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By Bob Foster Clifton has been dubbed the City that Cares and that’s a perfect way to describe us. During my 27 years with the Boys & Girls Club of Clifton, I’ve watched many Cliftonites live that phrase. In fact, for the past 70 years, it’s been those volunteers and supporters who’ve enabled us to serve our city’s youth. If you’ve been part of those efforts, I thank you. If you haven’t, let me tell you more. The Club’s registered membership has grown to more than 5,300 young people. That’s great. But our operating budget surpassed $4 million in 2016, and the need for programs and services is ever increasing. There are many different ways to help the Boys & Girls Club. Some people give time. Some give money. And some give both. Let me tell you about a few of our many volunteers.
From the Editor... This month’s cover is shared by our favorite Clifton institutions: CHS and the Boys & Girls Club. With Clifton's Carlos Polanco being named the 2017 National Youth of the Year by Boys & Girls Club of America, and two successful events run by the staff and scores of volunteers, it's been a great couple of weeks for the Club. But to keep serving the thousands of kids they do every year, the fundraising never stops. With the buzz at a high pitch, we opened the next 35 pages of this month’s magazine to the Club. To set the tone for their fundraising, I’ve invited my friend Bob Foster, the Club’s Executive Director, to pen this column. –Tom Hawrylko
There’s honorary board member Dr. Bob Montemurno, D.M.D., who stops by the tutoring room two days a week to help with our afterschool program. He assists kids with their homework. And there’s Beverly Mariso, who volunteers weekly with our STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) mentoring program. Clifton High School students volunteer two days a week for two hours, helping in our preschool classrooms. Many parents assist by chaperoning our summer and school year trip program, and supporting our raffles and special event fundraisers. Bingo volunteers help us raise 20 percent of our operating budget. They’re a busy group. The Club hosts eight bingo sessions a week – four in the afternoon and four in the evening. We also appreciate our many dedicated players who come each week, having fun and seeing their friends. Volunteers from all walks of life and for various reasons also assist with our yearly special events. For example, there’s Drea Deluca – she works six months a year to prepare for our Annual Car Show in September. Drea’s part of the committee that markets the event around town and in our area, securing sponsors and soliciting Car Clubs from throughout the northeast to join us on show day. We also hold other events, like our Food Festival, Golf Outing, Casino Night and Ladies Auxiliary Tricky Tray. All require many volunteers, and we so appreciate their work. Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2017
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Want to Help? For numerous corporations, small businesses and To contribute, become a sponsor, or to volunteer, contact foundations, the Club provides many ways to help the the Boys & Girls Club of Clifton Development Director John community. Here are some examples... Degraaf at 973-773-0966 x 111. You can also drop him an email at: jdegraaf@bgcclifton.org. Kohl’s and the Gap stores send volunteer teams to assist with summer camp events, parties, or just to Our Summer Camp Scholarship Fund is the main play volleyball and basketball versus our staff. source we have to provide weeks of summer fun to Keller Williams Realty sends volunteers on their the kids from needy families. “RED Day (Renew, Energize and Donate),” the comThe Boys & Girls Club of Clifton’s vision is to propany’s annual day of service. This year they completvide a world class experience that assures success is ed a painting project. within the reach of every young person who enters And the Dominique Rodgers Cromartie (DRC) our doors, all on track to graduate from high school Foundation stops by twice a year, distributing backwith a plan for their future. packs at the “Back to School Bash” and hosting a Along with academic and career success, we want Holiday party, giving gifts to our neediest members. our young people to demonstrate good character and Local businesses also provide a big lift for us. citizenship, and live a healthy lifestyle – so important Some of the more notable ones are ShopRite of today. Passaic/Clifton, Fette Ford and Corradino & Papa, As our Boys & Girls Club of America tagline says, LLC, but many others are generous, too. “Great Futures Start Here.” But we can only help The Boys & Girls Club solicits donations those futures with support and programs that rely through two annual campaigns to fund operaon your continued gentions. Looking forward erosity. Yes, there are to 2018, our Annual Along with academic and career many ways to give – from Giving Campaign, time to money. And I chaired this year by Dr. success, we want our young hope I can count on your Howard Baum, will be people to demonstrate good support to continue to conducted November character and citizenship, help grow this great through March and seeks Clifton resource. We are raise dollars to support and live a healthy lifestyle. truly a city that cares. programs and services.
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Subscribe $35 / year / $60 for 2 Call 973-253-4400 Contributing Writers Jack De Vries, Joe Hawrylko, Irene Jarosewich, Ihor Andruch, Tom Szieber, Michael C. Gabriele, Douglas John Bowen, Jay Levin
Editor & Publisher Tom Hawrylko Art Director Ken Peterson Graphic Designer Aly Ibrahim Business Mgr. Gabriella Marriello Social Media Mgr. Ariana Puzzo
Jersey Joe Piscopo came to Clifton to support the Boys & Girls Club by opening the awards event and serving as the MC at the 4th Annual Car, Truck and Motorcycle Show on Sept. 10. Piscopo awarded sponsor John Fette a plaque from the Boys & Girls Club of America for his four years of leadership on this event. A record number of cars came to the business park at Allwood and Bloomfield Aves. and exhibitors walked away with trophies and booty bags. Funds raised help underwrite costs for ta variety of programs. The Club thanks exhibitors, donors and the numerous energetic show volunteers for their contributions, many of whom are pictured on these pages.
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By Jack De Vries That’s a silly question, you’re probably thinking. The Boys & Girls Club of Clifton has always been there. Since 1947, thousands of kids have walked through its doors – learned to swim in its pool, played sports and made friends there. Seniors have met at Bingo or stayed healthy with a morning swim. No Boys & Girls Club? This wouldn’t be Clifton without it. While the Club is a city institution, keeping it running and thriving is never easy. Along with its dedicated staff, the Boys & Girls Club is powered by hundreds of volunteers and its donors’ generosity – from people who might contribute a few dollars to some who give far more. “While program fees make up about half of our operating budget,” said Bob Foster, the Boys & Girls Club’s executive director, “contributions and fundraising account for more than 26 percent. That enables us to serve more members and allows us to be the club for those who need us most, not just for those who can afford us.”
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In Washington DC, Carlos with Bob and Mary Jo Foster and Paula Benjamin.
Clifton standout Carlos Polanco was named National Youth of the Year by the Boys & Girls Clubs of America, at a ceremony in late September at the National Building Museum in Washington, D.C. Polanco (CHS 2017) was recognized for his work as co-founder of the CHS Student Union, a student run, student-led advocacy group. His personal story of growth, his early days here in America, and how he found a second home at the Club are among the reasons for his winning this prestigious award. We told more about him in the May edition of our magazine.
Read his story from our May archives at Cliftonmagazine.com. Polanco, who is now attending Dartmouth College, receives $145,000 in academic scholarships, a trip to Disney World and a new Toyota Corolla. But he hasn’t forgotten his Clifton roots. “My Boys & Girls Club has taught me that I can be whatever I want to be,” said Polanco. “They taught me that I should always dream big and go after my dreams. Today, as the National Youth of the Year, I am ready to represent and advocate for all 4 million of our Boys & Girls Club kids and teens.” Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2017
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When Clifton youths visit the Club, it not only benefits these individuals but also an entire community. Research shows visiting the Boys & Girls Club weekly results in members embracing the three pillars of the organization’s National Youth Outcomes Initiative: “Academic Success, Good Character and Citizenship, and Healthy Lifestyles.” Positive effects were even greater when members attended the Club twice per week. From left, a team of tutors: Dominique Gervais, Lauren Rich, Dr. Bob “I like to think of the Club as Montemurno, DDS, Valerie Godowsky, Janelle Dizard-Britt, Jonathan Ford. providing a ‘moral compass’ in and provides a safe place to grow and learn outside of our members’ lives,” said Foster. “We provide a carthe regular school day. ing, safe haven and a positive environment.” One volunteer helping those children is Dr. Bob Of the Boys & Girls Club of Clifton’s more than Montemurno, who has been providing homework 5,000 members (with an additional 4,300-plus young help twice a week since the early 1990s. He tutors people served), 18 percent visit the Club 52-to-103 students from third through fifth grades in all subdays per year. Another 20 percent attend 104 days or jects. more per year. “It’s been extremely rewarding for me,” said The safe haven is producing tangible results. Boys Montemurno. “You’re working with kids who want & Girls Club members skip fewer school days and and need the help. When I was young, I was a bit feel more connected to school, have greater college dyslexic and had trouble with reading. Along with and other postsecondary aspirations, and volunteer my dad, I had two great teachers who helped me. more. They also get in fewer fights and are more likeThis is my chance to give back.” ly to abstain from high-risk behaviors (drugs, alcohol, Another excellent aftercare program the Club etc.) than non-members. offers is Minds in Motion, which takes place at Ask yourself again: What if the Boys & Girls Club School 12 for students who attend Schools 12 and 17, wasn’t there? and is offered to 4th and 5th graders. It features Clifton would indeed be a much different place. STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) curriculum, free snacks and a light supper, and arts, Sunrise to sundown music and sports activities. Living today can be a struggle. Single parents “We have a waiting list for help, and we’d love to head households. Often in two-parent households, accommodate more students,” said Montemurno. both mom and dad work full-time jobs. Playing a part “I’d encourage anyone who wants to help to join us.” in the lives of those families is the Boys & Girls Club. The Club does not go on vacation when summer Each day, the Club provides before- and after-school comes. Instead, it’s time for Camp Clifton, a full-day, care for nearly 1,300 children in 16 locations across eight-week camp for members, ages 6-15. Clifton. Along with summer activities (including trips to Programs include the Gingerbread House, the waterparks, theme parks, arcades and more), Camp Club’s daycare center offering daily care for children Clifton offers its Summer Brain Gain curriculum, ages 2½-5; Kindercare; and the After School Program designed to minimize summer learning loss. that partners with the Woodland Park School District 10 October 2017 • Cliftonmagazine.com
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More than hoop dreams For the many people who grew up at the Club (including this writer), the Boys & Girls Club meant sports and swimming. It was a place where former Washington Redskins quarterback Bob Holly shot baskets and current Maplewood Mayor Vic DeLuca amazed kids by dunking a basketball. On its gym floor, Coach Tom DiDonna led his outstanding basketball teams to many wins on the old court with players like Carl Williams, Sam and Mike Poulis, Walter Munk, and Bill and Brian Shaughnessy. But that’s old school. Today, the Boys & Girls Club is much, much more. Last year more than 1,000 children participated in the Club’s team sporting activities. Leagues included indoor soccer, swimming, basketball, karate and volleyball. Members can also participate in dance, yoga, karate, and CPR and first aid classes. The Club’s aquatic program is also at a higher level, serving more than 12,350 swimmers annually in its magnificent pool. Classes range from Mom-NTot classes to advanced lifeguard training courses. More than 3,000 children take swim lessons and 400 adults use the pool for lessons, lap swims, and water exercise classes for people with arthritis. Three high school teams rent the facility during their swim team season. The Club’s pool is also home to its Seahawks. Last year, 129 Seahawks, ages 5 to 17, took part in swim meets and trips, and two swimmers set New Jersey records for individual events. The Seahawks competed in the B&G Club National Championships in St. Petersburg, Fla., and took home second place. This past summer, volunteers from the healthcare provider Horizon Blue got involved at the club with an Asthma Awareness campaign.
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Academic Programs PowerHour: Making Minutes Count: Provides homework help and tutoring; encourages self-directed learners. Project Learn: Enhances and reinforces school skills. Money Matters: Promotes financial responsibility and independence; members learn to manage a checking account, create budgets, save and invest, start small businesses and pay for college. Summer Brain Gain: National initiative to mitigate or reverse summer learning loss. Technology Center: Explore computers and use technology to enhance intellectual development. Safely use Internet for research and communication. My.Future: Features activities to understand social media, identify and develop media interest and earn certifications. STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) Programming: Includes Waterbotics, Lego Mindstorms, Explore It, and STEM Mentoring; encourage youths to think like scientists, engineers and mathematicians. Club Garden: Members learn about nature by maintaining the Club garden. Graduate from Mas by Taco Bell: Mentoring program serving 50 middle school youth. Mentors help with difficult subject, preparing for tests and reaching school goals.
Graduation & College Readiness Programs Goals for Graduation: Introduces academic goal-setting; links future aspirations with actions today. Diplomas 2 Degrees: College readiness program; work toward high school graduation and prepare for post-secondary education and career success. Career Launch: Encourage careers exploration to make educational decisions and prepare to join the local and national workforce. Career Exploration Day: Offers juniors from CHS and other schools the opportunity to visit area businesses and shadow career professionals.
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Good Character & Citizenship Programs Torch Club: Helps meet character development needs for members ages 11-13, a critical life stage. Members elect officers and implement activities in four areas: service to Club and community, education, health and fitness. Keystone Club: Leadership development experience for young people, ages 14-17, focusing on academic success, career preparation, and community service. Million Members, Million Hours of Service: A program aimed donating at least one hour of service in a single year. The Boys & Girls Club of Clifton had nearly 400 participants in this program. Youth of the Year & Junior Boy/Girl: Recognizes outstanding young people who embody the finest leadership and character qualities of Boys & Girls Club members.
Bruce Driver, former NJ Devils captain, power play quarterback and member of the 1995 Stanley Cup champions, teaches B&G Club members some hockey basics.
OJP Mentoring Program: Trained adult volunteers and high school mentors work with members deemed at risk for academic failure, social difficulty or needing a supportive relationship.
Great futures start here The Boys & Girls Club is also committed to helping young people become proficient in basic educational skills and embrace technology. It’s not a one-size-fits-all approach, as the Club provides diverse activities to meet their interests. Professionals act as role models, emphasizing the importance of character, fair play, honesty and responsibility. One of these is Lauren Rich, an 11-year fifth grade teacher at Clifton’s School No. 3 who works part-time as the Club’s reading specialist. Rich Serious about academics as he is on the football field for the NY Giants, started as a lifeguard and swim Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie hosted a back-to-school bash to talk aout instructor, and will mark her 16th year getting ready for school, athletics and life skills so that kids can become productive citizens of the community. at the Club this March. “I work at the Club for the same reason I got into education,” said Rich, “to make a difference. But Along with sports and the pool, the Club serves as working at the Boys & Girls Club is special because a meeting place. Seniors, service, and school groups these are kids who need a place to go after school and use the organization’s facilities, as do the Parents of a mentor to look up to. Personally and professionalAutistic Children and the Passaic County Sheriff’s ly, it’s extremely rewarding work.” Department. In addition, the newly designed teen Young people using the Club’s academic programs center gives young people a place to flourish in a safe demonstrate better school attendance, increased and supervised environment. 14 October 2017 • Cliftonmagazine.com
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Healthy Lifestyle Programs Triple Play: Improves knowledge of healthy habits, nutrition and physical fitness; increases physical activity hours; strengthens positive engagement in healthy relationships. Healthy Habits: Program within Triple Play designed to incorporate healthy living and active learning. From the gym to the learning center to the arts & crafts room, themes of good nutrition, regular activity, and overall wellbeing are emphasized. Wanna Play: Encourages youth, ages 6 to 12, to increase their fitness through activity and improved nutrition education, while learning baseball and softball skills. Smart Moves: Nationally acclaimed comprehensive prevention program designed to help young people, ages 615, resist alcohol, tobacco, drug use, and premature sexual activity. Involves discussions and role-playing; practicing resistance and refusal skills; developing assertiveness, strengthening decision-making skills; and analyzing media and peer influence. Smart Girls: Health, fitness, prevention/education and self-esteem enhancement program for girls, ages 8 to 17. Activities build skills for eating right, staying fit, getting good healthcare and developing positive relationships. Other topics include how the media influences attitudes about females, physical and emotional changes and sexual abuse and harassment issues. Smart Leaders: Stay Smart graduates educate members about resisting peer pressure in harmful activities and making smart choices. Positive Sprouts: Emphasizes eating nutritious foods and living healthy lifestyles by digging, building and maintaining a diverse green garden at the club.
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Youth of the Year judges from top left: Dante Liberti, Cindy DeVos, Tim Kennedy, Bev Mariso, Thomas Fieldhouse, Katrine ‘Rina’ Hyde. Second row from left: Dr. Vincent Malba, Keith Oakley, Candice Mariso, Brent Rudnick, Rich Mariso, Debra Lesnick.
academic confidence and improved school effort. Rich has seen that improvement in many students, especially a few who once said they hated to read. “After working with them,” Rich said, “I’ve seen them discover a reading genre they like or they’ll learn they enjoy non-fiction reading. That’s so satisfying. I’ve also introduced graphic novels into our reading program through a Barnes & Noble grant, and that’s been popular, especially with the boys.” During the summer, Rich works with the Club’s education team, consisting of teachers, education students and volunteers in the Summer Brain Gain program. “Students have an opportunity to be part of a program that focuses on literacy and hands-on activities,” she said. “We do our best to keep summer learning loss to a minimum.” Other enriching programs are the Club’s STEM activities, including those led by Valerie Godowsky, a Clifton native and Montclair State University graduate. “I’ve been here since 2015,” Godowsky said, “and the kids love STEM. We make things out of common items – cakes from scratch, catapults, and roller coasters out of tubing. “We’ve wired a cardboard house to learn about electricity and learned about insulation – look-
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Kristen and John Fette above and, at right, his parents Larry and Nancy and his grandparents Lee and Henry.
ing to build a working oven that can bake cookies,” Godowsky said. STEM has also made a difference in Godowsky’s life. Though she graduated with a degree in nutrition and dietetics, she’s saving to return to MSU to pursue a degree in education, inspired by her Boys & Girls Club work. Another Boys & Girls Club mission is to develop character and citizenship. The Club seeks to empower members to support and influence their community. It also helps young people develop a positive selfimage, participate in the democratic process and respect their own and others’ cultural identities. “Once you’re a Club kid, you’re always a Club kid,” said Dr. Vincent Malba, vice president of the Alumni Association. “We try to get alumni to come back and help. And when the kids see that, it makes an impression about community service. We want to pass the torch and make sure it never loses its light.” Young people who volunteer or engage in service are more likely to graduate from high school and less likely to drop out. In fact, Boys & Girls Club of Clifton members are above the national, state and regional average in seeing themselves as leaders and avoiding physical conflicts, leading to higher levels of integrity and decreased aggression and shyness. Clifton Boys & 18 October 2017 • Cliftonmagazine.com
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“The Fette family has helped raise funds for the Club for three generations and we’re proud to continue that legacy.” – John Fette Girls Club member Carlos Polanco (CHS 2017) offered dramatic proof of that point in 2017, honored as Youth of the Year both at the Clifton Club and at the national level (see story, page 9). In addition, 49 percent of Boys & Girls Club of Clifton’s surveyed youth volunteer at least once per month and 60 percent have participated in a Clubbased service program. Malba, a Club member in the 1980s and a Clifton chiropractor today, never forgot being able to learn and play in a safe environment when he was a kid. Along with his alumni work, he visits the Club to speak about backpacks and spinal safety. “By showing what we do today,” he said, “we can give back and become role models for other Club kids.” The Club’s third pillar of success is adoption of a healthy lifestyle. Healthy lifestyle programs are aimed at establishing positive behaviors. Participants are encouraged to set personal goals, ultimately leading to living
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as successful self-sufficient adults. For example, 100 percent of the Boys & Girls Club of Clifton’s surveyed teens abstained from marijuana, 75 percent say they eat two or more fruits each day, and 69 percent engage in physical activities five or more days a week. Barry Tsouhnikas is one of those volunteers encouraging physical activity. For the past decade, along with his coaching partner Carly Padula, he has been part of the Club’s indoor soccer program. He volunteers about 10-to-15 hours a week, coaching a team in each of the five age divisions. “It’s rewarding being a positive role model for these kids,” said Tsouhnikas, who played soccer at the Club and later at Clifton High. “I treat my players with respect, and want them to do the same with others.” Healthy Lifestyle programs center on sports, fitness, stress management, social skills and appreciation for the environment. Involvement results in better future plans, fewer negative peers as friends, less chance of being stopped by police, and a lower likelihood of smoking cigarettes, drinking alcohol, and engaging in premature sexual behavior. The programs, like participating in soccer, can make a difference in a young person’s life – something Tsouhnikas has seen firsthand. “About 10 years ago,” Tsouhnikas remembered, “there was a young boy named Sebastian Hernandez who came to play at the Club. He was shy and quiet, but Carly and I could see he had ability and we encouraged him. Today, he’s a sophomore playing on Clifton High’s varsity team – that’s outstanding!” The giving life There are many ways to help the Boys & Girls Club of Clifton, both with volunteer hours and monetary donations. One person who does both is Mimi Cuellar, a past chairperson of the summer camp scholarship campaign. Along with her husband Rafael, she is also a frequent supporter and contributor to the Club’s annual giving campaign. “Mimi and Rafael have done so much for us,” said John DeGraaf, the Club’s resource development director. “They always go above and beyond – from providing food for donor meetings to allowing us to place collection jars in their stores.” 20 October 2017 • Cliftonmagazine.com
Mimi and Rafael Cuellar.
The Cuellars, who own the ShopRite of Passaic/Clifton and ShopRite Wines & Spirits of Clifton, have a true passion for the organization, and a point of pride as well. “My husband and I believe in the Boys & Girls Club,” said Cuellar. “It provides such a vital service to the community – from its educational programs to how it mentors young people. We have a genuine love for the Boys & Girls Club.” And that goes for the Club’s volunteers and staff. “The people who run the Club,” Cuellar said, “are truly invested in making a difference. They really care. So does the Club’s board who does so many things to help the Club run smoothly.” While the Cuellars are firmly behind the Club, they encourage other businesses and people to join them as Clifton’s future beckons. “When businesses and individuals support the Boys & Girls Club,” said Cuellar, “it shows young people that there’s a closeness in the community, a feeling of support – we’re behind them. And when a community does that, the possibilities are endless. “These young people will be residing and working in our community or another somewhere else. It’s our responsibility to help with their advancement, and supporting the Boys & Girls Club is a great place to start.”
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Sponsorships are an important part of all of our events and helps keep the programs and services we provide affordable for the kids in our community.
We also offer an Annual Sponsorship Program which allows the investor, options and opportunities to sponsor all events throughout the year for one price.
At the Boys & Girls Club of Clifton, your odds of winning Bingo are great. The Club’s Bingo guru and chief caller, Joe Holmes, noted that more than 70 percent of gross receipts are paid out to players. “Combined Bingo receipts last year totaled $2.8 million,” said Holmes. “Of that number, some $1.9
million was awarded back to players in prizes—a 70 percent return. Pretty good odds, huh?” The Club holds eight Bingo games per week in its climate controlled and smoke free Bingo Hall at 181 Colfax Ave. “Our games offer big prize payouts, early bird specials, 50/50 jackpot games, and a $1,000 full board payout,” added Holmes. “We offer handheld devices and many instant ticket and keeper games.” The Bingo Schedule is: Tuesday—7:15 pm Wednesday—10:15 am & 7:15 pm Thursday—Noon & 7:15 pm Friday—Noon Saturday—Noon & 7:15 pm Doors open at 10:30 am for noon Bingos and 5:30 pm for all night games. The first Saturday of each month is Double Bingo Jackpot Bingo. For more than 50 years, the Club has held Bingo to raise operating funds to help in providing programs and services for Clifton kids. For info, call 973-7730966 x 121.
Support the club with an unspecified gift or sponsor any of these events. Call John DeGraaf at 973-773-0966 ex. 111 November 17, 2017 Alumni Beefsteak & Hall of Fame Induction 7pm to 11pm Tickets: $40 March 16, 2018 Casino Night 7 to 11pm Tickets: $60
May 11, 2018 Tricky Tray 6 to 11pm Tickets: $20 August 6th, 2018 Golf Classic Noon to 8pm September 9, 2018 Car Show – 9am to 5pm – Sponsors needed
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Kids that he grew up with, and the adults who helped him along the way, still call him “Mookie.” But Dr. Mukundha B. Maneyapanda said his time at the Boys & Girls Club was an invaluable plus in his life and helped shape his career. “My parents moved to New Jersey from India. As first-generation Indian-Americans, my parents wanted my siblings and me to be involved in our community. The club gave us a safe place to socialize with our peers and learn core values,” he said. Along with his twin sister, Seetha, and younger brother, Mithra, he spent many after-school hours learning how to swim and stayed active with the club’s indoor soccer leagues. “I have fond memories of playing indoor soccer with my close friends, including Joseph DeHaas and Christopher Karcz, whom I still socialize with today,” he said.
Back in 2001, Mookie was active in the Club and also as a CHS Mustang. In our file photo from June, 2001, he is pictured with the CHS Top 10. Top, from left: Andreia Alexander, Mary Bakarich, Valedictorian Seetha Maneyapanda, Nicholas Schumann, Jessica Marini, Priti Lad, Emily Hartman. Bottom, from left: Janine Williams, Salutatorian Renee Schnaidt, Mukandha Maneyapanda.
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The doctor’s life and career have come full circle; he and his sister and brother all were born at St. Joseph’s Regional Medical Center in Paterson, where Mookie now serves a faculty member and the assistant program director of St. Joseph’s Department of Family Medicine here in Clifton. Maneyapanda also works as an assistant professor of family and community medicine for New York Medical College and maintains a private practice at 1135 Broad St. His education included stops at New York Medical College, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Cornell University and Rutgers University. Maneyapanda’s siblings also pursued careers in the medical profession. Seetha Maneyapanda Rivera, MD, like Mookie from the CHS Class of 2001, is a pediatrician based in Harrison.
Mithra Maneyapanda, MD (CHS Class of 2004), is a physical medicine and rehabilitation doctor in Bryn Mawr, PA. Mookie said the club helped him to understand the need for community service and giving back. He takes part in charitable activities such as St. Joseph’s Charity Ball and the “Cooking for Kids Charity Event” at St. Jude Children’s Hospital. “Bob Foster not only taught my siblings and me how to swim, but he served as a mentor,” Mookie said, continuing: “His kindness, patience, and compassion are a few of his attributes that my sister, brother and I value and try to incorporate into our daily lives as physicians.” Mookie and his siblings in the early years: Seetha, Mithra and Mookie. Today, all three are physicians.
Immedicenter
1355 Broad St. • Clifton • 973-778-5566
www.immedicenter.com Dr. Michael Basista, Medical Director of Immedicenter Mon-Fri 8am to 9pm • Sat & Sun 8am to 5pm Walk-in Medical Care Weekday Appointments Available 26 October 2017 • Cliftonmagazine.com
From Clifton’s own Row Freeholder Bruce James. Dear Fellow Cliftonites, For the past 12 years, I have been honored to serve the people of Clifton and Passaic County as your Freeholder. Over those years I believe my team and I have accomplished much for our citizens. We have worked hard to stabilize taxes and improve services resulting in no Passaic County tax increase to Clifton this year. After four Bond Rating increases, we now are in the best fiscal shape with the best bond rating in the history of Passaic County. We have improved services to our seniors and veterans and expanded training programs for the unemployed and underemployed. Our economic development team continues to attract new companies to find their home and create jobs in Passaic County.
B
All the Way
By working with groups such as Clifton’s Athletic Associations, the Arts Center, Hamilton House, and the Avenue of Flags (which we helped incorporate to be able to apply for funding), we have increased awards to Clifton by over $1.5 million dollars. These grants have led to improvements to Clifton fields and historic sites. It also helped fully fund the Killed in Action section of the Avenue of Flags, completing another section to this patriotic display. I am proud of our record and want to continue to serve my hometown of Clifton and Passaic County. I thank the voters of Clifton for your past trust and support. That is why, as election day approaches on November 7th, I once again humbly ask for your vote so my team and I can continue our good work.
Thank You, Bruce James
Paid for by Bruce James for Freeholder, Mukesh Tandya, Treasuer. Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2017
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For Kathy Dittrich, the Boys & Girls Club was a second home as she grew up. Now an English teacher and RTI (Response to Intervention) coordinator for the language arts program at Hunterdon Central Regional High School in Flemington, Dittrich also cited the club as her “happy place.” She said those learning years shaped her life and her career. “My formative years were spent learning from caring and compassionate counselors, building lasting friendships, and fostering my desire to help others, which ultimately led me to teaching.” Like many of her era, her membership turned to employment. “I don’t recall all the details, but I do remember working behind the front desk and in the Bingo hall, answering phones, and working with counselors to run tournaments. I loved it so much that I volunteered my time whenever I could, especially during my teenage years.” As a young teen, she enjoyed hanging out at the Teen Center. By her junior year at CHS, she became a leader there, helping by tutoring and organizing events. Her achievements were noticed and was named “Young Woman of the Year” in 1988. Like Carlos Polanco, who went on to become the 2017 National Youth of the Year, Dittrich went on to become a finalist for the state of New Jersey. Dittrich is a 1989 graduate of CHS, went to the College of St. Joseph in Rutland, VT, through 2002 and has taught at the high school in Flemington for 15 years. Today she and her husband of nine years, Brian
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Glennon, have an 8-year old son, Finian. She said the club’s alumni Hall of Fame is a family honor. “My brother Anton Dittrich was inducted two years ago, and my cousin Randy Natoli was inducted last year,” she said mentioning also her dad, Sebastian Dittrich, an indoor soccer coach. Among her role models are Bob Foster, Bob Lipala, Maryann Lyons, Rob Kraznowski, Tom Acton, Chris Morrison and Cathy Sokolewicz. She also noted her billiards skills honed during her club days. “I play a mean eight ball!” she boasted.
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Officer Kevin Collucci, 45, joined the city’s police department in 2001 and is assigned to the Field Operations Bureau. His experiences coaching and counseling Boys & Girls Club members have helped him in his work. Collucci worked at the Boys & Girls Club from 1992 to 1995, serving as the basketball coach for middle school students. In addition, he participated in the after-school program as the 5th and 6th grade group counselor, the after-school counselor for School 12, and was a teen counselor for the club’s summer program. He also assisted in running the NJ Nets and Coca-Cola basketball program. The experience of coaching helped him to “develop an understanding as to how to communicate with different age groups. Coaching taught me the tools of encouraging, teaching and disciplining a team. Coaching builds confidence of being a decision maker and leader,” he explained. Today, while making his rounds as a Clifton police officer, he often meets people he worked with and coached during his years at the club, which kindles pleasant memories. “There is one player who stands out in my mind, and that’s Bobby Castronovo,” Collucci recalled. “He was a player I could put in any situation and he would be able to handle it and understand it. His parents were always so supportive of how I ran the team. “My time at the club has also helped me with my own children and their friends,” Collucci pointed out. For example, Collucci demonstrates how he “developed an ear for kids” when he kneels down to patiently interact with young children. He cited two people, in particular, who helped him during his years at the club. “Tracey Lembryk was my score keeper. During a game there are a lot of moving pieces and she always had the information I needed as a game unfolded so I could put the team in a position to win,” Collucci said. “Bob Foster took the chance on hiring a 20-yearold with no experience in coaching or working in the after-school program. He was always positive and 30 October 2017 • Cliftonmagazine.com
supportive during my time there. The success of many of the children as well as the employees is because of him, which is evident by seeing his longevity.” The Boys & Girls Club hired Foster in February 1980 and named him executive director in October 2006. A 1991 graduate of Clifton High School, Collucci said his daily assignments include responding to service calls as well as enforcing motor vehicle law, criminal law and city ordinance violations. His wife is Allison is a teacher and they have a son Kyle, 11, and daughter Julia, 8. His dad, Vito Collucci Sr., is a retired Clifton police officer who served on the force for 27 1/2 years. His mother, Mary Ellen Collucci, worked for the Clifton Recreation Department as a teacher’s aide for many years. He has three brothers: Vito Jr., who owns a construction company; Ken (CHS 1989), a Clifton fireman, and Glenn (CHS 1992), who works in the finance department for Verizon.
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The Fifth Taste of Clifton presented by the Boys & Girls Club on Oct. 2 and sponsored by Clara Maass Medical Center in Belleville and RWJ Barnabas Health was another splashy affair. Thirty-five restaurants and liquor purveyors provided food and drink to keep everyone mixing and mingling. New this year was an outdoor beer garden with music by Brookwood Unplugged. Beer garden sponsors included ShopRite Wines & Spirits, Investors Bank and Boiling Springs Bank. Dozens of prizes were awarded to the sold out crowd and in the end, funds were raised for the Club. These four pages provide a look back at the affair.
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Doktor and his VPs: Andrew Jaeger, Susan E. Schnepf, Patricia DeLotto, Luis Ros and Peter Cumba (not pictured).
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“Michael is a person of high character and professionalism with a great knowledge of the district and high school. He also has a nice rapport with the teachers and a great understanding of the students’ needs.”
Michael Doktor is making his rounds, something he tries to do several times a day. He walks through halls that change from tiled corridors to windowed walkways filled with natural light, like the one cutting through the school garden. Throughout, Clifton High is filled with maroon accents – students and teachers wear the color, as does the new principal. Doktor knows his path, having traveled it first as a student in September 1991, and later as a teacher and vice principal. Students recognize him – not with fear but with a bit of surprise. He is hard to miss. Doktor stands a lanky 6’5”, still looking like the volleyball player he was in high school. Seeing students without their ID lanyards, he motions to his own and they scramble to grab theirs from a pocket or purse. “The inside of your pocket doesn’t need to know where you are,” he said to one, “but we do.” 36 October 2017 • Cliftonmagazine.com
– former CHS principal Tony Orlando
Throughout his walk, Doktor points out items of interest – murals he’d like to see expanded, the two school resource officer locations staffed by Clifton Police, the television studio that is bigger and better equipped than many colleges. A few more students drift by without ID lanyards; Doktor reminds each one. “New school year,” he said. “They’ll get it.” He spots three students without required colorcoded passes. “Where are you supposed to be?” he asks. Two mumble something and slip into a classroom; the other launches into a long explanation. Doktor listens for a bit and tells the student to go
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to class and attend to his issue later. His tone is more matterof-fact than strict disciplinarian. He sees two more in the hallway. He tells one to get to class. But with the other, Doktor spots something. His intuition is strong. “Want to talk?” he asks. The student nods. “Go to my office,” Doktor said. “I’ll be The 1995 Mustang volleyball team from left rear: Doktor, Stephen Yacykewych, there shortly.” Paul Cisek, Michael Prawetz, Max Resnick. Front: Peter Pregner, Kris DeLara, He doesn’t know what situaPhil Aiello, Bao Ngo, Larry Tiankee. tion awaits him, but chances are “I was cut my freshman and sophomore years,” he he’ll be familiar with the problem. That comes from said. “It was the greatest thing that could have hapbeing at CHS most of your adult life – as a student, pened. I was not good – I hadn’t grown into my body coach, teacher and administrator. yet. And, if I hadn’t been cut, I never would have gotIn one of the state’s largest high schools, in a district ten into volleyball.” where 56 languages are spoken, a principal must solve Volleyball fit Doktor’s height and life philosophy. “I complex problems. But Doktor has a natural tendency loved it because you worked as a team,” he said. “No not to complicate issues, to keep things simple. There’s matter how good you were as an individual, you needed no hidden agenda, no cards held tight to the vest – just the rest of the team.” an unpretentious and honest aim to do what’s best – for Doktor played for the Mustangs from 1993 through the individual and school. 1995. After graduating, he intended to go to college out It’s a role he’s been preparing for his entire life. of state, but family issues forced him back home at the start of his first semester. He enrolled in Montclair State Making of a Mustang University but could not start until January. Doktor If you told Michael Doktor he’d be CHS principal asked Clifton’s volleyball coach Lynn Tuorto if he could during his first week as a young Mustang, he would help out that fall and was given a position as a volunteer have laughed. After attending grammar school at St. assistant coach. Andrew’s in Clifton, he had bigger concerns. He also began thinking about his future. Teacher “The first week,” he laughed, “I was lost all the time. Jerry Waller had made him think about education as a But I got used to it.” career, and teacher Cathy Rossi was another influence. Doktor was born in Nutley and came to Clifton at age With a chance to continue coaching, Doktor saw the 7, moving to a home on Mount Prospect Ave. with his decision as a “no brainer” and switched his major from father Allen, an antique shop owner, and mother business to business education. Domenica, a manager with Stryker Orthopaedics. “I enjoyed working with kids and the impact I could Michael liked sports but liked work even more. From have on their lives,” he said. “They would come to me age 11, he helped his father at antique shows or flea with their issues, on and off the court, and what I was markets. “I loved the business,” Doktor said. “On the telling them was helping them. That’s what pushed me side, I started dealing in comic books, baseball cards and into education.” sports memorabilia. In college, I dealt with collectible While in college (where he captained the MSU voltoys.” leyball team), Doktor became Clifton’s JV coach and Doktor had an affinity with numbers and envisioned worked with the varsity. Before his MSU graduation, he a career in business. Because he was tall, he also enviwas chosen as the boys head varsity coach. sioned himself playing basketball for Clifton. 38 October 2017 • Cliftonmagazine.com
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Coaching and teaching life Doktor could not wait to begin his head coaching career. Driving to his first team meeting, he got a speeding ticket on Brighton Rd. “It was a 25 mph road, and I’m sure I was doing 35,” he said. “I didn’t say a thing at the meeting about it.” Blessed with a good feeder program and middle school teachers who were volleyball advocates, he led the boys team to two state finals (2001 and 2005), four state semifinals, and four county and 10 league championships. In 11 seasons leading the girls team, the Mustangs were Passaic County champions once and league champs five times. Coach Mike Doktor with the 2001 Mustang team that went to the state finals. From left rear: Rob Tani, Nick Schumann, Brian Smith, Andy “He was so passionate about coaching,” Egan, Dennis Havriliak, Brian VanDerHorn, Matt Seitz Chris said Greg Beebe, now assistant volleyball Siddayao, David Baron, Jo Siddayao Rob Rozman, Rich Kochan. coach at Hackensack High who competed al leadership. After teaching advanced computers at against Doktor’s teams as a player. “We were rivals and CHS for 11 years, he went into administration and then became friends. He helped me so much with teachbecame a vice principal at Woodrow Wilson Middle ing, coaching – all parts of life.” School and vice principal at CHS. In July 2017, he was “I had some of the greatest players in state,” Doktor chosen as principal of his alma mater. said, “but to look at their stats, they’re very similar to “When he got the job, I wasn’t surprised,” said Beebe. their teammates. I could have set the ball to one player “Anything Mike does, he does 100 percent.” all the time and he or she would have 1,000 kills… or we “Family members called with congratulations,” could win more games and more people could excel. Doktor said, “as did former players, staff and retirees. It They bought into that philosophy, and we did very well was like when I was coach and you won that big game, because of that.” and everyone is on your side. It was a nice feeling, but “What made him different,” said Allison DiAngello, now it’s time to go to work.” who played for Doktor from 2004 through 2008, “was his 24-hour loyalty and devotion to his players. Though New role he could sometimes fling a clipboard, in crucial Doktor considers his prior experience as a vice princimoments, he always had faith in you.” pal invaluable, much like when he went from assistant to Between the boys and girls teams, Doktor amassed head coach. “I knew what the job entailed,” he said. “I 500 coaching wins and was selected NJSIAA Boys was here. Unless you live it, you just don’t know. It’s Volleyball State Coach of the Year in 2005. been a smooth transition, much of that due to the staff “Michael is an amazing person,” said Lester Fila, a and kids. They feel comfortable with me – they know 15-year CHS teacher and assistant volleyball coach. who I am, what I’m about. ” “He’s extremely organized and handled everything with However, he knows there will be adjustments. the volleyball program – dinners, meetings, tournaments. My biggest transition now is leaning on others,” He was also great with communicating with the players Doktor said. “The things I did every day, I can’t do. I and parents.” need to allow other vice principals to work on those Doktor continued to learn, earning a Master’s degree things because eventually it has to come back to in business education and another Master’s in education40 October 2017 • Cliftonmagazine.com
With Great Pride, We Recognize the Clifton Office’s Highest Achievers. July 2017 Award Winners
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Top Lister
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Top Producer
Patricia ‘Patty’ Badia
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Agent of the Month
Weichert Pride
Alma Billings
Geffrey ‘Geff’ S. Gardner
August 2017 Award Winners
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Valdemar Studzinski
Top Lister
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Top Producer
Top Sales
Agent of the Month
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me. It doesn’t work well when the person who needs to make the final decision is doing all of the leg work and already has an opinion. I need to be impartial later on.” When asked why he pursued leadership, Doktor laughed, “Because I’m a control freak who needs to be in charge – why else are you the head coach? Why else are you a captain or a person in charge? “Seriously, a good leader isn’t a dictator; a good leader needs to listen to people, whether it’s assistant coaches and players, or vice principals, teachers and students. You have to listen to what people are saying – what their needs are. And what you think their needs are may not be their real needs.” Opportunities and challenges Doktor lives in Parsippany, with his wife Kimberlee, a Clifton native, and their sons Nicholas, 11, and Mathew, 9. He is excited about the new school year and challenges Clifton students to make their mark at the school, as he did. “We just had a freshman meeting,” Doktor said, “and we told them be involved. There’s more than 70 clubs and activities in addition to sports. Get tutored, meet with your teachers. You can’t just walk through this place and be another body. Make a name for yourself and find your way. The best way to do that is to be part of something, and we have so much to be a part of. “Colleges want well-rounded individuals. You can be tops in grades and SATs, but they want more. They want the volleyball team’s statistician, the robotics team member and somebody who plays a sport. They want students who are going to make it through four years – kids who can handle stress and situations. You get a lot of that from athletics and extracurricular activities.” When asked how he plans to get students to buy into his message, he said: “Be honest. That’s with anything – coaching, walking the halls – if you’re honest with them and treat them with respect, they’re going to do the same. If you’re in their face and over the top, most people don’t react well to that.” Doktor sees attracting and retaining students and changing perceptions as some of his challenges. “We have an unbelievable amount to offer, probably more than any school in the area,” he said. “Just like private schools, we need to let prospective students know that.” 42 October 2017 • Cliftonmagazine.com
Nicholas, Matthew, Kimberlee and Mike Doktor.
An upcoming Open House tour for students, grades 68, is scheduled Oct. 24 from 7-9 pm. “We have programs where you can attend Passaic County Community College all day, and still do senior activities,” Doktor noted. “That gives you 30 college credits when you’re done – that’s big. “You can also stay after school and take college courses, and we’re moving toward taking college courses during the day,” he added. Doktor has a piece of advice for any person wanting an education career: Spend as much time as you can with kids. “And not just in the classroom,” he emphasized. “Whether it’s helping at the Boys & Girls Club, being a coach, club advisor or tutor – you need to make connections. If you make connections with five students, they tell their five friends, and they’ll say that person is okay – you can talk with them.” Each day, he’s reminded of that in his student or staff interactions. Communicate. Be honest. Listen. “He’ll do an outstanding job as principal,” said former CHS principal Tony Orlando. “Michael is a person of high character and professionalism with a great knowledge of the district and high school. He also has a nice rapport with the teachers and a great understanding of the students’ needs.” “He’s the right person at the right time,” said Fila.
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On the following pages we recap the accomplishments of the CHS 2017 Athletic Hall of Fame teams and individuals with the exception of Stephen Yacykewych whom we could not contact before we went to press.
Some casual observers of Clifton’s 2007 softball team might have taken Deanna Giordano as an overnight star. That year, she helped lead the team to a Group IV state softball title with a 2-0 triumph over Toms River East in 10 innings. The team also earned an NNJIL Division B title and were one win shy of the winning the Passaic County tournament. Individually, Giordano (CHS 2007) won 29 of 30 starts that spring, allowing 18 earned runs in 198 innings. She also posted 17 shutouts, striking out 304 batters while walking only 17. Offensively, Giordano batted .342 and drove in 20 runs. She also won North Jersey Pitcher of the Year honors as well as spots on the Passaic County and NNJIL Division B first teams. She also earned all-state recognition. But she had to wait her turn. As a junior, Giordano served as designated hitter while senior Brianne Moore pitched one final season of her four-year career. Practicing patience as a virtue, Giordano worked hard at being a team player before rising to prominence during her own senior year. “I had taken pitching lessons since I was 10, and I felt that I was ready. At the same time, playing wherever I could was better than nothing. And when it was my time, I knew I would succeed,” said Giordano. “I wanted to get out there and show what I could do. But while I waited, I tried to observe the teams we were playing and study other players. I mean, what else could I do? I got more knowledge that way.” Often overshadowed by Giordano’s softball accomplishments are her considerable skills in volleyball. She finished her Clifton volleyball career with three appearances on the All-Passaic County first team (2004, 2005, 2006) and making The Record’s All-North Jersey squad twice. Still, her greatest claim to fame was the level to which she brought Clifton softball, all despite having to wait her turn. The 2017 CHS Athletic Hall of Fame luncheon is on Oct. 15 at noon at the Brownstone. For tickets, which are $50, and info, call CHS Athletic Director Tom Mullahey at 973-470-2282 or write tmullahey@cliftonschools.net. 44 October 2017 • Cliftonmagazine.com
2006 Football Team It took six games, resulting in a mediocre 3-3 record, before Clifton’s 2006 football team coalesced into a championship unit. Head Coach Ron Anello, in his third year at the helm, took a gamble and changed defensive coordinators, bumping up assistant coach Steve Covello. The Mustangs responded with playoff-like intensity each week, going on a six-game winning streak that culminated in a 26-0 victory over Eastside at Giants Stadium to give the program its first North 1, Group 4 title in 33 years. But during the seventh game, the players, not Anello, took the leap of faith. Senior quarterback Anthony Giordano convinced his coach not to settle for a game-tying field goal against Ridgewood — which led, 17-14, with one second to play — instead urging a quarterback keeper to the left pylon to win the game. The gamble worked, giving the Mustangs a 20-17 victory. “I wanted to kick the field goal, but I had 22 eyeballs on me saying ‘We will get in,’ ” Anello said. “It is the kids’ game, so we went Tight Wing Right, 25 Belly Keep, and it was a race to the flag.” The Mustangs subsequently clinched the eighth seed in the playoffs after a shocking 18-13 win over St. Joseph Regional in Montvale, and then won close postseason games over North Bergen and Randolph to advance to Giants Stadium, where Clifton defeated Eastside, reversing the outcome between the two teams a month and a half earlier.
The group exemplified team play. Its impact on Clifton football cannot be overstated; it injected a confidence into the program that made the Mustangs believe that their days as doormats were over for good. “I was always a strong proponent of tradition,” Anello said. “I would like to believe that it is part of the tradition now. I would like to believe the significance of that team is still lingering somewhere. I hope it is. I think it was great for the community, for the school and for everyone involved.”
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By Joe Hawrylko
Cara Boseski turned 29 on March 14, 2008, but she didn’t have a party. She wasn’t out at a local bar or celebrating with her close friends over a quiet dinner. Instead, the Clifton High School softball coach was on a plane, flying to Florida for a spring training trip with her team. It’s this type of dedication to young people that has earned her the induction into the 2017 Clifton Athletic Hall of Fame. The dedication has also led to great success as Boseski guided her 2007 Lady Mustangs to a Group 4 state title in what was then just her third season as head coach. “Winning a state championship was one of my dreams as a coach, but I didn’t think it would happen this soon,” she admitted. But Boseski is no stranger to winning it all. She was a senior on the 1997 CHS softball team that went a perfect 31-0 and captured the Group 4 crown. The third baseman, along with shortstop Stacy Veech, who was Boseski’s assistant coach through 2009, were both named to the All-County team in 1997. Boseski batted .413 and committed just a single error during her final two years on the squad, while Veech was the county’s best hitter with a .580 batting average. Boseski said she learned a lot about being a leader from her high school coach Rich LaDuke, who was Clifton’s Athletic Director until 2010 and is also being inducted to the 2017 Mustang Hall of Fame. 46 October 2017 • Cliftonmagazine.com
“He always told us how it’s an honor to wear a Clifton softball uniform, and so it’s very important to act appropriately when in one,” recalled Boseski, who now tells her girls the same thing. Another one of Cara’s mentors is her father Bill. Having played baseball in high school, Mr. Boseski started his daughter in softball at an early age, practicing in the backyard of their Belmont Ave. home. Bill coached his girl from when she was playing for the Rosemawr Citizens of the Southern Division Little League, up until she went to CHS. Cara learned a great deal from her father’s coaching style as well. “He always just pushed me to do the best I could,” she said of her dad. “He taught me that everyone’s best is different.” Having always wanted to work with children, Boseski earned her teaching degree in 2002 from Fairleigh Dickinson University in Madison, where she also played softball.
After graduating from college, Boseski returned to Clifton to begin her teaching career and take a job as the assistant coach to CHS ’89 grad Juliann Magliarditi, who had just taken over for LaDuke. In 2006, Magliarditi, whose married name is DeLallo, was replaced by Boseski, who brought Veech along as her assistant. LaDuke said it made sense that they would take over the program because they were the best leaders when they were on the team. In Boseski’s first year at the helm, the Lady Mustangs went 18-6 and won their league, but 2007 was her real breakout coaching season. That’s when CHS finished 30-3, capturing league, section and Group 4 championships. Boseski is truly living her dream, maybe just a little earlier than she expected. “I’ve always wanted to teach and coach,” she said. “When it comes down to it, I’m a kid at heart.” Although Boseski has not forgotten the thrill of winning, she has gone on to experience other joys in life. She has taught 8th grade Social Studies for 15 years at CCMS, where she herself went to middle school. More recently, she got married on Nov. 11, 2016. She and her wife, Nicole Gwinnett, live in Clifton.
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Pictured on these pages: hockey stalwart Anthony Yelovich, All-American Pawel Kornaszewski, softball coach and AD Richard LaDuke and the 2001 Girls Soccer team.
Pawel Kornaszewski Pawel Kornaszewski (CHS 2004) burst onto the track and field scene as a freshman, earning first team All-NNJIL divisional and first team All-Passaic County honors during cross country season. He finished his CHS career a first team All-Passaic County honoree 10 times, and qualified for the State Meet of Champions in seven separate seasons. He was a USATF All-American once in indoor track and once during the spring, and was named the Passaic County Student-Athlete of the Year in 2004 by the Passaic County Coaches Association. He also owns at least 18 Clifton cross country, indoor track and spring track records. During his senior year, he was named the Passaic County Student-Athlete of the year by the Passaic County Coaches association.
Personal bests included a time of 8:46.92 in the 3000m at the 2003 outdoor Penn Relays and 16:15 in the 5000m during cross country. At the 2002 USATF Junior Olympics, he ran a 16:01.92 in the 5000m. Graduating from CHS in 2004, he ran for Seton Hall University for four seasons, acquiring a BA in criminal justice and a Master’s in public administration. Kornaszewski noted his Clifton track and field career almost didn’t happen. “I expected to play hockey when I got to high school, but it was too expensive,” he said. “I never thought about being a runner at all. Then, in middle school, a couple friends and I just joined for fun. Coach [John] Pontes saw me and asked if I had any intention of running in high school. I came out that summer, started training with the team and was the number one runner in my first season.”
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2001 Girls Soccer Team The 2001 Clifton girls soccer team went 18-2-1, finishing the season as North I, Group IV, Passaic County and NNJIL Division B champs, and falling just one goal short of an overall Group IV state crown. “They set a standard,” Coach Stan Lembryk said. “The teams after them always wanted to keep up the standard of that team. Before [the 2001 team], they program was always competitive, but didn’t get over the hump. This team got it over the hump for good.” The team’s 1-0 loss to East Brunswick in the group final took little gloss off a year that saw the Mustangs defeat Pompton Lakes, 2-1, in the Passaic County title game and avenge an early season loss to Ridgewood by stunning the Maroons in the North I, Group IV championship game. Lembryk’s goal from the beginning was to put the girls team on par with the boys team. He did that in large measure by persuading his group of upcoming players to buy into his belief of what they could be as a cohesive unit. While he inherited a team loaded with veterans representing the senior, junior and sophomore classes, it was the exceptional freshman class, including midfielder Nikki Krzysik. that launched the Mustangs from great to outstanding. Krzysik was joined by forward Nicole Tahan, midfielder Kayla Devlin and defenders Nicole Bisco and Renata Koziol, all of whom were a visible presence on the playing field in short order.
The freshman group almost never came together. “That whole freshman class, my understanding was that they were not coming to Clifton High School,” he recalled. “Krzysik was going to IHA. A few of the others were leaning towards Paramus Catholic. I went to speak to all of them, and said, ‘Look, we have an opportunity to change then program.’ They were excited. They trusted me. And in the end it all worked out,” he said. Richard LaDuke Hockey was Richard LaDuke’s first love – perhaps no surprise, since he grew up in upstate New York near the St. Lawrence River – but LaDuke made his mark in Clifton sports history by building a softball dynasty. During a 20-year span from 1982 to 2001, LaDuke’s teams had 14 league championships, 11 county titles, 8 sectional triumphs and 6 group crowns. Over two decades the Lady Mustangs compiled a won-loss record of 467-86, an astounding 84% win rate, that included two undefeated seasons, in 1997 and 1998. Such success didn’t go unnoticed. In 2000, The National Federation of High Schools honored LaDuke as its National Coach of the Year. In 2001, The Record selected LaDuke as its softball “Coach of the Century.” In his first year, the Lady Mustangs mustered only a 12-13 record, but LaDuke focused on fundamentals, consistency, and pitching, a focus tapping his skills as a fast-pitch tournament softball player. Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2017
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“I coached the way I wanted to be coached,” LaDuke said. “Female athletes don’t want to be treated any differently; they want to get down, want to get dirty. The success that followed was because the kids bought in – that’s why I don’t take the credit. Kids buy in, parents buy in.” In 2001, LaDuke was given the opportunity to make a different impact on Clifton kids. He became athletic director that year, a position he held until 2010. Anthony Yelovich A 2006 CHS graduate, Anthony Yelovich starred as center of the CHS hockey team for four years, compiling 195 career points. As a senior, he racked up 52 goals and 47 assists (99 points) during the 2005-06 season. His state-best senior numbers amounted to a program record for a season, and earned a second-straight North Jersey Player of the Year award from The Record and a spot on the statewide All-Public first team. Yelovich began playing at age 5 on the travel circuit, gaining experience which he hoped could translate into collegiate and/or professional opportunity. But “I was all in with Clifton,” he recalled. “Even
though my travel teams may have meant more in terms of progression, there was always a sense of pride in Clifton hockey. Playing for Clifton really jump-started my confidence and took my passion for the game to another level.” It also helped Clifton qualify for the state playoff four times; the Mustangs won Passaic County titles in three of Yelovich’s four years of play in 2003, 2005 and 2006. In 2006, Clifton won the ultra-competitive Northern Conference Red Division regular-season and tournament championships. Yelovich played a season at The Gunnery (Conn.), then moved to the Eastern Junior Hockey League’s (EJHL) Springfield Falcons during the 2007-08 season. After four years suiting up for Sacred Heart University, he joined the Erste Bank Eishockey Liga (EBEL), the top professional league in Austria, during the 2012 NHL lockout. In 2016, he was back in the high school ranks, becoming the coach at Nutley. A year later, he moved to Glen Rock, where he led the Panthers to a 22-3-4 record and the Public B state title. In Yelovich’s eyes, his productivity as a coach is not accidental, but attributable to his time as a Mustang.
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By Joe Hawrylko
Clifton Athletic Director Tom Mullahey described Clifton Hall of Fame Treasurer Flo Calise as the Keeper of the Flame. “She is part of that generation of Mustangs like Tony Orlando, Sal Anzaldi, and Jack Whiting who have the knowledge and experience to pass the torch to the next generation of Mustangs, people like Tom Szieber and you guys at Clifton Magazine,” he explained. “When we call in Flo and the troops in,” Mullahey continued, “they make sure we have all the things we need to do to keep these traditions going.” In addition to her stewardship with the Mustang Hall of Fame, Calise was a standout track coach. With more than 22 years of Mustang track coaching experience, including five as head coach, being inducted into the Hall of Fame is a perfect cap to this lifelong Cliftonite’s career. 52 October 2017 • Cliftonmagazine.com
She retired from her job as supervisor of guidance and counsel this past January after working as a guidance counselor in Clifton Schools since 1985. “When I was in high school, there were no girl sports,” explained Calise, who attended Woodrow Wilson before graduating from CHS in 1967. Her Mustang cred is shown above in that black and white shot. That’s her as the Mustang mascot before a full house at Clifton Stadium. After CHS, she studied physical education at Montclair State, graduating in 1971. She also earned her MA in counseling and student personnel services from MSU in 1982. Looking back on athletic opportunities for girls in the 1960s and 70s, Calise lamented at the limited options. “Even there,” she said of Montclair State, “there was no more than basketball, crab soccer, and a little tennis.”
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Calise taught at Immaculate Heart Academy for four years and then she and her husband Frank started a family. Upon returning to IHA, she was voted teacher of the year. “I was teaching drivers ed and I got my Master’s in counseling,” she recalled. She was also running a shelter for runaways in Clifton in 1984, when Board of Education Commissioner Lambert Atsma told her they needed a crisis counselor at CHS. “I started working with Lou Fraulo, and he wanted a female coach for track, which is how I got started coaching.” Coaching and mentoring were second nature to her. “It’s wonderful coaching kids. It’s a whole different world,” as opposed to the classroom, she explained. “You’re dealing with kids on a more personal level. You get to know them, know their families. There are some very special young ladies, and you get to see humanity at its best,” she continued. “The student athletes who are not that good are encouraged by the stellar athletes, and you don’t always see that in the classroom. They are competitive but they are also building bonds with others. It’s an individual sport, but a team sport at the same time.” Some of Calise’s favorite coaching moments were during her five years as head coach, in which the Mustangs won 2 County and 2 League Championships. “One of my fondest memories was that first season being in charge,” recalled Calise, who has also been a high school and collegiate track and field official for 20 years. “Just reaching that level was great, and the kids wanted it so
badly. You didn’t have to push them – they pushed themselves. I was just a facilitator.” Looking back, she mentioned Emily Urcioli, CHS 2010, as an outstanding athlete and “just a super kid,” said Calise. “She cared about the whole team. It wasn’t about Emily. That spirit was amazing and made that year very, very special. I think sports are an important facet of life. For many kids, it gives them a sense of belonging.
There’s so many life lessons from athletics: how to win, how to lose, how to deal with strangers, how to deal with adversity, how to control your emotions,” Calise explained. Husband Frank and her three daughters, Melissa, Adrianna and Aimee, were all athletes in Clifton. “I love sports, and it’s not for everyone, but if you have some desire – and you don’t necessarily have to have ability – it adds a whole different dimension to your life,” she said.
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Teenagers sometimes are routinely accused of lacking “focus.” Ashley not understand a topic, which Barbosa, October’s CHS Student of the leads to thoughtful class discusMonth, apparently doesn’t have that sions.” As one example, Mahon problem. offered, “Ashley was the only stu“She is an intelligent, kind, focused dent to come to [math] class with here hard worker,” said Jessica Mahon, CHS summer workbook completed. She Annex math teacher, who has known helps the other students wo are attemptAshley for two years. “She stays on ing to complete it now. She is a hard topic, never distracts other students and worker – and a team player.” often redirects students who are Dedication to math notwithstanding, attempting to distract her.” Ashley Barbosa • Grade 12 Ashley said her favorite subjects are Her CHS Annex guidance counselor science and English. She can’t place one over the other ticks off numerous positives: “Excellent work ethic. “because I love them so much. In science, you have fun Responsible. Looking into colleges, scholarship.” experiments and you learn the weirdest things, especialAshley offered her own succinct reason for her focus. ly things you would have never thought of. In English, “My motivation is to be the first one in my family to you have all sorts of genres to choose, sci-fi to romance graduate from college,” she said. to comedy, and all different ways to write, from poetry to “My future aspirations are becoming a nurse practinarratives to memoirs. tioner, owning my own house and being married with “Both of these subjects say who I am,” she declared. four or more kids,” she said. “I plan of going to college. After-school activities include Key Club, Yearbook I am applying to MSU, William Paterson University, Club, Montclair Society of Engineers and Pre-Med Club. Ramapo College of New Jersey, Bloomfield College and Ashley also enjoys reading, writing, and drawing. “On PCCC [Passaic County Community College].” weekends, I normally spend time with my family unless She added that Montclair State University (MSU) and the Key Club has any events or activities that I can volWilliam Paterson are her preferred options. unteer for,” she said. Family members provide a foundation for Ashley’s “My best school-related experiences have been getambitions. “My inspiration is my mother and my brothting Distinguished Honor Roll, and now being the er,” she explained, adding, “My mother is a strong, indeStudent of the Month,” she said. “Also, last school year pendent woman and won’t let no one take her down.” As I went to the American Museum of Natural History, an for her brother, “No matter what knocks him down he experience I will never forget.” always finds a way back up. I want to be just like both of There have been bumps. “One major hurdle I overthem, but in one person.” came was that I didn’t see eye to eye with a certain Beyond that, “My life at home is good because I have teacher. But it got resolved,” she said. a family that will support me and love me no matter my Despite that instance, Ashley praised CHS faculty, decision.” That includes at least one non-human family singling out staff as the school’s greatest asset. “They try member, her dog, Bella. their hardest to help you so that you can succeed in life,” Ashley helps replicate that kind of support structure she asserted. when attending her CHS classes. “Ashley is conscienHer advice to others when it comes to problems? tious,” observed Mahon. “Ashley has a very calm pres“Take it step by step, and just sit there quietly, and take ence which influences other students. She is willing to a deep breath,” she advised. help other students. She asks questions when she does 54 October 2017 • Cliftonmagazine.com
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Puppet Lady Mandi Bevando, flanked by daughter Sadie (left), son Kayden, and shrouded by her creation.
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Mandi Bevando is handy with puppets. She’s handson when it comes to creating them. Big or small, Clifton is quickly finding out she can do them all. No doubt many city residents discovered that fact this year, perhaps during Clifton’s centennial parade celebration on May 21, when Bevando’s puppet magic was, to put it bluntly, hard to miss. “I spent about two and a half weeks constructing the large Miss 1917 puppet,” Bevando said. “She was constructed of various materials. I made her head with a bit of wire fencing and cardboard, and then paper mache’d the face. Her hands were made of cardboard toilet paper rolls, and paper mache. The puppet’s hair had black trash bags, brown paper bags, foam, and yarn. I then spraypainted the hair to make it all blend together. Her body and structure consisted mostly of PVC pipe, and a little cardboard and foam. Which was attached to a frame backpack. The dress was comprised of King-sized 56 October 2017 • Cliftonmagazine.com
sheets, fleece, and lace curtains, so I could see where I was going. Her overall weight was approximately 20 pounds. Her height stood to about 11 feet tall. To keep from falling over, I was harnessed with rope to the frame pack, and my children maneuvered the arms, so I could focus on balancing. “My kids were marching and helping maneuver the arms, because they wanted to support their mom’s crazy notion of marching a large puppet in the parade,” she quipped. Her children’s take on her craft? “It’s normal for them,” she said in a feigned deadpan voice.
Ivy’s Underwater Adventure performed for Clifton School’s Extended School Year program. From left: Allison Gear, Kayden Bevando, Sadie Bevando, Mandi Bevando, Emily Gear, Amanda Bilek and Kelly Bevando.
“I figured that my family has heard me talk about wanting to build a large puppet for so long, that it would be best to lead by example, since I am always preaching about facing fears and doing what makes you happy. I have been considering doing some more large projects with the community, in the way of classes, performances, and collaborative projects,” Bevando said.
Husband Kelly Bevando’s career path brought the family across country, from Corona, Calif., east of Anaheim, to Clifton in 2009. “We’d heard good things about New Jersey and liked the idea of raising the kids in the suburbs rather than the city,” Mandi recounted. Seeking to contribute to Clifton, Mandi continued, “I had been making puppets in my free time for the
To Dr. Edward Dominguez—Dr. Paternoster’s associate for the past year and who has joined the practice full time—dentistry is a blend of art and science. “Every shape, color, form and angle of restoring a tooth is another part of the journey we experience as dentists,” said Dr. Dominguez.
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last several years. Until recently I have only shared the puppets with the children in the classrooms I work in. I spent my childhood relishing in the performing arts. I decided this past year to allow myself time to work on projects that interest me, and face some of the fears that creep in when you allow self doubt to take over.” Not that Mandi just launched into puppet craft this year. “I have been taking courses in a broad scope of different types of puppet building, and performance techniques,” she said. “A few years ago I attended a course held at the University of North Texas called Beyond the Sock, a course for TV and Film puppet building and puppeteering. At the class I expanded some of the puppet building I was attempting at home with my Project Puppet patterns I had been playing around with at home. “After this course I was commissioned to build puppets for my husband’s work at the time. I built puppets that resembled the owners of the company for their holiday video,” she said. The puppet “models” reportedly were highly pleased by their puppet doppelgangers (see photo above right). “More recently, I attended the New England Puppet Intensive, and expanded my knowledge in other styles of puppet building and performance, from sculpting and painting to lantern building,” Mandi said. Puppet creation apparently isn’t an accredited skill, at least not yet. But Mandi acknowledged, “It can be intimidating, because many people (in the field) are wellknown and have art degrees.” But her work has been generally well received by her peers, she said. Similarly, crowd response during the Clifton centennial parade was gratifying. “I got a lot of good response,” she noted, though “I was trapped under the dress so I couldn’t see too well.” Husband Kelly served as Mandi’s
BGB Group executives with their lookalike puppets and, at right, Mandi harnessing her parade powers.
PR agent during the parade – not for the first time, she said: “I don’t mind getting up and talking since I have a theater background, but when it’s about me ... ” she said, trailing off. Kelly Bevando, creative studio manager at RR Donnelly in New York, also serves as a counterweight and inspiration to his wife’s work. “He’s very meticulous. In California I’d have half of a framework built for a playhouse for the kids; he’d then doodle and sketch and plan the rest,” she said. “He’s an artist, too, but more mathematical,” but for his part Kelly returns his wife’s compliment by saying Mandi provides the inspiration for his work. Mandi’s puppet materials range from paper mache to fabric to latex to fimo clay, “a cheap hardening clay,” she clarified. “There are a million different ways to make puppets. I took one course where we had shirts and pieces of cloth and were told to create. You can make numerous thing with the right stuff. I’ve dabbled with several types of materials to see what interests me the most.” The giant parade puppet began with a head framed by backyard fencing. “I gave myself two weeks to see if I could finish, and make it look decent,” she added.
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By contrast, how small can puppets go? “The smallest for me was a marionette, head size the palm of my hand,” though that’s certainly not a record, she said. More often, puppets, particularly “Henson”-type puppets or muppets familiar to fans of Sesame Street, “are of average size so you can fit them on your hand or on your arm“ with the fabric ones, they’re of average size so you can fit on your hand or arm.” Asked if her talent points to a career path, Mandi said money isn’t her motivation. “People building fabric puppets for movies and such have great salaries,” she said. “But I think the majority of people do it not for the money, but for the art. “I wanted to do something with children, but I had concerns with special needs kids. I understand the broader scope of different types of kids, how they respond to things. Puppets were an amazing way to contact with the kids. You have kids who won’t make eye contact but will hug a puppet. It’s magical. This past summer I did three performances – titled Ivy’s Underwater Adventure – for the special education students in the Extended School Year summer program.” Mandi threw herself into the effort. “I am in love with the idea of stories coming to life,” she explained. “I designed the show in its entirety, from puppets and storyline to set building and staging. Once again, I enlisted my family and, this time, a few of my daughters’ friends to help realize the story of Ivy’s Underwater Adventure. For a lot of the students I have worked with, communi-
cation is not always something that comes naturally to them. I am really motivated by the connection I can achieve with elementary students that light up when the puppet engages with them.” Not that such connections are limited only to the young, as evidenced during the centennial parade. “One thing that was really exciting about marching my large puppet was the way the crowd lit up from young to old,” Mandi said. “I loved that people from all ages were waving and engaging with my creation” – even if, almost buried under her huge creation, she couldn’t always see the reaction herself. Although the encouraging response is a plus, Mandi makes it clear she’s poised to continue her efforts pretty much no matter what. She hinted that Halloween this year might hold another surprise for Clifton residents, but regardless, “I’m definitely looking forward to sharing more with the community, and to pursuing more creative endeavors in the near future.” Included in those endeavors: building masks, something Mandi “discovered” this past summer and which could become another feather in her craft cap. “I just like to keep busy,” she offered as explanation for branching out creatively still more. In their spare time, such as may exist, Mandi and family hike and camp throughout the New Jersey-New YorkPennsylvania region. They also are actively involved in Scouting; son Kayden currently is a Life Scout. Contact the Puppet Lady, Mandi Bevando, at info@dabblingbrook.com.
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Fate, and/or government policy, has not been kind to agriculture in post-World War II northern New Jersey. Farms have come and gone. Richfield Farms & Garden Center, off Van Houten Ave., is a survivor. That’s due in part to a sense of mission ingrained within its owners, and in part due to the loyalty of the farm’s customer base in Clifton and nearby locales. Combined, it’s why Richfield Farms notched its 100th anniversary as a family business on Sept. 24, celebrating the event with a public thank you to its customers – in essence, an extension and integral part of Clifton’s own centennial year. “We have very dedicated customers. That’s why we held this event,” said co-owner Debora Schroeder Morton in an interview last month. “That’s why we’re so thankful to still be viable. It’s because of our customers.” Debora, the fourth generation of family to oversee the business, is joined by husband Jack Morton and their two (fifth-generation) children, Jessica Byrne and William Morton, running an operation that, seasons notwithstanding, approaches a “24/7” mindset. 60 October 2017 • Cliftonmagazine.com
“It’s constantly changing with the seasons. We’re getting ready for Halloween, then Christmas. It’s not static; it’s always changing,” Jessica Byrne explained. Adjusting with the times When working the land and coaxing the plants, adjustments due to variable weather, seasonal shifts and potential climate change can be taxing enough. Richfield Farms has also contended with changing tax codes, a manmade variable. “We were once a much larger farm when the Garden State Parkway came through,” Debora Morton recalled. Today, the property is just shy of five acres – a burden, because “you now had a rule that you had to have five acres to be a ‘farm.’ We’re taxed at a residential and commercial rate. We just don’t get farm tax relief.” But the family didn’t just submit passively before or since, Debora continued. “Over the years, we started off with produce, and then my grandfather played around with growing some shrubs from cuttings. My father, in turn, started a small shrub yard. When Jack and I came up, Jack made
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the nursery portion much larger during the 1980s.” Added Jessica, “At that point, there was more of a need for retail garden supplies. We became more of a garden center than a farm. But we still think of ourselves as a true farm. It’s why we call ourselves Richfield Farms & Garden Center. It’s been our history.” That includes some living history, in the form of the farm stand fronting Van In the fall of 1998, grandparents Carl and Elinor Schroeder, uncle Carl Schroeder, Houten Ave., where (albeit William Morton, Debora Morton and Jack Morton. in smaller form) it has been The Sept. 24 celebration was “a chance for our cuslocated for a century. Debora’s office desk sits where tomers, adults and children alike, to get a literal taste of the structure’s original kitchen was located – another what we’ve been growing,” Debora said. On tap during small token of changing with the times. Her greatthe event were early fall harvests of peppers, pumpkins grandfather, a Dutch immigrant who came through and heirloom tomatoes, though Jack Morton noted the Ellis Island, built the original produce stands, portions highly touted Rutgers 250 tomato, unveiled last of which still stand to this day.
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Circa 1930s, Carl L. Schroeder hitching up for a ride; today, Jack, Jessica, Debora and William. Below, in the mid 1950s, that’s Carl again at the farmstand by his pony track.
year by its namesake university, wasn’t in the mix. “We grow a lot of stuff from seed, but the 250s just wouldn’t start,” he said, showing that even the best of green thumbs are sometimes thwarted. Even in 2017, green growing is labor intensive. Among the reasons, said Jessica: “We weed by hand. Everything we grow, as much as we can, is organically grown. We don’t use pesticides. We don’t spray the corn. No Roundup.” Clifton community counts That intensive commitment is applied not just to the crops and flowers grown and/or sold, but to the customer, too. “Customer service – that’s really the major way we can distinguish ourselves from the box stores,” Jessica said, though quality products certainly remain a critical factor. Indeed, past ads have emphasized “quality products, generations of service,” which remains a standard not 64 October 2017 • Cliftonmagazine.com
just for immediate family but for employees as well. “Our employees are passionate and committed. We have two women who’ve worked for us for 20 years, and they are like family themselves,” Debora said. Richfield Farms personnel remain eager to learn from customers, as well. Jack Morton is considered to be at the top of the family’s “gardener hierarchy” but, he stressed, “We meet people on the farm or at the counter who know more than we do” about a given vegetable, fruit or shrub. “We take pains to listen and learn. You can never know it all, and there’s always something new.” (At interview’s end, William Morton personified Jack’s credo, exchanging observations with Clifton Merchant Magazine on Allegheny serviceberry growth.) Richfield Farms has been involved in programs near and far as it maintains ties with the members of the Clifton Garden Club, as well as the Master Gardener Association of Passaic County (mgapc.org/) pro-
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gram, whose participants are trained to assist Rutgers University “in its mission to deliver horticulture programs and information.” Richfield Farms also welcomes class trips from elementary and even pre-school children. “We’re truly Clifton-based,” Debora said. The Clifton commitment also includes the farm’s deep involvement with the Boys & Girls Club of Clifton, something Jack Morton in particular has dedicated much energy to. Funds raised from selling Italian ice to customers at last month’s centennial ceremony – at 25 cents a cup – “will be going to the Boys & Girls Club,” Debora said, adding, “We’re joined at the hip, in a way; we serve the community, and the Boys & Girls Club serves the community.” Faith in the future Hard work aside, the farm family is grateful for
Longtime employees Marj Tunison and Mary Radocha.
being blessed with good staff and good customers. “Without them, we wouldn’t be here,” Debora Morton said. She noted that her family line oversaw several farms “all over this area” for many years, “but Red Barn Farm in Wayne on Valley Road was the last holdout. Except for us.” Debora measured her words carefully when gleaning the future of Richfield Farms & Garden Center, well aware of the numerous fallen farms throughout northern New Jersey. “Whatever is meant to happen, that’s what meant to be,” she said. “I never expected to come into this business,” she mused, noting she is a Registered Nurse while husband Jack is a psychologist by training. “I thought it was hard, but my husband said, why not try it? We have a strong Christian faith, and so did my whole family. Our kids and grandkids are the same way. We think God has blessed us.” For 100 years, Richfield Farms has certainly proved to be a blessing for Clifton, in turn. Happy Birthday, Richfield Farms & Garden Center. 66 October 2017 • Cliftonmagazine.com
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Writers Kim Renta and Gerard Scorziello. At right, that’s Edgar Aranda of Aji Limon; below is Julian Montaño of Julian’s on the corner of Main and Luddington.
We spent some time in Downtown Clifton, exploring and sampling just three of the many different culinary options available on Main Avenue. While we did not get to the newest addition, Meson Barcelona on Clifton Avenue near the intersection of Main, we are hearing good reviews. Take a trip Downtown and let us know what your think.
Julian’s – The Main Ingredient is Love Don’t let the comfortable, storefront attitude fool you. Owner, chef and Clifton resident Julian Montaño has really put his heart and soul into his place and it shows. It shows in the quality ingredients. It shows in the wonderful pastas – we loved the Pasta Primavera with Shrimp in Vodka Sauce – it shows in the classic Italian dishes, the hot and cold sandwiches, the delicious fresh salads, the incredible pizza.
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Julian’s attention to details is evident in every bite and, as he said himself, when it comes to his food “the main ingredient is love.” Julian’s is a gem of a pizzeria/restaurant. It makes deliveries (yay!) and boasts an ever-expanding catering business, which goes beyond the Clifton borders thanks to loyal customers that have followed him from previous restaurant ventures. Often you’ll find Julian behind the counter, or doing prep work in the kitchen. Stop by and say hello; tell him we sent you. Not in the mood to cook? Venture to Downtown Clifton for a reasonably priced and thoroughly enjoyable night out! As always, we’re more than happy to provide wine recommendations, all you have to do is ask!
Meson Barcelona at 314 Clifton Ave., serves up paella and other classic Spanish dishes under the direction of executive chef Gonzalo Fernandez. Well appointed and comfortable, the eatery is also BYOB.
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Aji Limon – The Many Flavors of Peru The restaurant is welcoming and comfortable, clean, colorful, with wonderful aromas that invite you to come inside and dine. And the food? Flavorful spices, homemade Peruvian specialties and huge portions that allowed us to experience our meals for a second time at the next day’s lunch! Everyone starts off with a complimentary bowl of salted and roasted corn kernels, crunchy and like peanuts hard to stop eating. After trying the Peruvian Chicken Salad appetizer, served on an oversized nicely-ripened avocado we moved on to our main courses. Pollo saltado – chicken with onion, tomato, and AJI amarillo served with garlic rice and potato fries – in a word, delicious. And Saltado de Mariscos – mixed seafood with onions and tomatoes, in a flavorful broth with mussels, shrimp, calamari and scallops, served with potatoes palta rellena. Hard to decide which was better! Since it was our first time at Aji Limon, the knowledgeable server walked us through the menu, and was more than happy to make recommendations. The restaurant has a really nice atmosphere, with live music on weekends, easy on-street parking and it’s BYOB, which of course we love!
El Mexicano – The place to get happy, Mexican style! Why haven’t we been here before? That was the question we kept asking each other after having dinner at this lively, happening bar/restaurant. Great vibe, surprisingly crowded for a Monday (probably a result of the $1 Margarita special from 5 to 8 pm). We hear that Friday and Saturday nights are Standing Room Only, with karaoke! You can sit at a table, at a high-top pub or grab a stool at the bar. Fabulous, friendly staff who know the menu items also –seem to love working there! If it wasn’t for the warm homemade chips and chunky guacamole we started with, we may have been able to finish the generous portions of our main courses – lucky for us they were more than happy to wrap up our leftovers. Be sure to try the fajitas – really tasty lean beef, smothered in sweet onions and peppers. And the shrimp tacos? One bite of that crunchy beer-battered fried shrimp, the tasty “secret” sauce, the shredded cabbage fill – and we knew we would be back for more. Note: It’s one of the few local restaurants which include a 15 percent gratuity as standard on every check (no need to add one in).
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Clifton’s Annual Halloween Parade & HarvestFest is Oct. 29, rain or shine. The site is changed to the City Hall campus and details are being worked out, but all the fun stuff will be there. The parade will begin at 12:45 pm led by the costumed Marching Mustangs. There will be floats and costumed characters of all ages. Step-off will be on Van Houten Ave. (exact site to be determined). The parade will go into the City Hall campus, where judges will evaluate the entrants. HarvestFest continues until 4:30 pm with games and rides costing between a quarter and a
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dollar. Also on tap: pumpkin painting, scarecrow stuffing, shopping and more. Visit the Petting Zoo or take a hayride. Food prices will vary. The 19th Annual Apple Pie Baking Contest will return and participants can register their pies for the competition between 1 and 1:30 pm, when judging begins. Prizes will be awarded to bakers of the top three pies submitted. Prizes include gift certificates to local grocery stores. Consolation gifts will be issued for all non-winning entries. Plan ahead and pre-purchase $5 bags of tokens with special pricing, beginning Oct. 11. Volunteers and vendors are needed and welcomed. For more info, such as parade starting location, email cliftonrec@cliftonnj.org or call them at 973-470-5956.
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Fire Safety Tomahawk Promotions has again teamed up with our business community to publish a 24 page Fire Prevention Coloring Book. In October, Clifton Fire Safety officials will visit schools and talk to children about Fire Safety. This year’s theme is Plan 2 Ways Out! Every Second Counts! Fire Safety is a discussion that must continue year-round. Thanks again to our sponsors, listed below, for their support and helping us to spread the word, at no cost to city taxpayers.
10,000 copies of this coloring book are being distributed to students in Grade 3 and below. To get a free copy, or to arrange a school visit, call Fire Headquarters at 973-470-5801. • Apprehensive Patient • Poller Dental Group • State Farm Agent Tom Tobin • State Farm Agent Bill Eljouzi • Coldwell Banker Pina Nazario • Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage • Joseph Lauritano Landscaping
• Fire Chief Kevin McCarthy • New Bairn School • Mr. Cupcakes • Tenafly Pediatrics • Shook Funeral Home • IHOP Restaurant of Clifton • Carl G. Zoecklein, Esq. • P&A Auto Parts
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• Assemblyman Thomas Giblin • North Jersey Federal Credit Union • Athenia Veterans Post • Valley National Bank • Downtown Clifton Economic Development Group
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AVENUE OF FLAGS Photos by Pat Meyer
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Clifton’s September 11 ceremony at City Hall is set among nearly 2,000 American flags and nine World Trade Center flags — one for each of nine individuals from Clifton who lost their lives on 9/11/01. They are: Zuhtu Ibis, Kyung Cho, Francis Joseph Trombino, Ehtesham U. Raja, Edward C. Murphy, Edgar H. Emery, Port Authority Officer John Skala and brothers John and Tim Grazioso. The solemn ceremony is held annually at 9 am and then visitors can tour the grounds to take in the magnificent patriotic display on the campus.
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CLIFTON PRAISE
PRAISE team is a Bambino Buddy Ball League division of CML/CJAL for players with physical, developmental or social challenges ages 5-13. This division allows for a “buddy” to help the player swing a bat, catch a ball and run the bases, have fun and be a part of a team. This helps build confidence and develop physical fitness and social skills. Come out and be a fan or volunteer as a ‘buddy.’ Games are on Sundays at 4 pm at Albion Field on Maplewood Ave. PRAISE is short for Parents Requiring Action and Information for Special Education – a non-adversarial support group for anyone with special needs children in Clifton. On Oct. 23 at 7 pm, the group meets at the Allwood Library and John Rue, Esq., will run a workshop on Bullying. For more info on either topic, email cliftonpraise@gmail.com.
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Great stores & services at the Allwood Circle AC Moore (973) 470-8885 Antonio’s Hair Stylist (973) 472-1011 Avant Garde Salon (973) 778-0557 Bertelli’s Liquors (973) 779-0199 C2 Education Center 973-778-7300 Chiropractic Center at Styertowne (973) 777-6995 Cleaners 2000 (973) 614-1400 Dayton Homemade Chocolates (973) 574-0444 F.Y.E. (973) 778-8759 Corbo Jewelers (973) 777-1635 CVS Pharmacy (973) 778-7630 Dollar Tree (973) 249-7530 Dress Barn (973) 249-0233 Dunkin Donuts/ Baskin Robbins (973) 473-9631 Footnotes Bookstore (973) 779-6122 GNC (973) 779-1500 InSight Eye & Vision Care (973) 594-0020 Jembro (973) 779-1200 Kim’s Nail Salon (973) 471-8118 Largo House Nail & Spa (973) 777-9784 Lucille Roberts (973) 249-2966 Modells (973) 779-5253 Muscle Maker Grill (862) 899-7111 Seasons Kosher Supermarket (973) 339-0900 Sherwin-Williams (973) 773-1738 Styertowne Bakery (973) 777-6193 Subway (973) 685-9992 Taste of Tuscany (973) 916-0700 The Season’s Fine Chinese Cuisine (973) 777-8073 US Post Office (973) 473-4946 Valley National Bank (973) 777-6283
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• Heat & A/C Your monthly lease in our office suites on the • Electric second floor include the amenities at the right • Daily Janitorial plus Express Bus Service to NYC and easy • Free Parking access to Route 3. On the ground floor, you are • 24 Hour Access steps from great restaurants, shopping, banking • Elevator and the Post Office. Call Jamie Wohr: 973-591-5222 x 16 Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2017
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FUNDRAISING
Welcoming golfers to the Daughters of Miriam Annual Golf Classic on Aug. 21 are Co-Chairs, from left: Andrew Kanter, Alex Fleysher, Leslie Levine and David Kessler. Closest to the Pin Shootout Winner Chris Mazzuchetti (at left) is presented with a $2,500 check by David Kessler, Andrew Kanter, Alex Fleysher and Leslie Levine.
History was made at the 37th Annual Daughters of Miriam Golf Classic, which coincided for the first time with a spectacular solar eclipse on Aug. 21. Golfers and guests alike raised their eclipse glasses to the skies to view this incredible natural phenomenon during the afternoon tournament on the greens of the beautiful Preakness Hills Country Club in Wayne. The outing in support of Alzheimer’s and dementia care brought business and community leaders together for a day of golf and socializing that began with an elaborate buffet brunch in the morning, then proceeded to an exciting shotgun tee-off at noon. Unfortunately, no winners walked off with the grand prize although one lucky player won a $2,500 cash prize that was awarded to the person coming closest to the pin. In addition to the $500,000 shootout, the shotgun event offered terrific hole-in-one prizes such as cars, vacation trips, jewelry, and cash awards as well as an elaborate brunch and outdoor cocktail hour. 78 October 2017 • Cliftonmagazine.com
Capping the evening was the drawing for a 2017 Ford Mustang Coupe valued at over $24,000. Robert Francis, CEO of the tournament’s Shootout sponsor, Planned Companies, was the guest of honor who announced the lucky winner’s name from the raffle stub that was plucked from the well-mixed hopper full of raffles. In a completely unforeseen twist, Francis was handed a raffle with his own name on it – he was the grand prize winner. Francis announced that he would donate the car back to Daughters of Miriam Center, generously adding to the fundraising success of the event. Daughters of Miriam Center/The Gallen Institute on Hazel St., is a 5-star long-term care and subacute facility providing broad-based services to seniors. Emphasizing a continuum of care focus, divisions include a skilled nursing facility, a subacute care wing, a dementia care pavilion, a rehabilitation program, a sheltered workshop, hospice care, a respite program, and senior housing with supportive services.
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SERVICE
Passaic-Clifton Lions take their service seriously! From left: Angela Montague, Tejas Bandari, Ebru Kuscan-Aguirre, Deborah Brudnak (Lions Secretary), Vincent Malba, Josephine Hernandez, Thomas Simpson, Tatiana Lopez, Aleks Pusoski, Frank Hopp and Eddie Masri. In front (with the red nose) is Winster Ceballos. Their next event is fundraising dinner and tricky tray on Oct. 26 from 6 to 10 pm at the Mountainside Inn. For tickets, call 201-470-8424
The Passaic-Clifton Lions Club is part of a network of 1.4 million men and women in more than 210 countries and geographical locations. We serve where we live, as well as globally, and we have fun doing it. Though well known for its successful initiatives in vision health, Lions service is as diverse. We meet various needs, from assisting the elderly to helping victims of natural disasters. Lions give 100 percent of donations to their causes. Members cover all costs through dues. Lions make a difference by being ready to help those in need. Call Winster Ceballos at 973-910-1129, write to him at info@passaic-cliftonlions.org or find out more at passaic-cliftonlions.org
Red Hat Angels, a team from the American Cancer Society Relay for Life Clifton, will be striking out against cancer at its annual bowling FUNdraiser at Garden Palace Lanes on Lakeview Avenue Sunday, Oct. 15, from 2 to 4 pm. A $20 donation includes two hours of bowling, shoe rental, and one pizza and beverage per Proceeds will be donated to the Relay for Life Clifton. Form your team of six; if you can’t muster six, come and we’ll link you with some fellow bowlers. For tickets, please call Evelyn at 973 779-7182
The Rotary Club of Clifton hosts its annual Beefsteak Dinner & Tricky Tray on Oct. 20, 6:30 pm at the Boys & Girls Club of Clifton. Sponsored by Clifton Savings Bank, Edward Jones Investment and Friends of the Clifton Rotary, tickets are $45. Proceeds benefit the Boys & Girls Club, St. Peters Haven, The Rotary Foundation, Clifton Public Library, Relay for Life, Clifton Arts Center and Today’s Learning Center. Contact Pat DeLora, 973-546-1105. 80 October 2017 • Cliftonmagazine.com
Liberty Tax Service on Allwood Rd. is offering a 10-week, free tax school, a perfect opportunity for gig workers to learn tax preparation. Sessions are twice a week, during morning and afternoon hours, offering gig workers the knowledge they need to properly prepare their own taxes and do taxes for others. The hands-on course will explore deductions, credits, tax filing status, and other facets of the state and federal tax codes. To register or to find out more info on this course and other services, call 973-778-0700, drop by the office, located next to Boston Market in Richfield Plaza or email libertytaxclifton@gmail.com.
A mom and her child at a recent eye screening offered by members of the Passaic-Clifton Lions.
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Passaic County Employers: 973-340-3400 • Ext. 7223 Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2017
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GIVING
Peace Islands Institute marked the Feast of Sacrifice, the oldest Islamic holidays in Turkey, by donating 100 pounds of lamb to St. Peter’s Haven food pantry. Accepting the donation, above, from left are Lillian Vega of St. Peter’s Haven, Lolita Cruz of Assemblyman Tom Giblin’s office, Kevin Donahue of St. Peter’s Haven, Assemblyman Giblin, Ercan Tozan of Peace Islands Institute and Savas Metin of Embrace Relief. Weichert Realtors of Clifton teamed up with Brick City Rescue Pet Adoption on Sept. 23 at the Weichert office on Passaic Ave. to showcase dogs like Cherry who need a home. At left, from left: Stephanie DeVivo, Sherri Laraway, Cherry, Tony Sanchez and Lucretia Petronio. Deborah Rivera (below, center) of Keller Williams Realty and her team are seeking additional sponsors for Avon 39, The Walk to End Breast Cancer. Rivera has pledged to walk in the two-day, 39.3-mile event held on Oct. 14-15 in New York. To participate, she must raise $1,800 which will be used for research. To contribute or volunteer, call Rivera at 201-819-0637.
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ATHENIA STYLE
From cafe settings (above) to a car show in front of Shook Funeral Home, the 15th annual Van Houten Ave. Street Fair sported a range of products, services and entertainment on Sept. 17. Summer-like temperatures failed to dampen the enthusiasm for the event, sponsored by the Athenia Business Association. Martial arts demonstrations, a zip line, medieval-dressed royalty, the CHS Marching Mustangs on parade, and plenty of food in myriad forms were part of the daylong celebration.
which means Tomahawk Jr. is trained and nationally certified in restorative water drying methods by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification, also known as IICRC. Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2017
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::::: Highlander Band Tattoo :::::
18th Annual Tattoo
Marching Mustangs in West Milford on Nov. 11 for Highlander Band Tattoo — the Moving Musical Jam Marching Mustang Drum Major Mackenzie Miller is flanked by Highlander Band Drum Majors Brian Macarell, Connor Partington, Cindy Cintron and Kathryn Keller as a prelude to the 18th Annual Military Concert and Tattoo in West Milford. The word tattoo derived from the Dutch language which described when military bands of the 17th century would parade through towns alerting taverns it was curfew for the soldiers. This indoor musical showcase of bagpiping bands, drum corps and the high-stepping Marching Mustangs is on Saturday, Nov. 11, 6:30 pm at West Milford High School, 67 Highlander Drive, West Milford. Doors open at 5:15 pm. Over nearly two decades, the Highlander Tattoo has become a must-see moving musical showcase of band precision, bagpipe glory and drum excellence. Take the drive from Clifton to see not only the bands but the colorful fall foliage of western Passaic County. 84 October 2017 • Cliftonmagazine.com
The Tattoo has become a way for high school musicians to see and hear different genres of music and to connect with musicians and performers from throughout the region. Funds raised at this event will go to support the Highlander Marching Band, under the direction of Dr. Brian McLaughlin, as they perform their 2017 Field Show entitled Under My Umbrella.
The Marching Mustangs will perform their 2017 program on the gym floor, and will also join with The Highlanders and other bands for a grand finale. Tickets are $20 for ages 13 and over, $25 at the door; $15 for 60 and over, $20 at the door. Kids 5 to 12 are $10 and those under 4 are free. Visit wmhighlanderband.com or mail checks to WMBPA, PO Box 603, West Milford, NJ 07480. Questions? Write to julia.ligosh@gmail.com.
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The Clifton Centennial Committee invites all to two special events as celebrations marking the 100th anniversary of Clifton draw to a close. Up first: A night of musical enjoyment with the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra performing Broadway Bound on Oct. 12 at School 3, 365 Washington Ave., at 7:30 pm. The concert is free and tickets are not required. Come and enjoy symphonic music from Broadway performed in The Lion King, West Side Story, Sound of Music and other classics. The program is possible through the generosity of the PSEG Foundation. It will be a night of toe-tapping and will bring smiles to the audience.
Upcoming Centennial Events October 21, 2017 Time: TBA Trip to 9/11 Memorial & Museum
The New Jersey Symphony Orchestra performs in Clifton at School 3 on Oct. 12.
Next up is the Centennial Gala on Nov. 30 at the Valley Regency from 6:30 to 10:30 pm. Tables of 10 and 12 can be reserved with all attendees’ names needed at the time of ticket purchase. Checks should be payable to the City of Clifton and earmarked Centennial Gala. Deadline for purchase is Nov. 14. Tickets are $65 for the full-course dinner and a night of dancing with a seven piece orchestra. A cash bar will be available. Semi-formal dress is suggested. The Gala will be the final event of the Centennial celebration, a year long list of activities which began in April 2016. The evening promises to be a memorable finale to the city’s 100th birthday celebration. Be a part of this milestone centennial night. As the committee likes to say: It’s not everyday you can say you’re 100.
October 25, 2017 Time: 7:30 pm US Marine Band Performance Location: CHS Auditorium November 3, 4, 5, 10, 11, 12 Fri. & Sat. 8 pm, Sun. 2 pm Theater League of Clifton presents Thoroughly Modern Millie November 30, 2017 Time: 6:30 pm Centennial Gala: Valley Regency Info: cliftonnj.org or on FB “Celebrate Clifton’s 100th” Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2017
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ARTS
Robert Wiseman and Margaret Smiriga enjoyed studying the many ‘cartoon’ illustrations in the Hiemer exhibit at the Clifton Arts Center. A cartoon, a medieval term to describe an illustration, is a detailed drawing that maps out a stainedglass window. Other samples of the show are pictured. The Hiemer stained glass exhibit, which runs through Dec. 9. Judith Hiemer Van Wie, principal designer of the Clifton studio, will present ‘The Making of Stained Glass’ on Oct. 21 at 1:30 pm. Call 973-472-5499 for more information. Photos by Michael C. Gabriele
He was a son of Botany Village, a CHS grad, a Korean War veteran and an acclaimed stained glass craftsman, working for many years at Hiemer & Co. Stained Glass Studio. And as his star as an artist was rapidly ascending, he died at the young age of 49. Gilbert Dall’Ava’s legacy as an artist includes stunning stained glass windows in Holy Face Monastery and Sacred Heart Church in Clifton; Our Lady of Consolation Church, Wayne; St. Anne’s Church, Woodland Park; Mt. Carmel Church, Passaic, and other locations. After graduating from CHS in 1949, Dall’Ava served in the Korean War from 1951 to 1954. His journey as a stained glass artist began when he studied at the University of Heidelberg, Germany, and the Newark School of Fine and Industrial Arts. He immersed in the field when he joined the Hiemer studio. Gerhard (Gary) Hiemer, a 1950 CHS grad, described Dall’Ava as a serious, dedicated craftsman who studied art history in order to accurately depict people, costumes and scenes in his stained glass windows. “He was a friendly guy who chain smoked, went to the Metropolitan Opera and enjoyed socializing,” Hiemer recalled. Though the two men were contemporaries during their high school, Hiemer said they didn’t know each other during those days. 88 October 2017 • Cliftonmagazine.com
However, when Dall’Ava joined the stained glass studio, they did socialize, especially through the 1960s. Hiemer went on to say Dall’Ava was a gifted draftsman who worked hard to develop a personal style. This skill can be appreciated today, as the Hiemer studio maintains a number of Dall’Ava’s original works. Some are on display during the Hiemer exhibit at the Clifton Arts Center. “I emulate Byzantine and Oriental styles because they simplify things,” he explained in a newspaper interview. Even though those styles date back thousands of years, their classic look resonates with contemporary audiences, he said. “Everything beautiful never goes out of style.” He and his family lived in an apartment at 240 Dayton Ave., above a tavern; the building is still standing. His father, Ulderico, was born in Italy and his mom, Ida, came from Pennsylvania. Gilbert had an older brother, Daniel. Married to Carol Caprio, Dall’Ava and his family were parishioners at Sacred Heart Church in Botany. As an extension of his Catholic faith and Italian-American heritage, Dall’Ava was a member of the Fraternity of Secular Franciscans and the Italian American Family Association
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ARTS
Rachel Zegler has the lead role of Millie in the Theater League of Clifton’s November production of ‘Thoroughly Modern Millie,’ the story of a small-town girl who comes to New York City to marry for money instead of love – a thoroughly modern aim in 1922. The musical celebrates the flapper lifestyle. See page 89 for ticket info. Gaye Miller and the Miller Highlights recently performed a music show for special needs students at the Willowglen Academy School in Sparta. Pictured from left rear: Loretta Graceffo, Adrian Flores, Richie Borges, Mackenzie Miller, Jaylyn Ocasio, Sabrina Patti, and Isabella Colon. Front row is director Gaye Miller with Lylah Flores, Ashlee Borges, Vartika Kanth, Simona Graceffo, and Abby Haven. The Miller Highlights often volunteer for performances in special needs schools.
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TH YEAR AS 20 TREE CITY USA Green thumbers at School 8 and below at School 15 with their seedlings.
2,500 Clifton Seedlings Clifton will get an enthusiastic green thumbs’ up at the annual New Jersey Shade Tree Federation Conference on Oct. 20 when it will receive the 2017 Green Communities Achievement Award by the New Jersey Forest Service, New Jersey Community Forestry Council and the New Jersey Tree Federation. Clifton, a “Tree City USA” for the past 20 years, will address “high priority maintenance needs and vacant planting sites inventory,” allowing it “to effectively manage tree hazards in a portion of Clifton and aid the City in guiding future planting projects.” Mayor James Anzaldi said it was fitting the city, in its 100th year, should be honored. “Every road we pave, every project that comes before the zoning or planning board has trees,” said Anzaldi. “You know, sometimes trees do more than the architecture.” The initiative ‘sprouted’ in April when over 2,500 seedlings were distributed to Clifton residents, groups and school kids to replace trees that were lost during 2012’s Superstorm Sandy. The seedlings were planted in the ground and/or in containers and then transplanted to homes, schools and in the community. 92 October 2017 • Cliftonmagazine.com
“We are pleased to recognize the City of Clifton for their outstanding work in urban and community forestry,” said Carrie Sargeant, the NJ Urban and Community Forestry Program Coordinator. “The dedication of Recycling Coordinator, Al DuBois, to establish Clifton’s legacy as a 20 year Tree City USA and participant in the NJ Urban and Community Forestry Program can serve as an example to communities across the state of what can be accomplished with a commitment to planning, education, and stewardship.”
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HISTORY American Legion Murray-Hodge Post 453 members unveiled the gravestone of William C. Hodge at East Ridgelawn Cemetery on Sept. 16, finally giving the World War I vet full military honors nearly 100 years after his death. Little about Hodge himself was known until Rutherford historian Rod Leith went to work. Hodge’s date of death, Feb. 22, 1918, was duly recorded. But no photos of Hodge were ever found, and official records from the Army and the US government apparently were rife with errors large and small (including his last name). Hodge’s gravesite in East Ridgelawn Cemetery also never received a stone or marker when he was buried. Murray-Hodge Post 453, formed by World War II veterans in 1947, last month addressed that oversight, unveiling a marker to their fallen namesake.
American Legion Murray-Hodge Post 453 members William Galloway and George Rivera unveil the gravestone of William C. Hodge at East Ridgelawn Cemetery.
In September, we published an incorrect photo of the Championship Mustang 1994 Baseball team. The correct team is pictured here. Their names, starting at the rear left: Doug Sieminski, Anthony DeStefano, Scott Orlovsky, Jason Fitz,Lou Magliarditt. Second row: Craig Valenz, Bob Capo, Anthony Galizio, Mike Valles, Tom Bisgnano. Sitting: Chuck Kling, Kevin Dobko, Greg Takvorian, Dave Jiminian and Bob Luczun.
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94 October 2017 • Cliftonmagazine.com
You may know Abril Barrales and Alfonso Hernandez from their roles at the Paulison Avenue ShopRite. While you will still see them at the supermarket, they have just opened Ay Chihuahua at 83 Broadway in Passaic. Open seven days a week from 6 am to 10 pm, the new eatery serves up breakfast, lunch and dinner with a Tex-Mex flair. To celebrate the opening, they are have a ribbon cutting on Oct. 21 at 11 am. In addition to food sampling and giveaways, there will also be a mariachi band and a DJ to keep it lively. For more info, call 973-955-4065. The 4th Annual Fred Torres Memorial 5K will occur Oct. 15 at Garret Mountain Reservation, starting at 9:30 am. Race proceeds go to the Fred Torres Memorial Fund, supporting the Clifton Mustangs Summer Track Camp held at CHS Stadium, and the Fred Torres Memorial Scholarship, presented each year to outstanding graduating Clifton High School student athletes in cross country and track & field. Fee is $30. Register at https://runsignup.com/. The race honors Fred Torres, a dedicated runner who suffered a heart attack on Jan. 20, 2014, while jogging with colleagues. The 10th Annual John Samra Scholarship Memorial 5K Run/Walk is set for Oct. 8, beginning and ending at City Hall. Register online at eliteraingsystems.com. Race day registration starts at 7 am; fee is $25. The event honors Clifton police officer John Samra, killed in the line of duty on Nov. 21, 2003.
CHS Class of 1968 50th Year reunion is on June 8 and 9. Events begin on Friday night at 7:30 pm at the Bethwood. Cost is TBD; dress will be casual, though Hawaiian shirts are recommended. Plans also include a visit to the Hot Grill and a tour of CHS on Friday afternoon. Saturday events include a golf outing and a mile run/walk, followed by a visit to the Grande Saloon. Contact CliftonHSReunion 68@gmail.com for info.
Brookwood (Unplugged here at the Taste of Clifton) returns to the Downtown Clifton Street Fair with the full band on Oct. 14. That includes Pete Cetinich, Mike Cetinich, John Giardina, Dan Pugliese and Tex (aka) James O’Connor. The rain or shine event will be along Main Avenue, starting at the intersection of Clifton. For details, go to downtownclifton.com. Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2017
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Happy Birthday to... Send dates & names... tomhawrylko@optonline.net
Maxwell Alexander was born on Sept. 30 to Adam and Stephanie Yoda (Stephanie Peterson, CHS 2001). Happy 13th birthday to Noel Coronel on Oct 16. Our favorite retired Clifton cop Edward Holster celebrates on Oct. 18. Kim Oeffler has a birthday on Oct. 8. Sarah Bekheet..................10/1 Melissa Szwec .................10/2 Awilda Gorman ...............10/3 Ashley Messick ................10/3 Christopher Papademetriou .10/3 Charlene Rivera ...............10/3 Grace Robol ....................10/3 Frank Antoniello ...............10/4 John Brock Jr....................10/4 Kimberly Ferrara ..............10/4 Kayla Galka ....................10/4 Lisa Junda........................10/4 Alan Merena ...................10/4 Bruce Merena ..................10/4 Rosalie D. Konopinski .......10/5 Kyle Takacs......................10/5 Gene D’Amico .................10/6 Nicole Nettleton...............10/6 Joseph Tahan ...................10/6 Cheryl Cafone .................10/7 Christopher Phillips ...........10/7 Jilian Fueshko...................10/8 Nick Kacmarcik ...............10/8 Kim Oeffler......................10/8 Michael Biondi...............10/10 Rich Montague...............10/10 Kyle Zlotkowski ..............10/10 Eileen Patterson..............10/11
Clifton’s Mr. Cupcakes Johnny Manganiotis and his bride Amy married on Sept 24
Best wishes to Lindsay Berberich who celebrates on Oct. 30. Anthony Shackil .............10/11 Michael D. Rice .............10/12 Stephanie M. Palomba .....10/13 Kimberly Beirne..............10/14 Lil Geiger ......................10/14 Mary Anne Kowalczyk....10/14 Andrea Kovalcik.............10/15 Stephen Kovalcik............10/15
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Marianne Meyer ............10/15 Noel Oliver ...................10/16 Noel Coronel.................10/16 Nicole Zlotkowski...........10/16 Benjamin Brody..............10/17 Nancy Hromchak ...........10/17 Devin DeVries ................10/18 Matthew Fabiano ...........10/18
Ida Marotta celebrates her 91st birthday on Oct. 17. Edward Holster, Sr..........10/18 Jamie Norris ..................10/18 Brian James Grace .........10/19 Kristen A. Hariton...........10/19 Ben Brody..........................10/19 Joan Bednarski...............10/20 Jean Chiariello ...............10/20 Lea Dziuba ....................10/20 Pactrick M. Doremus Jr. ....10/21 Eugene Osmak...............10/21 Nathaniel Santelli...........10/21 Katelyn Smith .................10/21 Ted Guzowski ................10/21 Jonathan Rossman ..........10/22 Toni Van Blarcom ...........10/22 Daniel Atoche ................10/23 Andrew J. “Dez“ Varga ........10/23 Allison Beirne.................10/24 Sandra Kuruc.................10/24 Heather Fierro................10/24 Paul G. Andrikanich .......10/25 Matthew McGuire ..........10/26 Kristofer Scotto ...............10/27 Nicole Keller..................10/28 Ashley Gretina ...............10/29 Lindsay Berberich ...........10/30 Hadeel Aref...................10/31 Raymond Romanski ........10/31 Josef Schmidt .................10/31 Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2017
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In 1978, Radio City Music Hall was slated to be demolished but dancer Rosemary Novellino was determined that it would not happen. The Glen Rock resident, and member of the Radio City Music Hall Ballet Company, started The Show People’s Committee to Save Radio City Music Hall. Artists, workers, friends and fans around the world, as well as national media, cultural leaders and politicians came to support the cause. As a result, the Art Deco palace was declared a National Historic Landmark. Hear her story in person when the Clifton Arts Center will present its 9th Annual Tea & Conversation fundraiser at the Valley Regency on Oct. 15 at 1 pm. Funds raised help support programs at the Arts Center, located in a historic barn on the city hall campus. Call 973-472-5499 or go to www.cliftonnj.org for info. Twin sisters Katherine and Kimberly Corp, both former Rockettes and now part of the Legacy 36 dancers, will open the benefit for the Clifton Arts Center at the Valley Regency on Oct. 15. They’ll perform before guest speaker (and family relative!) dancer Rosemary Novellino-Mearns of the Radio City Music Hall Ballet Company.
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