before I heard of him running,” said Klingler. “But Carlo was very inspiring to me as well. He came from no where.” Despite the odds faced as a write-in candidate, Klingler was optimistic, and received support from friends and family and even from the general public. Perhaps most challenging for Klingler was preparing for the myriad of interviews and debate forums leading 44
June 2010 • Clifton Merchant
Story by Joe Hawrylko
up to the election. He kept his campaign platform simple: be honest, strive for consensus, especially between the Board of Education members and the Mayor and City Council, and lower taxes, if possible. “I went door to door to get the message out, especially in Botany Village,” added Klingler. Though he did encounter a few individuals who were resistant to an 18 year old’s opinions, most allowed the candidate to explain his viewpoints. Klingler said the most memorable response he received was a letter from an older woman, who congratulated him for having the courage to run. Despite his defeat, Klingler said that this won’t be the last time Clifton residents see his name on a ballot. Klingler, who hopes to enter law school after his undergrad work, has his eyes on an upcoming election. “I might run for the Board of Ed next year,” he said, pondering the timing. “The term would expire right before the next Council election.”
June 2010 • Clifton Merchant
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Q&A
What was your favorite class?
Fernando Reynoso: World history senior year with Mr. Presley. E. J. Egyed: Java, computer programming. Hetal Lad: My favorite class was Algebra II with Mrs. Buzzelli. Jake Wilson: European history with Mr. Rogers. Danielle Marsilla: My favorite class was definitely CAST. Everyone in CAST has become friends and are one big group. Also, Mr. McCunney, the teacher, has been a great influence on me. He’s the best teacher in the school. Christopher Lainson: Band because I love music. Holly Romanek: My philosophy class last year with Mr. Hlat and this year’s gym class. Jake Gebbia: Sophomore year, Mr. Wu’s chemistry class. Jon Nikischer: Hockey gym.
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Anayzah Thomas: Biology class in my sophomore year and English class this year. Daphne Bienkiewicz: Dr. Greenwald’s AP english class. Nicholas Lichtenberger: Band class was my favorite class because it was a great way to play music and release any stress from my day. Melissa Ayers: Definitely French 4 with Ms. Graff. Daniel Bartlett: CAST. James Komar: Calculus. We had a lot of fun and had a great class, but also learned a lot. Hopefully I will be getting a 5 on the AP test. Andrea Villanova: AP psychology with Ms. Delorenzo. Anahi Gonzalez: Mrs. Becker’s 3rd period speednotes class senior year. Bryana Arlington: CAST with Mr. McCunney, English with Mrs. Hamilton.
Alonzo Thomas: Senior health with Coach Pontes. Ryan Gradzki: Forensic science with Mr. Neff. Michelle Boustani: Gym with Belbruno because he is hilarious, or English with Ashworth senior year. He’s awesome. Christian Jaeger: General art with Ms. Fox. That was the year my best works were created. Elena Mauro: Computer with Mrs. Friedburg. I like to type, it was fun. It’s the easiest class in all my four years in high school. Chandni Mistry: French III. Agnieszka Kapusta: History, freshman year with Mr. Bell. Brandon Lonison: Phys Ed. Hayfa Alasfar: English junior year because I had all my friends and my teacher made the class fun. Alexa Patti: Besides Calculus my senior year, Band Class. It was a relief in my day to go to a class with such a unique dynamic.
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Q&A
What was your favorite class?
Reem Ibrahem: Ms. Sauchelli’s Design Application class, junior year. We managed to create art, have fun, chill. An awesome teacher. Jesus Cabrera: Senior English. Mizar Hameid: Ms. Lynn Dee Becker’s Speednotes/College Keyboarding. Jennie Tietjen: My favorite class was junior year Honors English with Mrs. Hamilton. She has been one of my favorite teachers. I learned so much from her and looked forward to starting my day with her. Jessica Miles: My favorite class was Period 2 Speednotes with Ms. Lynn D. Becker. Hassan Hemeid: Philosophy with the one and only Mr. Presley! Charlene Gustafson: American History Honors with Mr. Lesler. Very entertaining and I learned more history than I thought possible.
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Vera Atamian: Design Applications with Ms. Sauchelli. So much fun! Joseph J. Seider: Band Class and Music Theory. MaryKate Wrigley: Choir Kaila O’Brien: Sign Language and Cast Zero Period. Ms. Schmidt made it so much fun and I learned so much from Mr. McCunney. Kamila Kolodynska: Ms. Zak’s Math class. Megan Termyna: Biology with Mrs. Tobey, chemistry with Mr. Wu, physics with Mr. Younghouse, environmental science with Mrs. Staransak, AP chemistry with Mr. Chil and AP biology with Dr. Devine. American history honors with Mr. Henry and Mrs. Dennison, sign language with Ms. Schmidt, AP English with Dr. Greenwald, yearbook with Mr. Kopko. Pooja Kumra: Cooking, algebra.
Rinam Seijari: Mr. Arts and Mrs. Linzenbold. Monali Patel: Ms. Mascaro’s Studio Art class (all four years). Sylwia Zubek: Sign Language. I took it junior and senior years and it taught me about the deaf community. Victoria Korty: Either CAST or art history because both classes taught me a great deal about art. Christina Kata: AP history – both US and Euro. Angelica Paluch: Freshman history CP with Mr. Presley. He made me fall in love with the subject all over again. He had the ability to make everyone feel comfortable and welcome; we truly had our own little family in that class. James Sahanas: Mr. Presley’s freshman history class. Not only did he teach us a great deal of history, but he was very insightful and philosophical and taught us important things about life. Rosalia Longobardo: Geometry.
CHS Top 10
Not Pictured: Laurence Singh
Story by Carol Leonard • Photo by Tom Hawrylko
With a graduating class of more than 600 students, being named among the “Top 10” scholars in the CHS Class of 2010 is truly a prestigious accomplishment. And while some may think that the members of this academically elite group spent all their time buried in their studies, each of these students was also involved in activities outside of the classroom that are an important part of their achievements. Turn the pages to learn a little more about each of the CHS Top 10 students. June 2010 • Clifton Merchant
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Finishing first in her class, Janki Patel is excited and proud of the honor that has been bestowed upon her as the valedictorian. “I was really shocked to finish first,” she said. “There are so many smart kids in the school.” The oldest child of two immigrants from India, Patel feels fortunate to have grown up in a diverse community like Clifton. She says that the experience of being among people of different races, religions and economic backgrounds has influenced her to be open-minded and willing to try new things. The lifelong Clifton resident attended School 13 and Woodrow Wilson Middle School before moving up to CHS. One of the most influential experiences in her life was a trip she took to her parents’ homeland when she finished sixth grade. When the plane landed, she said she could see her mother’s eyes fill with tears of happiness. She asked her parents why they left India if they loved it so much and their reply was that they wanted a better life for themselves and their children. “I understood this when my dad opened the doors to his house in Chanasma, his village,” she said. “The house was dusty and full of cobwebs, the kitchen barely fit the height and girth of one person, and the toilets were mere holes in the ground. I can only image the difficulties my parents faced in the past. My new awareness of their sufferings formulated my dedication to knowledge and heightened my compassion for others.” Patel’s academic achievements at CHS include completion of advanced placement college level courses in biology, chemistry, calculus, statistics and English. She was named Biology Student of the Year as a freshman, and in her junior year was named Physics Student of the Year. She served as vice president of the National Honor Society and as treasurer and vice president of the Botany Club. She also was an active member of the CHS chapter of the Key Club, a service organization affiliated with the Kiwanis Club. One of her favorite activities with the Key Club was performing at the Giggles Theater in the pediatric unit of St. Joseph’s Hospital & Medical Center in Paterson. She also volunteered with the group at the Clifton Harvestfest and assisted parents on Back-to-School Night. Outside of school, Patel was a volunteer at St. Joseph’s and at the KinderCare program at the Clifton Boys & Girls Club. In the fall she will attend Rutgers University, where 50
June 2010 • Clifton Merchant
she will major in biology, and hopes to go on to medical school to become a pediatrician. She said that her interest in pediatric medicine stems from personal experience with family members with medical conditions. Her younger brother has asthma and another young family member suffered with a serious heart ailment. “My parents always impressed upon me that knowledge paves the path to achievement,” said Patel. “At Rutgers, I can pursue my education and attain the better life that my parents wanted for me.” Delivering the salutatory address at graduation will be Jake Wilson, who finished second in the class academic rankings. A former School 5 and Woodrow Wilson Middle School student, Wilson is perhaps best known around CHS for his lead roles in the spring musicals over the past four years. These included The Sound of Music during his freshman year, 42 Street in his sophomore year, Rent last year and The Wizard of Oz this spring. His favorite of these shows was Rent, a story based in New York’s East Village in the 1980’s, in which Wilson played the role of a rock singer diagnosed with HIV. “I had never played a role with such depth and intensity,” he said. “I liked the relevance of the story to issues we face in society today.” Wilson was also a percussionist in the Mustang Marching Band and the school orchestra, and sang with the Concert Choir and the Madrigal Singers. “I have a passion for singing,” he said. He was selected for the All-Region and All-State High School choruses his sophomore year and the All-Region Chorus again this year. Wilson feels that his academic achievements at CHS were enhanced by two trips that he took to Italy. The first of these was when he was 13. “Although I have always been a self-proclaimed history buff, I didn’t expect how much my surroundings would fascinate and inspire me,” he said. Wilson explained that when he entered high school, his course selections began to reflect his newly discovered interests from his experience visiting Italy. “When we covered the Italian Renaissance in world history class, I had the advantage of supplementing my studies with my personal memories and knowledge of my beloved Florence,” he said. “During the slideshows about Renaissance artists in my art history class, I
beamed as I laid eyes on paintings and sculptures that I had admired in the Accademia and the Uffizi museums.” Wilson chose Italian for his high school language requirement his freshman year, and enjoyed learning the language so much that he continued it through all four years at CHS. He said that his dedication to the language served him well when he took his second trip to Italy last summer. Although most people expected Wilson to head toward a career in the arts, he has chosen to enroll in the Stern School of Business at New York University in the fall, where he will most likely major in marketing, with a minor in Italian. “We’re very pragmatic in our family,” he said. “I didn’t want to deal with the uncertainty of employment in music or acting.” Although he won’t make a career of performing, Wilson said that it will always be a big part of his life, and he looks forward to taking some elective courses at NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts.
Laurence Singh won’t be giving a speech at graduation, but being ranked third in the class is certainly something of which he has a right to be proud. Singh moved to Clifton from Carlstadt after sixth grade. He attended Christopher Columbus Middle School before moving on to CHS. One of the top science students in his class, Singh is a member of the CHS Junior Engineering and Technical Society, better known around the school as JETS. Members of the group use physics to try and solve real world engineering problems. He also served as a chemistry tutor. He is a self-described “die-hard Yankee fan,” who, in addition to baseball, also enjoys basketball, football and hockey. He also likes to keep himself in good physical shape by taking part in the after school strength
Congratulations to the Class of 2010! St. Andrew the Apostle School 418 Mt. Prospect Ave. Clifton • 973.473.3711
www.StAndrewsSchoolClifton.catholicweb.com Call and Register Now for our September Classes
Vincenzo Kline
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David Fernandez
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Alyssa Link
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Cassidy Cardone
Catherine Mulick
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Summer Experience! Courtney Carlson
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training and conditioning program at the high school. Singh loves music, and among his favorite performers are U2, Bon Jovi, the Goo-Goo Dolls, Billy Joel, Michael Jackson and Elvis. His Jehovah Witness religion has been a big influence in his life, and he is a volunteer teacher of the Bible. “My education of the Bible has taught me the value of integrity, so I strive to be honest in all my dealings, leading to good relations with my teachers and peers,” he said. Singh will attend Stevens Institute of Technology in the fall. He was also accepted to New Jersey Institute of Technology, but he said he chose Stevens because of the strong reputation of its engineering co-op program, which provides students with valuable work experience. He is not sure yet in what area of engineering he will major. Fourth ranked Christina Kata attended School 13 and Woodrow Wilson Middle School before moving up to CHS. A well-rounded student, Kata’s class schedule this year includes advanced placement courses in biology, chemistry, calculus, English and European history. But even with the time demands of these college level courses, she has been involved in a variety of extracurricular activities. She has been a member of the school’s Academic Decathlon Team for all four years. This year the team qualified for the state competition for the first time in eight years and, individually, Kata finished 15th among more than 60 students competing in the event. The theme was the French Revolution. She also is a member of the track team, the Conservation Club, the Botany Club and a new organization formed this year for aspiring female scientists and engineers. Kata plans to enroll next year at Brown University, where she intends to major in sociology. She chose the Ivy League school over acceptances to Rutgers and New York Universities and Boston College. She explained that Brown is one of only a few schools that offers a Bachelor of Science as opposed to a Bachelor of Arts degree in sociology. Since she hopes to pursue a career in the field of public health, she feels that Brown’s program will better prepare her for this ambition.
Support Project Graduation! To contribute, help out or for details, call Maryann Cornett: 201-341-4602 52
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Colleen Reynolds, the number five ranking member of the Class of 2010, will be headed off to the University of Pennsylvania this fall, where she will enter the School of Engineering. She said she may major in chemical engineering. She was also accepted to Carnegie Mellon, Cornell, Penn State and Rutgers universities, but chose U Penn because she liked the atmosphere of the campus and the research programs the school has to offer. The School 16 and Woodrow Wilson Middle School alumnus will leave behind memories of four years as a member of the CHS Mustang Marching Band, where she was a trumpet player. In addition to the band, Reynolds was also a four-year member of the high school track team during the winter and spring seasons, competing in events in sprinting, hurdles and pole vault. Her academic program at CHS included advanced placement courses in chemistry, physics, calculus, psychology and US history. Last summer she was chosen to attend the highly competitive Governor’s School of the Sciences at Drew University, which she feels has helped prepare her for the demands of her upcoming college program. Outside of school, Reynolds has been a volunteer at her church as well as at the Clifton library and the Liberty Science Center. Finishing sixth in the Class of 2010 academic rankings is Emily Urciuoli. In addition to her scholastic prowess, Urciuoli, who attended School 5 and Woodrow Wilson Middle School, is arguably one of the best female track and field athletes to have ever competed for Clifton High School. Among other accomplishments over the past four years, she won the New Jersey State Meet of Champions in the pole vault event as a junior last year, clearing the bar at 12 feet, 6 inches and setting a new Passaic County and CHS record in the pole vault event. She also set new school records in the pole vault relay and long jump events, and tied the school record in the 100-meter hurdles event. In late May, she too the Group 4 State Championship in pole vault again this year and will be in the Meet of Champions this coming weekend.
As a junior, Urciuoli was named to the first team All State track and field team for the spring season, and this year she made first team All State for the winter indoor season. She was named to the All Passaic County first teams all four years for both the winter and spring seasons. In addition to track, Urciuoli served as treasurer of the Key Club and secretary of the Italian Club as well as representing her class on the Student Council. She will attend Yale University in the fall, where she plans to major in international relations and continue her athletic career. She was also accepted to Penn State and Notre Dame Universities. Seventh ranked Justyna Felusiak has a passion for politics and can’t wait to head to Washington, D.C. this fall. There, she will attend George Washington University, majoring in political science and perhaps international relations. The dormitory she will be staying in is two blocks from the White House. The School 9 and Christopher Columbus Middle School alumnus was a four-year member of the CHS Mustang Marching Band, playing the flute and piccolo. She played in the pit band for the production of The Sound of Music during her freshman year, and she was a dancer in the 42nd Street spring musical her sophomore year. She also ran track during her junior and senior years, and participated in the Math League and the Science League. One of the most exciting experiences of her life, she said, was attending the Inauguration of President Obama in January 2009. She spent a week in Washington, D.C. as part of the Presidential Youth Inauguration Conference, meeting students from around the country.
Felusiak hopes to go on to law school and can see herself running for public office some day. She recently had an opportunity to learn more about elective office while shadowing Councilwoman Gloria Kolodziej during Youth Week Officials Day. “She really inspired me,” Felusiak said. Three sport athlete Michelle Ferrara, who attended School 2 and Woodrow Wilson Middle School prior to CHS, captured the eighth place academic ranking for the class. In addition to maintaining a demanding academic schedule, Ferrara played soccer during the fall season, basketball during the winter and softball in the spring. She was named to the first team All Passaic County in soccer and softball and second team All Passaic County in basketball. She also played on a club soccer team, which competed or trained year round. While some may wonder how she handled the time demands of athletics and academics, Ferrara feels that she benefited from the hectic schedule. “I was so used to going from one activity to another,” she said. “It helped me learn to manage my time and be more productive.” Ferrara plans to accept an academic scholarship to attend the Charles F. Dolan School of Business at Fairfield University in the fall. She chose the school over acceptance offers to Washington, Villanova and William Paterson Universities. She will major in business and accounting and hopes to get a CPA (certified public accountant). Although it was a difficult decision, Ferrara does not plan to continue her athletic career on the college level. “I want to focus on my studies and getting my degree,” she said.
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Everything musical is the best way to describe the high school career of Melissa Ayers, the number nine ranked student in the Class of 2010. An alumnus of School 16 and Woodrow Wilson Middle School, Ayers was a member of the Mustang Marching Band, the school orchestra and several smaller musical ensembles over her four years at CHS. She plays the flute and the saxophone. Ayers began her instrumental music experience when she learned to play the saxophone in fourth grade. It was at that point that she realized music was something special to her and would become her lifelong passion. Her love of music and the inspiration that she received from her teachers has led Ayers to choose music education as her college major. She will attend Catholic University in the fall, which she chose over acceptance offers from Ithaca College, West Chester and James Madison Universities and the State University of New York at Potsdam. Ayers said that she fell in love with the campus of CU and the close-knit community of the music program. “I found it to be a very personal environment where you’re not just another student,” she said. “I met with some of the professors and got the feeling that they really want their students to succeed.” Ayers is also a member of the French Club at CHS. Outside of school, she is a volunteer at her church, sings in the church choir and is a member of the Clifton Community Band.
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Rounding out the Top 10 is Beata Gabriela Koziol, who transferred into Christopher Columbus Middle School after attending St. John Kanty School through fifth grade. Like the rest of her fellow high achieving classmates, Koziol made time to balance a heavy duty academic schedule of college level courses with a variety of extracurricular activities, including playing cello in the orchestra and singing in the choir and with the Madrigal Singers. She played soccer her freshman year and was a member of the pit band for this spring’s musical presentation of The Wizard of Oz. One of her most memorable high school experiences was traveling by train to Florida with other members of the choir last year to spend a week and perform in Walt Disney World. “A lot of fun,” she said with a smile. She also was a member of the Academic Decathlon Team, serving as captain this year and being named Most Valuable Player. “I was very proud to help lead my team into the state competition this year,” she said. “It took a lot of work and individual preparation from everyone to do as well as we did.” Outside of school, Koziol was a volunteer for Safety Town and for the Recreation Department. In the fall, Koziol will be going off to Boston College. Although she is uncertain about a major right now, she has her sights set on continuing on to medical school in the future. She said she is expecting to get involved in volunteer work and is considering playing intramural sports while in college.
Q&A
What is your most fond memory?
Kamila Kolodynska: When I had to do a 1950’s project for Mr. Lesler’s class and I dressed up as Marilyn Monroe. MaryKate Wrigley: Disneyworld with the Choir in 2009. Joseph J. Seider: Getting yelled at by Mr. Morgan. Agnieszka Kapusta: Performing at Giant Stadium with the marching band in my freshman year. Charlene Gustafson: Being named Swim team Captain my senior year. Brandon Lonison: Making the Basketball and Baseball teams. Anmar Jobran: I think hard work in Track and Field. Hayfa Alasfar: When we danced the Arabic dance, the Dabke, during the International Festival. Vera Atamian: Mustang Marching trips to San Francisco and Quebec. Alexa Patti: Mustang Band helped me find my place in high school. Kaila O’Brien: Freshman year, when we won the championship game. The powder puff game junior and senior year was a lot of fun too! Hassan Hemeid: Watching our Football team win the State Championship at Giants Stadium in my freshman year. Chandni Mistry: The Asian Show of 2010 has to be my most fond memory, because I was asked to go to the prom while on stage, which has to be one of the best ways to ask someone to the prom. Jennie Tietjen: My favorite memory is being a part of the CAST program, and learning Sign Language in Ms. Schmidt’s class. Jesus Cabrera: Four years on the Wrestling and Football teams.
Elena Mauro: Being in the band and meeting new people. Monali Patel: Roaming the halls of CHS with my friends. We believed we were homeless. Victoria Korty: My freshman year during softball season when we beat IHA to have an undefeated season. James Sahanas: Being a part of the track and cross country team. It is a unique family to be a part of. Rinam Seijari: My friends. Rosalia Longobardo: Most definitely sophomore year. Angelica Paluch: Getting together with friends every morning for the last four years in the auditorium before school. We sat in the same stop throughout those years and all remained friends. Pooja Kumra: Fun lunch times. Megan Termyna: Going to Disney World with the girls’ lacrosse team for spring training as well as traveling to San Francisco and Quebec, Canada with the Mustang Band. Christina Kata: Playing volleyball and “Palace” after school with the gang. Paulina Stefaniak: Officials Day when I shadowed the Police Chief. Nicholas Lichtenberger: When I marched on the field first time. Jon Nikischer: Co-op class with Mr. Valenzano. Jake Wilson: Playing Roger in “Rent” in my junior year. It was a once-in-a-lifetime performance because we were so connected to the story and to our roles. Most importantly, I think we were able to convey the message “to measure in love” to the Clifton community. Krystie Santos: Signora DeFeo’s Italian II class. Very funny.
Reem Ibrahem: Conversations me and Barah used to have in Dr. Devine’s Biology class; she knows what I’m talking about. Another would be the crazy things my lunch table did freshman year (me, Kareman, Oraib, Yara, and Sara). Getting lost on a hiking trip is another. Kerry Sorenson: Being selected as one of the four CHS representatives to attend Rotary Youth Leadership Award. We joined 120 other high school juniors in Wilkes-Barre, PA for a six day tutorial about embracing our leadership abilities. Vanessa Pinto: Seinor soccer season. Josean Moquillaza: 2008-2009 NJ soccer state semi-finals – scoring the game winning goal late in the second overtime, and advancing to the championship. Fernando Reynoso: Me and my friend selling chocolates, lollipops and granola bars in my junior year. Marcin Konefal: My first high school hockey practice. Daphne Bienkiewicz: Every single physics lab period with Giannina Porcu. Anahi Gonzalez: Ms. Saddik’s English 4 class. June 2010 • Clifton Merchant
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Lisa Belford
James Komar
Jake Gebbia: Football State championship game freshman year, and scoring the winning goal against Montville senior year of lacrosse. Daniel Bartlett: Over time lacrosse win over Montvale senior year. Michelle Ferrara: Winning two Passaic County championships and finishing up the AP tests in May. Christopher Lainson: Marching band and being with my friends. Bryana Arlington: Watching the 2007 girls softball team win states and Mrs. Silverstein’s Algebra 2 class, every day was an adventure. Danielle Marsilla: Going to Giant Stadium freshman year to watch our football team become state champs! Chris Birkner: Meeting new friends. Justyna Felusiak: The whole experience that I was able to have, including fooling around with my friends in class, going on the Mustang Marching Band trips, and all the fun times from track and field with my fellow jumpers. Alonzo Thomas: My most fond memory of high school was seeing the different faces every day and being in classes learning things from the different teachers. Holly Romanek: Every time I ever laughed with all the friends I made. James Komar: Meeting some of my close friends, who I know will be there for me forever. 56
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Monali Patel
George DelVillar: The friendships. Kevin Aquino: The New Jersey high school soccer championships game at the College of New Jersey. Hetal Lad: Playing tennis on the varsity team my freshman year against Passaic High School—a great feeling that I still can’t forget. Andrea Villanova: Leaving behind an incredible track and field legacy. Kevin Meade: Playing for the lacrosse team that made the playoffs for the first time since 1996. Jennifer Moran: Going to the trainers 7th period every day, and painting Dan Bartlett’s fingernails while he slept. Ryan Gradzki: Being a part of the Mustang Marching Band. Ala’a Baker: Hanging out at the Teen Center, trips to Six Flags. George M. Grosz: I’ll miss all the friends and all the memories. Giancarlo Enriquez: Meeting my girlfriend Chelsea Alessio because she is a wonderful person who is always there for me. Jessica Bielen: The 2009 Lip Sync competition. Julio Rivera: When Ms. Graff made us sing Edith Piaf’s song Je ne regrette rien. Amanda Scardigno: Having wonderful teachers and having great friends. Adi Salmeron: 2009. A lot happened in that specific year.
Joe Cervini
Ala’a Baker
Domenica Perrone: My AP English class, Italian IV, and CAST. Classes where teachers and students have a bond, everyone wants to be there. Chelsea Rae Alessio: Every day was a fond memory for me, because something exciting or new usually happens every day–especially in a big school like ours. Rafelina Reyes: Key Club. I have made a lot of friends and enjoyed everything we participated in. Corey Meyer: Junior year environmental science rafting trip. Lisa Belford: My most fond memory was having gym with Chrissy and Andrey two years in a row. Laurence Singh: The last Academic Awards Dinner. I enjoyed being recognized as a four-year senior along with all of my other friends. I enjoyed seeing the pride in my parents’ eyes. I also enjoyed the nostalgic feeling I had, realizing that that was the last time I would be there for such an award. Sofia Black-D’Elia: Being at Giants Stadium when the football team won states our freshman year. Tricia Torley: Spring of junior year was really great—that time of my life was probably the happiest. Staphany Diaz: Attending the Distinguished Academic Dinner for four years and many good friends. Chris Rangel: Senior class pictures. Najat Helwani: Strange daily debates I had with my friends.
Natalie Del Guidice: Being on the varsity cheerleading squad. Game days were always fun to spend with the girls because we would eat a meal together and drive around town promoting school spirit. Vasil Martiko: Freshman year. Alexandra De Liberto: Getting to know my friends so well and how close we’ve grown together. Cassandra Porter: My best memories from all four years of high school are singing in the Madrigals. Besides becoming a better singer, being a part of the Madrigals has given me the opportunity to be a part of TRI-M Music Honor Society, which brings together the members of Band, Orchestra, and Madrigals, to unite as one group devoted to music and education. Through the Madrigals, and TRI-M, I have created amazing friends and shared wonderful experiences I will always be able to cherish. Dominick Marrone: Doing the Fall Dramas with Mr. Arts.
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Botany Has It All... 2010 Botany Family Friday Night FREE Summer Concert Series June 4-August 27, Sullivan Square, 6 pm with support from
Funded, in part, by the Passaic County Cultural & Heritage Council / the NJ State Council on the Arts / Department of State, a Partner Agency of the National Endowment for the Arts.
Restaurants and Catering Botany Village Pizza (973) 546-4163 Clifton Buffet (973) 478-6888 Djordan Burek (973) 513-9050 El Dorado Restaurant and Lounge (973) 246-1856 El Pincon Familar Restaurant (973) 772-0886 Euro Cafe (973) 859-0088 George’s Coffee Shop (973) 546-0920 Johnny’s (973) 546-9813 Little Portugal BBQ Restaurant (973) 928-1680 Macedonia Restaurant (973) 478-2778 Subway Sandwiches & Salads (973) 478-1656 Quiznos Subs (973) 772-0406
Specialty Food Shops Clifton Live Poultry (973) 546-4925 DeLuxe International Foods (973) 246-7861 Polish Delicacy House (973) 340-0699 Stefan and Sons Meat Store (973) 546-3288 Taste of Mediterranean Sarajavo (973) 253-0700 Delicje Polish Candy Store (973) 546-1602 Natural homemade Ice Cream (973) 772-5040
Upcoming Events in Botany Saturday, June 19 at 7 pm
The Basement Brothers performing at Sullivan Sqaure
Saturday, August 7
Botany Blues & Arts Festival Limited free space for artists! Food & Merchandise vendors call (973) 546-8789
DINE, SHOP, STROLL www.HistoricBotany.com Contact: John Penkalski: 973-546-9813 or Joe Nikischer: 973-546-8787 Greg Mayo: gmayo@AmericanCleanAndSafe.com 58
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Change of Course From creativity to the healing arts Ever since she arrived at CHS, MaryKate Wrigley assumed that her future would be in graphic design. She scheduled electives in art courses, even dabbled a bit in singing and performing arts, just for more experience in creative fields. But this past winter, Wrigley suddenly became inspired to pursue a different career path: Nursing. The senior’s unexpected change of interests was due to her father, Glenn, who became stricken with a mysterious illness in late 2009. A battery of tests revealed that he had a defective heart valve, which would require surgery. Already feeling somewhat overwhelmed due to her impending graduation and college being just right around the corner, she at first tried using her creative talents as an outlet to relieve stress. “I also did the talent show in February. I made a lot more friends with that,” said Wrigley, who performed Sweet Child of Mine by Guns n’ Roses (view it at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v= J0DB5qkPlTc). “I dedicated it to my father. After Christmas is when it got tough. He was really sick.”
Fortunately, her father’s heart valve replacement surgery was successful. But as much as the entire ordeal was a source of anxiety, it also served as motivation. “It was my inspiration for me to switch my whole field,” explained Wrigley, who would like to be an occupational therapist. “I want to give back to the community. I want to join the medical field and help out other people. I want to make a difference in someone’s life like they did at St. Joe’s with my father.” Although it may seem odd, given that there are few, if any, similarities between the arts and nursing, it does fit with her personality. Wrigley said her parents always taught her the value of helping others and staying involved in the community. “I did a food drive in the first grade,” said Wrigley, a member of St. Philips Church on Valley Rd. She regularly participates in local drives, and helps out at her parish, where she also sings in the choir. At Clifton High, Wrigley was a member of the Conservation Club, and has participated in several park clean ups, among other activities. Last summer, she volunteered at the
Boys & Girls Club for an arts and crafts camp. She offered her services free of charge, five days a week. “My brother and sister both went there for camp,” said Wrigley, who added that she may volunteering for the program again. “I try to be a positive role model for them too. They’ll be entering high school soon. It’s about the important lessons in life.” “High school taught me a lot, especially senior year. I think I grew up the most then. I realized things and the experiences that you’re going to face,” she added. “As far as college goes, I’m ready for the experience. I can’t wait.” by Joe Hawrylko
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Behind the Beard No stereotypes for Dominick or others Story by Domenica Perrone Though he’s known in the halls of Clifton High School as “The Kid with the beard,” Dominick Marrone has so much more going for him than the scruff on his face. An involved student who regularly receives high grades, Marrone is known for his charming personality— he is nothing less than a gentleman. “Just before, a girl walked by and dropped all her books. I stopped mid conversation with a friend just to help her pick them up,” he said with a smile. “I’m just a nice guy.” At CHS, he has been involved in Conservation Club, taking part in clean-ups, as well as the Stage Crew for the school plays of Oz and Rent. Marrone also has some thespian talents. As the lead in the latest Clifton High play, Death of a Salesman, he recalls wanting to be an actor at some point in his life. “It crossed my mind to be an actor but I felt that people that work in that profession aren’t real people because they get caught up in the fame,” he said. “They think they’re better than everyone else. That’s not really for me.” Marrone not only stands out for his honor roll grades or involvement in the arts; he has rather ambitious plans for his future eight years. He plans on attending Montclair next year, but will unfortunately miss the fall semester due to boot camp. Marrone plans on attending Montclair to receive a degree and become a military officer. “I feel it is my obligation to join
the military because this country has given so much to me and I feel it is my duty to defend this country from the enemies of the United States,” explained Marrone. His father, Ronald, is a Navy vet, and his grandfather, served World War II with the Army. “I am fighting for freedom,” continued the CHS senior. “I may not be fighting for the policies in which I feel might be correct but I am fighting for the freedom of American citizens.” Marrone is in the process of learning Arabic, with the intent of utilizing the language to foster better relationships with locals in the Middle East. He hopes to improve America’s image abroad, and possibly save lives with this extra knowledge during his eight year committment to the Army. Though he never participated in the ROTC at CHS because he only decided on joining the military recently, Marrone said he intends to join while at Montclair. He has not yet settled on a major to study while at school. In the meantime, Marrone plans on pursuing the elusive title of Eagle Scout, which is the highest ranking in Boy Scouts. A member of the Scouts for the past 12 years, Marrone, now 17, is just 21 merit badges away from reaching his goal. One of the key components to becoming an Eagle Scout is performing community projects.So far Marrone has built a set of stairs from scratch with his troops at Morris Canal Park on Broad St.
“I just really like helping people,” he said with a smile. Marrone’s generous and caring personality challenges that rough and tumble stereotype that has been attached to those serving in the military. He enjoys spending time with his grandmother and cooking delicious Italian food. Marrone’s other interests include the Rocky Horror Picture Show, camping with his friends and the Scouts. Marrone hopes to use the skills and determination he has developed in recent years to change the lives of others in his future. He hopes to, in some way, make a difference overseas without falling into cruel military stereotypes. When his eight year committment to the Army is up, Marrone will weigh his options and consider re-enlisting as a career option. He’s also content with exploring a different opportunity at that time, such as business management. Behind the beard, Marrone has his future figured out, and it is filled with hopes, dreams, and change. June 2010 • Clifton Merchant
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Q&A
Where will you be in 2020?
Andrew Nader Saad: I will be a successful person in this crazy world. Rosalia Longobardo: Living my dream, becoming all I can be, and moving to the city. Pooja Kumra: In my office helping kids figure out what they want to do with their life. Angelica Paluch: I am hoping to be married and hopefully have a child. I also hope to have my RN and be working in St. Joseph’s Hospital in the labor and delivery department. Or even have my teaching degree and be working as a science teacher. Victoria Korty: Hopefully, in 2020, I will have my own production company filming independent films and music videos. James Sahanas: I will hopefully be living in New York City either working for a television network or in the environmental science field. Christina Kata: In Canada ruling the world. Rinam Seijari: God knows. Dominick Marrone: More than likely still serving in the US Army. Vera Atamian: Hopefully I will be very happy and successful with a loving family of my own.
Agnieszka Kapusta: In Arizona with my kids and husband. Sylwia Zubek: Being successful and having a nursing job in the delivery room; settling down to get married and have children in the next few years after 2020. Reem Ibrahem: I will be 27 with a job as an art teacher, and a family. Kaila O’Brien: Married with a job that I love, and enjoying every minute of my life. Hassan Hemeid: Finished with my education. Elena Mauro: Working in a class as a teacher’s aide. Francesca Kareivis: I will be a successful social worker living in Philadelphia with my husband and two children. Chandni Mistry: In NYC working at Mt. Sinai. MaryKate Wrigley: Out of college with a successful career. Brandon Lonison: Hopefully successful enough to maintain a level of happiness for myself and others around me. Jessica Miles: In 2020 I will be 27 years old. I will be finishing up with college and med school and looking to find a job.
Monali Patel: I see myself running my own architecture firm with hundreds of projects coming in every month. Hopefully I will be a successful, young, attractive, independent woman. Hayfa Alasfar: I honestly do not know but hopefully I will be married with a happy family and a career as a social worker. Anmar Jobran: Moved from Clifton to another town and I will be working as a pediatric doctor. Alexa Patti: Knee-deep in some sort of a career and single handedly changing the world. Danielle Marsilla: I see myself with a great career in film and media doing something that I love.
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Mizar Hameid: In 2020 I will be an adult – mentally, physically and emotionally grown. I would have traveled many parts of the world, owned a house or a business. Kamila Kolodynska: On the last step to becoming a psychiatrist. Charlene Gustafson: In 2020, I hope to be a successful person in the communications field, married and ready to start my own family. Lauren Hrina: Settled with a great job, married, maybe even kids. Jesus Cabrera: Working in the Police Force. Joseph J. Seider: On planet Earth. Jennie Tietjen: In 2020 I will have my own Speech Pathology Practice, along with starting a family. Christian Jaeger: The only thing I know about 2020 is I will be 10 years older. Whatever life throws my way, I will face it head on. Rafelina Reyes: Settled down with a good job. Maybe even a family.
Chris Birkner: A full time welder. Jake Wilson: Traveling back and forth between New York and Europe for my marketing career. Jon Nikischer: Serving my country. Melissa Ayers: Teaching instrumental music in a middle or high school. Ryan Gradzki: Working in a job in the music industry. Jonathan Monge: With a family and working in law enforcement. Angelica Zapata: Ten years from now I hope to have a successful career and maybe even a family. George DelVillar: Law enforcement. Marcin Konefal: Working at the EU in Belgium, happy and successful. Nicholas Lichtenberger: I will be teaching a fourth grade class. Vanessa Pinto: I will be working and hopefully loving my job, traveling around the world, and just enjoying my life. Sharice Larode: In 2020 I see myself as a teacher somewhere.
Anayzah Thomas: I want to either be working in the U.N. or starting my own radio station in 2020. Krystie Santos: Opening up my own psychotherapy office. Paulina Stefaniak: Hopefully a Clifton Police Officer. Roxanne Lapeña: In Los Angeles or New York City working as a senior editor for a big company. Michelle Boustani: Working steady in the career that I choose. Hopefully happily married, too! Christine Diaz: Working at a job that I love, starting a family. James Komar: I will have a successful job, ready to start a family. Andrea Villanova: Just out of school, working as an attorney, still battering myself on the rugby field. Josean Moquillaza: A successful accountant, planning to start my own family with my future wife. Daniel Bartlett: I hope to be working at a law firm.
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Justyna Felusiak: A successful lawyer, maybe starting a family or career in politics. Maybe I’d have decided to stay in Washington, D.C., or maybe return home to Clifton. Fernando Reynoso: I will probably be an officer in the U. S. Army. Laurence Singh: Probably still in Clifton, if not nearby. I will be an engineer, helping to rebuild and reinforce Clifton, the community that has given me so much. Leonard Wieczerzak: In ten years I hope to have my own mechanic’s garage possibly specializing in transmission repairs. Jake Gebbia: Hopefully have a stable job and getting ready to settle down and start a family. Kevin Aquino: Working for a professional soccer team either across the U.S. or internationally. Christopher Lainson: In 2020 I will be working for Cisco or IBM making networking devices.
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Kevin Meade: Working and saving money to start my family. Bryana Arlington: Living in NYC, California or Toronto owning my own video production company. Hudson Veloso: In 2020 I will be one of the top architects in a worldrenowned architecture firm in NYC. Anahi Gonzalez: Hawaii. Courtney Scheibner: Working in a doctor’s office and starting a family. Holly Romanek: Teaching somewhere or dead, because, you know, the world is supposed to end in 2012. Daphne Bienkiewicz: I’ll be a practicing doctor helping various countries in need of medical assistance. Michelle Ferrara: I hope to be working as a CPA, if not, I just hope to be successful in whatever course I have chosen. Alonzo Thomas: Working in a music studio with different musicians from all over the world, while trying out in the Olympic trials.
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Jennifer Moran: Working in the medical field, starting a family. Hetal Lad: In 2020, I will be complete with medical school and going on to doing my pediatric residency. George M. Grosz: Playing pro football or in a job in criminal justice or sports management. Giancarlo Enriquez: Starting my law career and starting a family. Lisa Belford: A first grade teacher with a family. Sofia Black-D’Elia: In L.A. pursuing my career. Amanda Scardigno: Teaching and starting a family of my own. Chelsea Rae Alessio: In my home with a career, husband and children. Reena Mehta: With a successful career in law in 2020. Julio Rivera: Traveling the world. Corey Meyer: Married with children, teaching at CHS and taking Coach Anello’s job as head football coach.
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June 2010 • Clifton Merchant
Q&A
Where will you be in 2020?
Alexandra De Liberto: With a good job, married, and with kids. Shanoui Gunn: In the Air Force, stationed wherever they need me; hopefully somewhere warm. Nick Lavender: Teaching in high school. Tricia Torley: In northern California, working for Pixar, married with a baby! Julio Rivera: Preparing myself to become a lawyer. Staphany Diaz: In 2020, I will be working in my career of choice, marketing. Adi Salmeron: In ten years I will be in a hospital working as a doctor helping patients in need. Vasil Martiko: Hopefully working for a good company or owning a company. Emily Urciuoli: I will be traveling between Italy and the U.S. as part of my job in an international business. Marko Milosevic: Owning my own business and maybe starting a family. Brian Vidaurre: Living in my house with my family and Siberian Husky. Domenica Perrone: Either in Boston or another city, wherever my career leads me.
Najat Helwani: Making a difference in someone’s life. Chris Rangel: A phys-ed teacher with a wife and kids. Ala’a Baker: Hopefully working full time as a nurse, while enjoying my family and friends. Cassandra Porter: I will have worked for several different designers as I make my name known in the industry. I have accepted that fasjhion design is a difficult journey but with hard work and perseverance I know I will be a new and upcoming designer before 2020. Natalie Del Guidice: I will be a nurse who has hopefully specialized in physical therapy. Hopefully I will have a husband or be engaged. Jessica Bielen: I will be married, own my own home, and have a master’s degree in library science.
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Q&A
Where have you worked during high school?
Natalie Del Guidice: At the Allwood Movie Theatre. Julio Rivera: The VP’s office. Chris Rangel: As a newspaper boy. Rafelina Reyes: I usually helped my dad out in his store. Staphany Diaz: I was a a receptionist at a doctor’s office. Marko Milosevic: Pathmark and Lone Star Electric. Reena Mehta: At Toys R Us. Agnieszka Kapusta: Carvel. Christina Kata: Dunkin’ Donuts. Pooja Kumra: Pathmark. Jon Nikischer: Sonic. Jake Wilson: As a lifeguard. Nicholas Lichtenberger: ShopRite. Cassandra Porter: I occasionally babysat but most of my time was spent towards schoolwork and extra curricular activities.
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Anayzah Thomas: Dollar Tree. Chris Birkner: Motorcycle Mall. Ryan Gradzki: TCBY in Clifton. Giancarlo Enriquez: I didn’t get a chance to work because I have always been busy with clubs and sports. However, I volunteered three summers as a Counselor in Training (CIT) for Clifton Recreation. Hetal Lad: At Edible Arrangements. Vanessa Pinto: Lakeview Deli. Rinam Seijari: A hair salon. Corey Meyer: Allwood Theater. Jessica Bielen: The Clifton Public Library, Allwood branch. Emily Urciuoli: Forrest Hills Field Club as a lifeguard. Brian Vidaurre: Guidance office. Amanda Scardigno: Clifton Little School, and CFS Investments. Joseph J. Seider: I am a selfemployed landscaper.
Charlene Gustafson (seen here with Jaiden): I worked as a lifeguard and swim instructor at the Boys & Girls Club of Clifton. Sofia Black-D’Elia: I was a lifeguard at Forrest Hills Country Club for a couple of summers, and this year I had a reoccurring role on All My Children.
In a Theater Near You Ariel De Leon and his stagecraft Story by Joe Hawrylko Ariel De Leon seems destined for a stage. Speak with him about performing and his eyes widen. When he talks about school plays, you can sense the passion in his voice—and he never hesitates to heap praise on his fellow performers. It’s not about him—it’s about the love of his craft. “I can’t wait to see what the underclassmen I worked with do next year,” said De Leon. “They’re an amazingly talented group of individuals. I think it’s a shame they all aren’t going into performing arts, because those are kids people should look out for. People will see their names in lights.” The CHS Class President has performed in six plays during his high school years and he’s set on making a career out of his thespian talents. De Leon’s interest in acting began back in middle school. “When I was smaller, I was a little out of control. Then I got in TAG art. And I was always into music, playing the drums,” he said, noting that he always had an interest in creative fields. “I went out for an audition, and the first time, I got a lead. I liked it, people liked it.” De Leon said that the reception from the audience is one of the biggest motivators for actors. “After this one performance [in high school], a guy I’ve never seen before in my life, he came up to me and said I remember you from that one performance,” he recalled. “He was talking about that first one in sixth grade. That was pretty cool.”
De Leon, who was also the October Student of the Month, said he enjoys the challenge of the many different roles he’s been assigned. “I’m good at comedy, but I think it’s good to do [different genres],” he explained. “I like the fact that when I’m on stage, I can scare the hell out of people, but at the same time, I can pull a laugh out of people if I want. I enjoy both, just as long as I’m performing. I like that when I perform, I become another person, not that I’m ashamed of who I am,” continued De Leon. “Like being a villain, it’s great hearing people say I loved you, but I hated you at the same time.” But as much as acting relies on talent, the senior said any successful play requires the cooperation of many individuals. “I did the Lion from The Wizard of Oz,” De Leon recalled. “I was working with really talented kids. They’re good to work with. Three out of the four of us want to pursue a career in the performing arts. I’m very grateful to God that I had a chance to perform with kids like that—and they were all juniors.” He also praised his directors, in particular, Dave Arts, who runs the fall plays. “He is a hell of a man,” said De Leon. “I enjoy seeing him work with us. He was a very peculiar sense of humor. He can say something that will make you keel over, but his face won’t move.” “The plays he does, they’re common,” he continued. “He doesn’t necessarily go by the book, but at the same time, he has a lot of respect for what has been done, so he does a little bit of both.”
For next year, De Leon said he’s going to save money and get his Associate Degree at Passaic County Community College before transfering to either Montclair State or Syracuse University. Attending classes at PCCC will allow De Leon to continue working at the Action Theater Conservatory, where he interned during his senior year. If for some reason he isn’t part of the talent on the stage or the big screen, he’d be thrilled to just be doing something in the performing arts, from backstage to marketing. “It’s great. It gives me an awareness of the business side,” said De Leon, whose duties at ATC assisting with mailing lists, reviewing resumes and other tasks. “It’s all fun and games when you talk about fame. At the same time, there’s a business behind all of it. I definitely would not mind working in that field if acting did not work out.” June 2010 • Clifton Merchant
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Domenica Perrone: I worked at Allwood Movie Theater. Now I babysit. Over the summers I lifeguard at a country club. Chelsea Rae Alessio: At Subway in Willowbrook Mall. Lisa Belford: At the Boys and Girls Club of Clifton. Kevin Meade: I worked at my family’s funeral home, Vander Plaat Colonial Home in Fair Lawn. George DelVillar: Stop n’ Shop in Clifton Commons. Krystie Santos: East wing (no jobs outside of school). Holly Romanek: ShopRite and babysitting. Michelle Boustani: Clifton Little School. Roxanne Lapeña: As a C.I.T. for Clifton Recreation. Kerry Sorenson: Last summer I had my first job at Colonial Pharmacy. This summer I will be a camp counselor at “Summer Days in the Park.” Paulina Stefaniak: At Party City since Halloween 2009. Josean Moquillaza: Spencers, Halloween Spirits and Wendy’s.
Jake Gebbia: Kmart in Passaic. Laurence Singh: I will be working with my Dad in Riverside Cemetery as a landscaping supervisor. I also hope to visit some of my out-of-state friends during vacation, before I begin the next 4-5 grueling years of college. Basically, I want to take one last summer to, not only make money, but enjoy ‘kid stuff’ with my friends. Danielle Marsilla: I have worked at ShopRite in Nutley. Sharice Larode: At Walgreens. Bryana Arlington: The Hearth, Forest Hill Field Club and Mr. Cupcakes. Christian Jaeger: Volunteer work with the Knights of Columbus was very rewarding. Marcin Konefal: Montclair YMCA James Komar: Westmount Country Club as a waiter, and St. Mary’s Hospital as a volunteer. Jennifer Moran: Little Falls ShopRite, umpiring softball. Angelica Zapata: All through junior year I had a job at a daycare which I really loved.
Kaila O’Brien: I worked at Nutley Animal Hospital with my mom Colleen, (CHS 1979) and my brother Kevin, (CHS 2005). 70
June 2010 • Clifton Merchant
Christopher Morales (seen here with Lola Carrol): I worked in the main office at CHS. Anahi Gonzalez: Saladworks Cafe, a doctor’s office in Allwood, the CHS office, Knoll Country Club. Jonathan Monge: I worked at ShopRite ever since my sophomore year up until my senior year. I also worked construction in my freshman year. E. J. Egyed: As a soccer referee for Morris County and Clifton Stallions. Kevin Aquino: McDonald’s, Modell’s, and Richfield Farms. Courtney Scheibner: Modell’s Sporting Goods. Andrea Villanova: Westmount Country Club and ShopRite in Little Falls. Christine Diaz: As a receptionist for a chiropractor’s office. Leonard Wieczerzak: Since September at Colonial Pharmacy. Michelle Ferrara: I have helped out at the Stallions soccer club and trained young players periodically. Daniel Bartlett: I help out at my family business.
Rounds in the ER
Story by Joe Hawrylko
Kamila Kolodynska interned at St. Joseph’s Hospital
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found out a day later he was ok. I was really impressed how fast everyone was.” Though she was prohibited from working in the psych ward, some of the patients that came to the ER exhibited signs of mental distress and were transferred. Such experiences have reaffirmed Kolodynska’s desire to pursue a career as a psychiatrist. “A lot of the psych patients come to the ER sometimes,” she explained. “I’ve seen everything—breakdowns, suicidal people. It makes me want to pursue it more now.”
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For young adults on the cusp of entering adulthood, internships are a critical part of the academic process. But every position is different—an internship at one job could entail interest, career-related work, or it could mean endless Dunkin Donut runs and mindnumbing document copying. Kamila Kolodynska’s experience in St. Joseph’s Emergency Room was a little bit more of the former than the later. The CHS senior, who dreams of becoming a psychiatrist, signed up for the job at school because she wanted to get experience in the medical field and would be unable to assist a psychiatrist due to legal restrictions. “I would always stay with one of the nurses,” explained Kolodynska, pictured center with staff members. “They taught me how to do EKGs and prepare things. I did a couple pregnancy tests. But I couldn’t draw blood or anything. I also helped with the computer work. You learn how the system works with drawing blood.” Although she found the work in the ER interesting, it was the trips to the Trauma Room that fascinated Kolodynska. “Occasionally, if something happened, they’d just grab me and I’d stand there and watch,” she recalled. “I can’t ask a question or do anything. They’re actually saving people’s lives there.” “One man came in and started yelling, ‘My fingers! My fingers!’” continued Kolodynska, who eventually realized the patient had severed his fingers. “Surgeons came running and everyone was scrambling around. I
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Alexandra De Liberto: The Clifton Little School. Christopher Lainson: Westmount Country Club, Toys R Us. Jessica Miles: I did not have a job outside of school, but in school I was an office worker. Jennie Tietjen: I have worked at Stop & Shop since July 2008 and at Quality Construction since August 2009. Sylwia Zubek: FYE and Annie Sez—till working there. Lauren Hrina: Clifton Little School, Montclair Beach Club. Francesca Kareivis: The Hearth, Clifton Little School. Anmar Jobran: I did an internship at St. Joseph’s Hospital during my senior year. Monali Patel: I worked at a pediatrics clinic. Elena Mauro: At School #1 working with kids and helping out the teachers as my internship—a lot of fun. Brandon Lonison: New York Health Club. Chandni Mistry: AMC at Clifton Commons and Carvel. Hassan Hemeid: Abercrombie & Fitch. Alexa Patti: As a counselor for Ukrainian Girl Scouts. It’s such an experience to work with little kids. Angelica Paluch: Carvel on Van Houten Ave., and my current job in Van Houten Pharmacy. Rosalia Longobardo: A pizzeria and Annie Sez.
Joseph Bionci from Clifton attended EXPLORE 2010, Genworth Financial Investment Services’ 12th Annual Training and Education Conference in San Diego, CA, May 17–19. The three-day conference attracted more than 850 Financial Advisers, speakers, exhibitors, and guests. Joseph selected from more than 35 general and concurrent sessions that advanced the conference’s theme “Committed to Your Growth.” EXPLORE 2010 had a powerful lineup of keynote speakers. Speakers included Don Connelley, perhaps the nation’s most successful adviser to the retail brokerage industry; Dr. J.P. Pawliw-Fry, a thought leader on the subject of leadership, performance and managing change, an adviser to numerous Fortune 100 companies; and Kathryn Capage, Strategic Plan Director of Tax-Advantaged Products at Invesco, who spoke about recent tax law changes, Social Security and retirement. EXPLORE featured super sessions scheduled for almost double the length of traditional conference sessions which allow participants enough time to fully explore a topic in-depth. Topics included technology solutions for Financial Advisers; best practices, offered by Quantivus Consultants, Inc.; using social media in your practice, and succession planning. Genworth Financial Investment Services President Enrique M. Vasquez noted: “Hosting EXPLORE is one of the many ways we demonstrate our commitment to our Financial Advisers’ growth. Our Financial Advisers in turn demonstrate that same commitment to their clients, recognizing that the client relationship is at the center of their practice and is key to everything they do.” 72
June 2010 • Clifton Merchant
Tricia Torley (seen here with Mr. Cupcakes, Johnny Manganiotis:) I’ve been a mascot, icer and counter help at Mr. Cupcakes for over a year and before that I worked for Dr. Chung. Ala’a Baker: I volunteered at my family’s business. Julio Rivera: In the Central Wing Guidance office. Dominick Marrone: Jackal’s Stadium and Richfield Farms. About Genworth Financial Investment Services: Genworth Financial Investment Services, Inc., the wealth management partner of choice for independent financial professionals, comprises Genworth Financial Securities Corporation, a full-service FINRA broker/dealer, and Genworth Financial Advisers Corporation., an SEC Registered Investment Adviser. We partner with 2,000 independent financial professionals to help them address the complete wealth management needs of their clients. As a Genworth Financial company, we are able to provide the financial strength, stability and depth of resources of a large international firm, coupled with the personal service and support expected from a smaller, entrepreneurial company. Visit genworthfinancialsecurities.com. About Genworth Financial: Genworth Financial, Inc. (NYSE:GNW) is a leading Fortune 500 global financial security company. Genworth employs approximately 6,000 people with a presence in more than 25 countries. Its products and services help meet the investment, protection, retirement and lifestyle needs of more than 15 million customers. Genworth operates through three segments: Retirement and Protection, U.S. Mortgage Insurance and International. Its products and services are offered through financial intermediaries, advisers, independent distributors and sales specialists. Genworth Financial, which traces its roots back to 1871, became a public company in 2004 and is headquartered in Richmond, Virginia. For more information, visit Genworth.com.
To contact Joseph Bionci, call him at 973-472-1707 or write to Joseph.Bionci@Genworthrr.com.
Clifton Mayor for Life? Anzaldi earns sixth term; Council gains three new faces Story by Joe Hawrylko Mayor Jim Anzaldi cruised to his ninth City Council term on May 11, winning the election with 5,667 votes, some 1,400 more than the next closest candidate. The Council traditionally selects the individual with the most votes as mayor, meaning Anzaldi is virtually assured of his sixth term at the helm of Clifton. With the backlash that the Council faced in the last year at meetings, the final results from May 11 come as a surprise. Incumbents Steve Hatala and Peter Eagler easily retained their seats, earning 4,251 and 4,071 respectively. Matt Ward
Final Tally James Anzaldi: 5,667 Steve Hatala: 4,251 Peter Eagler: 4,071 Mary Sadrakula: 3,277 Matthew Grabowski: 3,181 Matthew Ward: 3,170 Joseph Kolodziej: 2,968 Frank Fusco: 2,816 Raymond Grabowski: 2,808 Suzanne Sia: 2,690 Daniel Brown: 2,683 David D’Arco: 2,586 Frank Gaccione: 2,478 Andrew White: 2,276 Joan Salensky: 1,985 Joseph Chidiac: 1,753 George Silva: 1,655 Roy Noonburg: 1,422 Anthony Genchi: 1,123 Robert Klinger: 306 (write-in) Joseph Cupoli: 30 (write-in)
James Anzaldi
Steve Hatala
Matthew Grabowski
Peter Eagler
Matthew Ward
also won his bid for re-election, placing sixth with 3,170 votes. Frank Fusco was the only incumbent who came up short on election day, placing eighth with 2,816. Councilwoman Gloria Kolodziej and Councilman Joe Cupoli each indicated that they would not seek re-election, although Cupoli was credited with 30 write-in votes. Challengers who earned seats on
Mary Sadrakula
Joseph Kolodziej
the Council include Mary Sadrakula (3,277), Matt Grabowski (3,181) and Joseph Kolodziej (2,968). The new City Council will not take office until July 1, at which time the new members will be sworn in and a reorganization meeting will be held. At that time, the seven elected officials will cast votes amongst themselves to select the new mayor.
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Memorial Day, 2010 Across Clifton this past weekend, the Fallen Heroes of America’s Wars were remembered and honored by our community. Parades and ceremonies were held in Allwood, Downtown Clifton, Athenia and Albion. At the City Hall campus, the ever growing Avenue of Flags went up at dawn, with nearly 1,400 banners honoring the service of our veterans. And on the day prior, a new Field of Honor was dedicated, specifically to honor those Killed in Action. On these pages are photos from some of these events. Photos by Steve Cohen
Clifton Memorial Post 347 American Legion Commander Domenic Chiappone • Past Commander Lou Poles
The Four Pillars of Our Service • A Strong National Security • Taking Care of Veterans • Mentoring Youth • Promoting Patriotism & Honor 74
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Photo by Joseph Dunphy, MBA June 2010 • Clifton Merchant
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Just a reminder that the 35th anniversary gala of the Hamilton House Museum is on June 9. For tickets or more info, call 973-7445707. Getting things ready for the event, from left front: Barbara Noonan, Rosemary Rackiewicz, Arlene Bayeux and Linda Kostialik. In rear: Norma Smith, Barbara Dougherty and Marlene Zschack. The Hamilton House is at 971 Valley Rd. and is opened for tours on Sundays from 24pm (except for Holidays) from March-December. Tours at other times may be made by calling the Museum.
The Exxon/Mobil Corporation has awarded Paramus Catholic High School Robotics Club with a $7,500 grant. Robert Cattani, Exxon/Mobil Dealer, and Victor Iroh, Exxon/Mobil Territory Manager, recently presented the grant to James P. Vail, President of Paramus Catholic, Robert Colvin, Science Teacher and Robotics Club Moderator, and members of the Robotics Club.
PC Juniors Bart Michalak and Damian Stobierski founded the Robotics Club. “PC offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, but we didn’t have a club that merged the fields of science, mathematics and engineering,” said Michalak, whose dream is to become a Robotics Programmer for NASA.
PC is the largest private school in NJ and its recent incoming classes of 400 have been selected from a pool averaging over 1,700 applicants. The class of 2009 received $25,000,000 in scholarships and grants. For more on PC, located at 425 Paramus Rd., Paramus, call 201-445-4466 or go to www.paramuscatholic.org.
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The Athenia Veterans Post is collecting goods for US Troop Care Packages. Needed items include WD-40 (2oz bottle), razors, shaving cream, toothpaste, toothbrushes, baby wipes, foot powder, body powder, socks, A.A. batteries and soap. The Post is located at 147 Huron Ave. Pictured are bartender Andre Barral and Commander Bill Schimpf, or call 973-778-0931.
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Members of the Passaic-Clifton Chapter of UNICO National recently presented a $500 check to Clifton H.S.’s Project Graduation Co-ordinator Mary Ann Cornett. “This is what UNICO is all about,” said PresidentElect, David D’Arco. “Every year Chapter member and friend to Clifton, Joey Barcellona, hosts a Spring Concert at his Bliss Lounge and these presentations, as well as the scholarships which will be awarded at the (Clifton) High School on Thursday the 27th are the direct result from the hard work of all members of this chapter, especially the generosity of Joey. This year’s concert is on Friday, June 4th and all are welcome. The more we make, the more we give next year so please come and join us.”
C.H.S. Project Graduation Co-ordinator Mary Ann Cornett with Passaic-Clifton UNICO Scholarship Chair Nicola Genchi, President-Elect David D’Arco, Secretary-Elect Paul Fucci & 1st V.P.-Elect Mario DeChellis.
The Clifton Stallions U-13 Girls and Boys Travel Teams will hold open tryouts on June 29 at Pope John Paul II, 775 Valley Rd. Girls will be on the field from 5:15 to 6:45, and the boys from 6:30 to 8 pm. Rain date is June 30. Cost is $5, which goes towards the cost of the professional trainer, Gareth Chitticks, President of Kickzsoccer, L.L.C., who will evaluate each player. For info, call either Coach Dave at 973-886-2709 for girls or Coach Frank at 973896-9406 for boys, or visit Cliftonstallions.org, and check the U12 Naseef and U12 Bulldog teams under traveling.
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If you missed Tex Doyle and his Country Thunder Band on June 4 down in Botany Village when he opened the free Friday Night Summer Concert Series in the historic district, hang in there. Tex is making the rounds of our fair city. He’ll be keeping the classic country sound alive at the Athenia Veterans Post on June 18 from 8 pm until midnight. Tex will return to Botany on Aug. 27 to close that series. Go to historicbotany.com to get a full line up of the acts coming to Botany this summer, from Blues to Rock and Roll. To catch up with Tex, pictured at right, and to find out where he is performing, give him a call at 973-249-7791.
Brookwood headlines the 9th Annual Fundraiser hosted by Joey Barcellona and the Clifton-Passaic Chapter of UNICO National on June 4. Held at Bliss Lounge on Allwood Rd., total net bar and proceeds benefit a number of groups here in town. Doors open at 6 pm and a line up of bands perform before Brookwood takes the stage at 10 pm. Admission is $12. For more on this fundraiser at Bliss Lounge and other events at Joey Harrison’s Surf Club in Ortley Beach, go to blisslounge.net. 78
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Downtown Clifton presents its annual Salsa Night Under the Stars on July 9 from 7 to 11 pm in the parking lot at Clifton Ave. and First St. This event features live Salsa, Latin Jazz, and Mariachi bands plus a DJ to keep things moving in between sets. Food will be available for purchase and the rain date is July 16. For info, call Angela Montague at 973253-1455. Enjoy the Big Band sound of 18 time Grammy Award winner Jimmy Sturr (right) and his Orchestra, ‘the #1 Polka Band in the Country.’ The concert is on July 15 and begins at 7:30 pm at Passaic’s Third Ward Park, corner of Passaic and Van Houten Aves. Call producer Greg Komeshok for info: 973-473-5111.
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Happy Anniversary to Bob and Alice DeLiberto who will be married 23 years on June 27. Vinny Dalbo...................6/1 Timmy Spears.................6/1 Jonathan Borrajo ............6/2 John Traier .....................6/2 Karl Aponte, ..................6/3 Jeffrey Angello ...............6/4 Thomas Lesch .................6/4 Rob Cone ......................6/6 Samantha Malenchak .....6/6 Diane Canavan ..............6/7 Koreana Sabo................6/8 Robert Ciallella...............6/9 Nicole Carreno ............6/11 Adam Soder ................6/11 Anna Jurgowski ............6/13 Christopher Stetz ..........6/13
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Happy Birthday to Ava Nicole Genardi who turns 12 on June 9th.
Birthdays & Celebrations
Send dates & names...tomhawrylko@optonline.net
Congratulations to Frank and Brenda (Ludvik) Calandrillo who celebrate their 26th wedding anniversary on June 2. Belated best wishes to Chuck Amucka whose birthday was 5/14. Happy 17th Birthday to Holly Kocsis on June 1. Christopher Zaccone .....6/13 Danielle Dvorak............6/16 Derek Dvorak ...............6/16 Stephanie Dvorak .........6/16 Kristina Marchesani ......6/16 Raymond Kuruc ............6/18 Rafelina Reyes..............6/18 Tabitha Sosa ................6/18 Aileen Haight...............6/20 Alexander Conklin ........6/22 Mike Skurski ................6/24 Jack DeVries.................6/25 Lori Homsany ...............6/25 Connie Musleh .............6/26 Walter Vladyka ............6/27 Marco Greco ...............6/28 Kristen Murcko .............6/28 Monica Szewczyk ........6/29 Robert Conklin .............6/30 Christopher Lucas .........6/30
Eileen and Ed Gasior celebrate their 28th Anniversary on June 5
Donna Pizzimenti 3/5/1959 to 7/7/2009 It's one year today that God called you to Heaven. There isn’t a day that goes by that we don’t think about you. We all miss you and we’ll love you always.
Mom, Dad, Colleen, Doug, Kyle, Maureen, Erica, Cathy, James, Hailey, Jenna and Michael
C.Genardi Contracting Inc • Clifton
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