Clifton Merchant Magazine - April 2022 by Clifton Merchant Magazine

To members of the Islamic Center of Passaic County (ICPC), “this” is all very personal, wrote BOE Commissioner Fahim Abedrabbo. “The population of Ukraine is only about .09 percent Muslim,” he said, “but it’s 100 percent human. We know what it is like to be occupied and besieged and that is why we stand with you for Ukraine.” In mid-March, the ICPC worked with the Passaic County Sheriff’s Department, and in coordination with the Ukrainian Orthodox Holy Ascension Cathedral in Clifton, and Global Emergency Response and Assistance, collected and shipped dozens of boxes of thermal clothing and other personal items to the war front in Ukraine.

From the Editor, Tom Hawrylko 16,000 Magazines

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

@cliftonmagazine

$40 per year or $65 for two Call (973) 253-4400

Contributing Writers

Ariana Puzzo, Joe Hawrylko, Irene Jarosewich, Tom Szieber, Jay Levin, Michael C. Gabriele, Jack DeVries, Patricia Alex

Editor & Publisher Tom Hawrylko, Sr. Art Director Ken Peterson Associate Editor & Social Media Mgr. Ariana Puzzo Business Mgr. Irene Kulyk Cliftonmagazine.com • April 2022

Across our community, the kindness, care and concern is growing. From school kids and those away at college, to pass-the-hat events at pubs and community events, to supermarket owners and managers who filled shopping carts with much-needed medical supplies, our community Stands with Ukraine. The many contributors are on these pages. There were fundraisers to pay for body armour, helmets and medical supplies. Sisters Servants of Mary Immaculate collected medicine to go in eight suitcases to Poland. To help their ongoing effort, checks written to Sisters Servants can be mailed to P.O. Box 8 Sloatsburg, NY 10974. The Ukrainian American Youth Association (UAYA) held “Varenyky for Volya” on March 19 at the Ukrainian Center in Passaic. Chairs Aneta Zurawski Ferreira and Catie Bukalo Russell said the organization has strong ties to members in Ukraine who created civilian resistance in many forms: assisting the army and tending to the injured. The funds raised will be used for their most imperative and evolving needs. The fund is ongoing. To donate, do so by: PayPal: @cympassaic or send checks made out to UAYA Passaic and mail to UAYA, 240 Hope Ave., Passaic, NJ 07055. “Together,” they wrote, “we will help Ukraine fight for her democracy, maintain rule of law on the world stage and regain peace. #StandWithUkraine.”

April 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Cliftonmagazine.com • April 2022

Clifton Fire Lt. Mark Drew and Firefighter Oleg Skachko have worked with the New Ukrainian Wave of Passaic and other groups and have collected over 17 tons of Personal Protection Equipment for firefighters in Ukraine. Skachko grew up in Ukraine and moved to the US when he was 12. A third year Firefighter in Clifton, he was contacted by friends in Ukraine who knew he was a firefighter, and their requests resonated, first with him and later with his peers. Now, Clifton is taking the lead in organizing the effort to collect equipment and has reached out to fire departments across the region. The aim is to get departments from around New Jersey to contribute equipment to help their brother and sister firefighters in Ukraine. “It’s been a monumental task,” said Drew, “but Chief Prezioso and the entire city has been very supportive. Thank you all.”

April 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Cliftonmagazine.com • April 2022

By Ariana Puzzo

MUSTANG ACADEMIC DECATHLON TEAM

Learning is a key component of the high school experience, but more than a dozen Clifton High students know it doesn’t need to end after the 7-hour school day. It is also not confined to their classrooms or the standard curriculum. Tucked away in the South Wing of CHS, the Academic Decathlon team meets twice a week, Mondays and Thursdays, to expand their knowledge on the current season’s theme. For the 2021-2022 season, it is water. The Mustangs all have different reasons for joining, but they are unified in the common goal of showcasing their breadth of knowledge in front of students their age across the country. Their efforts have not gone unnoticed. The team – led by senior co-captains Victoria Olive and Svara

April 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Shah, and coached by history teacher Matthew Stuart – has qualified for National Finals for the third consecutive year. The first part of the competition took place on March 31 and the second part will take place on April 22. Stuart, who has coached the team for the past six years, is continuously pleased by the strong student interest in the group. Still, he recognizes that a certain perception exists about who is perceived as eligible to join ACADECA. “One of the big misconceptions is that you have to be a Straight A student to join,” said Stuart (CHS 2001). “That couldn’t be further from the truth.” “ACADECA is for everybody,” he continued. “It’s for students who want to learn and challenge themselves to see what they’re capable of.”

Cliftonmagazine.com • April 2022

Putting in the work “Even if you personally Existing at CHS for about don’t win anything, someone two decades, ACADECA is a on the team is bound to win sport in a different form. something,” said Shah (CHS Like your traditional ath2022). “It’s such a great feeling letic sports, ACADECA has its because everyone is just constarters and its alternates. The gratulating everyone together, program currently has about 20 and it’s just a really happy mostudents and Stuart said that, the ment for everyone.” way the competition is structured, he can bring up to 18 Encouragement from alums people to the competitions. That School dismissal had just means that he has some big deended when we went to meet cisions to make ahead of time the ACADECA students. Withfor how his team will look. out any disturbances in the now Mustang senior Julian Cerrone shows off some of the “In December, we have a quiet corridors, the team gathserious bling he owns from his ACADECA tenure. teamwide scrimmage,” said ered inside Room S313 from Stuart, 38. “The kids compete 2-3 pm to review that week’s in a mini competition against themselves and then I use pre-determined material. the results to [create] a team.” As Olive explained, sometimes the meetings involve For the nine alternates, Stuart said that his choices are activities or games. Other times, the group will do pracflexible and based off of the scrimmage and participation tice quizzes. For the March 10 meeting, she and Shah led in the meetings. As for his nine starting students, they are a presentation that spent the hour focusing on the science placed within three divisions: Honors, Scholastic, and category. Varsity. As they walked everyone through the material, stopping periodically to do section quizzes, the co-captains Like sports, there is a starting team played easily off each other and injected some humor to Like your average sports team, the group was also used keep the meeting lively. to meeting over the summer prior to the coronavirus panBoth seniors had similar starts when it came to joining demic. The group would meet a few times and go on field the team. In Olive’s case, she said that she was encourtrips. Despite not doing these trips for the past two years, aged as a freshman to come to a summer meeting by one previous ones included visiting the Princeton University of her friends who was a captain. Art Museum, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Liberty “I just didn’t stop showing up, honestly,” laughed OlScience Center, and the New York Public Library. ive. “I really enjoyed … the atmosphere and everything Stuart went on to say that the students also have breakthat we did. It quickly [went] from something that I just off groups where they meet with each other to review the did because my friend was doing it to something that I material. The experience undoubtedly fosters the team’s really enjoyed.” dynamic. For Shah, she was encouraged in a similar way by her “I think the most rewarding part is actually getting to sister, Riddhi (CHS 2018), to join the program. During compete together,” said Olive (CHS 2022). “We work on her time with ACADECA, Riddhi was a captain as well. all of this material for so long and finally getting to the day Shah recalled how once she got to CHS, her name was where we all sit down, there’s just a great atmosphere.” essentially down to join the group. It quickly became a Shah, Olive’s fellow co-captain, is in full agreement. favorite after-school activity. She took it further, saying how much she enjoys attending “It went from being something that I did because my the award ceremonies with her teammates. sister told me to do it to something that I genu-

April 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Cliftonmagazine.com • April 2022

inely look forward to and wanted to put as much effort as possible into,” said Shah. After graduation, Olive plans on attending Johns Hopkins University and will likely major this fall in neuroscience. Separately, Shah is still deciding where she wants to attend school. She knows that she wants to become a doctor, which has her looking into studying molecular biology. Their commitment to learning through ACADECA will certainly act as a launching point for whatever they pursue next. “I love that doing this makes me learn things that I never would have looked into before,” said Olive. “It just exposes you to so many new things.” The results will follow It was during the Academic Decathlon State Awards Ceremony in March that CHS’ team learned they would once again proceed onto the Large School Division. At the award ceremony, they received recognition across 10 events, bringing home one gold medal, seven silvers, two bronzes, and five honorable mentions. But while the recognition is meaningful, there are other reasons why students compete each year. For the team’s high scorer Gabriela Wojcik, she wants to see consistent improvement and learn as much as possible. Wojcik (CHS 2023) is in her second year on the team and was a starter in the regional, state, and national competitions last year. By mid-March, she had also started in the regional and state competitions for the current season. “I want to beat my personal best,” said Wojcik. “When I [went] into the first regional competition, I did a lot better than I expected to. I studied really hard for all of it, but I was still surprised at how well I had done.” “So, every time for a new competition,” continued Wojcik, “I just want to do better to see if I can learn more.” Each of the ten events is worth 1,000 points, with a possible 10,000-point individual total. One of the events includes giving both a prepared and impromptu speech. The starters can choose any topic they want for the prepared portion. Stuart said that the CHS team has won Best Speech

April 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Sophomore Reyna Rodriguez and the logo she created for the team.

in the State of New Jersey twice in the last four years. For the team’s recent speeches, Olive spoke of her passion for reading and how it has driven her throughout her life, while Shah discussed her evolution of understanding the word “nerd.” Wojcik, like Olive, spoke about the significance of reading and its reprieve during trying times. Senior Julian Cerrone took his own distinct approach and focused his prepared speech on understanding history. He likened understanding history to how we appreciate a painting, sometimes focusing on the smaller or larger details and how that can shape our views. Like Wojcik, Cerrone (CHS 2022) is encouraged by his growth over the past four years. He has won the most medals, amounting to about 35 during his time competing. He said his strongest areas that he often wins golds in are the essay, history, and economics categories. But one of the most valuable things that he has learned is trusting in himself that he is up to the challenge of competing. The realization came in his sophomore year when instead of attending the meetings and silently observing, he began competing for the first time. Today, he sees it as “an arena to prove myself in.” “Traditionally, I don’t do too well in school, grade-wise,” he said. “But at Academic Decathlon, it’s like a whole different ball game. I find it [is] the best way I can express … my academic skill.” When Stuart considers the team’s success in spite of the pandemic, he credits the students’ pride in themselves. “It’s them wanting to do well and wanting to be successful. The kids are motivated,” said Stuart. “I told them this year, ‘Worry about doing your best. The results will follow.’ … Now we’re going back for the third year in a row.”

Who Offers You Some of the Most Advanced Heartburn Care? Innovative Procedure Offers We Do. New Hope for Fighting Reflux The St. Joseph’s Health Heartburn Tired of heartburn keeping you up at night? You’re not alone. More than 60 million Center is the only comprehensive Americans heartburn at least once a month. St. Joseph’s Health is proud to offer programexperience in the region offering LINX, a minimally invasive yet permanent solutions through advanced testing solution to stop heartburn at its source. Performed by the region’sfor leading minimally invasive and robotic surgeons, this game-changing and therapies gastroesophageal technology the first of its kind to treat Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). reflux diseaseis (GERD), and swallowing disorders. Center specialists are available for consultation appointments. To learn more or to schedule an appointment, please visit us at www.sjhheartburn.org or call 973-720-6766.

St. Joseph’s University Medical Center St. Joseph’s Wayne Medical Center

ACID REFLUX SWALLOWING HEARTBURN THROAT & STOMACH

Sponsored by the Sisters of Charity of Saint Elizabeth

StJoes_Heartburn-CliftonMagazine_7x9.5_DEC2021.indd 1

12/20/21 8:22 AM Cliftonmagazine.com • April 2022 13

By Ariana Puzz

Films often reflect the times in which we find ourselves, and Samantha Olson has already achieved great success by holding a mirror – or a lens – up to Passaic County. This year, the 18th Annual Passaic County Film Festival has recognized Olson’s (pictured above left) film, “Motion Sickness” as its overall Grand Prize Winner. The PCTI senior, who has submitted her work over the past four years, will bring home the festival’s grand prize for a high school music video. The festival has recognized Olson’s work before. In the 2021 festival, she won the 2nd Place Costello Award for “Stutterboy,” a film which sought to capture teenage insecurities and the reality of existing self-love struggles. For nearly two decades, the festival has helped promote economic development throughout the county while also nurturing the arts, explained Deborah Hoffman, Passaic County Economic Development Director, the division which oversees the festival. Filmmakers of all ages

April 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

continue to benefit from the festival, which fosters the growth of Passaic County’s film industry. Among the 2022 festival applicants were five Clifton residents, including four PCTI students and one independent filmmaker. Another festival winner who lives in Clifton is PCTI freshman, Hana Tripathee, who came in third place for a high school PSA. The two Clifton films were selected from 55 submissions made by high school students, college students, and independent filmmakers. The festival will showcase the winning films for free at a drive-in on April 30 at 7 pm at the Passaic County Preakness Valley Golf Course, 209 Totowa Rd. in Wayne. Register at www.passaiccountynj.org/filmfestival to attend or to find out more info. “Of most importance,” said Hoffman, “we want to thank the Passaic County Board of County Commissioners. They and the Passaic County Cultural & Heritage

Council at PCCC have made the film festival a reality through their support and sponsorship of nearly two decades.” In addition, she noted that private sector financial supporters include: Bascom Corporation; Lakeland Bank; PSEG Foundation, and other local firms. Samantha Olson, “Motion Sickness” “The kid stays in the picture!” … or at least behind the camera. When Olson considered the success of last year’s submission “Stutterboy”, it was with humbleness and gratitude. The film, profiled in our March 2021 issue, tells the story of an introverted boy with a severe stutter. Olson said that winning the award was “completely unexpected.” “I had no hopes or expectations for it so it was definitely a sweet surprise,” said Olson, 17. “‘Stutterboy’ was more of a creative outlet for me where I could air my stress and worries.” “When ‘Stutterboy’ won, it changed and helped the way I viewed myself as an artist and the audience around me,” continued Olson. “It really boosted my confidence and pushed me to keep working and producing.” This year, Olson submitted a film entitled, “Motion Sickness.” The project is a mix between a music video and a coming-of-age film. The story follows a girl who receives support from a stranger, which encourages her to help others. Cliftonmagazine.com • April 2022

Olson hopes that rather For many it meant months than seeming cliché, “Motion – and in some cases, years – of Sickness” depicts the comnot being able to see friends plexity of many teenage isand classmates, especially if sues and how anyone can feel they opted to continue with insecure and uncertain. remote learning even after the She added that focusing on schools began re-opening. the coming-of-age genre is Performers in Tripathee’s important to her, particularly festival submission are Madiwhen she submits to bigger son Baer, Hajar El Abbouchi festivals. “I always make sure and Nola Scoccimarro. Hana Tripathee and Elian Saldivar. to include my experiences The member of the Class of and emotions in my work, be2025 said that her first interest cause my target audience is almost always my peers at in filmmaking started when watching individuals on the school or kids my age,” she said. “With last year’s and internet create films. When she considers her future, she this year’s films, I wanted the audience to feel understood plans on pursuing her own career within the film industry. and embraced – not alone.” Along with receiving encouragement while in school Olson’s main character is played by her close friend to participate in the film festival, Tripathee is responsible and actress, Arianna Guerreiro. Guerreiro has trained for making the decision to explore her creative options since age 4 and has done background work in films such and making the most of available local resources. as “Clifford” and “West Side Story.” Olson shot most of Elian Saldivar, “PCTVS Marching Band” the film on Allwood Road, using the bus stop located at the corner of Hepburn Road. She noted how as a freshMusic and band are important parts of PCTI sophoman, it was her high school bus stop. more Elian Saldivar’s life. He spotlighted his passions “I wanted to capture those imperfect moments, pulling by creating an 8-minute documentary about his school’s from my own memories,” said Olson. Marching Band. The documentary was shot at the high Olson’s future plans include studying film and theater school and discusses the history of the Marching Band, as in college. One of her acceptances for the area of study well as its successes and struggles throughout the coronahas come from the University of Glasgow in Scotland. virus pandemic. “Wherever I end up,” she said, “I hope that the stars align “Being a part of the school’s marching band, I wantin my favor [and I will be] hopefully within the entertained to share that experience but also learn more about it ment industry where I can continue to change lives.” through my band director [Mr. Nelson Mendez],” said Hana Tripathee, “COVID-19” Saldivar, 16. The creation of the documentary marks Saldivar’s first Students across the country and world, like Hana Tritime submitting a film to the Passaic County Film Fespathee, have seen firsthand the effect that the coronavirus tival. He said that his desire to contribute to the festival pandemic has had on education and everyone’s way of stemmed from his seeking some motivation. life. The freshman shot the PSA at her high school, PCTI.. Saldivar went on to say that he is eager to receive feed“Covid-19 is serious,” said Tripathee, 14, “and I wantback and later use that feedback to improve and see if ed to create a video to show people [how] to be safe.” filmmaking is something he will pursue in later years. The film is Tripathee’s first submission to the Film FesSaldivar’s potential interests lie in writing or productival, and it’s arguably an ambitious one. It was filmed ing documentaries and therein lies his path to the future. prior to Governor Phil Murphy’s policy going into effect His hope is to travel the world and get the chance to tell in mid-March, which lifted the school mask mandate alstories about significant events or people. most two years after schools went into the first lockdown. As far as his filmmaking origins, he got his first

April 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Cliftonmagazine.com • April 2022

taste for it a couple of years ago. “It was acMikael Simon, “COVID PSA” tually right before high school started that Like many creators, PCTI freshman MiI realized that filmmaking was something kael Simon is also hoping to spread awarethat I thought I would enjoy doing,” said ness through his artwork. Saldivar. “It allowed me to be creative with Choosing to focus on the challenging and editing and writing as well.” oftentimes divisive topic was a conscious Saldivar said that he would like to study decision for more than one filmmaker this film when he goes to college. Some of the year. The decision was also one that Simon schools that he has looked into include realized was crucially important. SCAD Savannah, NYU, MSU, and Rutgers “I wanted people to understand the danNew Brunswick. Possible areas of study gers of COVID,” said Simon, 14, when disMikael Simon are music education or a technical theater cussing why the PSA was the type of story major. he felt that he needed to tell. Saldivar’s future plans involve directing He said that he shot the film at his high short films and finding others who would be interested in school in Wayne and that he was encouraged at school to working with him. He expressed pride in that his film is get involved with the festival. only the second time he has created a documentary that he Although Simon does not have any future plans to purrecorded, edited, and produced. sue filmmaking as a professional career, the film festival “I did learn what I could be better at and hope to prostill offers a huge creative opportunity for people of all duce better documentaries in the future,” Saldivar said, ages and all filmmaking backgrounds. adding: “I am proud of what I was able to produce with “This is actually the first year that I’ve been interested what I had to handle.” in filmmaking,” said Simon.

April 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Cliftonmagazine.com • April 2022

Jonathan Justin, “I Love NJ” This is Jonathan Justin’s (CHS 2008) first year submitting to the festival as an independent filmmaker. Around five years ago, Justin was on the other side of the camera acting in a short film created by a group of friends. His film, “I Love NJ” is, in essence, a love note to the state that he is proud to call home. “I think New Jersey is supportive as a whole because … it cultivates artists,” said Justin, 32. He went on to say that to truly understand New Jersey, you need to understand the city across the Hudson. Part of it is recognizing how New York City’s hustle and bustle provides a host of great creative opportunities, but New Jersey allows you to recharge. “New Jersey is a place where you can gather your thoughts,” said Justin. “I think that’s what New Jersey gives us – the ability to incubate our ideas.” Justin’s submission is in the form of a video essay, focusing on what makes New Jersey special and why he loves the state. The audio was made by him and, with permission, he used footage from filmmaker Kevin Smith’s film, “Clerks.” What inspired the film was how a large part of Justin’s life growing up was the culture of hanging out with friends

April 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

outside of businesses, like QuickChek. It is something that he has felt nostalgic for during the coronavirus pandemic when everyone was isolated. “I feel like that’s a big part of what makes New Jersey special,” said Justin. “I hold that up in kind of contrast with folks across the Hudson, where everyone is walking right past each other and may not look you in the eye.” One of the crucial film elements was Justin’s decision not to discuss the famous people who originally hailed from New Jersey. He instead wanted to discuss what life is like growing up around these parts for the average person. Justin lives in Clifton with his wife, Katie, and their 18-month-old son, Liam. The couple are expecting their daughter next month. Meanwhile, the former actor turned technical recruiter enjoys finding new ways to creatively grow in his work. He creates gaming related content and his work can be found online by searching under the moniker UUUjon or visiting facebook.com/JonathanJustinPage. As for his experience preparing for the festival, he found that it was “artistically refreshing. I think it’s so cool that the [Passaic County Film Commission] is setting up a drive-in,” said Justin. “It’s the next best thing to getting to perform, if not as cool. I’m so thankful for [them].”

Happy Easter

E ast

Joyous Passover

Ridgelawn

Ramadan Mubarak

Niches | Mausoleum | Garden Graves | Non-Sectarian Monumental Graves | Advance Sales Counseling

For information call: 973-777-1920 www.eastridgelawncemetery.com

CEMETERY & CREMATORIUM 255 Main Avenue, Clifton 255 Main Avenue, Clifton

In our Mausoleum, pause, reflect and remember the lives of those who have passed.

Cremation Scattering Grounds

Columbarium

New Prime Plots

Offering a focal point for your memorial service, our scattering grounds are private and can accomodate your family & friends.

Our new columbarium is an attractive and meaningful place for families and friends to memorialize their loved ones after cremation.

New plots have been added offering exceptional landscaping and beautiful views of the NYC skyline.

Financing available one-year at no interest on easy monthly plans. Cliftonmagazine.com • April 2022

SERVICE IS KEY MEET SOME OF CLIFTON HIGH’S YOUNG LEADERS By Ariana Puzzo Creating high impact, service-minded leaders can start at any age. CHS Key Club Advisor Jacqueline Turk is among those who recognizes the value in teaching these skills early in Clifton. For over a decade, she has seen the way the Key Club operates as an integral component in the Kiwanis Family. “We built K-Kids at Schools 5 and 17, Builders Clubs at CCMS and WWMS, and a Kiwanis Club of Clifton,” said Turk. “Because of the way that the K family influences … with the core values of caring, leadership, character building, and inclusiveness, we build a community of effective and confident leaders.” We spoke with some of these leaders about why tackling the needs of Clifton’s community matters to them. They also touched upon the ways they anticipate continuing service into adulthood … A Lifelong Calling Alyse Turk’s earliest memory of service was performing skits at age 5 at St. Joseph’s Pediatric Oncology Department’s Giggles Theater. During at least one of these instances of service, she was alongside teenagers to support the children who were undergoing cancer treatments.

April 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Unsurprisingly, these early memories of helping others stayed with her. But she was connected to service even earlier. Alyse said that she has been “an honorary member of Clifton’s Key Club” since age 2. “My mother, Jacqueline Turk, has been the Clifton High School Key Club advisor for 15 years,” said Alyse, 18. “I grew up always being involved in community service projects and living the Key Club motto: ‘Caring … Our Way of Life’.” “Always having positive teenage role models who cared about school and being of service to the community was a blessing and motivated me to want to emulate them,” she continued. Alyse has served on the Key Club’s executive board for all four of her years at CHS. She served as vice president as a freshman, editor as a sophomore and junior, and now she is the president for her senior year. During her time in the leadership roles, Alyse regards her efforts for the club’s Pie in the Face Contest, which benefited Ocean of Love, as her most significant contributions. For the event, she used her editing skills to create videos and posters promoting the event.

Cliftonmagazine.com • April 2022

Along with the service club, she has spent her full time at CHS as a three-sport athlete, playing volleyball, basketball, and lacrosse. The balancing act of her academics and her extracurricular activities has given her insight into what it means to lead others. “I have learned that true leadership at its heart is about being of service,” said Alyse. “The main highlights from my experiences have involved working with animals, children, and people [who are] experiencing homelessness.” After graduating in June, Alyse plans to attend college to study business. Despite the new environment, she plans to keep some things similar by joining business organizations and community service groups. “Ultimately, being a servant leader has been a true blessing in my life,” said Alyse. “My own experiences have taught me that I can follow my heart to be a young leader in business and service, as long as I remain resourceful, empathetic, and creative.”

April 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Siblings in Service Albaraa Gebril always feels a rush of excitement when he attends a Key Club event. The CHS junior finds the experience, from the preparation to the actual event, rewarding and something that he can build upon each time. “There is always something that the community needs help with [and it’s] exciting to think of new ideas and innovative ways to help everyone,” said Albaraa, 17. “For me, the most exciting thing about Key Club is that I’m able to manifest the change that I want to see in the community.” The spark to create change was, in part, inspired by Albaraa’s older brother Bilal (CHS 2021). Albaraa, who joined the club as a freshman, recalled how Bilal was an executive member and how the club influenced him. “He would go out and volunteer at an hours-long event and he’d come back with a spark in his eye that I didn’t know how to explain but knew I wanted [it],” said Albaraa. “After I volunteered, I thought that my life became

Cliftonmagazine.com • April 2022

more fulfilling and interesting. Now,” he added, “I kind of chase that feeling.” Now serving as Key Club vice president, Albaraa has noticed the way that his relationship with the city has developed due to his community involvement. Before he joined the group, he said that he solely viewed Clifton in the context of where he lived and went to school. “I had no emotional connection with Clifton,” said Albaraa. “Coming from an immigrant family, I didn’t know what it meant to truly be part of a community.” Now, he said that he will miss Clifton and the people that he has met during his service when he goes to college in a little over a year. “The Key Club kind of put me in the position to build community bonds and relationships that I otherwise wouldn’t have had if I hadn’t joined,” he added. Those bonds were also strengthened closer to home. Also an executive member is Albaraa’s younger sister, Marri. Albaraa noted that while all the siblings differ and found their own niche within Clifton and CHS, Key Club is something that bonded him and his sister. “We have learned a lot about each other and our work ethics,” said Albaraa. “My sister always tells me when she sees me working on Key Club related activities, she wants to jump in and work on her own.” “We motivate each other to do better and enjoy the club.” Paying It Forward Connecting with the community proved challenging for most people during the early months of the coronavirus pandemic, even for Key Club Treasurer Marri. Despite these obstacles, Marri, who asked that her full name be withheld for privacy, knew the full influence the club could still have. She had already witnessed her older brother Bilal serve as vice president and seen the club’s contributions to Clifton’s youth and homeless population. “I loved how much he loved the club,” said Marri, 16.

April 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Key Club Leaders: Vice President Albaraa Gebril, President Alyse Turk, Jose Suarez NJ District 19 Lieutenant Governor, Treasurer Marri, Secretary Abigail Loeb, Editor Yasmeen Mufleh.

Now a sophomore, Marri is in her second year with the club. She has seen firsthand the club’s success with remote tutoring during the pandemic, as well as in the educational seminars that span a broad range of topics, like the cycle of prejudice and identity and intersectionality.

Clifton Public Schools Employment Opportunities

The Clifton Public School District is currently accepting applications for the following positions:

School Nurses (NJ Certification)

Paraprofessionals

Registered Nurses

Substitute Teachers

ESL Teachers (NJ Certification)

Substitute Paraprofessionals

Teacher of Mathematics (NJ Certification)

Special Education Teachers (NJ Certification)

Highly Qualified Paraprofessionals for Preschool

Board Certified Behavior Analyst for Preschool

Preschool Special Education Teachers (NJ Certification)

Apply today at https://www.applitrack.com/cliftonschools/onlineapp/ Clifton Public Schools 745 Clifton Avenue Clifton, NJ 07013 www.clifton.k12.nj.us Phone: 973-594-4195 E-mail: hr@cliftonschools.net

Cliftonmagazine.com • April 2022

Taking part in these discussions, alongside more traditional acts of community service, help to round out the Key Club’s supportive role in the community. It also gives Marri the ability to see her own role in being affected by and perpetuating these cycles. “[As an] Afro-Arab Muslim woman,” said Marri, “I’m Celebrating Jose Suarez becoming Key Club Lieutenant Governor of District 19. From left, not only learning about how Mr. John O’Reilly, Abigail Loeb, Albaraa Gebril, Jose Suarez, Alyse Turk, Marri, Yasmeen Mufleh, Mrs. Jacqueline Turk. another community is struggling, like the LGBTQ comton. At the time, he met the club’s president Alyse Turk munity, but how microaggreswho recommended that he attend a service event. Suarez sions are used against me. How I’ve maybe used it against said he immediately felt like he fit into the environment people of other genders, races, and ethnicities.” after he went to that event. “I haven’t always been this educated. There was a time Now the Key Club’s NJ District 19 Lieutenant Governor, when I was ignorant,” she continued. “Having these workSuarez is in part looking forward to having social meetings shops allows for a better community … that unites us.” to connect with new people and get everyone motivated. Along with hoping to continue uplifting others and in“But what I’m most looking forward to doing is definiteviting change, Marri said she was looking forward to the ly creating a really big service event that could hopefully Animal Shelter Food Collection and preparing for the NJ become something big … that my eventual successor could District Convention. It gives the Key Club an opportunity, take over,” said Suarez, 16. she said, to meet and make connections with people who Helping his community is Suarez’s top priority. One of join from other cities. the ways that the Key Club helps him do that is by enabling “Nowadays, people individualize their struggles, goals, him to intern for the Power of One CCOM, Inc. Power of and successes,” said Marri. “I believe nothing is self-made. One, located at 59 Mahar Ave., is a non-profit that strives Somebody or something had to help you along the way.” to alleviate poverty. To that end, Marri said that she will not limit her fu“I’m with the Power of One every single week. That’s ture goals or possible careers. Ultimately, she wants to give where the real work is,” he said. “Along with the Key Club, back to her community with the knowledge and appreciawe make food distributions to senior citizens and [last tion that doing so will let the community give back to her month we did] stress coaching at Woodrow Wilson.” and others. Suarez’s main interest after high school is pursuing a ca“Who am I to restrict myself to specifically one thing?” reer in medicine. His top college is NYU and specific area said Marri. “One thing I do know for sure is, I’m going to of focus is split between neuro surgery or cardiac surgery. be in the community … and whatever I do, I will do to the He also hopes to take all of the lessons and perspectives best of my ability.” that he has gained from Key Club and put it into other areas of his life. Turning Lessons into Actions “A lot of the knowledge I’ve gained … is really about COVID-19 may have interrupted Jose Suarez’s high learning how to accept other people and how to be a betschool experience, but the junior found that getting inter person and better self,” said Suarez. “I haven’t had a volved with Key Club has provided him with many other chance yet to put all these ideas into work, but I hope to rich opportunities. Suarez first became involved with Key [apply these lessons] in the future.” Club in September of 2021 when he was brand new to Clif-

April 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Cliftonmagazine.com • April 2022

GOING ON NOW! GOING ON NOW! Certified Pre-owned Certified 2019 Kia Pre-owned 2019 Kia

SPORTAGE SPORTAGE LX LX

24 24,,460 460

Stock#BB3287, VIN#KNDPMCAC3K7496273, 2.4 L 4 Cyl., Automatic, Model Code 42422, Mileage 34,898 Stock#BB3287, VIN#KNDPMCAC3K7496273, 2.4 L 4 Cyl., Automatic, Model Code 42422, Mileage 34,898

SALEE C SPARLI EE I PR C

$ $

Certified Pre-owned Certified 2018 Kia Pre-owned 2018 Kia

SPORTAGE SPORTAGE LX LX

25 25,,214 214

Stock#BB3286, VIN#KNDPMCAC8J7423933, 2.4 L 4 Cyl., Automatic, Model Code 42422, Mileage 28,790 Stock#BB3286, VIN#KNDPMCAC8J7423933, 2.4 L 4 Cyl., Automatic, Model Code 42422, Mileage 28,790

SALEE C SPARLI EE I R P C

$ $

WE OFFER... WE OFFER... ✔ ✔ AFFORDABLE AFFORDABLE VEHICLES VEHICLES ✔ CERTIFIED ✔ CERTIFIED PRE-OWNED PRE-OWNED Certified Pre-owned Certified 2018 Ford Pre-owned 2018 Ford

EDGE EDGE SEL SEL

26 26,,285 285

Stock# 21T913A, VIN# 2FMPK4J95JBC24373, 2.0 L 4 Cyl., Automatic, Model Code K4J, Mileage: 42,832 Stock# 21T913A, VIN# 2FMPK4J95JBC24373, 2.0 L 4 Cyl., Automatic, Model Code K4J, Mileage: 42,832

SALEE C SPARLI EE I R P C

$ $

WE WANT YOUR VEHICLES... WE WANT YOUR VEHICLES...

COME VISIT OUR NEWLY REMODELED FORD SHOWROOM! COME VISIT OUR NEWLY REMODELED FORD SHOWROOM! 30

April 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

LOCATED LOCATED IN IN OUR OUR INFINITI INFINITI SHOWROOM! SHOWROOM!

FAMILY SUV’S FAMILY SUV’S CUSTOM TRUCKS CUSTOM TRUCKS HIGH-END LUXURY HIGH-END VEHICLES LUXURY VEHICLES

✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔

Certified Pre-owned Certified 2019 Ford Pre-owned 2019 Ford

RANGER RANGER LARIAT

Certified Pre-owned Certified 2020 Ford Pre-owned 2020 Ford

F-150 F-150 XLT

SALEE C SPARLI EE I PR C

36 36,,738 738

$ $

24 24,,388 388

$ $

Certified Pre-owned Ford Certifi2019 ed Pre-owned 2019 Ford

F-250 F-250 SUPER DUTY

LARIAT

Stock#CC3261, VIN#1FTER4FH5KLA60325, 2.3 L 4 Cyl., Automatic, Model Code R4F, Mileage: 49,241 Stock#CC3261, VIN#1FTER4FH5KLA60325, 2.3 L 4 Cyl., Automatic, Model Code R4F, Mileage: 49,241

SALEE C SPARLI EE I R P C

TOP DOLLAR PAID TOP DOLLAR PAID

XLT

Stock#CC3304, VIN#1FTEW1EP8LFC40513, 2.7 L 6 Cyl., Automatic Model Code W1E, Mileage 12,453 Stock#CC3304, VIN#1FTEW1EP8LFC40513, 2.7 L 6 Cyl., Automatic Model Code W1E, Mileage 12,453

SUPER DUTY SRW LARIAT SRW LARIAT

71 71,,730 730

Stock#CC3294, VIN#1FT7W2BT6KEF09158, 6.7 L 8 Cyl. Diesel, Automatic Model Code W2B, Mileage 22,395 Stock#CC3294, VIN#1FT7W2BT6KEF09158, 6.7 L 8 Cyl. Diesel, Automatic Model Code W2B, Mileage 22,395

SALEE C SPARLI EE I R P C

$ $

BAD CREDIT? DON’T SWEAT IT! ALL MAKES & ALL MODELS! BAD CREDIT? DON’T SWEAT IT! ALL MAKES & ALL MODELS!

JUNCTION JUNCTION RT. RT. 46 46 & & 33 •• CLIFTON CLIFTON NJ NJ

973-275-8046 973-275-8046 •• FFetteAuto.com FFetteAuto.com

Price plus tag, tax and DMV fees. 3.9% A.P.R. Estimate At a cost of $18.37 per month per $1,000 financed. Payment excludes all applicable taxes and fees and is subject to credit approval andtag, lender conditions. Not3.9% all will qualify. Age and vehicle affect availability ofPayment certain terms. See dealer for complete details. ersisexpire 05/16/2022 Price plus tax and DMV fees. A.P.R. Estimate At amileage cost of of $18.37 permay month perthe $1,000 financed. excludes all applicable taxes and feesOff and subject to credit approval and lender conditions. Not all will qualify. Age and mileage of vehicle may affect the availability of certain terms. See dealer for complete details. Offers expire 05/16/2022 Cliftonmagazine.com • April 2022

Nurturing CHS Artists at Clifton Arts Center

“It is apropos, “silver lining”, after a long hiatus.” - Roxanne Cammilleri,

Story by Ariana Puzzo

The Clifton Arts Center has long held the students involved are several from Clifton Arts Center esteem in our community for the nurturVisual Arts Teacher Cynthia Sauchelli’s Director ing environment it offers young Clifton artclass. They include seniors Abigail Loeb, ists. Louie Habrahamshon, Justine Massabny, and From 2000-2017, the Arts Center has hosted the Yuliya Pasechko. The students have interests rangartwork of local high school students, with a temporary ing from cartooning and illustration to acrylics and stiphiatus due to construction in 2018 and 2019 and then the pling. coronavirus pandemic in 2020. This month, CHS students Sauchelli, who has worked at CHS for nearly 20 years, are returning to the Arts Center’s Gallery to present and witnessed firsthand the transformation of art in the cursell their artwork. The exhibit will run from April 13 to riculum. Part of that has included watching technology 30, and this year’s theme is inspired by the well-known develop and seeing students adapt to and embrace drawquote: “Every cloud has a silver lining.” ing tablets, computer programs, and later, apps. “It is apropos, “silver lining”, after a long hiatus,” said “However, it is still refreshing to see our students Roxanne Cammilleri, the Director of Clifton Arts Center learn patience through the manual creation of art,” said & Sculpture Park. Sauchelli. “I believe that our Visual Arts students connect The event serves as an opportunity for residents to view more intimately to their art by working on a piece each the wide-ranging talents of high school students. Among day and watching it develop.”

April 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Cliftonmagazine.com • April 2022

Separately, Cammilleri said that it continues to be a pleasure to see the way the students through the years express themselves and develop their respective talents. “Seeing young students interested in the arts is an immense privilege to me because their creativity brings forth new perspectives in so many different ways,” said Cammilleri. Ahead of this year’s returning annual exhibit, we spoke with three of these CHS students about their work, their process, and how they see art fitting into their future goals… The Valedictorian The backdrop of a global health crisis and social and political conflicts would individually overwhelm anyone, let alone when all of these events happen in tandem. Through these unpredictable times, Class of 2022 Valedictorian Abigail Loeb has found solace through the creative process of making her art. “I’m really excited about [the exhibit] because … there’ve been art shows before, but they were in the school, so it’s a little bit of a different crowd seeing it,” said Loeb, 17. “And I’m glad to do that because when I create my art, it’s sort of like meditation for me.” “It definitely draws different feelings out,” continued Loeb, “and I just hope that other people can get a similar sort of experience.” Loeb has five pieces in the upcoming exhibit, including one where she used stippling, a drawing technique where the artist creates areas of light and shadow using only dots. During the months of remote learning, Loeb said she was lucky that she had her art supplies at home. Those months also provided Loeb with a better understanding of her own personal direction. “[It] really gave me time to develop more skills and to not have to worry about presenting it because we were just at home,” added Loeb. “So, I was a little bit more isolated and I was feeling that as I was making my art.” As far as long-term plans, Loeb is interested in majoring in political science or a related field like government or human rights. She also hopes to eventually go on to attend law school, but while in college would like to possibly have a minor in art. “Even though it’s not what I want to do as a career,” said Loeb, “it’s such an integral part of me and is sort of what keeps me calm in the midst of school craziness, so I definitely want to keep that going.”

April 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Artist Abigail Loeb with her work, one of which serves as the show poster. On the previous page is her twin Emily and some of the digital art CD covers she created.

The Renaissance Man South Wing Room L-7 served as the perfect environment to learn more about this year’s student artists. Between the art in the corridors and individual pieces lining the tables, it quickly became clear that these were more than classroom assignments. For the student artists, the artwork represented their interest and proficiency across a variety of fields and mediums. Senior Louie Habrahamshon was no exception. When it comes to sharing his artistic process, he knows what works best for him. “I just put a pencil to the paper, and I just build as I work,” said Habrahamshon, 18.

Cliftonmagazine.com • April 2022

Habrahamshon has about five pieces set to be featured in the exhibit. He said his passion for the arts started when he was in pre-school. As he approaches adulthood, his interests span across both the visual and the performing arts. On the performance end of the spectrum, he has played the saxophone for all four years with the Mustang Marching Band and this year performed in the lead role for CHS’ Spring Musical: Beauty and the Beast. His areas of study in the visual arts are just as wide-ranging. “My favorite is painting – I really like oil painting and acrylic,” he said. “I have also worked with ceramic before … and was in a photography class last year, which I really liked. I think I might take that as a minor in college.” Although Habrahamshon is currently undecided for his college major, he said that he is leaning toward studying Fine Arts or Digital Art, and he would like to do so at Savannah College of Art and Design in Georgia. In the meantime, the artist said that he takes creative inspiration from his family and especially his grandparents. “They always push me to do great things,” he said. “My grandpa had his own business, so he was a really creative person, which really inspired me to do the same.” It also means that Habrahamshon makes a conscious effort to be his own person and be independent as he pursues any of his goals. He added that it makes him pleased to know community members will see his work at the Arts Center. “I know a lot of people know that I do art, but to put myself out there even further is a lot more interesting to me.” The Illustrator Justine Massabny has created personal art for years, but the upcoming exhibit marks a new first for the Mustang senior. “It’s really exciting because this is my first time having my art shown to the public,” said Massabny, 17. Another first this year was getting the opportunity to explore multiple art courses offered at CHS. Before the current academic year, Massabny said that her schedule didn’t allow her to take a lot of the classes, so she wasn’t as involved with art at school.

April 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Louie Habrahamshon is a multi-talented artist who recently was the Beast in the CHS production of Beauty and the Beast. Shown above with a young fan, a sample of his fine art, at left, is entitled “Beast”.

“This year, I had a lot of electives, so I wanted to make sure I had as many art classes as I could take,” she said. “I’m in Art History, Illustrations, [and] I’m also in Graphic Design.” The Arts Center will display two of her pieces, one of which includes a painting for her Art History class where she replicated one of Vincent van Gogh’s works. The other piece is an illustration of a panda. The desire to create is something she can trace back to her early childhood. When she was young, she recalled how her family would get prompts and would draw together. From that spark, she said that she started to draw more on her own and became interested in comic books, like Spider-Man.

Justine Massabny with some of her Van Gogh inspired art. On the table is “Beast” by Louie Habrahamshon.

See Yuliya Pasechko’s work in the Art Show; she is also enrolled in the Advanced Placement Studio Art Course.

Whether she bases her artwork on an experience or something she has witnessed, she uses these methods as launching points. She then will add more elements as she progresses with any of her drawings to “make it more interesting.” “If I see something that’s round, I’ll want to make it more round,” said Massabny. “I try to exaggerate the things that I see.” Massabny plans to major in Digital Arts

at MSU. Once in college, she said she would like to see where her artistic journey leads her as far as her future career path. For now, she’s keeping her options open and enjoying taking inspiration from wherever she finds it. “I think a lot of my inspiration comes from music and other artwork,” she said. “I really like surrealism and I like a lot of indie music because I love the passion.”

Cliftonmagazine.com • April 2022

Among the students exhibiting in the Silver Lining Show at the Clifton Arts Center, include: left, seated: Tatiana Cerpa, Daniela Perez, Belen Martinez Perez. Middle row standing: Kiana Ros, Sheena Lamb, Kayla Cerrone, Emily Loeb, Yasmin Ramsey, Luna Alhablawi, Riddhi Gandhi, Karen Medrano. Back row: Anastasiya Stasyshyn, Luke Santiago, Izayis Peidrahita, Faith Poplowski, Jacob Zybura, John Oldziej, Lucius Patti, Mariam Ebeid, Christopher Ramirez.

Back to the Classroom All those involved with the returning annual exhibit expressed a sense of relief and gratitude for the return of in-person art. Sauchelli did not shy away from the reality that the past several years were “rough” due to the inability to host the event in-person in the Arts Center. First as a result of the construction and later due to COVID-19 safety concerns. “We had two years of a virtual art show, [but] … nothing compares to the Clifton Arts Center’s shows,” said Sauchelli. “It’s so professional. It teaches the kids how to sell their work, how to mat their work, get it ready in a professional manner, title [and] price their work.” It’s why Sauchelli believes it’s incredibly important – perhaps now more than ever – to support young Clifton artists. From Cammilleri’s perspective at the Arts Center, she expressed a similar sentiment. “Whether or not some students have gone on to spe-

April 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

cific art careers and others have gone on to other careers; they all have a common denominator that they apply: creativity,” said Cammilleri. “Creativity is the key to finding positive and proactive solutions to our everyday life.” These proactive solutions were also strongly sought after during remote learning. Sauchelli recalled how teaching art classes online didn’t always translate well, especially since many students didn’t have the necessary materials at home. The most important part, she said, was for the teachers to lay the traditional foundations for the students and find creative ways to follow the curriculum guide to the best of their ability. Today, returning to normalcy in the classroom helps to encourage everyone. “There’s nothing like the art classroom,” said Sauchelli. “The groupings of the kids at a table and the social part of it where they’re socializing with one another as they’re working. I find that to be one of the best things in the art room.”

CLIFTON ARTS CENTER Upcoming Events

April 2nd

1pm until 4pm Special appearance by

Miss New Jersey

Alyssa Sullivan Visit the art gallery to see the exhibit ...

FRED STALOFF :

Origins of a Modernist

in partnership with ARTISTS CCHOOL STUDENTTST CLIFTON TTUDENT ARTIS FTON HIGH NT ARTISSTTS CLHIIFGGH SCHOOL TTS CLIFTON OL STUDENT N HIGH SCHOENT ARTISTS SCCHOOL STUDTISTS CLIIFTON TTUDENT AR IFT IF ON HHIGH NNT ARTISTS CLHHIIGH HOOL IFTTOONN G STSCCH TTS CLLIF OOL UDENT N HIGH SCHOEN TISTS AR SCCHHOOL STUDTISSTNT CLIFTON D NT AR TS ON TTUDE GH ISTTSS CLIFT HI NNT ARRTTIS GH SCHOOL TTS CLIFTON HI OOOL STUDENTST DENT ARTIS IFTON TISTSS CLIF TI G FTON HIIGH CLIFT G SCHOOOL HIGH STUDEENT

SCHOOL STT CLIFTON HIGH STTUUDDENT A HIGH SCHOOLDEEN NT ARRTTISTT SCHOOL STUDTIS TS CLIFFTO T AR T EN UD ST TOONN HIGH SCT ARTISTS CLIFT SCHOOL ST FTON HHIGH ST CLIFT UDENT A G SCHOOOOL EN HIIGH T ARTIST SCCHOOL STUUDTISTS CLIFTO STUDENT ARIFTON HIGH S ARTISTS CL GH SCHOOL ST CLIFTON HI OL STUD U ENNT A HIGH SCHOUDENT ARTTIST SCHOOL ST TISTS CLIFTO STUDENT AR ON HIGH S ARTISTS CLIFT SCHOOL S CLIFTON HIGH UDDEENT A HIGH SCHOOL ST AR ARTTIS SCHOOOL S STUDENT ARTISTS CLIFTON SC HIGH SC OL OOL SCCHHOOO

April 13th thru April 30th Wed. thru Sat. • 1pm until 4pm Virtual Programs presented by

Clifton Arts Center To attend our Free

Zoom Webinars

please visit our website at www.cliftonartscenter.org/webinars For any questions regarding registration e-mail: rcammilleri@cliftonnj.org or call.

www.cliftonartscenter.org Monday, April

25 th

• 4:30 pm – 5:30 pm

“The Art of Light: Stained Glass Art”

Judith Hiemer, stained glass artist and owner of Hiemer & Co Stained Glass Studios explores the making of stained glass to detail and how it can beautify your home. We also explore the making of the stained-glass window at the Clifton Arts Center. Cliftonmagazine.com • April 2022

The sound of music in Clifton education Story by Ariana Puzzo

From left, Andrew Sieradzki, Angelina Pacosa, Luke Kulesa, Jordan David, Christian Rodriguez, and John Rivas. Marching Mustang Band Director Bryan Stepneski and drama teacher Lisa Poggi.

Clifton’s performing arts students and educators have re-imagined their understanding of what is “essential” over the past two years. When faced with the reality of reinventing the ways we experience the arts, it was inevitable. “Whether it be in the studio, on the stage, or even on the Band field, the arts provide a diverse community where students learn, grow, and find their voices,” said CHS Band Director Bryan Stepneski.

April 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

“The culture of arts education promotes responsibility, cooperation, and service,” he continued, “all while enhancing academic achievement and improving our students’ social and emotional development.” The CHS 2009 grad experienced it for himself during his own time performing with the Mustang Marching Band. These experiences as a student and now as an educator have left him feeling grateful for his community’s high regard for arts education and its place in our schools.

A similar sentiment was expressed by Lisa Poggi, CHS’ drama teacher and Spring Musical director. Poggi is a strong promoter of students’ accessibility to the performing arts in many areas of study, including inside their classrooms. The former Language Arts teacher found incorporating performance pieces into the curriculum facilitated greater student engagement. “Now that I teach Drama,” said Poggi, “I love how the most shy students come to me at the end of the school year to share how Drama class or being part of the play or musical helped them feel more confident … or make more friendships.” “That’s what the performing arts can do,” continued Poggi. “The collaboration and the teamwork, and the idea of having fun together, help students build lasting bonds. … I love being able to be a part of that.” On the following pages, we’ve included the perspectives of six Mustang Marching Band seniors who shared with us their own experiences in the performing arts …

Accredited Buyer Representative

Broker Price Opinion Resource

Angelina Pacosa As a Drum Majorette and Belle in the CHS production of “Beauty and the Beast”, Angelina Pacosa proved she could lead in many forms without missing a beat. The CHS senior said that she still has decisions to make as far as college, but she knows that music will remain a priority in her life after she graduates from high school. Cliftonmagazine.com • April 2022

“It’s been a part of me for as long as I can remember, and I will do everything I can to keep it close,” said Pacosa, 17. Some of Pacosa’s earliest memories performing include humming around her house at about age 3 or 4. In those early days, her passion developed by way of loving musical theater. Later, she developed an appreciation for instrumental music. “My family has been a big part of that – encouraging private lessons, getting me to push myself forward,” said Pacosa. Pacosa has performed with the Marching Mustangs for all four years of high school. During those years, she has found that her exposure to the arts has influenced her academics. “Music allows me to access my creativity, which I also attribute to things like reading and writing,” she said. “I think music allows me to understand things on a deeper level, which translates to other aspects of my education.” Andrew Sieradzki During his time with the Mustang Band, Andrew Sieradzki has found mentorship and gained lifelong skills. Among these skills are improved organization, the ability to communicate, and time management. “It’s astonishing how quickly the Mustang Band helps prepare you for the real world,” said Sieradzki, 18. Despite that, he said he’s not certain everyone fully realizes how important the artistic outlet is for young people. What’s more, it’s an outlet that they can share with their peers.

April 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

“My favorite moments in Clifton bands have been the performances where everyone is so deeply invested in expression that afterward you can only smile at each other, feeling what just happened,” said Sieradzki. “It’s so much more than teaching you how to play the right notes on your flute,” he continued. “It’s about telling stories that can honestly change lives. They’ve changed mine.” Sieradzki has played for all four years with the Mustang Band. As a senior, he is the Low Brass Section Leader, and he has performed with the North Jersey Region Band and the NJ All State Band. His plans after CHS include majoring in music education. He expects to commit to Indiana University to study at the Jacobs School of Music. When he considers those who helped him get to where he is today, there are several influential figures. Among them are Wes and Julie Krygsman, who have mentored him since his freshman year. Wes is a music teacher in the Clifton Schools and assistant director of the Mustang Band. Sieradzki said that Wes and his wife Julie, an aerial trombonist, have offered greatly appreciated advice on how to be a better musician and how to make music a future career. Sieradzki is also appreciative of his middle school band directors, Mr. Daniel Perez and Mr. Anthony Lanzerotti. “They were the first teachers that ever truly believed in me,” said Sieradzki. “They were the ones who gave me the first push onto the path I’ve been on since then and continue to travel down.”

Cliftonmagazine.com • April 2022

Christian Rodriguez Christian Rodriguez has performed with the Marching Band for three years, but the standout moment that he cherishes was during the band’s “Under the Lights” performance this past season when he twirled to “I Say a Little Prayer.” “The adrenaline and excitement as well as the cheering and support felt amazing,” said Rodriguez, 17. Rodriguez attributed his discipline and accountability to the Marching Band. The experience of leading the CHS Orchestra as Concertmaster for the 2021-2022 school year has strengthened his leadership skills as well. He has also served as a Color Guard Sergeant. In the fall, Rodriguez will attend college to study Music Education with a concentration in Violin. His longer-term plan is to earn his bachelor’s and master’s degrees and become an orchestra director at a high school. Rodriguez acknowledged the role that music played in his own high school experience. “Music has helped me keep a schedule and, even with my sometimes crazy schedule, it helps me to keep up my grades and do better in school,” said Rodriguez. He added that the arts are a crucial element in everyone’s lives, regardless of the form. “People need to understand that it is a way for us to express ourselves and keep ourselves content while also giving others the gift of music to enjoy,” said Rodriguez. “Music is just as difficult as sports. It takes practice and dedication.” “Music and Art are beyond important to keep in the school systems. [They] have shaped me to be who I am today.” Jordan David As far as musical awakenings, Jordan David’s was a classic tale. From an early age, she recalls the influences from her grandfather and mother. Her mother, a rock ‘n roll and classic rock fan, introduced her to The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Fleetwood Mac, and David’s favorites – Billy Joel and Frank Sinatra. Separately, her grandfather nurtured her love for instrumental jazz and the blues. “He used to show me old videos of dance competitions

April 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

with live music and taught me to appreciate the wild ways of music in the 1950s and 60’s,” said David, 18. It’s perhaps no surprise that she’s spent four years in the Marching Band, deeply enmeshed in the culture of live music in Clifton. The band’s Flute Section Leader said one stand-out moment was performing in the San Francisco Chinese New Year Parade. “It was an entirely different environment – a colorful, creative mess of music and culture,” she said. “It was beautiful.” Many of her memories are “as a whole”, with others including opening the American Dream Mall, performing at the last football Thanksgiving Game, and performing in the first Under the Lights Show. But she also has memorable individual moments. “It would probably be practicing in an empty school during quarantine,” said David. “The way that we were all able to come together, create music, and fill the echoes of our school’s empty halls during times of hardship – it was truly inspiring.” David’s future plans involve attending college to focus on her love of animals. She will study biology and ecology with the intent to become a conservation zoologist or animal behaviorist. “I hope to widen my horizons, studying abroad and taking on new challenges,” she said. “Though music is not in my future career path, my endeavors will not end there.” “The Clifton Community Band is a great way to keep music in my life,” she added.

Cliftonmagazine.com • April 2022

Lukas Kulesa Remember when your parents said that music would distract you from studying? The opposite is true for Lukas Kulesa. The senior Percussion Section Leader and performer with the North Jersey Region Band has found that music and his exposure to the arts positively influence his education. “Whenever I am studying or working on a long assignment, I have to have music playing from somewhere or I cannot focus,” said Kulesa, 17. “Sometimes a teacher will play music during a class period, and those end up being the classes where I remember the most information.” “I enjoy the classes where I am directly playing music the most, as it is what I love to do.” Like many Mustangs before him, music took a new shape in his life when he reached CHS. He played in the band since fourth grade but was encouraged to take it further by his parents and Stepneski. “My biggest music inspiration is Mr. Stepneski because of his unmatched dedication to the program and his helpfulness in whatever you ask of him,” said Kulesa. “Whether it be music related or not, he will always be there to help and encourage [you].” One of Kulesa’s ingrained memories is from this past February’s winter concert. During the show, he performed an almost four-minute-long Xylophone solo. Like several of his peers, Kulesa will attend college to major in Music Education. He also plans to keep playing and teaching music throughout college and in later years. An important lesson that the band taught him is that it’s possible to improve at anything with strong discipline and dedication. “If you think you are not good at something, keep doing it until you are,” said Kulesa. “It definitely will not be something that happens overnight, but if you stick to something long enough, eventually you will see improvement.” John Rivas In the midst of a global health crisis and war-torn world, John Rivas sees music’s enduring beauty and its capability of bringing people together.

April 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Lukas Kulesa and John Rivas.

“Music has this near-unrivaled ability to bring unity and peace into the world simply through feeling it,” said Rivas, 17. “That is something that must never be overlooked and should be known everywhere.” The realization came to Rivas at a relatively early age. Music was always part of his life in some form, but it was in seventh grade that he understood its unique power. He credited his parents, especially his mother, for guiding him toward music. Today, he is the Marching Band’s Trumpet Section Leader and has performed with the North Jersey Region Band. His four years with the Marching Band have taught him organization, respect, punctuality, and dedication. “Above all [else], the biggest thing that I learned is a piece of advice that I was given as a young freshman. To quote Mr. Stepneski, ‘Know that you don’t know,’” said Rivas. “It’s a wise phrase that has stuck with me throughout my years in CHS and will stick with me for the rest of my life.” This fall, Rivas will major in Jazz Studies at Montclair State University. He said jazz was always his favorite genre, and his biggest musical inspiration is American trumpeter Wynton Marsalis. “He has been my idol for many years and I only learned the wonders of jazz and his playing through the lens [of] the Mustang Band,” said Rivas. “I hope to perform it, teach it, and be a perpetuator of its rich history and a performer of its beauty.”

Cliftonmagazine.com • April 2022

Tristan Rivera, Kimberly Carazas, Tiffany Guerrero, Liam Reilly.

Here are the Mustangs of the Month for April 2022.

These four students, one from each grade, were selected by the vice principals at CHS, to be spotlighted for their personal achievements and school-wide contributions. Freshman Tristan Rivera Freshman Tristan Rivera knows that successfully transitioning to high school requires students to find what works best for them. Rivera has found success by balancing out his academic and extracurricular commitments. “It’s best to use your time wisely so you can go forward in high school without any rough patches,” said Rivera (CHS 2025). Rivera’s favorite school subject is math. The subject challenges him, which he enjoys, and he added that he loves the “satisfaction of getting something correct.” Rivera has named his history teacher, Mrs. Shaina Peattie, as his most influential instructor. “This is because she is always one of the coolest people that I know and pushes me to do good,” said Rivera. “I wouldn’t be in this position without her.” At CHS, Rivera participates in multiple bands. He also had a lead role as Lumiere in the spring musical production of “Beauty and the Beast.” Rivera hopes to join in on other extracurriculars, including the baseball team. He credits his older sister as his greatest inspiration. “I have always looked up to her and the person she is,” he said. “We have similar interests, and I think seeing what she does helps guide me to how I want to be in the future.”

April 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Sophomore Kimberly Carazas Kimberly Carazas entered high school at an unusual time. Now nearly halfway through her four years, the sophomore can reflect on success and what has helped her achieve her goals. “I think that putting myself in the right mindset and environment helped a bunch when trying to become successful,” said Carazas (CHS 2024). “Learning how to manage my time also played a great part [in my success].” It would be understandable if that mindset was harder to find while spending part of those formative middle and high school years learning remotely from home. But Carazas has had influential teachers along the way, including one that stands out to her the most. “The teacher who has influenced me the most is my eighth grade science teacher, Mr. Vincent Farrell,” she said. “He always pushed me to be better and strive for better, not only in science but in life as well.” Carazas has also found inspiration from her older sister. Her sister is the person that she relies on the most “not only in school but throughout life.” As for her favorite subject, she said that it “has to be English.” “I love how people can use writing to express themselves and their emotions,” said Carazas.

Junior Tiffany Guerrero Tiffany Guerrero has big plans for her future outside of Colfax Avenue. One of her aspirations includes becoming a businesswoman and starting her own business. She’s well on her way – the junior has already taken some college classes this year. In spite of a less-than-traditional high school experience, she has found ways to work through and overcome the obstacles put in her path. “Online schooling was a new thing for everyone,” said Guerrero (CHS 2023). “I generally liked how online schooling went for the most part.” “The only difficult part was participating in school activities and classes as well,” she continued. “I still pushed through that difficulty and completed that major hurdle as [well as] I could.” Guerrero’s extracurricular activities include Student Council, serving as the junior representative of the Board of Education and the recording secretary. Guerrero also participates as a Mustangs Football manager and JV Cheerleader. Inside the classroom, her favorite subject is drama because the arts give her an opportunity to express herself. “Working with my classmates is the most fun thing to ever do,” she said. “We are able to work together as a team to create a great performance in the classroom. Drama has also helped me to do comedy skits in the morning news.”

Senior Liam Reilly Liam Reilly knows music will remain a large part of his life after graduation. The senior has seen its influence on his life both in and outside of school. Part of that influence is connected to the people who he said inspire him the most – his parents and his private music teacher, Mrs. Sweet. “My parents have always shown me the value of hard work and dedication and have made me the person I am today,” said Reilly (CHS 2022). “[And] Mrs. Sweet has not only inspired me to be a better musician but has taught me how to be patient, an attribute that I try to carry with me every day.” Among Reilly’s extracurricular activities are the CHS Orchestra, Pit Band, Jazz Band, Bell Choir, Tri-M Music Honor Society, New Jersey Symphony Youth Orchestra, Boy Scouts, and the Clifton Community Band. This fall, he will attend The College of New Jersey to study Music Education and Music Technology. His hope is to become a music educator and perform in an orchestra. “Playing music – whether it be [with] my cello, piano, guitar, or trumpet – allows me to express myself,” said Reilly. “[It] gives me enjoyment and a sense of accomplishment when I am able to efficiently play a difficult passage.”

Cliftonmagazine.com • April 2022

MUSTANG SPORTS

MUSTANGS Standing from left: Aiden Pichardo, Jeffrey Guillen, Connor Reed, Kyle Rogers, Jeremy Sanchez, Kyle Vellis, Peter Yagins, Jovel Solano, Angel Urdaneta, Christian Guevara. Kneeling from left: Najib Duversaint, Carlos Nunez, Owen Riordan, Bryan Feliciano, Luis Rivera, Jeuriz Polanco, Juan Peralta.

Spring Sports by Tom Szieber

In the postseason, pitching often separates the championship baseball teams from the also-rans. The Clifton baseball team believes it can be the former in 2022, thanks in no small part to its deep and talented pitching rotation. “We’ve got four legitimate number ones,” said Clifton head coach Joe Rivera. “And all four of those guys are strikeout pitchers. They’ve all got good stuff.” It is difficult to identify just one as an ace, but junior left-hander Kyle Rogers is a returning starter who was a second team all-league honoree last year. He struck out 53 pitchers as a sophomore and played a big role in the Mustangs’ 17-5 season. He possesses an effective curve, change-up and slider. “He’s very confident and just wants to be out there,” Rivera said. “He throws in the mid-80s, and being a lefty and throwing that hard is a big advantage.”

April 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Apr 2

BASEBALL @ Union City

11:00am

Apr 4

Wayne Valley

4pm

Apr 6

@ West Milford

4:15pm

Apr 8

@ Fair Lawn

4:15pm

Apr 11

BCTI

11am

Apr 13

@ BCTI

11am

Apr 16

@ W NY

4:30pm

Apr 18

@ PCTI

4:15pm

Apr 20

PCTI

4:15pm

Apr 22

@Passaic Valley

Apr 25

Passaic

4:30pm

Apr 27

@Passaic

4:30pm

Apr 29

Ridgewood

4:30pm

May 2

@JFK

4:15pm

May 4

JFK

4:15pm

May 9

Eastside

4:30pm

May 11

@ Eastside

4:15pm

May 13

Lakeland

4:15pm

May 16

@ St Joseph

4pm

May 18

Paramus Cath

4pm

May 20

@ Montclair

4pm

May 23

@ Teaneck

4pm

4:15pm

PROUD TO SERVE AS YOUR TRUSTED, IN-NETWORK REHABILITATION PROVIDER

CLIFTON 50 MOUNT

PROSPECT AVE SUITE 207

(P) 201-464-4749 SCAN HERE TO BOOK AN APPOINTMENT NEW JERSEY • NEW YORK • PENNSYLVANIA

JAGONEPT.COM

Cliftonmagazine.com • April 2022

MUSTANG SPORTS Senior righty Kyle Vellis is a four-year starter who Rivera lauds as a gamer with ice in his veins. He’s been in big-game situations in three sports and is reliable in a tough spot. Vellis is smooth to the plate, sneaky fast and has a heavy fast ball. Seniors Luis Rivera and Jeuriz Polanco, both transfers from Paramus Catholic, are dangerous on the mound. Luis Rivera throws in the upper 80s and has a strong twoseam, while Polanco—who must sit for 30 days due to NJSIAA transfer rules—is near 90 and has a dominant slider. Senior Connor Reed, the team’s likely No. 3 hitter, will pitch in relief and is commanding Division II attention. “I definitely say that we have college athletes,” Rivera said. “If you are a college athlete, you are going to play big time. We have athletes that have the mentality of winning.” After losing four-year starter Nick Plaskon to graduation, the Mustangs will turn to junior Angel Urdaneta behind the plate. Urdaneta receives the ball well and switch hits, and will be backed up by junior Jeremy Sanchez.

April 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

BASEBALL Rogers will play first when not on the mound, with Urdaneta occupying that slot when Rogers pitches. Seniors Peter Yagins and Christian Guevara will also see time on first. Senior Juan Peralta returns to start at second base after earning second team all-league accolades last season, to be backed up by sophomore Najib Duversaint. Luis Rivera and Peralta will both see time at shortstop, while senior Owen Riordan plays third. Reed, Vellis and senior Bryan Feliciano will be in the outfield, with junior Carlos Nunes also in the mix. With their pitching secure, the Mustangs will need to make sure they take care of business at the plate. Luis Rivera will do his best to help, as he plans to bunt and steal more often this spring. If they can do their part, the Mustangs could be destined for a meaningful postseason run. “They know how to hit,” Rivera said. “When someone is in scoring position, they need to have the same approach [as any other at-bat]. We have won the division three of the last five years. It comes down to pitching and that is what we have. We just have to come up with those hits.”

Cliftonmagazine.com • April 2022

MUSTANG SPORTS Apr 1

Kneeling from left front: Isabella Franco, Mia Joyce, Bianca Genardi, Alexia Samot, Angie Gonzales, Sam Persutto, Jackie Vizcaino. Standing: Coach Rich Ralph, Grace Garruto, Morgan Lesler, Kate Louer, Amanda Bruno, Kiara Coy, Coach Ish Falcon.

Clifton softball closed out last season winning four of six (including a win over North Bergen in the first round of the North I, Group IV playoffs). With several of their top veterans back—joined by some exciting young talent—the Mustangs are hopeful that they can put together a deeper run in the postseason and improve on their 12-10 record from last year. It will all start in the circle, with seniors Morgan Lesler and Amanda Bruno giving the Mustangs a nice one-two punch. Lesler recorded 50 strikeouts versus just 13 walks a year ago, surrendering 79 hits in 68 innings pitched. Bruno saw action in 21 innings, wherein she gave up 26 hits and struck out 18. When she isn’t pitching, Bruno will play shortstop. She is also a fierce hitter, leading the Mustangs with 12 extra base hits last season. Her 19 RBIs were also second-best on the team. She will be joined in the infield by senior first baseman Kate Louer, who drove in a team-high 22 runs and three homers as a junior. Freshman Isabella Franco will play second, while strong-armed sophomore Kiara Coy plays third. Senior Alexia Samot and sophomore Mia Joyce will share duties behind the plate. Senior Samantha Presutto will play left field, while junior Angie Gonzales plays center. Junior right fielder Grace Garruto rounds out the starting lineup. Sophomore Bianca Genardi will see time in the outfield, as well, with sophomore Jackie Vizcaino as the Mustangs’ utility player.

April 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

SOFTBALL @ BCTI

4:15pm

Apr 4

Passaic

4:30pm

Apr 6

@DePaul Cath

Apr 8

@ PCTI

4:15pm

Apr 9

Hawthorne

2:30pm

Apr 11

JFK

4:15pm

Apr 13

@ Eastside

4:15pm

Apr 14

@ Columbia

Apr 18

Ridgewood

Apr 20

Passaic Valley

Apr 22

Lakeland

4:15pm

Apr 23

Bayonne

11am

Apr 25

@ Fair Lawn

4:15pm

Apr 26

Eastside

4:15pm

Apr 27

Wayne Hills

4:15pm

Apr 29

@Wayne Valley

4:15pm

May 2

BCTI

4:30pm

May 4

@ Passaic

4:30pm

May 9

PCTI

4:15pm

May 11

@JFK

4:15pm

May 13

Caldwell

May 16

@ West Milford

4pm

10am 4:15pm 4pm

4pm 4:15pm

HAVEN For the Hungry and Homeless

Presents the

ANNUAL

APRIL 24, 2022 START - 8:30 AM

MAIN MEMORIAL PARK, CLIFTON, NJ

REGISTRATION OPEN! WWW.BLOOMIN5K.ORG/REGISTER

www.saintpetershaven.org

www.bloomin5k.org Cliftonmagazine.com • April 2022

MUSTANG SPORTS

FLAG FOOTBALL

Seniors from rear left: Mikayla Diodonet, Anastasiya Stasyshyn, Nikki Zlotkowski, Arianna Frias, Ida Lee Grande, Morgan Arp. Front from left: Hilary Amoh, Jasmin Jariwala, Mallerly Naut, Samantha Presutto, Aimi Davila, Malak Jamhour.

Just a few months after the boys on the Clifton football team won the program’s first sectional title in 15 years, the Clifton girls are ready to show what they can do with a pigskin. For the first time, the Mustangs will field a girls flag football team as part of the New Jersey High School Girls Flag Football League, which is co-sponsored by Nike and the New York Jets. Head coach Michelle Shackil has impressively retained a roster of 45 (down only five from the original turnout of 50), with a number of dual-sport athletes suiting up for what is currently considered a club (rather than an NJSIAAsanctioned sport). She has gotten support from the boys, with assistant coach Milton Cordero—a coach on the fall football team—as her second-in-command. Senior varsity football players Tyler Williams and Chance Blount have been working with the girls, as well. “I enjoy the sport and had a lot of fun being around it in high school,” Shackil said. “I always wished we were able to put together a team and play other schools. Seeing [the boys players] talking to the girls in school, encouraging them, has been great to see.” Sophomore Kiara Coy will be the team’s quarterback, though her availability will be limited due to her role on the Clifton softball team. Coy has a strong arm and is accurate throwing the football. She is more than able to connect on short and intermediate routes. “She also plays basketball and when she launches a basketball, her arm is ridiculous and powerful,” Shackil said.

April 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

“I called her over in gym class and had her throw. I saw her and just said ‘we’re signing you up.’” Senior Morgan Arp will be the primary signal-caller when Coy is unavailable. Senior Nikki Zlotkowski will play center (typically the only lineman in flag football) and has shown natural blocking ability early on. Freshman running back Janae Catala is a track athlete, as demonstrated by her great speed and long strides. Junior Kaylee Miller will mostly play in the slot, but will lineup in the backfield at times. Senior Malak Jamhour will be primary backup running back. Miller, sophomore Carly Stoepker, senior Anastasiya Stasyshyn and junior Nicolle Leitner will be the four wide receivers in Clifton’s starting offense. Clifton will employ a Cover 3 defense with a single rushing defensive lineman, three linebackers and three defensive backs. Stoepker, a high energy player with a nose for the ball, will be the middle linebacker, with Catala and junior Zayda Murphy on the outsides. Shackil is still deciding on the corners, safety and defensive lineman. “For the first couple practices, they are picking up the stuff I am giving them,” she said. “I am starting off basic and simple. They are picking up really fast. I am going to install more as we go.” Clifton is one of 16 Super Football Conference schools to join the NJHSGFFL. For the Mustang schedule, go to: bignorthconferencenj.org and select Clifton High School and choose Flag Football - Girls Varsity.

Cliftonmagazine.com • April 2022

MUSTANG SPORTS

TRACK & FIELD

MUSTANG SPORTS

TRACK

Apr 5

Passaic

4pm

Apr 12

@ PCTI

10am

Apr 19

JFK

4pm

Apr 26

Group Meet

4pm

May 6

TBA

3pm

May 24

TBA

3pm

May 25

TBA

3pm

From left front: Laith Salah, Sahil Khan, Kevin Arroyo, Jacob Heredia, Donovan Swasey. Standing: Isabella Carlomagno, Taniya Giles, Elena Raudales, Dyemer Jackson, Harsh Prajapati, Chance Blount, and Daniel Trelles.

Clifton’s track and field teams have some challenges to overcome this spring. But with powerhouses at the top of their lineups and an always-prepared coaching staff, there is no reason to think the Mustangs won’t be their normal contending selves in 2022. The boys, led by veteran head coach John Pontes, are again looking to fight for county and division championships. They’ll certainly have a shot with Jacob Heredia still wearing maroon. The senior has etched his place in Mustang history as the program’s greatest-ever distance runner, and will be a favorite to win another sectional title this season. “Jacob is a great guy to work with,” Pontes said. “The only thing that can stop him is injury. He is phenomenal and a real student of the sport.” Junior Hisham Ettayebi is another skilled distance runner, competing in the 1600m and 3200m. A consistent performer who placed in indoor sectionals, he was dominant during a preseason scrimmage against

April 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

McNair Academic. Junior Harrison Schimpf is another stud in the 800m, 1600m and 3200m, having placed last year in the sectional and county meets. Senior Donovan Swasey—a first team All-Passaic County athlete this winter—will compete in the 100m and 200m. He is joined in a sprinting group that includes juniors Christian Grant, Ben Nelken and Luke Chambers. The four comprised the 4x100 relay team that last spring broke that event’s late-1990s school record. Junior Naz Aquino will throw the shot, discus and javelin for the Mustangs, who will also get contributions from a talented freshman class that boasts distance runner Lamarr Olive, hurdler Romelo Tables and sprinters Nathaniel Phillip and Emmanuel Santos. “The boys have the potential, if they can stay healthy, to be a contender in both our division and county,” Pontes said. “They won the county indoors. The difference is here we have a lot of field events and we are young in those events. But if we can develop enough, we can be a contender.”

The girls, meanwhile, are led by head coach Kareem West. He has his own program legend in senior Remy Dubac, who runs the 800m, 1600m and 3200m. “Running is in her blood,” said West. “She is really hard working and dedicated. She is always trying to become better and takes a very scientific approach to running.” Sophomore Emma Green will compete in the 800m, 1600m and high hurdles, with fellow tenth-grader Debora Hamoh handling duties in the long jump, high jump and 4x4 hurdles. Sophomore Denise Dubbels is versatile, competing in the long jump, triple jump, high jump and pole vault. Sophomores Olivia Green and Viktoria Green will be key contributors, as will senior thrower Taniya Giles. The Mustangs’ greatest challenge will be dealing with a roster that took a pandemic-induced hit in terms of size. While that problem figures to dissipate with each coming year, 2022 will require Clifton to avoid the injury bug if they hope to succeed. “We did a really good job during indoor season, but COVID killed our numbers a bit,” West said. “It’s been challenging to recover the numbers. That has always been one of Clifton’s strengths. We always come back. This year? I think if we can get some points in pole vault and hurdles and do well, we’ll have another great year.”

Cliftonmagazine.com • April 2022

MUSTANG SPORTS

BOYS LACROSSE

Standing from left: Rohan Desai, Anthony Scalo, Jacob Maldonado, Salvatore Mannina, Luke Ceneri, Philopater Beshay, Matthew Cardona. Kneeling: Sammy Ahmad, Marcelo Mannina, Anthony Torre, Michael Santillo, Oscar Pereda.

After COVID-19 doomed its 2020 and affected its 2021, Clifton boys lacrosse believes it is back and ready to take a big leap. The senior-heavy Mustangs are hoping that a normal preseason and a skilled roster can push them to a more meaningful postseason run in 2022. “We are going to be competitive,” said veteran head coach George Cowan. “We have a lot of seniors but some

April 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

younger guys that are competitive, too. Last year, it was tough. We practiced for a few days and were shut down. We opened with Fair Lawn after six practices.” The Mustangs boast a number of players with biggame experience, namely senior midfielder Luke Ceneri. Ceneri is one of the top face-off specialists in the state—winning 277 a year ago—and has already

NEW INCREASED PAY RATES!

Clifton Public Schools Substitute Teaching Opportunities Competitive Pay! January 1, 2022 - May 1, 2022

$240/Day: County Substitute Certification $250/Day: NJDOE Teaching Certification Pursuant to P.L.2021, c. 87, individuals that are enrolled in an accredited institution of higher education , have completed 30 semester-hour credits, and are at least 20 years of age are now eligible for a substitute teacher credential. Apply today at https://www.applitrack.com/cliftonschools/onlineapp/ The district will contact eligible applicants and assist with certification process if needed. Clifton Public Schools 745 Clifton Avenue Clifton, NJ 07013 www.clifton.k12.nj.us Phone: 973-594-4195 E-mail: hr@cliftonschools.net

Cliftonmagazine.com • April 2022

committed to Montclair State in that son,” Cowan said. “He is smart, reads MUSTANG SPORTS role. A north-south runner with agthe offense really well and has come a gressiveness that has served him well long way over the past few years. Anon the football field and wrestling mat, thony is a lefty and he’s put in a lot of Apr 2 @ BCTI TBD he had a team-high 30 goals last year. time, too.” He led the Mustangs with 245 ground Apr 5 Seniors Sal Mannina and Angel River Dell 4:15pm balls, as well. Apr 9 @Westwood 11am Sanchez will be the top reserve attackHe is joined in the midfield by his men. Apr 11 Lakeland 4:15pm brother, sophomore Nate Ceneri— On defense, the Mustangs have a 4:15pm stud in senior Marcello Mannina. He now a second-year starter—and Gavin Apr 14 @ Englewood Quinones, a physical junior who can Apr 16 @ Paramus 10am is the total package, possessing quickplay on the hips defensively. Freshness, exceptional stick skills and ball Apr 19 @ Nutley 6:30pm man Colton Sargo, junior Atilla Tamas control. Seniors Matthew Cardona TBD and A.J. Torre will start alongside him, and senior Brandon Azqueta will all be Apr 27 Old Tappan in the midfield rotation. Apr 29 @ Pompton Lks 4pm with senior Anthony Martinez rotating Senior Jacob Maldonado will lead May 7 Paramus Cath 1pm in. the Clifton attack, and Cowan calls Junior Deven Desai, who tended him “the guy to watch” on the offen- May 10 @ Pequannock 4:15pm goal at the youth level but played mid4:15pm field last year, will be in the cage for sive end. He tied for a team-best 43 May 12 Wayne Hills points last year and has shown major May 14 @ Fair Lawn 10am the Mustangs. improvement during the preseason. “These kids are hard workers,” He will be flanked by seniors Rohan Cowan said. “They work hard, many Desai and Anthony Scalo, who combined for 21 goals a of them in three sports all year long. It gives you a little year ago. bit of an edge. We have the experience. I am excited to “Rohan puts in more work than anybody in the offseasee what we can do.”

BOYS LACROSSE

April 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Cliftonmagazine.com • April 2022

MUSTANG SPORTS

GIRLS LACROSSE

MUSTANG SPORTS

GIRLS LACROSSE

The Clifton girls lacrosse team is young, but they aren’t necessarily inexperienced—at least not in highlevel athletic competition. Many of the Mustangs are learning the game on the fly, but have valuable skills from some of Clifton’s other prominent programs that they hope will guide them to success this spring. “I just think that a lot of these girls, especially the soccer girls, understand the basic concepts of offense and defense, and those cross over,” said head coach Amanda Grzyskin. “The same thing with basketball. If you can set picks and

April 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Apr 1

@ Saddle Brook

4pm

Apr 4

PCTI

4pm

Apr 6

@ West Milford

4:30pm

Apr 9

John P. Stevens

10am

Apr 12

Holy Angels

4pm

Apr 14

@ DePaul

TBD

Apr 16

@ Rutherford

TBD

Apr 18

@ Waldwick

4:15pm

Apr 20

Fair Lawn

4:15pm

Apr 22

Passaic Valley

Apr 26

Pompton Lakes

Apr 29

Hoboken

5pm

May 5

Paramus Cath

6pm

May 9

Bergen Tech

4:30pm

May 11

@ Paramus

4:15pm

May 13

Old Tappan

4:30pm

May 17

@ Englewood

May 23

S Plainfield

4pm 4:15pm

From left front: Jaelyn Rivera, Emily Orantes, Brianna Moyse, Emilia Wilk, Otililia Kedl, Carly Stoepker, Rossy Cabrera. From rear left: Layla Lampingnano, Anastasiya Stasyshyn, Alyse Turk, Jichelle Rodriguez, Arianna Frias, Mia Rodriguez, Nikki Zlotkowski, Kate Arce Zayda Murphy, Kaylee Miller, Amanda Presutto.

screens, defense in lacrosse is all about sliding your feet.” The Mustangs were 4-12 last year, but won four of their final seven games, thanks in large part to the insertion of Aylse Turk into goal. Now a senior, Turk will look to build on her 45 saves from a season ago. She will need support from a defen-

sive group that has a host of Mustang soccer players in its ranks. Freshman Emelia Wilk, sophomores Zayda Murphy and Kate Arce, and senior Nikki Zlotkowski (a first-year player coming off an impressive preseason) will start, with freshman Jichelle Rodriguez also in the rotation. Senior Amra Lukovic, also a talented volleyball player, was a second team All-Passaic County honoree in 2021. A goal scorer who can also play defense and be effective on the draw, she will be joined by junior Kaylee Miller and sophomore Carly Stoepker. Seniors Anastasiya Stasyshyn and Arianna Frias are back on the attack, with a group of youngsters vying for time, as well. Sophomores Mia Rodriguez and Casey Wellins and freshman Meagan Valido, all soccer players, will be key contributors, as will senior Marla Valido. Sophomore Amanda Presutto is a utility-type of athlete who can play anywhere. “They’re willing to work hard, they want to learn,” said Grzyskin. “I just tell them that we have to work as a team. If you talk and help each other out, you feel so much better knowing someone has your back. We are all in this together.”

Cliftonmagazine.com • April 2022

MUSTANG SPORTS

BOYS VOLLEYBALL

MUSTANG SPORTS

BOYS VOLLEYBALL

Coach Jorge Rodriguez knows he has the talent to produce a successful spring season. Now, it’s just about putting it all together. The Mustang boys volleyball team went 11-9 in Rodriguez’s first year at the helm, but with the addition a host of athletic players with experience winning in other sports, he is hoping year two can be even better. “The competition aspect, I am not worried about,” Rodriguez said. “They are competitors and have good energy. Athletically, they have it. It’s on me to work on them mechanically to get them where need to be.” Senior middle blocker Jacob Zybura, also the goalkeeper for Clifton’s boys soccer team, was second on the team in kills in 2021. A leader on the

April 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Apr 1

@PCTI

4pm

Apr 2

@ Pat. Charter

TBD

Apr 4

Don Bosco

4pm

Apr 6

@ Passaic

4:30pm

Apr 8

JFK

4:15pm

Apr 11

Wayne Valley

10am

Apr 13

@ Bergen Tech

10am

Apr 14

D. Morrow

10am

Apr 18

Eastside

Apr 20

@ Wayne Hills

Apr 21

PASC

4:30pm

Apr 25

@ Fair Lawn

4:15pm

Apr 27

PCTI

Apr 29

@ Lakeland

4:15pm

May 2

Passaic

4:45pm

May 4

@ JFK

4pm

May 5

@ Eastside

4pm

May 6

Bergen Tech

4:30pm

May 9

@ D. Morrow

4:15pm

May 12

North Bergen

4:30pm

4:30pm 4pm

4pm

From left rear: Roman Albano, Louis Habrahamshon, Efe Erdem, Roberto Luna Rivera, Saif Ellithy, Lauro Barrantes, Om Mistry, Yulian Kotovych, Pawel Holak, Vitaly Habura. Front: Nathaniel Maksymiw, Saif Al-Deen Saleh, Lukas Ferrada, Jacob Zybura, Volodymyr Voroshchuk, Rylan Stetz.

team, Zybura is a quarterback on the floor, getting his teammates set and bringing a winner’s mentality from the soccer field. He is joined by fellow middle Volodymyr Voroshchuk, a junior. A monster at the net, Voroshchuk saw time in the middle last year. Both he and Zybura are strong overall players and can play the outside, as well. At the moment, the outside slots will be manned by juniors Lukas Ferrada and Roberto Luna. The former

saw the floor a lot last year, recording 28 kills and 29 digs. The latter, a transfer from Becton who resided in Florida for most of his youth, is a high jumper with high energy. Both have good all-around skills and make good contact on the ball. Senior Nathaniel Maksymiw will be the Mustangs’ starting setter, with junior Vitaly Hibura spelling him when needed. If the two can be consistent with their passing, Rodriguez could employ some 6-2 sets with both in the back row. Sophomore Lauro Barrantes is the team’s starter on the right side, but he is battling injury and that spot may be filled junior Yulian Kotovych while he gets healthy. A tactically intelligent coach with a deep love for the game, Rodriguez feels this team is a perfect fit for him, as its athleticism is unquestionable. The pieces are there, and if the group can coalesce quickly enough, the Mustangs could be a contender in Passaic County in 2022. “It’s a very physical game in a sense, and I am blessed that this group has the physical abilities,” Rodriguez said. “But we need to work on mechanics. Mobility-wise we are a little stuff, but we are working on that. But I am excited about our potential.”

Cliftonmagazine.com • April 2022

MUSTANG SPORTS

TENNIS

Front from left, Ethan Ho, Patrick DuBois, Justin Martinez, Jaiden Witter, Ishmael Alvarez, Youssef Nouh. Back from left: Dylan Cabrera, Marcello Murphy, Ego Feijoo, Alias Ragsdale, Abdullah Aref, Alderney Corniel.

For Clifton boys tennis, the last two seasons (2019 and 2021, thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic) have been stable. The Mustangs have gone 13-13 under head coach Shirah Wittwer, earning some nice victories and qualifying for the postseason. But they certainly want more. “My goal is to make it so we go to the counties and put our name on that map,” Wittwer said. “I’d like to get over that hump and beat those teams that beat us, 3-2, last year. I’d like to see us finish above .500.” It seems to be attainable goal, but the Mustangs will need to be on their A game nearly every time they hit the clay. The same can be said for senior first singles player Justin Martinez, who made it to the semifinals of the Passaic County Tournament last season. “Justin had some tough matchups last year but competed well,” Wittwer said. “He is a tennis kid, that’s all he does.” Martinez is dangerous if he gets his first serve down, as he hits the ball hard and with good placement. He has worked hard to fine-tune his game with assistant coach Nick Giordano. Patrick DuBois, a sophomore, will play second singles.

April 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

MUSTANG SPORTS

TENNIS

Apr 4

@ Passaic

4:30pm

Apr 6

Eastside

4pm

Apr 8

@ PCTI

4pm

Apr 12

JFK

4pm

Apr 13

@ Hackensack

10am

Apr 14

@ Bergen Tech

10am

Apr 18

@ West Milford

4:15pm

Apr 20

@Paramus Cath

4pm

Apr 22

@ Fair Lawn

Apr 26

@ Eastside

Apr 28

@ Passaic

Apr 29

@ Union City

4pm

May 3

@ PCTI

4pm

May 5

@JFK

4pm

May 10

@ Bergen Tech

May 12

@ PV

4pm

May 16

@ Union

4pm

May 18

@ Kearny

4pm

more Marcello Murphy are an athletic duo who bring the winning tradition of the Clifton boys soccer program to the tennis court. Though they are a mixed bag in terms of experience, the Mustangs are an exciting group that possess a high ceiling if they can jell quickly. “We are young in certain ways, and new in certain ways,” Wittwer said. “But these guys will show up every day. I would like to compete with [division rivals like] Passaic Tech and split with them. And I think we can do it.”

4:15pm 4pm 4:30pm

4:15pm

An alternate last season who filled in at second doubles, DuBois has invested in himself, improving fundamentally, attending camps, and upgrading equipment. He will be a player to watch as he transitions to the singles game. Senior third singles Ishmael Alvarez is a smart first-year player who has taken quickly to the game. Alvarez is adept at putting the ball where there is open space has an obvious love for the sport. At first doubles, sophomore Alias Ragsdale will team with senior Jaiden Witter. Both are first-year players, but have complimentary styles and have worked well together in the preseason. Ragsdale may move into a singles role at some point this year. Meanwhile, junior Ego Feijoo and sophoCliftonmagazine.com • April 2022

From Early Childhood to Adult Programs, NJEDDA has Innovated for Decades. For 75 years, the North Jersey Elks Developmental Disabilities Agency has proven to be an indispensable gem for Clifton families who seek its services. NJEDDA, at 1481 Main Ave., is celebrating its 75th Diamond Anniversary with a “Roaring 75th Gala” on Thursday, May 5 at the Brownstone. The event, located at 351 W Broadway, Paterson, will mark more than seven decades of support and educational opportunities for people of all ages who live with developmental disabilities. But the non-profit continues to grow and achieve with each passing day. Established in Clifton in 1947, NJEDDA’S goal, with the longtime support of local Elks Lodges, is to address the unmet needs of children and adults through medical care, education, and therapy. In recent years, the non-profit, with funding from the Passaic County Elks Special Children’s Committee, has added a new room for children that provides space for physical and occupational therapy activities. NJEDDA Executive Director Rachel Herrington also emphasized the work done by their Adult Training Center.

April 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

The Center has slowly seen clients returning to in-person programming since the start of the coronavirus pandemic. “Our Adult Training Center provides Day Habilitation Services, including speech therapy, occupational therapy, and physical therapy,” explained Herrington. “Prior to COVID, our enrollment was approximately 50 individuals.” An abundance of caution for health and safety concerns has meant that many of these clients have yet to return to the Downtown Clifton building. By the end of March, Herrington said that they had seen 26 clients return for full or partial in-person services. Herrington, who assumed the position of executive director in 2021, succeeded Dr. William Weiss. Weiss retired from NJEDDA on June 29, 2021 after 43 years of service. Serving as director since 1979, Weiss initiated and established a high school and adult school. When we spoke with Herrington for our December 2021 issue, she said that NJEDDA remains committed to its goals but also appreciates ongoing community support to continue its mission. The pandemic hit the organization hard, like many

others, but they have restarted a community service project that showcases their dedication to the city. The Pouches for People Project allows clients to participate in making lists of personal care items and snacks to purchase. After, they pack the items into a pouch and the pouches are delivered to homeless shelters, veterans, active duty service members, and other groups in need. “This program provides our clients a chance at meaningful work and a sense of community while helping those in need,” said Herrington. Attending the 75th anniversary gala is one way to support NJEDDA and allow for its continued role in the community. To become a sponsor or make a donation, contact Vivian Bender at 973-772-2600 ext. 116 or by emailing vbender@njedda.org.

Cliftonmagazine.com • April 2022

Camille Gomera-Tavarez’s appreciation for her hometown is rooted in its diversity and ability to prepare her for life as an adult. Now, she’s using these skills and lessons as she prepares to debut as a published author. The CHS 2015 grad’s debut book, High Spirits will be available on April 12. The book of 11 short stories began as a 5-story chapbook project for her creative writing thesis. In August of 2020, her editor Nick Thomas at Levine Querido Publishing acquired the project. The journey over the past two years has felt like a longtime coming but has also flown by for Gomera-Tavarez. “I love my editor,” said Gomera-Tavarez, 25. “He’s very patient and supportive, and the whole team at the publish-

April 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

er’s office really babied me through this because I don’t have an agent.” “When I first started … 2022 seemed so far away,” she continued, with a laugh. “After going through rounds of editing and finishing the rest of the stories and the book, it’s flown by.” Gomera-Tavarez was born in Washington Heights, New York City. She lived in the Dominican Republic until age 5 when her family returned to the United States. Growing up in Clifton, she attended School 2, WWMS, and later CHS. Her brother, Diego, 23, also attended WWMS and then Paramus Catholic. During her high school years, GomeraTavarez was a member of Art Honor Society, National

Camille Gomera-Tavarez hosts a book launch at the Clifton Main Memorial Library on April 14 at 5pm. At left, in Pedernales, Dominican Republic in 2019, in front of Colmado Gomera store. From left: Nicole Montas-Gomera (cousin), Deyanira Gomera (cousin), Mariel Gomera (cousin), Evangeline Gomera (baby niece), Bernardo Gomera (grandfather), Camille Gomera-Tavarez, Linette Montas-Gomera (cousin), Bernardo Gomera (cousin).

Honor Society, CHS Orchestra, and the New Jersey Symphony Youth Orchestra. Her first job was working at Clifton Recreation’s Summer Camp Program as a camp counselor. “Clifton Rec made me good at organizing and talking to a group, even if it was a group of kids,” said Gomera-Tavarez. “I specifically worked with kids with different learning disabilities … and would go home and do research on the different ways … to help them with whatever they were dealing with.” These problem solving skills, she said, have translated well to the work she now does on a daily basis. After CHS, Gomera-Tavarez attended the Maryland Institute College of Art in Baltimore, where she studied graphic design with a minor in creative writing. She later worked for a period

as a Design Consultant at the World Health Organization’s Pan American Health Organization in Washington, DC. Based in Philadelphia, GomeraTavarez is a Senior Designer for Authentic Campaigns. She creates website designs and digital marketing graphics for progressive political clients and organizations, such as Ilhan Omar, Cory Booker, Phil Murphy, Kathy Hochul, and the Biden/Harris administration. Gomera-Tavarez said leaving Clifton made her realize its uniqueness, especially in those earlier years. Attending a larger school with over 700 students in her graduating class granted her with more exposure to people of different backgrounds. She can also trace her present-day interest and involvement in politics back to CHS. One of her former teachers that she considers influential to her pursuit of that path is Mr. Christopher Henry, who taught her AP US History course. “I was determined to find a way to get a job that I would feel good about doing … while making sure to always advocate for people who look like me and feeling that I have the space to do so,” said Gomera-Tavarez.

Cliftonmagazine.com • April 2022

High Spirits and a Bright Future More stories to tell Gomera-Tavarez also acknowledges the important figures who made her realize that writing was viable work. She said it wasn’t until her senior year at CHS that she realized writing was something you could develop as a skill. She recalled how her AP English teacher, Dr. Elissa Greenwald, would read her work aloud and how the teacher gave her the opportunity to journal about working as part of Stage Crew. “I wrote about what [went] on every night and it counted as extra credit,” said Gomera-Tavarez. “I would read them to the class. I feel like I’m blunt and honest in my writing, so it was fun to read.” High Spirits is similarly honest in its content. The featured short stories offer slice-of-life insights into multiple members of the fictional Camille’s family: brother Diego, mom Nilsa, CaBelén family. The Dominican family is scattered mille at her MICA graduation (as well as when she throughout Santo Domingo, Paterson, San Juan, was a Mustang) and her father Bernardo Gomera. and Washington Heights. The book draws focus to mental health, machismo, diasporic identity, you want them to be looking at. Writing as an extension family relations, and coming-of-age themes. of art-making in that way is something that I always relate Gomera-Tavarez added that the book also takes inspiraback to because of the advice that she gave me,” continued tion from the rural town in southern Dominican Republic Gomera-Tavarez. where her father spent his adolescence. When working on To view her other work or pre-order High Spirits, visit the story, Gomera-Tavarez found that some of the best writGomera-Tavarez’s website cgtdesign.net. She will also be ing advice came from her thesis advisor, Professor Joyce in attendance on Thursday, April 14 at 5 pm at the Clifton Anitagrace. Public Library for a book launch. “She was an amazing editor,” said Gomera-Tavarez. She has no plans to slow down either. Gomera-Tavarez “I was stuck on using the memories to drive the story and is also in the process of writing another book and will ocmake things as true to life as possible … and she said, ‘If casionally write articles about design and art. you’re doing a painting, you don’t want to always do it “Hopefully, I have more stories in me to tell,” she said. true to life. … Make sure the person is looking at the thing

Have Clifton Merchant Mailed. $40 per year $65 for two • Mailed via first class to your home

Name:____________________________________________________________ Address:__________________________________________________________ City:___________________________ State:_____________________________ Zip:___________________ Phone:____________________________________ Email:____________________________________________________________ Please make checks to Tomahawk Promotions, 1288 Main Ave., Clifton NJ 07011

April 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Clifton PUBLIC SCHOOLS Kindergarten Registration Parents of Clifton Residents who will be 5 years old by October 1, 2022 can register as of March 1, 2022

Pre-School Registration Parents of Clifton Residents who will be 4 years old by October 1, 2022 can register as of March 1, 2022 Limited Space Available, requirements can be found at https://www.clifton.k12.nj.us/domain/928

Limited Income Eligible 3-year-old Pre-School Program please call 973-472-8880

Go Online To Register Registration forms for both programs, required documents, and details can be found at:

www.clifton.k12.nj.us/domain/109

English | Español | ‫ | ﻋﺮﺑﻰ‬Polskie |

ુજરાતી

Registration Information Cliftonmagazine.com • April 2022

JAZZ AT THE LIBRARY

The Friends of the Clifton Public Library’s semi-annual meeting is April 12 at 1 pm at Main Memorial Library, at 292 Piaget Ave. After a short meeting which is open to the public, enjoy music from the Shopkeepers as they play from the Great American Songbook. Light refreshments will be served and masks are required.

The Friends of the Clifton Library host The Shopkeepers at 1pm on April 12 a the Main Memorial Library. Pictured from left, John Tomaine and Dante Guariglia on guitar, Harry Lawler on percussion, and Arthur Kramer on bass.

Newspaper columnist and author Bill Ervolino will offer his insights on the humor found in daily life as the guest speaker for a fundraiser luncheon on May 1 at 1 pm at the Upper Montclair Country Club. Located at 177 Hepburn Rd., all proceeds will support the Clifton Arts Center. Ervolino has written for The Record on-and-off since 1990. Sponsored by the Arts Center, the event also includes a three-course lunch, cash bar, tricky tray, and a 50/50 raffle. Tickets are $65 and can be reserved by calling Barbara Novak at 973-773-9383 or emailing basiakasianovak@aol.com. Tickets also can be purchased at cliftonartscenter.org/fundraiser.

March 2022

Survivor’s Guide Correction Clifton City Clerk Nancy Ferrigno sent these corrections to our Survivor’s Guide: Marriage Certificate: A copy is required if the surviving spouse is applying for benefits. A certificate may be obtained in the Municipal Clerk’s Office in the town where the marriage took place. Birth Certificate: A birth certificate may be obtained in the Municipal Clerk’s Office in the town where the child was born.

April 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Bill Ervolino will chuck up some laughs for the Clifton Arts Center on May 1. Miss New Jersey 2021 Alyssa Sullivan will co-host Community Art Day at the CAC on April 2.

A Community Art Day is April 2, from 1 to 4 pm at the Clifton Arts Center, at 900 Clifton Ave. Miss New Jersey 2021 Alyssa Sullivan, will co-host the event, which offers tours of the Sculpture Park by Mike Bertelli, discussions about the current exhibit, “Fred Staloff: Origins of a Modernist,” and ideas about future shows. The suggested admission fee is $3 and includes light refreshments. The rain date is April 3. For more info about the Arts Center’s departing exhibit, visit cliftonartscenter.org. Like them on Facebook at facebook.com/CliftonArtsCenter and follow their Instagram page @cliftonartscenter.

Cliftonmagazine.com • April 2022

OPERA IN CLIFTON

The Garden State Opera, under the baton of Francesco Santelli, is in its 19th season and will present ‘The Silk City’ at the Clifton Jewish Center on April 10 at 3 pm. Presented at 18 Delaware St., the opera is about a story of passion and drama in the turbulent times of the Paterson Silk Strike of 1913. Visit cliftonjewishcenter.com. The suggested donation is $25 per person. For info, call 973-772-3131. The Catholic Community of St. Brendan and St. George hosts a Food Truck Festival, at 154 East 1st St., on April 23 from noon to 6 pm. The rain date is April 30 and admission is $2 for ages 3 and up. Over a dozen trucks will offer cuisine. Call 973-772-1115 for more info. The Boys & Girls Club of Clifton Food Truck Festival is May 15 with details to come, or go to bgcclifton.org. The Bunny Bash is April 9 from 9:30 to 11:30 am. Start the day by eating breakfast (fee) at Hot Grill, on Lexington Ave., with Mr. Bunny from 7:30-9:30 am. Then kids, aged 3 to 12 can join the free activities across the street in Nash Park. They include a visit with Mr. Bunny, Mrs. Bunny’s Playstation, Bunny Hop, and an Easter Bonnet Contest & Parade. Visit cliftonrec.com or call 973-470-5956. For dayof weather updates, call 973-470-5680 after 6:30 am. Sundae Bingo is May 1, 3 to 5 pm at Stefan Tatarenko Memorial Park, 55 Broadale Rd. Play Bingo and enjoy ice cream sundaes for $6 per person. Info at cliftonrec.com or at the Recreation Department, at 900 Clifton Ave., 2nd floor. Online registration ends on April 28. For more info, call the Rec Department at 973-470-5956.

April 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

The Red Hat Angels annual Mangia Day at Bruno’s is April 20. The Relay For Life team has teamed up with Bruno’s, at 1006 Rt. 46, who are donating 20% of all checks (pre-tax and tip amount) between 11:30 am and 9 pm for dine-in, take-out, and delivery orders. Clifton teams participating with the Relay for Life of Clifton and Rutherford will gather at Clifton Stadium starting at 6 pm on May 14. For info on the services provided by the American Cancer Society, visit cancer.org.

Feeling overwhelmed? Power of One’s Kim Castellano is leading a series of inperson Stress Relief Workshops. Castellano’s series will be held in the WWMS Auditorium, at 1400 Van Houten Ave. Upcoming dates include April 7 and 21, May 5 and 19, and June 2. To register, email info@ powerofoneccom.org or call 862-239-5905. The Clifton Rec Department’s Jigsaw Puzzle Contest was on March 16 at the Rec Center. Some 50 people got together to see how quickly they could complete a 500-piece puzzle for teen/adult teams or 300-piece puzzle for family teams that included children under 12. The winning teams for the Family category were: 1st place, Team Primavera; 2nd place, Team Brand; 3rd place, Team Trupia. The winning teams for the teen/adult category were: 1st place, Team Deribin; 2nd place, Team Muir; 3rd place, Team Ilaria.

Michelle Primavera, Joe Rathberger and their kids Cece and Joleen took home the blue ribbon in Clifton Rec’s Jigsaw Contest.

Clifton Health Department 2022 Spring Rabies Clinics for Dogs & Cats Clifton Dates

Location: DPW Garage, 307 E. 7th St., Clifton, NJ 07011

Dogs: (Free); Cats: $5.00 Wednesday, April 20th 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm

Saturday, May 7th 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm

2022 Dog Licenses are available for Clifton Residents Only

Location:

Little Falls Date

DPW: 70 Sindle Ave., Little Falls, NJ 07424

Wednesday, April 27th

for Dogs & Cats from 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm Dog & Cat licenses available for Little Falls Residents Only CALL CLIFTON AT (973) 470-5760 FOR MORE INFORMATION.

 

CALL LITTLE FALLS AT (973) 256-0170 FOR MORE INFORMATION. 



DOGS MUST BE ON LEASHES; CATS MUST BE IN CARRIERS.

NO ONE UNDER THE AGE OF 18 WILL BE ALLOWED IN WITHOUT AN ADULT. 

MUST HAVE VALID FORM OF IDENTIFICATION



ALL NEW JERSEY RESIDENTS ARE WELCOMED

The Clifton Health Department is a contractual health agency serving the Township of Little Falls.

SHRED DAY IN CLIFTON SHRED DAY IN CLIFTON RESIDENTS SHRED DAY IN ONLY CLIFTON RESIDENTS ONLY SHRED DAY IN CLIFTON RESIDENTS SHRED DAY IN ONLY CLIFTON

RESIDENTS ONLY RESIDENTS ONLY

Saturday, April 9, 2022 (Rain or Shine) Saturday, 2022 (Rain or Shine) 8:00April A.M.9,till 12:00 P.M. Saturday, April 9, 2022 (Rain or Shine) 8:00 A.M. till 12:00 P.M. Saturday, AprilCenter 9, 2022 (City (Rain or Shine) Clifton Senior Hall) 8:00 A.M. till 12:00 P.M. Clifton Senior Center (City Hall) 8:00 tillAvenue 12:00 P.M. Saturday, April 9,A.M. 2022 (Rain or Shine) 900 Clifton Clifton Senior Center (City 900 Clifton Avenue Clifton Senior Center (City Hall) Hall) 8:00 A.M. till 12:00 P.M. Clifton Avenue 900 900 Clifton Avenue The City of Clifton is pleased to announce that all Clifton residents will

Senior (City Hall)such The ofClifton Clifton is pleased to Center announce that all Clifton residents will haveCity a chance to recycle all their confidential documents as: The City Cliftonall is pleased to announce that all Cliftonsuch residents have a chance to of recycle their confidential documents as: willwill The City of Clifton is pleased to announce that all Clifton residents 900 Clifton Avenue have a chance to recycle all their confidential documents such as: Tax Returns Credit Card Statements have a chance toReturns recycle all their confidential documents such as: Tax Credit Card Statements Old Checks Medical Information Tax Returns Credit Card Statements Old Medical Information OldBills Checksto announce Medical Information Utility Bank Statements Tax Returns Credit Card Statements The City of Clifton isChecks pleased that all Clifton residents will Utility BillsPersonalMedical BankStatements Statements Utility Bills Bank Records Checks Information have a chance toOld recycle allOther their confidential documents such as: Personal Records OtherOther Personal Records Utility Bills Bank Statements Returns Credit Card Statements Limit –Tax 4Limit banker boxesOther per RESIDENTIAL household. (WILL NOT Personal Records – 4 banker boxes per RESIDENTIAL household. (WILL NOT LimitACCEPTED – 4Old boxes perGARBAGE RESIDENTIAL (WILL NOT BE IN GARBAGE BAGS) Please DO NOT NOTbring: bring: Checks Medical Information BEbanker ACCEPTED IN BAGS) household. Please DO BE IN GARBAGE BAGS) Please DOetc. NOT bring: magazines, holiday cards, junk mail, mail, newspapers, magazines, photos, holiday cards, junk etc. LimitACCEPTED – 4newspapers, banker boxes per photos, RESIDENTIAL household. (WILL NOT Utility Bills Bank Statements newspapers, magazines, photos, holiday cards, Please junk mail, BE ACCEPTED INOther GARBAGE BAGS) DOetc. NOT bring: Personal Records This service is being provided FREE of charge and is coordinate This service magazines, is being provided FREEcards, of charge and etc. is coordinate newspapers, photos, holiday junk mail, through Department of Public Works Division. This service is the being provided ofRecycling charge Division. and is coordinate through the Department of Public FREE Works Recycling Limitthrough – 4 banker boxes perof RESIDENTIAL household. (WILL NOT the Department Public FREE Works Recycling Division. This service is being of charge and is coordinate For material to beprovided shredded, residents must show proof of residency. BE ACCEPTED IN GARBAGE BAGS) Please DO NOT bring: through the Department of Public Works Recycling Division. For questions, please callresidents 973-470-2239. For material to be shredded, must show proof of residency. newspapers, magazines, photos, holiday cards, junk mail, etc. For questions, material toplease be shredded, residents must show proof of residency. For call 973-470-2239. For call 973-470-2239. For questions, material toplease be shredded, residents must show proof of residency. * PLEASE NOTE : and is coordinate This For service is being FREE of charge questions, please provided call 973-470-2239. through the Department of Public Works Recycling Division. The shredding event is over when the: truck is full. * PLEASE NOTE

* PLEASE NOTE:

Event sponsored by Atlantic Coast Fibers

shredding event is over when the truck is full. * PLEASE NOTE For material toThe be shredded, residents proofis of residency. The shredding event is overmust whenshow the :truck full. For questions, please callsponsored 973-470-2239. Atlantic Fibers The Event shredding event isbyover whenCoast the truck is full. Event sponsored by Atlantic Coast Fibers Event sponsored by Atlantic Coast Fibers

* PLEASE NOTE: • April 2022 79 Cliftonmagazine.com

The shredding event is over when the truck is full. Event sponsored by Atlantic Coast Fibers

A Second Home. A Place to Grow. Boys and Girls Club of Clifton 2022 Scholarship Winners When Julia Berkenbosch hears anyone mention the Boys & Girls Club of Clifton, one of her first instincts is to learn about their experience. During her 13 years as a member, Berkenbosch has found that the Club provides numerous “positive thoughts and memories.” “I truly believe that I would not be the person I am today if it were not for the amazing staff and atmosphere that has practically provided me with my second home for most of my life,” said Berkenbosch, 18. Berkenbosch’s dedication and the Club’s recognition of it have also led to her becoming the 2022 recipient of the MaryJo Anzaldi-Foster and Patricia Lavender Scholarship. The award provides $1,500 to a member who will pursue a degree in Early Childhood Education. The PCTI senior plans to attend Kean University and earn her Biology Teacher Certification. Her eventual goal is to be a pediatric physician’s assistant or a physician’s assistant in dermatology. Berkenbosch has consistently displayed dedication to her work and extracurriculars. She is a four-year varsity member of PCTI’s Girls’ Swim Team and a four-year Stu-

April 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

dent Ambassador Volunteer and a member of the Health Occupation Students of America club. She is also not a stranger to her community. From grades six to 11, she was an altar server at St. Philip the Apostle Parish, at 797 Valley Rd., and was a Confirmation volunteer. At the Club, she has worked since September 2020 in the Aquatics Department as a Lifeguard, Swim Lesson Instructor, and Locker Room Attendant. “I am so fortunate that I have had the experience of attending the After School Program and going to Summer Camp (Camp Clifton),” said Berkenbosch. “I have swum for the Clifton Seahawks Swim Team for 11 years.” Berkenbosch said her exposure to the coaches and other swimmers taught her about individuality, self-control, time management, and sportsmanship. “[Coach Anna Abakumova] always supported and encouraged me to pursue both my athletic and academic goals,” said Berkenbosch. “I remember as a kid, I would be very eager to go to swimming practice and be coached by her. I just knew back then that I wanted to be just like her: confident and well-loved.”

Cliftonmagazine.com • April 2022

A Second Home. A Place to Grow. Getting hired was also significant because Berkenbosch knew she needed a job before college. She soon earned her American Red Karan Vyas, Rawan Awadalla, Amanda Bruno, Arianna Frias. Cross certification as a Water Vyas volunteered with Kids Café and helped set up the Safety Instructor, which gives her additional credentials. Club’s Car, Truck & Motorcycle Show. He said helping Now having taught swim lessons to children and young with these events has given him a chance to connect with adults for over a year, she finds that she often shares how new people and has encouraged him to continue volunteermuch she appreciates the Club with her friends and family. ing when he goes to college. “There is no benefit in giving “[Teaching swim lessons] has boosted my confidence, up,” said Vyas. “If I’ve learned anything at the Club, it is improved my communication and reactive skills, and has that you must try, or success will never be possible.” allowed me to express my creativity in the water,” she said. “I enjoy coming in and spending every moment I can in the Rawan Awadalla embodies leadership and academic [Club].” excellence. The CHS senior is the Club’s 2022 Youth of Karan Vyas became a Club member in 2010, and its the Year Award recipient for the second consecutive year. nurturing environment has helped structure his outlook on She has expressed a desire to foster diversity and inclusion life’s challenges. in her community. In March 2021, it started by ensuring Reflecting on those early memories, the PCTI junior’s younger Club kids know that “nothing is out of reach.” The mind goes to swimming at the Club. Vyas recalled a swim$3,000 award is open to members ages 16-18. Awadalla got ming exam from over a decade ago that ended with him involved with the Club in her freshman year. She volunslipping off of the diving board and falling face-first into teered as a counselor’s aid and helped students with their the water. work while making herself available as a mentor. “I may have been physically OK, but mentally, I was not,” said Vyas. “All of my hard work just to … repeat the Amanda Bruno is the 2022 recipient of the Club’s Presiwhole course.” dent’s Scholarship Award. The $1,500 award is for high Vyas has used the memory as a reminder to always push school seniors with a 3.0 GPA or higher. The CHS senior himself. He is the Club’s 2022 Board Scholarship Award has spent most of her life as a member of the Club. She berecipient. The $1,000 award is for a member planning to gan swimming lessons at age 4 and joined the After School pursue a post-secondary degree. Vyas intends to major in Program at School 17. In March 2021, the Club presented computer science at a school like NYU, Stevens Institute Bruno with the Board Scholarship Award. of Technology, or Rutgers. Vyas found another passion at the Club. Two years after Arianna Frias has spent 15 years with the Club and his swimming exam, he started playing indoor soccer. He has witnessed the hope and bright futures it provides its played with his peers at Athenia Steel Park until starting members. Frias is the 2022 recipient of the Alumni Award. high school. Now as a junior, he looks to find ways to enThe $2,000 award is presented to an individual with plans courage those around him. to pursue a post-secondary degree. In March 2021, Frias “As I looked around for an appropriate opportunity to received the Club’s MaryJo Anzaldi-Foster and Patricia showcase my talent for positivity,” he said, “I was introLavender Scholarship award. The CHS senior credited the duced to the Keystone Club through a couple of friends supportive environment and staff for encouraging her to who also [hoped] to influence change.” improve and maintain her grades. “I have been introduced to so many different community service and volunteering opportunities due to my involvement with the Club that it shaped my perspective on hardships and adversity.”

April 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

The B&G Club Scholarships and Youth of the Year awards is on May 16 at 5 pm at The Club.

Cliftonmagazine.com • April 2022

Birthdays & Celebrations - April 2022

Happy Birthday to.... Send dates & names .... tomhawrylkosr@gmail.com

The Hawrylko brothers; Joe turns 37 on April 27 and Tom Jr. is 35 on April 16. Damian Robert Calvo will be 16 on April 13. Mark Peterson is 69 on April 5. Pete Fierro turns 82 on April 18. Alyse Turk turns 18 on April 2. Karen Goldey..................... Timothy Hayes.................... Stephanie L. Magaster......... Hetal Patel......................... Karen Schwartz.................. Raymond DeDios................ Carl DiGisi......................... Eric Homsany..................... JoEllen Kenney-Illenye.......... Kevin John Lord.................. Greg Alexander.................. Joey Scotto......................... Bo Franko.......................... Sabrina Greco.................... Wafa Othman.................... Mark Peterson....................

4/1 4/1 4/1 4/1 4/1 4/3 4/3 4/3 4/3 4/3 4/4 4/4 4/5 4/5 4/5 4/5

Bob Tanis........................... 4/5 Joe Franek.......................... 4/6 Sharon J. Koribanics............ 4/6 Carmela Meglio.................. 4/6 Jessica Mondelli.................. 4/6 Emma Rozewski.................. 4/6 Luke Kulesa........................ 4/7 Donna Mangone................. 4/7 George Sadiv..................... 4/7 Patricia Colman.................. 4/8 Sheryll Franko.................... 4/8 Jackie Henderson................ 4/8 Jeff Murcko........................ 4/8 Emma Gretina.................... 4/9 Kathy Krisinski.................... 4/9 Brian Firstmeyer................ 4/11

Leila Gasior...................... 4/11 Felipe Rivera.................... 4/11 Erin Smith........................ 4/11 Debbie Tucker.................. 4/11 Alice Shanley Babinski...... 4/12 Josh Ontell....................... 4/13 William Parks III................ 4/13 Alexander John Mosciszko. 4/14 Lisa Kulesa....................... 4/15 Adam Pienciak................. 4/15 Kurt Irizarry...................... 4/16 Robert Monzo.................. 4/16 Linda Humphrey................ 4/17 Joseph P. Koribanics.......... 4/17 Peter Fierro....................... 4/18 Maura Coleman............... 4/19

Ariana Hryckowian (CHS 2006) and Tyler Struve will be married on April 23 in Fort Pierce, Florida. Frank and Lee Robinson will be celebrating their 64th wedding anniversary on April 12. NJ Meritorious Service Medal Awarded to CT2 Owen J O’Rourke Jr who turned 81-years-old March 7. On April 28, happy 43rd anniversary to big brother John & Donna Hawrylko.

April 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Ken Peterson (CHS ‘08) got engaged to Nicole Rosoline (PC ‘08) on March 13. Jason Dubnoff................... Jennifer O’Sullivan............ Bryan Rodriguez............... John Anderson.................. Jeff Camp........................ Greg Nysk....................... Alicia Rose Aste................ Lori Hart.......................... Alyssa Tucker.................... Bobby Ventimiglia............. Danny Gorun................... John Pogorelec, Jr............. Marc Scancarella.............. Katie Michelotti................. Brianna A. Pastore............ Klondike Tresca................ Buddy Czyzewski............. Stephanie Magaster.......... Jillian Mangone................ Annie Pogorelec............... Elise Termyna.................... Mike Grimaldi.................. Michael Press................... Peter Chudolij................... April Graham................... Stephen Camp, Jr.............. Paul Colman..................... Heather Halasz................. Christine Klein..................

4/19 4/19 4/19 4/20 4/20 4/21 4/22 4/22 4/22 4/22 4/23 4/23 4/23 4/25 4/25 4/25 4/26 4/26 4/26 4/26 4/26 4/27 4/27 4/28 4/28 4/29 4/29 4/29 4/29 Cliftonmagazine.com • April 2022

Over 100 people, and Imams from various mosques, were at the 6th Clifton Ramadan Fanous Lighting on March 28 on the great lawn of City Hall. The Fanous is a folk and traditional lantern used to decorate streets and homes in the month of Ramadan, which begins April 2. With their origins in Egypt, Fanous have since spread across the Muslim world and are a common symbol associated with the holy month. The group also recognized “Muslims in Service,” people who have shown leadership in various fields. Recipients are: Community Service: Clifton PAACC Director Rania Mustafa. Education: CHS Principal Ahmad Hamdeh. Law: Abdulnasser “Abdul” Hamdan. Civil Rights: CAIR-NJ Selaedin Maksut. Student Leadership: Ahmad Ramadan Lafi. Public Safety: Clifton Police Sergeant Bachar Balkar. Ramadan concludes on May 2.

Under Contract

15 La Salle Avenue

Under Contract

24 Van Vliet Court

Under Contract

192 E. 1st Street

Sold

53 New Brier Lane

Sold

118 E. 4th Street

Sold

Thinking about buying or selling? Call me today!

432 Grove Street

Sold

74 Lockwood Place

2022 is off to a strong start in Clifton!

Sold

78 Lockwood Place

April 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Mahmoud Ijbara Realtor® mahmoud.ijbara@compass.com M: 646.764.9599 • O: 973.310.7360

Tomahawk Promotions 1288 Main Avenue Clifton, NJ 07011

PRSRT STD U.S. Postage PAID Permit No. 280 Lanc. Pa 17604

TOP IN THE INDUSTRY THE OFFICE WITH THE MOST CONSISTENT WINNERS!! EVEN DEALING WITH THE PANDEMIC CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR

2021 NJ REALTORS® CIRCLE OF EXCELLENCE AWARD RECIPIENTS

Call Us and Start Packing!

Nicholas Tselepis

BROKER/OWNER

Cell: 973-725-3778

Fred Spoelstra

BROKER ASSOCIATE

Cell: 973-632-9973

NJ REALTORS® DISTINGUISHED SALES CLUB MEMBER, 10 + YEARS AS AWARD RECIPIENTS

Platinum

Gold

Roselys Ramirez

REALTOR® ASSOCIATE

Cell: 917-902-6754

Gold

Alexandra Constandinou BROKER SALESPERSON

Cell: 973-634-8853

Gold

Nancy Rodriguez

REALTOR® ASSOCIATE

Cell: 973-418-9234

Sophia Constandinou REALTOR® ASSOCIATE

Cell: 973-725-4519

Silver

Bronze

Linton Gaines

BROKER ASSOCIATE

Cell: 973-563-2367

Alberto Mesones Jr.

REALTOR® ASSOCIATE

Cell: 862-239-2904

Silver

Bronze

Francisco Sanchez

REALTOR® ASSOCIATE

Cell: 201-978-4913

David Kelley

REALTOR® ASSOCIATE

Cell: 973-868-4261

Silver

Bronze