Clifton Merchant Magazine - July 2022 by Clifton Merchant Magazine

Where Are These Mustangs Today? Tomahawk Promotions 1288 main avenue Clifton, NJ 07011

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For 27 years we’ve been Telling Clifton’s Story.

And in this month’s magazine we begin our monthly journey in 1962. That’s where we answer the question from our cover: Where Are These Mustangs Today? In increments of 10 years, from 1962 to 2012, we connect with Mustangs who recall of their everyday and the outstanding days at CHS, of meeting and often marrying first loves, and how high school years created life long bonds.

Patrick Cousins, CHS ‘82, shares his journey from CHS to being the general counsel for Prince. Yes that Prince. Then there is Charlie Stauhs. When he graduated in 2002, he expected to be a Clifton Police Officer. He came close. Today he is a proud Clifton Fire Lieutenant, and he and his wife Donna live in town with their two kids. Across the globe and here at home, we are Telling Clifton’s Story.

From the Editor Tom Hawrylko 16,000 Magazines

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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 • July 2022

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Stories by Ariana Puzzo The landscape was changing in 1962 … literally. Across the country, future household brand names popped up, like Taco Bell and Wal-Mart. Meanwhile, the tragic passing of pop culture icon Marilyn Monroe came mere months after a 20-year-old Bob Dylan premiered his song “Blowin’ in the Wind” in Greenwich Village. But 1962 Mustangs were ready for change as they left Piaget Avenue and faced the Vietnam War. “Although our class was large, we shared a camaraderie not too often seen today,” said Pamela Graglia-Kase.

Mustang 61 brings the school spirit onto the field at Clifton Stadium. Go, Mustangs, go! ‘Best Looking’ class members are Barbara Rosolen, William Marschalk, Judy Correll, and Sharon Haley. Above, Mr. Lombardo explains dado sizes to students in woodshop. At right, the Footlights Club: J. McElwain, B. Naples, V. Chapman, J. Paccioretti. Second row, K. Lions, S. Diamond, L. Freytag, M. Klein. Third row, T. Mascaluso, G. Blau, M. Margolis, C. Dinolfo, Mr. Donald Haurie, Adviser.

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Cliftonmagazine.com • July 2022

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From Fishing in Dundee to Disassembling Missiles When Stanley Budz considers what made the CHS Class of 1962 unique, he thinks broadly of that era. “They were the crazy years,” said Budz, 77. “That’s what I think of – going from adolescence to teenage years.” He added that he has more good memories than bad ones from those years. Some of the memories include going down by the Dundee Canal and Passaic River with his friends. “The highway was not there at the time, so we used to sneak onto the island between the canal and river and kind of do crazy things,” said Budz. “It was our wilderness area in Clifton. We would fish there.” Budz was born in St. Mary’s Hospital and grew up on the corner of Ackerman Avenue and Arthur Street. He attended St. Cyril’s until joining the former School 7 for ninth grade. When Budz graduated from CHS, he was part of the last class to do so from the old high school on Piaget Avenue, where Christopher Columbus now stands. After graduation, Budz was still 17 and worked for several months. By the end of the year, he and his CHS friend Bill Cheney both decided to enlist in the Navy. Budz joined the US Navy in November of 1962 and became a Nuclear Weapons Technician. He was a third class petty officer, serving for four years with the Seventh Fleet on the USS Vesuvius (AE-15) and USS Piedmont (AD-17). “I was not a very good swimmer when I joined the Navy,” said Budz. “By having to swim, it gave me a lot of confidence.” “I was no longer afraid of going in the water,” he added with a laugh. Budz said it also gave him a different sort of confidence that he “wasn’t as dumb as I thought I was.” He earned high scores on his required tests and ended up as an 18-year-old

July 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

working on nuclear weapons. “That made me feel pretty good,” he said. During his CHS years, Budz described his past self as “not a very good high school student.” He credits his service as helping him become more disciplined. As a third class petty officer, he was in more of a leadership role. After getting discharged in 1966, he got an Associate in Science degree in Data Processing from San Diego City College. He later earned his Bachelor of Science in Applied Science at Pepperdine University. Now retired, he worked for General Dynamics Corp as a Numerical Control Programmer and a Business Computer Programmer. Budz also worked as a Senior Systems Analyst/Programmer for the San Diego Data Processing Corp. He has two children, Devon and Buffy, and remains in San Diego. When he thought back to his influential CHS teachers, he took a moment to and mentioned Mr. Murphy, who taught mechanical drawing.

“He was my homeroom teacher for one year,” said Budz. “I put that skill together with my milling machine experience and eventually got a job working on programming these milling machines.” From Clifton Student to Clifton Teacher Back in the day, Pamela GragliaKase learned that a lot of problems could be solved alongside good friends. The main method of choice? Eating ice cream together. The setting? Poppy’s on Van Houten Avenue. “One of my fondest [high school] memories was being a varsity cheerleader,” said Graglia-Kase (CHS 1962). “We would go to school bonfires on Friday nights before the football games and then head to [Poppy’s] for ice cream and inspiring conversations to solve our teen problems.” “After cheering at Saturday’s game, we’d head back to Poppy’s for more ice cream and conversations,” she continued. Graglia-Kase, 78, attended the former School 7 from elementary through junior high. At CHS, she was part of the chorus and was a Senior Student Council representative. A teacher that Graglia-Kase remembers was advisor Mrs. Cameron and “how witty she was.”

Graglia-Kase later attended Kean University and majored in early childhood education. She got her master’s degree from Montclair University as a Learning Disabilities Teacher Consultant. When she returned to work after having children, she worked part time at Christopher Columbus Junior High as a BSI Teacher. Before retiring in 2010 after 32 years of teaching, she taught first grade at School 15, School 14, and concluded her career at School 5. “My job was fun and I enjoyed going to work every day,” said Graglia-Kase. “The children’s smiling faces and laughter [were] so contagious that I was always anxious to start the day.” “Children really do keep you young and on your toes.” Graglia-Kase has lived in Little Falls since 1980 with her husband, Jim. The couple have been married for 55 years and have two children, Douglas and Michelle, and grandchildren, Meghan and Ryan. Graglia-Kase said that her biggest hobby is spending time with family. She and Jim visit national parks on the east and west coasts as well. She is also still in touch with former CHS classmates Carole Autorino Macaluso and Susan Jubak.

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A Slow Burn Romance When it comes to making lifelong bonds, Stewart Nadel doesn’t waste any time. “I met my best friend the same week that I met my wife,” said Nadel (CHS 1962). That best friend would be Jeff ManStewart Nadel, Sharyn Sheinis, Jeffrey Mandel. del. Nadel said the two of them still speak regularly despite Mandel now Nadel’s relationship with his eventual wife, Sharyn living in Virginia. Back in school, (Sheinis), was a little bit more of a slow burn. The two of Mandel would sit in front of him in a number of classes them met in the sixth grade at School 3 in January of 1956 since they were seated alphabetically. when Nadel’s family relocated from Passaic. They would become one of several classmate marriages from their graduating class, among which included the Palfreymans, Shaughnessys, and Obermillers. After CHS, Nadel went into retail at Great Eastern in West Paterson. His father had worked as an assistant store manager there since the store opened. But Nadel’s plans would change in late 1963. “After the JFK assassination, I was motivated by his January 1961 inaugural address to ‘ask not what your country can do for you …’ and proceeded to enlist in the U.S. Air Force in April 1964,” said Nadel. After basic training, Nadel received technical schooling and in late 1964 was assigned to a 3-year posting 60 miles north of London as a weather observer. After separation from active duty, he attended Fairleigh Dickinson’s Rutherford campus on the GI Bill. He obtained a BA in psychology and has held several positions in the Public Health and Social Services fields. Sharyn attended Boston University and graduated in 1966 as a Speech Therapist before Clifton Schools hired her. She retired after 43 years and during that time also earned her master’s as

July 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

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Stewart and Sharyn Nadel today. At right, Stuart Palfreyman and JoAnne Conserva.

a Learning Disabilities Teacher-Consultant (LDTC). The couple ultimately reconnected when Nadel returned home for his brother Ronald’s CHS 1966 graduation. “Upon returning to England, I wrote to her and proposed,” he said. “She responded in the affirmative with the provision that I propose in person at a later date.” They wed on June 1, 1969 at the Clifton Jewish Center, where both of their families were active. They then moved into the Westmount Apartments in West Paterson. The couple are parents to one daughter, Stefani, and have two granddaughters. In 1976, they purchased their home in Pompton Lakes and still live there 46 years later. “There is no discussion of moving since our daughter and her family live less than two miles from us in Wayne,” said Nadel.

Stuart, who grew up in the Lakeview section, attended School 11 and the former School 7. At CHS, he was a member of the track team. JoAnne, on the other

A Home with a View From going on their first date in December 1961 to enjoying their garden together, Stuart B. Palfreyman and JoAnne (Conserva) Palfreyman have a lifetime of memories. The CHS 1962 grads will mark their 56th wedding anniversary this September. It’s in part thanks to their psychology teacher, Mr. Kellner, deciding to change some seats in class. In those days, JoAnne regarded Stuart as a “tall, handsome ‘jock’” who sat behind her. Cliftonmagazine.com • July 2022

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hand, lived on the corner of Harding Avenue and 7th Street and attended Schools 3 and 10. JoAnne was a member of the All-State chorus in her senior year. Stuart attended East Tennessee State College, working for Clifton as a “dog catcher” in the summers. JoAnne studied at St. Mary’s Hospital School of Nursing, where she would work whenever they lived locally during those early years. By 1967, the Vietnam War had changed their lives when Stuart became a US Army Captain. They were sent to an Army Hospital in Wurzburg, Germany. Eventually they made their way back to Clifton, where they raised their children, Scott (CHS 1988) and Leighann

Stuart and JoAnne Palfreyman

Kwiecinski (CHS 1992). Stuart, 78, was Clifton’s first health officer and JoAnne worked as an RN at St. Mary’s, and later worked in a couple of dermatologist offices until she retired at age 72. “I like helping people, and I have always enjoyed meeting new people,” said JoAnne, 78. “It’s a wonderful profession because you can continue to learn in it, and you can elevate yourself and move up in it.” When considering how several of her classmates ended up married to one another, JoAnne offered her perspective on how things were in her high school days. “A lot of us worked and stayed close to home because we had to work,” said JoAnne. “I worked after school for my uncle who was a physician in Clifton, Dr. Peter Conserva, because I was on a split session.” “It was a lot easier for us to build relationships within our own community,” she continued. “The family unit was much stronger then, so you stayed close to your family.” Over the years, the city also became a sort of family. Settling down in Clifton made sense due to its proximity to the things that JoAnne said she knew and loved. As we spoke, she was sitting on her front porch and admiring the NYC view. “We found the perfect home,” said JoAnne. “That was one of the things that kept us here.”

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Marching Mustang Gerry Kempen takes in pre-game activities.

Do you remember March of 1972? Perhaps you juiced up your VW Beetle to go with friends to see The Godfather in theaters. After all, we know that friendship “is almost the equal of family.” Fifty years later, the Class of 1972 still believes that. “Without the technology that exists today, I think we communicated and interacted in a more real way,” said Michelle Urbancic.

The CHS Drama Club, from left, Terri Friedman, Andrea Bertalan, Don Kirsteur, Jeannie Jackson, Linda Volman, Lisa Fortunato, Cindy Hanzo, Karen Pettigrew, Annlynn Kroll, Ann Bemis, Advisor Mrs. Phyllis Woods.

July 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Cliftonmagazine.com • July 2022

Small Town Feel Like many Mustangs throughout the decades, Doug Tucker remembers the teacher who made a lasting impression. For the CHS ’72 grad, his stand-out teacher was the late Walter Voigtlander. Voigtlander, who taught history at CHS for 34 years, passed away on Sept. 23, 2021 was also recognized with the Governor’s Teacher of the Year Award and was featured in “Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers.” “He was one of the toughest [teachers] that I ever had. He taught Contemporary Civilizations,” said Tucker, 68. “His classes were always full … and he challenged us quite a bit. He’d ask us open-ended questions.” Tucker attended School 9 and Christopher Columbus Junior High during his youth. At CHS, he played tuba all three years for the Marching Band. He traveled with others in 1970 to Kerkrade, Netherlands, where the band won at the World Music Festival. “It was an incredible experience,” said Tucker. “It was a small town and there were not many motels. People in the town actually put us up, so we stayed with them.” After graduating from high school, Tucker went right to work at Sears in Willowbrook for 19 years. He also spent 25 years in the automobile business before retiring in January of 2018. He and his wife, Deborah (Wesley) Tucker (CHS 1972), wed on June 19, 1976 and had three children.

July 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Douglas and Deborah Tucker.

Today, the couple live five blocks from where Tucker grew up in Allwood. When he’s not spending time on the car show circuit or with his Porsche 911, Tucker’s kept busy by his 10 grandchildren. They are all attending varying levels of Clifton schools and he loves seeing them also become a part of the community. “The town has changed like every town, but there are still more positives than negatives,” said Tucker. “It’s still a very community-oriented town … and all the neighbors are still friends with each other.”

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Clifton’s Honey Man Fifty years after his graduation, Brian Eromenok is still buzzing with activity. Only today, like for the past nearly 15 years, the sound of buzzing is coming from Lincoln Avenue. In 2008, Eromenok (CHS 1972) got into beekeeping as a hobby following his retirement from the Clifton Police Department. Fast forward to the present day, Eromenok’s business, Stix & Stones Farm, has transformed him into “Clifton’s honey man”, with a reach extending beyond Clifton to Texas, Virginia, and Vermont. But before his second act, Eromenok grew up in our city and served his community in another way. He attended School 12 and Christopher Columbus Junior High before doing college prep at CHS. Eromenok studied public safety at William Paterson and in later years would earn his apiary certificate at Rutgers. From May 1978 to December 2008, he served as a patrolman for the Clifton Police. To this day, he remains humble about the work. “I never thought my job was that exciting. Every day was everyday work like anything else,” said Eromenok, 67. “It was about keeping the peace and law.” “Clifton was a good department [and good commu-

July 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

nity] to work for,” he continued. “We were one of the more respected police departments. I served and was happy to be there for those years, and I’m still here.” Eromenok and his wife, Cindy, remain in Clifton where they raised their children, Stephanie (CHS 2000), Brian (CHS 2002), and Samantha (CHS 2005). Eromenok said that he plans to attend the 50th Reunion for the Class of 1972. What he said makes his class special is that he has friends as far back as Kindergarten who still come together on Fridays at The Clif Tavern. Growing up in Botany means Eromenok also has memories of The Hot Grill and of spending time in his “second home” Nash Park. “Clifton in the 60’s was one of the best places [to grow] up,” said Eromenok. “It was a growing city, had good schools, and kids came from good families.” “That’s what made the city a good city.” Building A Healthier Community The advice Jane (Gyorgydeak) Scarfo would give to her younger self and other newly graduated seniors is to get an education. And if college isn’t the path for you, don’t fret.

George, Lauren, and Jane (Gyorgydeak) Scarfo.

“The main thing is to have a vocational goal before you graduate from high school,” said Scarfo (CHS 1972). “Even if you’re taking a couple classes at community college, you can always put them toward your degree.”

“Jobs are rough now,” she added. “You have to plan ahead and hopefully have the support of your parents.” Scarfo is a lifelong resident who attended School 14 and Woodrow Wilson. Her favorite teachers at CHS were Mr. Kulyk and Mr. Severin Palydowycz, who both taught Russian. She later went to Bloomfield College and became a nurse for the Clifton Health Department in 1980. Scarfo retired in her 35th year in 2014 and returned to work in March of 2020 to help with conducting COVID-19 case interviews and then in January of 2021 to assist with vaccine distribution. “I love trying to prevent the spread of communicable diseases,” said Scarfo, 68. “I feel like I’m making a difference, if that’s possible.” Scarfo is married to husband George, and the couple have a daughter, Lauren (CHS 2012). She also remains friendly with her close high school friends Charlotte (Giachetti) Gorun and Theresa (Egan) Kish.

The City of Clifton’s Outreach Department offers transportation to

CLIFTON SENIOR CITIZENS Non-Medicaid (AGE 60 and OVER) AND DISABLED ADULTS. Transportation services are available Monday through Friday (excluding Holidays) Pick up & return times: 8:30am-3:45pm extending within a 5 mile radius of Passaic County.

• Medical Visits:

Dialysis, Therapy, Chemo

• Food Shopping Weekly • DIAL Program for People with Disabilities

• Workshops for the Disabled • Transportation to Clifton Senior Citizen Center for Nutritional Program located on the Clifton City Hall Property, 900 Clifton Ave., Barn C-5, Clifton, NJ 07013

If you are interested in the Services of the Clifton Outreach Transportation Program, please call our Outreach Office at 973-470-2235. If you have any concerns or cannot schedule an appointment, please call Lauren at 973-470-5758.

A Nutrition Program is also offered at the Clifton Senior Citizen Center, Monday through Friday (excluding Holidays) Lunch is served at the Senior Center at 11:30am Please call Angelina at 973-265-1540 a day in advance before 11:00 am to reserve your spot. Suggested Donation: $1.25 per person

Cliftonmagazine.com • July 2022

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In 2014, CHS 1972 best friends from left, Linda (Horak) Scarpa, Elaine (Fischer) Waller, Joan (Anson) Protopapa, Debra (Mac Vicker) DeLuca, Carol (Liskowicz) Genchi, Kathy (Basile) Genchi. Below Rich and Elaine Waller in 1972.

Golden Mustang Herd Lifelong friendships are the cornerstone of the Class of 1972, and it’s been that way for over five decades. One Mustang friend group in particular includes six best friends. They are Linda (Horak) Scarpa, Elaine (Fischer) Waller, Joan (Anson) Protopapa, Debra (Mac Vicker) DeLuca, Carol (Liskowicz) Genchi, and Kathy (Basile) Genchi. “We do what we can to always be together,” said Carol. “The five of us, except for Elaine, were friends since junior high. Elaine went to Christopher Columbus and after we met her when we got to high school, we picked her up along the way.” Over the years, the women have remained close despite their separate journeys. In Carol’s case, she married Nick Genchi (CHS 1971) and had two sons, Nicholas (CHS 2000) and Michael (CHS 2003). Carol and Nick have three grandchildren, and she retired as Executive Secretary to the Superintendent of Clifton Public Schools. Possessing an artistic flair, Kathy spent a number of years in the fashion and makeup industry. She is currently a freelance makeup artist and married to Jack Genchi

July 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

(CHS 1971). They have two daughters, Bianca and Jaclyn, and two grandchildren. Among those who stayed close to Clifton is Debra. She married Raymond DeLuca (CHS 1970) and has a son, Raymond. Debra is now retired from the corporate world and works today as a realtor with Weichert. Like Carol, Linda also stayed connected to the Clifton Public Schools but in a different capacity. Linda, who married Charles Scarpa, is a retired Clifton kindergarten teacher. She has two sons, Ryan (CHS 2002) and Dustin (CHS 2004). She and Charles spend their winters in Florida and their summers down the Jersey shore. Joan’s own journey led her to earning a master’s degree in Spiritual Direction from Drew University. Over the past five decades, Joan married Bekim Protopapa and had two sons, James and Jack. Rounding out their group is Elaine, who married Rich Waller (CHS 1972). They have two daughters, Kristin and Ally, and two grandsons. Elaine is the Managing Broker of Weichert Realty in the Bernardsville and Basking Ridge offices.

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Elaine described her husShe described history teachband, Rich, as a “standout ather Mr. Klein as a “great storylete at Clifton” who was the teller.” co-captain of the baseball and Urbancic went to Upsala football teams. He played in the College, followed by graduate minor leagues for the Boston school in New York. There she Red Sox for five years and later met her future husband Frank became vice president of May Urbancic, who was finishing Tag and Label Corporation. up grad school at City College Rich retired over 10 years ago. in NYC. Their paths initially “We moved from Clifton to crossed briefly, but they would Basking Ridge 33 years ago, end up connecting about four built our own home and have years later. remained here ever since,” said “Frank was unique in his Elaine. “However, we both brilliance and interested in so have fond memories of Clifton many different things,” said In 1999, Frank and Michelle Urbancic meeting Presiand know it was a great town to Urbancic. “He was a down dent Bill Clinton in Istanbul, Turkey. Inset that is Migrow up in.” home boy from Indiana, yet chelle Martone in her 1972 yearbook. Carol echoed a similar sentiwith an amazing intellect ment and reflected that the Class and political awareness and of ’72 was regarded as the “party class.” the ability to soak up diverse cultures and languages like “We had a lot of fun,” said Carol. “We traveled in a a sponge. I think something that we had in common was group of 30. When we had parties on weekends, the parents that we appreciated our childhoods and youth in suburban, knew 30 kids were coming.” middle class America with large, extended families,” she Despite losing some members, Carol said that the friends continued, “but we could not wait to get out and see the still reunite at the Grande Saloon. “We can call on a whim rest of the world.” and down we go. There could wind up being 20 people So that’s exactly what they did. Frank joined the Foreign there,” said Carol. “It’s a crazy group.” Service in 1981 and was first sent to Canada, which made connecting easier. Their first tour together was in AmAround the World and Back Again man, Jordan, where Urbancic taught English as a Second Michelle (Martone) Urbancic found that she was fortuLanguage and assisted at a preschool. One of the young nate enough to eat dessert first. Her advice to her younger children at the school ended up being Kate Middleton, the self, first and foremost, would be to use her time wisely and future Duchess of Cambridge. appreciate what she has in the moment. Other tours included Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Sierra Leone, “I never expected to have a life with so much adventure, and Abu Dhabi. During the first Gulf War, she said Frank travel, and love of a tremendous magnitude,” said Urbancic had the Middle East portfolio at the United States Mission (CHS 1972), “but I feel very fortunate for all of it.” to the United Nations. By that time, Urbancic got her first But before she saw the world, Urbancic grew up as a Jergovernment job as the assistant to the Chief of Protocol. sey girl. Her family moved to Clifton from Fair Lawn in the Urbancic’s favorite tour was three years in Istanbul, Turmiddle of 4th grade. She described the old-fashioned slantkey. Frank was US Consul General, and they arrived there ed top desks and inkwells at School 5 as a culture shock. in August of 1999, three days before a catastrophic earthShe and her younger siblings Paul and Donna all attended quake. In November, then President Bill Clinton visited the Woodrow Wilson. country. There were several CHS teachers who left lasting imDuring their travels, the couple also became a family. pressions. She fondly recalled French class with Mr. HolWhile in Abu Dhabi, their son Frankie, 24, was born in land and Mr. Mullin, as well as having Mrs. Minor and then Lebanon. A year and a half after adopting him, they adMr. Groh for English. opted their daughter Arlette, 22.

July 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

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Pasquale and Giovanna Castaldo today. That’s him and Nancy Shook in 1972. And in 2019 when Nancy Shook Garretson was the Marshal for the Passaic, Clifton and Vicinity Contingent for the NYC Pulaski Day Parade. From right, her husband Roy Garretson, Nancy, granddaughter Sofia Sardo, Bishop Artur Mizinski with Marshal Emeritus, Councilman Peter Eagler.

“Within one overseas assignment, we had become a family,” said Urbancic. Frank, who was also Ambassador to Cyprus for three years, passed away at age 64 in 2016 while working in Morocco. “The US Embassy there in Rabat was so supportive and helpful to us that we made friends we are still in touch with,” said Urbancic. “They even planted a tree on the Embassy grounds in Frank’s memory.” Urbancic presently lives in Vienna, Virginia and works in the Office of Visa Services at the US Department of State. “I like diplomacy and enjoy the fact that I am able to serve my country, even in a small way,” she said. Then about how life turned out for her: “All in all, not bad for a little Jersey girl.” Enjoying Life School sports have a unifying quality that Pasquale Castaldo experienced firsthand on Colfax Avenue. The CHS 1972 grad said that Mr. Severin Palydowycz, his soccer coach, was one of his favorite teachers for those three years of high school. “He pushed us to do things,” said Castaldo, 68. “I became a captain for the team in my senior year, and we did a lot of good things.”

July 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Part of that team building included getting physically fit and also getting pizza together. Today, Castaldo, who was primarily a midfielder, said some of the guys still meet up at Mario’s. Castaldo went to Montclair State after he graduated from high school. In college, he studied to become a teacher while working at a local supermarket. Eventually, he needed to decide if he was going to finish with his education degree or simply finish school and take a full-time job at the supermarket. Since it paid more at the time than teaching, he decided to pursue working as a manager at the old Foodtown in Garfield. After it closed, he relocated and became a department manager of the Paulison Ave. ShopRite, part of the Cuellar Family Markets. Today, he works there as a regular clerk. Castaldo still lives in the Middle Village section of Clifton with his wife, Giovanna. The couple have two children, Rosmunda Kenning and Giovanni Castaldo, and two grandchildren. “Clifton has been my hometown ever since I moved with my parents from Italy to the United States in 1969,” said Castaldo. “Other family members also lived in Clifton and we grew up together traditionally as an Italian family does.”

When he’s not at ShopRite, Castaldo also serves as a special officer for the Clifton Police Department. He’s been in the role for 27 years and helps provide security for school and Recreation Department events. “I’m enjoying life,” he said, “and when I retire, I will enjoy it even more.” “My plan, if it works out, is to enjoy the shore and go back and forth to my home country to visit a few relatives that are [still there].” Appreciating Each Day Working on a daily basis with the public is what Nancy (Shook) Garretson finds most rewarding about her work. Since 2012, Garretson and her husband, Roy, have owned her family business, Shook Funeral Home. Garretson’s parents, Joseph and Eleanor Shook, originally founded the funeral home. They purchased the Durkos Family Homestead in February of 1955 in the Athenia section. They opened the original funeral home in June of 1955. The legacy of comfort and service remains important to Garretson and her family today. “Everyone has different, very special needs,” said Garretson (CHS 1972). “Many of the families we’ve known over the years will come back to us. It’s rewarding for me if I can help them get through a difficult time,” she added.

Garretson attended St. John Kanty and one year of high school at Paul VI before switching to CHS for 10th grade. At CHS, one of her favorite teachers was Mr. Neusettelli, who taught her chemistry. “I loved [him],” said Garretson, 67. “He was a great teacher, always.” After CHS, Garretson went for one year to the University of Miami for nursing. She then decided to return home to work in the family business and remained here since. She and Roy lived above the funeral home for 33 years and now live in a private Clifton home that is seven minutes away and near both her kids and their families. The couple are parents to Thomas (CHS 2004), who also works at the funeral home, and Amanda. They have five grandchildren. Garretson shared that she and Roy met on a blind date at the old Lee’s Hawaiian Islander. They married on Oct. 23, 1982 at St. John Kanty Church as well. After her marriage, the kids and grandkids, Garretson said a memorable day was when she marched along Fifth Ave. in NYC as the Marshal in 2019 for the Passaic, Clifton and Vicinity Contingent for the NYC Pulaski Day Parade. The Pulaski Day Parade has been held in NYC since 1936 to commemorate Kazimierz Pulaski, who was a Polish hero in the American Revolutionary War. “The City of Clifton is pretty terrific, and the people are wonderful and nice to deal with,” said Garretson. “It’s just the day-to-day,” she continued. “I would never leave it.”

Cliftonmagazine.com • July 2022

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Curt Pezzano and his brother Clay, wrestler John Monaco, field hockey’s Amy Jandura, a cheerleader and a Marching Mustang.

The year 1982 was thrilling for a few reasons. The release of Michael Jackson’s album Thriller would soon become the biggest-selling album of all time. Elsewhere, the St. Louis Cardinals defeated the Milwaukee Brewers to clinch their ninth World Series Title. Meanwhile, CHS grads hung out at The Hot Grill and San Remo Pizza. They went to work, continued their education, or served their country. But many of them still found ways to stay in touch. “Remember your friends and have conversations with people,” said Mia Brancato Celluro. “You will inevitably drift apart, but you will always have one thing in common. You graduated from CHS together.”

July 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Cliftonmagazine.com • July 2022

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Seeking Justice for All What stands out most to Patrick Cousins about the CHS Class of 1982 is their success stories and enduring friendliness. He described his former classmates as a “kind bunch” who had no animosity toward one another. “At that time, there were not a lot of people who looked like me at school, but I wasn’t left to feel like I was different or not accepted, and that went a long way,” said Cousins, 57. “I think there were around 700 students and maybe five or six African Americans who graduated that year.” Cousins’ family emigrated from Jamaica when he was 4-years-old. He attended Kindergarten in Passaic and then went to School 15 for first grade and later to Christopher Columbus. As a senior, Cousins was captain of the track team. He was also a member of the National Honors Society while at CHS. When considering his favorite class, he pointed to chemistry. “I found the [Periodic Table] captivating. But I can’t remember it now,” laughed Cousins. Cousins set and still holds today the track and field records at the College of William & Mary as the captain of the track team. He later graduated from the University of Florida College of Law and was the two-time recipient of the President’s Outstanding Student Award. Throughout his legal career, he has represented manufacturers like GM, Toyota, and General Electric. He has also represented the United States in a case that involved reviving Florida’s Everglades. One particular standout client is another well-known figure. Years ago, Cousins had helped a gentleman and had given him some free legal advice. After thanking him, the man said that he would pay it forward one day. Fast forward a few months, Cousins got a phone call from a number listed as 777. He reluctantly answered the phone and after listening for a while, he asked for the man’s name so that his office would know who to expect that Monday.

July 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

“

“I have two sons and a daughter. They needed a dad more than Prince needed a lawyer.” “He said his last name was ‘Nelson’,” said Cousins. “I asked his first name. ‘Prince’, he told me. I asked, ‘Is your middle name ‘Rogers’? ‘Yes’, he said.” After achieving success on a case for Prince and doing some more work for him, Cousins went on to serve as the late musician’s general counsel. Cousins described his legal work and being around similar big names as an “interesting world and opportunity.” But he also had his own set of priorities. “I left the gig because it was a lot of travel. Some days I would fly to Dubai and then right back to LA,” said Cousins. “I have two sons and a daughter,” he continued. “They needed a dad more than Prince needed a lawyer.” Cousins lives with wife, Kaydene, in West Palm Beach. The couple will celebrate 30 years of marriage on July 11. Together, they are parents to Julian, Justis, and Jayla. Cousins said that his favorite part of his work is helping individuals who are disadvantaged. “It’s crazy to say that a Rock ‘N Roll Hall of Famer can be viewed as disadvantaged, but he was not getting a fair deal in the situations he was involved in,” said Cousins. “Justice is sometimes for the wealthy and privileged, but being able to help people in general who are being wronged … is rewarding.”

Cliftonmagazine.com • July 2022

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Members of the Class of 1982, from left, Colleen Parent Re, David Dews, Mia Brancato Celluro, Bruce Stone, Lura Nillson Savona. They are also pictured below in the 1982 CHS yearbook.

Mustangs Supporting Mustangs Mia Brancato Celluro and many of her former classmates are proud members of the CHS Class of 1982. Last month, they showcased that enduring Mustang spirit through the CHS Class of 82 Memorial Fund scholarship. On June 1, a group awarded a scholarship to CHS 2022 senior Angelina Pacosa. Even 40 years later, Celluro said many people came together to make the scholarship effort possible. “This was the culmination of classmates working together – each lending knowledge, time, and money – to create a non-profit organization that we hope will be awarding scholarships for years to come,” said Celluro. “We were honored to be part of the process,” continued Celluro, “and we remember our classmates who have passed with great fondness; some of whom were instrumental in the organization of our non-profit. It is difficult to lose friends.” This year’s scholarship award was $500 and was a general scholarship for CHS students. One prerequisite was the student must be planning to attend college or an accredited trade school. The recipient had to meet another piece of criteria. “We wanted our candidate to embody the school spirit and fellowship that the Class of ’82 had, and continues to have,” said Celluro. The Class of ’82 primarily funded this year’s scholar-

July 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

ship and hopes to offer more and higher amount awards through the non-profit in the future. Celluro noted that while they didn’t have social media during high school like kids today, its positive feature was how classmate Dave Dews spread his initial idea for the fund. “It is truly amazing to us that 40 years later, we were able to reach out to classmates for help and have people from all over the country step up to help and work together,” said Celluro. “It really is a testament to the Class of ’82,” she added, “and we hope to inspire future classes to stick together – even 40 years later.” Contribute via Venmo at chs_classof82_memorial_fund or email chs1982memorialfund@ gmail.com for info. Global Care Medicine fascinated Antonio Ferrara since he was a child. The CHS 1982 grad recalled how CHS had an afterschool program dedicated to bringing interested students to hospitals and doctors offices. Ferrara’s turning point was when the program let him visit an emergency room. He went on to earn his bachelor’s degree at Emory University Atlanta and graduated from the University of Colorado Medical School in 1990. “I remember … they took us to the emergency room that day, and I said it would be nice to do,” said

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Ferrara, 59. “When I entered medical school, I had that goal in mind.” “The strange thing was that I did not know there was no such specialty at the time,” he added. “By the time I graduated medical school, there were three programs in the country.” Ferrara, whose family emigrated from Italy, attended Catholic school growing up until he was enrolled at CHS in 10th grade. The former Botany resident was the co-captain of the soccer team in his senior year. He said that the popular local hang-outs in those days were The Hot Grill and San Remo Pizza. At age 23, Ferrara entered the US Army as a way to give back to his country and help pay for his medical school education. He did his Emergency Medicine residency at Fort Hood, Texas. He had multiple roles over the decade, including Emergency Medicine physician. He concluded his service as an Emergency Medicine director at Fitzsimons Army Medical Center in Denver. “It was very rewarding,” said Ferrara. “This country has given so much to me. It was an honor to serve the country and to take care of the soldiers.” Ferrara entered into the urgent care market about 15 years ago. He’s the owner and a physician at Atlanta Urgent Care. Since 2020, his medical care has extended to Urgent Care Italia S.r.l. and Urgent Care Mexico Corp. “I never left my ties to my home country Italy and, in 2018, I saw a need there and Europe for the same service,” said Ferrara. He noticed the same needs after traveling to and from Mexico City over the years. These factors led to him organizing an investment group, which started a company to open Urgent Care clinics in Europe and Mexico. Today, he considers home as both Atlanta and Milan. Ferrara is father to two adult children, Brianna and Marco, and a grandfather of three. Despite moving elsewhere, he noted Clifton’s uniqueness. “[We were a] very large class that was very diverse internationally,” said Ferrara. “There were so many countries and ethnicities represented.”

July 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

3 C’s: Cars, Charity, and Clifton John DeGraaf looks back fondly on his high school years in Clifton. During the last two years, he recalled how he and his friends got involved with classic cars. His own car of choice in his high school years was a 1969 Pontiac LeMans. “A group of us rebuilt and worked on cars,” said DeGraaf “We did a little drag racing.” DeGraaf grew up attending School 3 and Christopher Columbus. At CHS, he played freshman and JV football as a quarterback and was a catcher for the baseball team. In his last two years, he focused more into his college prep courses. In 1986 he earned an economics and accounting degree from Saint Peter’s, now Saint Peter’s University, in Jersey City. He spent about 10 years working as an operations manager for freight carriers. Then he decided he needed a change. DeGraaf symbolically switched gears and got involved in development work at a religious organization, The Passionist Missionaries. He had the opportunity over almost 12 years to travel to places like Haiti, Honduras, and Jamaica. In 2005, DeGraaf earned his master’s in Direct Marketing from Mercy College. Fast forward to February of 2013, DeGraaf joined the Boys & Girls Club of Clifton as a resource development director. “It was a great opportunity to work for Bob Foster,” said DeGraaf, 58. “He taught me a lot.” This year, DeGraaf has returned to religious fundraising and helps to raise funds for Capuchin Franciscan Friars in Union City. He and his wife, Maria (Noll) DeGraaf (CHS 1982), live on Washington Avenue and have two sons, John (2008) and Alec (2010). “I met [Maria] in gym class toward the end of our senior year,” said DeGraaf. “Then I asked her out on a date for the first time on June 19, 1982 at our graduation practice.” DeGraaf still considers Clifton a great city to live in and raise a family. He added that what sets his graduating class apart is that many people were friendly and he still has high school friends that he sees often. One friend includes former classmate and current Washington Ave. neighbor, Bob DeLiberto.

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“Another one of my best friends that I talk to all the time is George Mikula,” said DeGraaf. “I have known him since Kindergarten and he was the best man at my wedding.” ‘Muffin’ Compares to Clifton Bob DeLiberto’s favorite part of his 9 to 5 was going into business for himself. In 1986, at the age of 22, he bought an Arnold’s Bread Route. “What I enjoyed most was being able to build a business and relationships with people, many of whom I still consider friends,” he said. “Being able to have control of what your future is and what you are doing is key.” By 1991 the bread route became a “well-oiled machine” and DeLiberto tapped into a market void. After his working day for Arnold’s—which began at 4 am and lasted to 2 pm— DeLiberto started to distribute muffin batter and other items for delis and bagel stores. Trading as DeLiberto’s Specialty Foods and Country Muffins & More, he and his wife Alice (Picone) (CHS 1983) grew the business as Bob continued with Arnold’s and Alice managed the business and a growing family. By 1999, he decided to sell the Arnold’s route and went on his own, clocking in early mornings and late nights and weekends as he and Alice built DeLiberto Specialty Foods. Looking back on those long days, he said “Fourthirty comes around pretty early my friend,” meaning DeLiberto was early to bed and early to rise before another long day of stocking freezers, packing trucks, creating routes and making delivery orders.

July 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Bob and Alice DeLiberto with Maria and John DeGraaf. At left are the boys’ ‘82 yearbook pictures.

The business grew with three trucks and six days of routes operating out of a warehouse and freezer here in Clifton. It was great for many years, DeLiberto said, but he found it had become harder to find employees, especially during the coronavirus pandemic. On Sept. 13, 2021. DeLiberto merged his business with Inter-County Bakery Supply, Inc. and brought many of his customers with him. “I love it compared to running my own business—it’s a lot less headaches,” said DeLiberto, 58. Married for 35 years and living in Clifton, Alice and Bob have also managed a growing family— they have two grandsons, Robbie and Vinny— and their daughters are all Mustangs: Alyssa Mateo (CHS 2008), Alexandra Zeszotarski (CHS 2010) and Jenna Feratovic (CHS 2012).

Cliftonmagazine.com • July 2022

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Second Act Serving Clifton Forty years later, Frank Dara has a strong memory for the adult figures of his youth. One adult that stood out to him was CHS English and History teacher Bob Mullen. “He was very down-to-earth and very cool to kids,” said Dara (CHS 1982). Another adult who left a lasting impression was his best friend’s father, Detective Robert Genneken Sr. The detective worked as a school resource officer in Clifton. He was also influential in Dara’s chosen career path. “I admired what he did and that was my encouragement to become a policeman in Clifton,” said Dara, 58. Dara grew up attending School Frank Dara in 1982 and today with his wife, Darlene. 5 and Woodrow Wilson. He was later a Fighting Mustangs lineman and lacrosse defenseforce, and detective in the Tactical Narcotics Unit. man at CHS. “The amount of responsibility and the workload at At Kean College, now Kean University, he was captain times was very challenging,” he said. for the lacrosse team and earned his degree in criminal Dara lives today in Pequannock with his wife, Darlene. justice and political science. He went on to graduate from The couple have two children, Katie, 23, and Konnor, 20. the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia. Despite previously retiring, Dara has returned to ClifAfter 30 years with the Clifton Police Department, ton as a part-time Class II Special Police Officer. He was Dara retired in 2016 as a lieutenant. also joined by fellow Clifton police retiree Harry Van “What I enjoyed most was the people that I worked Winkle. with, the excitement, and helping people,” said Dara. “It “I’m working again and enjoying it,” said Dara. “It can was very rewarding and, at times, very exciting.” involve working the parks, special events, Board of EduOver the decades, Dara said he was on loan from the cation events, or football and basketball games.” FBI to Clifton. He served as a sergeant in Community Po“The person that I have to thank is [Clifton Police licing, detective on the FBI Fugitive, Violent Crime task Chief] Tom Rinaldi.”

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A Lifelong Learner What Denise (Kazimir) Clare appreciates most about her Clifton education was its focus on STEM decades before the acronym gained mainstream traction. “Even as a girl who liked the sciences and whose favorite classes were chemistry, physics, and calculus, my teachers pushed me and I appreciated it,” Today and in 1982 Desaid Clare (CHS 1982). nise (Kazimir) Clare. Clare, the class valedictorian, attended School 2 In 2019 with her dad and Woodrow Wilson Junior High. At CHS, two of Julius (CHS 1952). her favorite teachers were William Mandara, who taught 10th grade chemistry, and Marylou Meyer, who taught math to Clare for all three “I once asked Dad why he didn’t years of high school. have any activities listed under his “They were very encouraging,” photo in the yearbook,” said Denise said Clare, 58. “They recognized my (Kazimir) Clare (CHS 1982). “He exstrengths in math and science.” plained that he had an after-school job Her extracurriculars involved the that didn’t allow for extracurricular science league, the Knights of Pyactivities.” thagoras, and the French club. Later, He also lived in the Athenia section, Clare ended up studying chemiwhich back then was a long commute cal engineering at Cooper Union in from the high school. Kazimir later New York City. served in the US Navy and married his She has spent most of her career late wife of 51 years, Mary Jane. He working in benefits and pensions but was a graduate of Fairleigh Dickinson considers herself a lifelong learner. University and worked at John Wiley Clare, who now lives in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, has & Sons in New York until his retirement in 2000. two adult children, Anastasia and Teagan, and a grandson. Kazimir and wife Mary Jane had two daughters, DeShe has also returned to school to earn her degree from nise Clare and Allison Cole (CHS 1983). Even after movthe Franciscan School of Theology. ing to Manchester, NJ, he stayed connected to Clifton. She said the most special quality of her high school “It was in the decades following his graduation … that class is her peers’ ongoing closeness. Dad forged strong friendships with his CHS classmates, “We had a large class – around 720 students, if I reseveral of whom offered touching condolences on Facemember correctly,” she said. “The fact that a lot of us are book,” said Denise. still in touch after so many years is special.” Denise recalled that her father was involved with planning the class reunions and attended as many as possible. Lasting Memories “He was the emcee at a couple of them like a standup Julius “Jules” Kazimir Jr. was a kind man and hard comic,” said Denise. “He received lots of positive feedworker. Born in Passaic, he lived in Clifton for 41 years back and was brought back by popular demand.” and graduated with CHS’ June Class of 1952. He passed Denise’s favorite memory with her father was spendaway this past May 13, aged 87. ing time with him outdoors by the old Garret Mountain. Unlike some of his other classmates, his yearbook pho“I remember us … hiking up the mountain, which you to page was just that. But it doesn’t mean that it didn’t weren’t supposed to do, and taking photos of our neighhave a story of its own. borhood,” she said. Cliftonmagazine.com • July 2022

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Beetle Clubbers from left, Mark Kalman, Derik Moore, Scott Mulholland, Chris Sherman.

The face of late night changed in May of 1992 as Jay Leno replaced the newly retired Johnny Carson on NBC’s The Tonight Show. Meanwhile, CHS 1992 grads enjoyed their last carefree month of childhood, driving around the city with gas averaging $1.13. As they started planning for their futures, unemployment peaked at 7.8%, which was a level unseen since March 1984. In politics, Governor Bill Clinton of Arkansas defeated incumbent President George H. W. Bush to become the next President of the United States. In popular culture, Walt Disney Pictures’ Aladdin was released and became the highest-grossing film of the year.

Though by the end of the year, it was more likely that CHS grads were listening to hip hop producer and rapper Dr. Dre’s solo debut studio album, The Chronic. In a true sign of the times, 1992 also marked the year that, in terms of units sold, compact discs outsold audiocassettes for the first time in the United States. Despite all of the changes, lifelong friendships were formed on Colfax Avenue. Some students went on to work in the television industry while others became teachers and chose to work in their hometown community. “We always had each other’s backs over the years,” said Ron Thompson.

Mustang Softball Coach Rick LaDuke with captains Kim Ziolkowski, Donna Reschetnjak and Loretta Zahn. The CHS 1992 Boys and Girls State Reps, front from left, Sandra Apelian, Kim Binaso, Laura Farinas, Jen Pogorelec, John Zawada. Rear from left, Bill Louer, Bill Sicheri, John Blackowski, Anand Desai, Jon Montana.

July 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Cliftonmagazine.com • July 2022

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Lights, Cameras ... CAST Before Ron Thompson worked with the likes of Maury Povich and Jerry Springer, he got his foundation in television production from CHS’ CAST teacher Mr. Jim Kelly. Thompson (CHS 1992) described Kelly as his favorite teacher. “He introduced me to television,” said Thompson, 47. “He was a nice guy who took me under his wing.” Thompson grew up attending School 15 and Woodrow Wilson. Along with joining the CHS CAST program, he also ran Track and Field for all four years. He later earned his bachelor’s degree in Communications from William Paterson and works full time in the TV industry. He shoots anything from news to talk, entertainment, sports, reality, and culinary programs. He spent the last 12 years shooting with the Maury Povich Show until Povich’s retirement. He has also worked for the networks, including CBS, MSNBC, CNN, FOX News, and Bloomberg. Thompson separately has a production company where he produces projects like independent films and music videos to reality shows and New Jersey’s COVID-19 PSAs. As someone who’s deeply experienced with providing information, he offered some advice to others. “I would just say, check your sources,” he said. “To the media in general, don’t put anything out there unless you check and double check sources. For everyone else … know where your information is coming from.” Thompson lives in Wayne with his wife of 24 years, Omnika. The couple have two children, Timothy and Imani. He regards Clifton’s friendships as the most special part of his high school experience. “I’m pretty much friends still today with a nice, core group of people that I went to school with for all four years,” he said. “We’ve always had each other’s backs over the years.”

July 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Ron Thompson in CHS 1992 and with Maury Povich.

Cliftonmagazine.com • July 2022

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Adjusting to Clifton Roots Like many of her Class of 1992 peers, Loretta (Zahn) Pogorelec kept busy in high school. The former Mustang was a three-sport athlete for all four years at CHS. “I was a right fielder for softball, a forward for basketball, and maybe a hitter for volleyball,” said Pogorelec, 48. “The sports aspect of school kept me busy. We won counties for all three.” Pogorelec went through the Clifton School district, also attending School 11 and Christopher Columbus. For college, she played volleyball at Kean College, now Kean University, and she studied to become a special education teacher. After her graduation, she taught for a few Loretta Zahn in 1992 and today, the Pogorelec family from left, Zachary, Greg, Loretta, Michael, Natalie, and Emily. years before starting her family. Today, she is married to Michael Pogorelec and they have four children, Zachary, Emily, Gregory, and Natalie. Michael is a Paul VI 1990 grad and member of the last graduating class. The couple met when she attended a basketball game and she has “known him ever since.” They now work together at his Clifton Spine & Physical Therapy office, at 164 Brighton Rd., where he is a chiropractor and physical therapist and she handles his medical billing. During their free time, the Wayne residents go to the sports games that three of their children participate in. Pogorelec also still plays volleyball and does so in an adult Morristown league. As far as her family goes, her hopes for the future are simple. “I hope that everyone has success in whatever they do,” said Pogorelec. “[Zachary] is writing and producing songs Ammen Matari with wife Susie and children Leith and Leila. and Emily’s off to college at UMass Dartmouth.” “Hopefully the future is bright,” she continued. “With Matari, 48, attended School 15 and Woodrow Wilson. the business back in Clifton, it’s nice to see some familiar He then joined DECA, formerly known as the Distributive faces come into the office and to get back to our roots.” Education Clubs of America, when he got to CHS. After From Car Guy to Head Chief One of the earliest lessons Ammen Matari learned growing up in Clifton was the importance of working hard. His parents David and Amina, who emigrated from Palestine, taught him and his siblings that lesson. “I grew up with eight brothers and sisters and was the first generation [born] in America,” said Matari (CHS 1992). “We worked hard since we were very young and watched as our father worked 16-hour days.”

July 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

high school, he took a year off before pursuing auto technology at Lincoln Tech Institute. “I liked cars back then and worked on my own car — a 1992 Volkswagen Jetta,” said Matari. “I never took it to a mechanic. I just enjoyed it.” After graduating with his degree, he went on to work for Community Coach Bus. But after he spent some time working in a garage, he decided that he wanted to pursue a new career. He had friends working in law enforcement and after applying, he started working in the Pas-

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saic County Sheriff’s Department in 1997. By 2001, he moved to the Paterson Police Department and then to the Prospect Park Police Department, where he works today. Matari became the department’s Chief of Police in 2021. “What I enjoy the most about my work is helping others and working with the community,” said Matari. “I love the community that I work in now. There are great people from all different types of backgrounds.” Matari lives in Totowa with his wife of 20 years, Susie, and their children, Leila, 19, and Leith, 17.

Glenn Collucci in 1992 and today with Lilianna, Matthew and his wife, Kimberly.

A Lakeview Legacy Making time to visit his hometown is a must for Glenn Collucci and brings back fond memories of his formative years in the Lakeview section. The Class of 1992 Mustang still makes runs to The Hot Grill and said his kids love it. “Growing up back then, Clifton was just a great place to grow up,” said Collucci, 48. “There are people that I’ve known for close to 40 years.”

July 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

“I wouldn’t trade growing up in the Lakeview section for anything in the world.” Collucci now lives in Lincoln Park with his wife, Kimberly (CHS 1995), and children, Lilianna, 12, and Matthew, 10. From his time attending School 11, he recalled friends like Jason Mills, Vlad Rozanovich, Shawn Justin, Charlie Ciolino, Jeff Ploshnick, Sean McCloskey, and Lou Fraulo. “I stayed friends with them through school,” said Collucci. “Our class was very diverse and unique, but

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we all got along. And that’s something to be proud about.” After going to Christopher Columbus, Collucci arrived at CHS and played basketball and two years of varsity baseball. He was a basketball co-captain and on the 1991-92 baseball team, which became county and state champs. One stand-out teacher was his coach Paul Pignatello. “He’d post quotes on the board by the gymnasium,” said Collucci. “I still remember the one: ‘Practice doesn’t make perfect, perfect practice makes perfect.’” “I try to live by that,” added Collucci. It’s also a message that he has instilled in his own players as a youth coach in Lincoln Park. Collucci, who earned his degree in communications from Upsala College, works at Verizon in Basking Ridge. He is a product manager and works in budget management for mobile device marketing. When he’s not working or coaching football, basketball, and baseball, Collucci will travel with Kimberly and go on family outings with their children. “Coaching seems to take up a lot of time because it’s one season after the next, but we work around the schedules … and hang out with friends in town,” said Collucci. “That’s important.” Collucci also maintains a special connection to Clifton through family. His father, Vito Sr. (CHS 1960), served as a Clifton police officer for 27 years. His mother, Mary Ellen (CHS 1963), was part of the first graduating class at the Colfax Avenue high school. Collucci also grew up with brothers Vito Jr., Clifton firefighter Kenny (CHS 1989), and Clifton policeman Kevin (CHS 1991). Always Near and Dear Teaching wasn’t always the plan for Timothy St. Clair, but it was the family business. The Class of 1992 grad not only experienced life as a student on Colfax Avenue, but experienced the other side of lessons for a number of years. St. Clair became a science teacher in September of 1998 and taught freshman physical science at CHS. He also taught chemistry and physics, and he ran the Yearbook Club and was a track & field coach. But there was another part of the job that was special. “I loved my time at my old school,” said St. Clair, 47.

July 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Timothy St. Clair, inset in 1992 and second from right, with mom Ruth Ellen, dad Jim, and siblings Michele and Andy.

“I was lucky enough to teach alongside both my father, Jim St. Clair, and godfather, William Smith.” Both men also taught chemistry, which put St. Clair in the same department as them. “My mailbox was right above Dad’s mailbox, which confused the kids,” said St. Clair. “They didn’t know which St. Clair it was going to. Dad even convinced one kid that he was my older twin brother,” he added, with a laugh. St. Clair grew up with siblings Michele (CHS 1990) and Andy (CHS 1995). His mother, Ruth Ellen, was a teacher at School 2. During his own time as a student, St. Clair attended School 1 and Christopher Columbus before making his final stop at CHS. He ran track during his sophomore year. Then in St. Clair’s junior and senior years, he ran cross country, indoor track, and spring track. After high school, he attended the University of Scranton and earned a degree in chemistry. Before teaching, he worked as a colorist at Missbrenner, Inc., formerly located at 211 Mt. Prospect Ave. During his two years there, he worked toward earning his teaching license. “I can see a lot of kids from Clifton now on social media and they have their own families,” said St. Clair. “When I … hear from them and hear about the positive impact that I had with the kids like I had with my own teachers, it’s the most rewarding.” St. Clair currently lives in Red Bank with his wife, Hope, and children, Ryan, 17, and Julia, 15. He has taught chemistry at Middletown High School North since September of 2005. But St. Clair still has ties here; his mom still lives in his childhood home on Fernwood Court and his sister, Michele, recently moved back to Clifton.

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

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He added that after Jim passed away in October of 2021, Coach John Pontes delivered a Clifton Varsity Letter, which the family placed in his coffin alongside him. “I love being from Clifton,” said St. Clair. “Whenever I come home, I go to the Hot Grill and Rutt’s Hut, and I bore my kids with stories of my youth.” He also maintains nostalgia for his past Clifton teaching years. “Even though I haven’t taught at CHS in 17 years,” he said, “I still keep my school keys on my Clifton Mustangs lanyard. Clifton will always be near and dear to my heart.” Called to Duty High school was a great experience for Tony Latona, (pictured inset and while in Afghanistan reading our magazine) but CHS’ DECA program helped lay the groundwork for his future. “The half-day program fell under Mr. Robert Starling and Mr. Frank Valenzano … and taught you life skills and a work ethic to help you build a foundation … for the rest of your life,” said Latona (CHS 1992). Latona worked in restaurant management at Mario’s, where he had already worked since the age of 13. While he credited his parents for his “old school work ethic”, he also gave credit to Mario’s working environment. “Growing up in that Italian restaurant, it became like a second family,” said Latona, 48. “As a teenager, it taught me organizational skills and teamwork.” “I do a lot of unofficial event planning today, and those are things that I learned between DECA and working at Mario’s.” Before attending CHS, Latona went to St. Anthony’s in Passaic, St. Philip’s, and Woodrow Wilson. Aside from his responsibilities, his high school experience involved going to Friday football games and supporting the team and Marching Band on those nights. After graduating from CHS in June, Latona joined the Air Force on Sept. 16, 1992. His path was inspired in part by his aspiration to become a firefighter when he was 13. He had also previously joined the Red Cross as a volunteer. Once he learned about fire rescue people serving in the Air Force, it was a no-brainer. But his parents still had some concerns, particularly since he was joining just two years after Iraq’s invasion of Kuwait. “My parents came from Sicily off the boat … and grew up as kids with Mussolini in charge of Italy and Hitler during World War II,” said Latona. “When I mentioned my joining [the military], that was what they had pictured.”

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He added that bringing them to speak with the recruiter helped convince them to support his endeavor. Today, Latona is in the Air Force National Guard as a senior master sergeant and oversees the fire and emergency services as its superintendent. The lifelong Cliftonite’s other job title for the past 25 years has been firefighter for the Clifton Fire Department. Latona recently submitted his papers for his retirement. “The thing that I enjoy most is just serving the community and helping people. Being involved,” said Latona. “When you do what we do, we’re problem solvers. There’s quick decision-making.” “We’re making life decisions in split second modes,” he continued. “Being in that position to help people in their darkest times for their darkest needs is what’s fulfilling.” The CHS Class of 1992 will celebrate its 30th reunion on Sept. 17 at 6 pm at The Village Inn in Wayne. The fee is $110 per person, with no refunds. The price includes dinner, an open bar, dessert, dancing, a DJ, and a photo booth. Payments can be made via Venmo (do not use Goods and Service option) to @Celeste-Clark-13, or account.venmo.com/u/Celeste-Clark-13. Include your name at the time of graduation when making the payment with a note: Reunion. Space is limited and payment must be made by July 9 for a final head count.

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Horns blast and drums pound as 135 performers move at her command. That’s the power Denise Huth wielded as the drum major of the 2001 Marching Mustangs. “She’s like the quarterback of the band,” Marching Mustang Bob Morgan said back then. “It’s like running a football play. She has to get them going and make sure they move together.” This senior, pictured above, was on our September 2001 cover with the headline “The Quarterback of The Band.” Huth had been a Marching Mustang since her freshman year. “I began training to be the drum major in my sophomore year,” said Huth. “I really wanted this.” That came through quite clear in her audition in May, 2000. “She was the hungriest the day of the try outs,” said Morgan. “She wanted the job.” From that day on, it was drills and work to perfect this high profile role. Using her mace, whistle and arm commands, Huth called the shots on the field, along parade routes and at practice.

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She instructed the 135 Mustangs when to march, turn or stand tall. “There are different commands I give with the whistle and mace which tell them what to do,” said Huth. Under her leadership, the Showband of the Northeast continued their high-stepping, fast-paced performances on the football field and beyond. Huth’s said in 2001 that her greatest challenge was living up to the expectation of the position. “When I was a member of the band, the drum major was a person I looked up to,” said Huth. “She was always someone who knew what was going on.” Morgan said he was confident Huth would uphold the Gray and Maroon tradition of excellence established by her predecessors. Also pictured are the CHS Soccer team which included key returnees: Matt Ahumada, Anthony Tuesta, BK Klein, Neil Wilson, Matt Seitz, Teddy Niziolek, Ronnie Sanchez, Renato Sanchez, Johan Gonzalez and GK Matt Seitz. At left is Michael Santosuosso.

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On the Sidelines But Still in The Game As a child, Matt Wright was fascinated by the history of Clifton football. As an adult, he is a key piece of that history. Since 2013, the 38year old Wright has been the Mustangs’ defensive coordinator, and last fall guided a contingent that helped the program win its 17th sectional championship. It was an especially satisfying achievement for the Clifton High School Class of 2002 graduate. “I feel like coaching at Clifton, being a Clifton guy, it makes you care a little more of what you put into [the program] all year round,” he said. “We got our rings the other day. I think it is exactly where the program needs to be right now. People know they aren’t going to come into Clifton Stadium for an easy day.” As a student-athlete, Wright was a three-year starter for the Mustangs. Former coach Chet Parlavecchio once called him a “throwback” who “could play five positions.” Wright more or less did that, as his primary positions changed from center/defensive end as a sophomore to center/guard/outside linebacker as a junior to tight end/middle linebacker as a senior. He was a cog in the early-2000s program rebuild, and also wrestled for Clifton, winning a district crown as a senior. He played attack for the boys lacrosse team as a freshman and senior, as well. After graduating, Wright played for two years at Western Connecticut before hanging up his cleats and transferring to William Paterson University. Always taking a cerebral approach to the game, Wright was a natural fit for the coaching ranks, joining former Clifton assistant Steve Romano’s staff at St. Joseph of the Palisades as offensive coordinator in 2006. The downtrodden squad made the playoffs in Wright’s first season, losing to St. Mary in the Non-Public, Group I semifinals. Wright stayed with Romano’s staff as it moved on to

Matt with Rocco, Viviana and wife Christina.

CHS 2002 grad Christian Membreno and wife Antonia with son Luca after his first Communion at St. Paul Church and and daughter Luciana. Christian and Antonia also own All Surf No Turf across from the Board of Ed.

July 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Morristown Beard in 2007, improving a 3-6 team to a NonPublic, Group I finalist. Wright had stints at Eastside and Queen of Peace before joining the Mustangs’ staff. When Ralph Cinque was hired as the Mustangs’ head coach in 2015, Wright became the squad’s defensive coordinator, immediately instilling a swarming, aggressive personality in his unit. Clifton’s defense has consistently been a strength since, and is primed for another strong campaign in 2022. Off the sidelines, Wright is in his second decade as a tunnel and bridge agent for the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, and is the vice president of his labor union, TWU Local 1400. He lives in Clifton with Christina, his wife of nine years, and children Viviana, 6, and Rocco, 2. “The goal was always to be here,” Wright said. “Where else would I want to be? My father ran the Junior Mustangs for a few years. My family has been here for four generations. I have had opportunities to leave but I don’t want to. I love it here.” One Mustang’s Local Business Christian Membreno’s favorite CHS memories run deeper than the people that he knew. “[It was] the experience of being part of an era with a boom in diversification,” said Membreno (CHS 2002). “Every school event was a great experience.” The memories Membreno, 38, easily recalled were watching a Mustangs football game, going across the highway to Burger King, and having house parties and being challenged to see who could eat the most hot dogs at the Hot Grill.

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One of the things that he said he wished he had done differently was getting more involved in the CHS extracurriculars. But he added that “one of the greatest gifts” from CHS was that he’s able to “apply the Fighting Mustang spirit in everything that comes my way.” Membreno remains in Clifton with wife, Antonia, and their children, Luca, 9, and Luciana, 6. Luca and Luciana will attend fourth and first grade at School 13 in September. He is also part of the community in a couple of other ways. Membreno serves as the chief safety officer, emergency response team cap-

Matt and Lisa Morgan with Leo and Emily.

tain, and as the chemicals and compounding department manager for the aerospace company Lamart Corporation, at 16 Richmond St. He’s worked for them since his senior year of high school. Membreno has also started a business in the city. It sits where Maryanne’s Deli operated for 35 years, at 752 Clifton Ave. “In 2017, my wife and I started a mobile food business called All Surf No Turf,” said Membreno. “We were finally able to plant roots in Clifton in 2021 by means of a store front.” The Right Track Music has been a defining component of Matthew Morgan’s life for decades, and he’s found ways to share it with and beyond his community. Morgan (CHS 2002) grew up with his brother Dan (CHS 1998) and parents Robert and Michele Morgan. Robert was Clifton’s Mustang Band Director for 42 years and Michele taught in Clifton Public Schools for 38 years. Morgan attended the Allwood Play and Learn, School 3, and CCMS. Once at CHS, he joined the Mustang Marching Band — rising to a Rank Sergeant title — and the wind ensemble. “They were definitely a key feature for my high school career,” said Morgan, 39.

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He also got involved in working on the sound for the musicals. That pursuit is what led to him studying music recording at County College of Morris and later, starting his own company. In 2005, Morgan started Concert Audio & Production Rentals, LLC. He recalled how in the early days, he would do events with Clifton’s Recreation Department and got involved with the city’s Summer Concert Series. He also did shows at the old Clifton Skate Zone. “My Chemical Romance played there before signing to their record label and we did the sound for them,” said Morgan. Over the years, Morgan has held other jobs while running his company. He was a stagehand for Jazz at Lincoln Center from 2007 to 2010 and he has also worked for Disco Electronics, B&G Audio Video, and Sound Audio Video Solutions. Today, his focus is primarily on his company. The business works in different towns and does sound for a number of vendors, staging companies, wedding bands, and some DJs. Morgan lives in Verona and is married to Lisa (Pomponio) Morgan (CHS 2003). The couple have two children, Emily and Leo. In his free time, Morgan enjoys woodworking. “From a young age, my dad had his workshop in the house, and he let me play with the tools he had,” said Morgan. “I started my own collection as I got older and when the pandemic hit, it was a good thing for me to keep my brain going.” Despite no longer living in Clifton, he acknowledged that the city is where his roots will remain. “I feel like growing up in Clifton really put me on the right track to kind of know what I do and don’t want out of life,” said Morgan. “The friends that I grew up with in Clifton — I’ll never find a better crew.” Making Days Better One of Clifton’s life lessons that Michael Santosuosso strives to share with his own children is the value of treating everyone with kindness. “Approach everyone and every situation in a positive way,” said Santosuosso (CHS 2002), “and you’ll get the best results that way.” Santosuosso lives in Cedar Grove with his wife, Lori (Lill) Santosuosso (CHS 2002), and children, Dominic and Sloan. Like many parents of young children, their

July 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Michael and Lori Santosuosso with Dominic and Sloan.

hobbies are now Santosuosso’s hobbies. His main hobbies include supporting them as they participate in teeball, basketball, dance, and gymnastics. And it’s also not too far off from his own active adolescence. Santosuosso attended School 5 and WWMS. His most memorable teachers during high school were his baseball coaches Mr. BelBruno, Mr. Intile, and Mr. Tomaskovic, as well as hockey Coaches Danko and LaDuke. Santosuosso, 38, played baseball at Rutgers – Newark for one year and majored in criminal justice. But then he decided that it wasn’t the field for him and he switched gears. Instead, he focused on teaching and coaching, going on to graduate from William Paterson University with an education degree in Exercise Science. After finishing college, he started subbing at CHS and eventually got a full-time job teaching physical education at School 14. He is now in his 10th year teaching in Clifton and fifth year teaching at CHS. “What I enjoy most about the day-to-day is the ability to make a positive impact on someone’s life,” said Santosuosso. “You can’t always do that in a lot of jobs.” “There are so many different students and personalities and different ways to help someone and make their day better,” he added. “A lot of it I think has to do with CHS and the environment that was created there.”

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

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Registration Information Cliftonmagazine.com • July 2022

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Inspiring Growth, Improving Lives Nicole Cornett believes in the work that she does and sees firsthand the good in it. The Class of 2002 grad is a Regional Business Director in Oncology at Gilead Sciences. “I work in a space where the goal is to help add quality of life to people’s lives,” said Cornett, 38. “I think that’s what makes me the most proud.” Cornett grew up going through School 2 and WWMS before graduating from CHS. She earned her undergraduate degree in Biology and Chemistry from Stockton University. In 2008, she got her MBA in management and finance from Seton Hall University. Then in 2012, she earned her Juris Doctor in Health Law from Seton Hall. While completing her education, she worked at Novartis Pharmaceuticals, where she had worked since the summer of her junior year at Stockton. Her professional plans for the future are straightforward. “I think my goals are to continue to grow and lead incredibly smart people to be able to reach more patients,” said Cornett. Cornett lives in Denville with her husband, David Borger. The couple have four boys, Cole, Tyler, Paul, and Nathan. In her free time, she enjoys woodworking and stained glass. She acknowledged that growing up in Clifton was an important component for her becoming a wellrounded person. She also helped coach her sons’ swim team this year and has helped with CCD in her church, St. Virgil’s. It’s her boys, she said, that keep her active. “The amount of laughter in our house and energy keeps me on my toes and keeps me moving,” she said. “It keeps me busy, and I like being busy.” Community Gratitude Charles P. Stauhs’s mind was set from an early age. Once he finished school, he wanted to work toward becoming a police officer. Stauhs (CHS 2002) worked in the Clifton Police Station during high school through a job placement program. In those days, he was a records and evidence clerk and kept the job throughout college. “I got to work with some great people,” said Stauhs. “I was able to see interesting things, especially when I worked in the Evidence Room with Officer George Adelhelm.”

July 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

“To this day, I cred

Nicole Cornett and David Borger with Cole, Tyler, Paul and Nathan.

Charlie Stauhs and his wife Donna Ploch, and daughters Caitlyn and Danielle. At left, Charles at CHS graduation in 2002 with Michael Russnak. Turn page for a more recent photo.

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“To this day, I credit him for most reer, Stauhs worked on Ladder 3 in of my organizational skills,” he conBotany Village. Today, he works in tinued. “Every item and report had Engine 4, which is located on Main a number, as well as a place on the Avenue by Costco. shelf.” “I have been in various fires and Once he was eligible to take the Poemergencies in Clifton and surlice Test after graduating high school, rounding towns over the past two Stauhs said he met Police Officer decades,” said Stauhs. “I take pride Timmy Lyons, who “has a huge heart” in my job, as I am one of the few and supported Stauhs in his pursuit firefighters that still lives in town.” of a career in the fire service. Lyons Stauhs is married to CHS teacher encouraged Stauhs to sign up for the Donna Ploch (CHS 2001) and has Firefighter Test as well and told him to two daughters, Danielle, 6, at School Michael Russnak with Charlie Stauhs “never settle for less.” 16 and Caitlyn, 1. at the 2015 Veterans Parade as the only While Stauhs attended Bergen He was promoted to lieutenant in two 2002 grads in the fire department. Community College for Criminal Jus2016 and now manages a crew of tice, he worked in the Dispatch Center five firefighters. When he considers in a full-time position. his lifelong mentors, he names from the Clifton Police “This also was a very cool job, as I was part of the Department: Lt. John Storms, Officer Timmy Lyons, and hub that dispatched anybody who could help someone Officer George Adelhelm, and from the Clifton Fire Deon their worst day,” he said. “We dispatched police cars, partment: Lt. Michael Cianciotto and former Chief Kevin fire engines, and ambulances all over the city to mitigate McCarthy. “Each of these guys contributed their part and emergencies.” By October 2006, Stauhs was sworn into made me the person that I am today,” said Stauhs. “I hope the Clifton Fire Department. For the majority of his cathat I get to thank them all some day.”

July 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Shannon Mongelli and Robert (RJ) Kruse today and in 2002.

Mustang Sweethearts Beat the Odds Shannon (Mongelli) Kruse and Robert (RJ) Kruse know that these days, it’s impressive when high school sweethearts end up staying together and going the distance. But for these Class of 2002 Mustangs, it’s the family way. The couple met and started dating during their junior year. What made it even more special was that Shannon’s twin sister, Tiffany, started dating her eventual husband, Jacy Patti (CHS 2002) within a period of months, or possibly weeks. “It’s really great to have such a shared history,” said Shannon, 38. “We all got to grow up together and Clifton High School was such an important time for us because it is where we first met and fell in love.” Shannon and RJ first met at their lunch table at K3 through their mutual friend, Barry Bennett. Shannon had moved from Hackensack to the Albion section in time for her freshman year. In RJ’s case, he had grown up in Botany Village and attended School 12 and CCMS. While in school, they each had their favorite classes and teachers. RJ’s was history and his favorite teacher was Mr. Anamone. Shannon liked creative writing and drama. “The teachers who stood out the most were Mr. Notari from English and Creative Writing and Madame Makridis from French,” said Shannon. “Who really stood out for me was my school counselor Ms. Sallihuddin. She is the reason [why] I chose to become a counselor.” Shannon earned a bachelor’s degree in Family Services and master’s in Counseling from MSU. She holds a post-MA certificate in Marriage and Family Therapy from Northcentral University and is a licensed counselor who will soon become an Executive Director of a non-profit. Meanwhile, RJ went to Lincoln Tech to become an

auto mechanic and previously worked full time at Autozone. He went on to earn a bachelor’s in history at Southern New Hampshire University and works for the National Park Services, Morristown National Parks. “I enjoy making the park look beautiful so that the public can enjoy the history and environment like I do,” said RJ, 39. The couple now live in Lodi and have two daughters, Trinity Star, 17, and Kira Lee, 11. Trinity is considering NYU and Columbia for college. In their free time, Shannon and RJ like hiking, roller skating, and they are both members of the Rhode Island Battery B Light Artillery unit. After 18 years of marriage, Clifton and their graduating class still hold special places in their hearts. “Our high school class really came together after 9/11 to support our country,” they said. “It’s also where we met each other, so it will always have a special place in our hearts.”

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Kostyantyn Bloshko in 2012 learning to balance life, volleyball, music and more. And today with his wife-to-be Martha Lewko and her parents Michael and Svitlana.

Curiosity, Courage, and Cultural Commitment Kostyantyn Bloshko’s curiosity about the world took shape at an early age. So he pursued a career to satisfy his inquisitive nature. “I was always interested in how things work, what makes them tick, and why things turn out the way they do,” said Bloshko (CHS 2012). “I became more intrigued … in high school during my chemistry class.” Bloshko considered chemistry as his favorite class. He added that Mr. Lincoln was a stand-out teacher, who he recalled going into details about how molecules work together. “Mr. Lincoln was one of the most influential people during my high school years,” said Bloshko, 29. “He influenced me to go into the science field and that got me where I am now.” But we’re skipping a few steps. Before considering pursuing the sciences, Bloshko emigrated with his family from Ukraine in 2002. At the time, his English-speaking ability was limited and Bloshko was starting over in a new environment. He attended School 9, CCMS, and later CHS. Over the next decade, he got involved with volleyball, wrestling, spring track, orchestra, and he sang in the choir for St. Mary’s the Protectress Eastern Orthodox Ukrainian Church on Washington Avenue. Another influential figure he named was his orchestra teacher, Ms. Natalie Babiak.

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“She was always very encouraging and pushed us forward to excel … in how we played our instruments and in life, in general,” said Bloshko. Bloshko went on to earn his bachelor’s degree in chemistry at Rutgers – Newark. But unlike his peers, he went about pursuing higher education with a different time-table. After three years of college, Bloshko left and joined the New Jersey National Guard. He returned in 2019 from his service overseas and finished his degree in 2020. “I’m from Ukraine and everyone in Ukraine serves, at least the men do,” said Bloshko. “It was something that I always wanted to do.” During his years of service, Bloshko was a Small Arms / Artillery specialist and left the Army with the rank of sergeant. His overseas service brought him to East Africa, more specifically Djibouti and Somalia. After school, Bloshko landed a job at PerkinElmer. For almost two years, he has worked as an engineer. He does preventative maintenance for and repairs lab instruments manufactured by the company. People use these instruments, he said, to test anything from blood alcohol levels to foods and fragrances. “Everything made in the world is pretty much tested by instruments,” said Bloshko. Bloshko lives in Boonton Township and is getting married this November to his fiancée, Martha. One of Bloshko’s goals for the next decade includes reaching the highest level of position in his field, which is a specialist.

An Exhibit & Sale

CLIFTON ASSOCIATION of ARTISTS Aug.10th thru Sept. 3rd Wednesday thru Saturday 1pm till 4pm

Some upcoming children’s and adult partnership programming will be funded by County of Passaic Department of Cultural and Historic Affairs. For more information about upcoming art programs call 973-472-5499.

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He also hopes to fill their home in a few years with a family. He added that the couple will also remain connected to their shared Ukrainian heritage. “We tend to be a part of a lot of cultural events, and [Martha’s] part of [The Plast National Scout Organization of Ukraine],” he said. “There have been multiple fundraising events to raise money to send overseas to the soldiers,” he continued. “Our family … and friends have gathered money multiple times to ship out things like bulletproof vests [and] tuniqets … to assist soldiers.” The Voice of Clifton When the City of Clifton has a message for its residents, do you ever ask yourself, “Who’s that voice?” The answer is Class of 2012 grad Lauren Scarfo and the anonymous voice role is one that she said suits her. “I like it honestly that no one knows my face. I feel more comfortable,” said Scarfo, 27. “People even at work when they come in, they say that my voice sounds familiar and I’m like, ‘Oh, yeah — that’s me.’” Before joining the ranks of city employees, Scarfo was one of Clifton’s students. She attended School 16, WWMS, and CHS. During her four years at CHS, Scarfo played the clarinet in the band. She also enjoyed CAST for three years with Mr. Michael McCunney. “I enjoyed the film aspect and how it was not a regular class with a desk and a teacher lecturing you,” said Scarfo. Scarfo went away for college for two years at Full Sail University in Winter Park, Florida. There she studied filmmaking, video editing, and graphic design. But ultimately, she followed in the footsteps of her mother, Jane (Gyorgydeak) Scarfo, who joined the Clifton Health Department as a nurse in 1980. Scarfo lives in Clifton and recording her voice for the city’s Reverse 911 calls is something that she plans to continue doing for the time being. She added her boyfriend, Victor Campolattaro (CHS 2013) works for DPW. Scarfo also works alongside one of her former classmates, Layal Helwani (CHS 2012). “She is a health educator for the City of Clifton,” said Scarfo. “We were friends in school but are definitely closer now from working together.”

July 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Top left, CHS 2012 Lauren Scarfo with 2013 Victor Campolattaro and at right Kimberly Douglass.

Coaching Future Generations The most important lesson that Kimberly Douglass gained from her time as a Mustang student-athlete came from her former soccer coach Stan Lembryk. “Something I now say to my players is that the experiences you have with your teammates are some of the best that you’ll have,” said Douglass (CHS 2012). “And some of your teammates will be your lifelong friends because of your dedication [and] endurance … to the sport.” Before she joined the Clifton School District, Douglass attended St. Philip’s through eighth grade. It was understandably a culture shock in terms of the school’s size. “Freshman year was a bit nerve wracking … going from knowing every name to going to a high school where I barely knew half of the kids that I graduated with,” said Douglass, 28. But it ended up being the best decision for her. In later years, she would return to St. Philip’s to coach basketball and tell the parents how much she loved CHS and experiencing its diversity. Douglass was a three-sport athlete by the time she graduated from CHS. Along with taking her honors and AP courses, she played soccer and basketball all four years and

did track and field in her senior year, acquiring several accolades in each sport. During her senior year, she was on the Varsity Girls Basketball team with her sisters, Sara (CHS 2014) and Kelly (CHS 2015). After high school, Douglass earned her undergraduate and master’s degrees in education from MSU. She currently works in a special education preschool classroom in Weehawken. “The most rewarding thing is the small progressions that they make,” said Douglass. “Like becoming aware of their peers … [or] recognizing their name in print.” “It’s just the small progressions that I feel neurotypicals would take for granted that you can hone in on with them,” she added. Douglass lives in Secaucus with sister Sara and her boyfriend, Oscar. When she isn’t teaching, she coaches the junior varsity girls’ basketball team at Northern Valley Demarest and was hired to coach the JV girls’ soccer team for the 2022 season. She is also a year-round coach for the Gametime Hoops AAU basketball program. “Outside of teaching and coaching, I go golfing, play tennis, and like to go to the beach and just hang out with friends,” said Douglass. “We host dinners at our apartment.”

Mateusz Hader and Genelle Pavan.

Still Close to Home Mateusz Hader and Genelle Pavan are already married to their jobs. All things being equal, they hope to marry each other next year in October. Hader (CHS 2012) is a police officer with the NYPD and Pavan works as a surgical technician at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell. They got engaged in February, but the couple have known each other since third grade when Hader moved from Garfield to Clifton. After attending School 8 and CCMS, they went their separate ways when Pavan switched over to PCTI. At CHS, Hader played on the volleyball team for three years. His favorite class was two years of Auto Tech. “We reconnected after high school when I posted something on Facebook that I was at an event he happened to be at,” said Pavan, 28. “We talked about the event, about life, and then went on a date in New York and it worked out.” Hader graduated from the John Jay College of Criminal Justice in Manhattan. He’s now worked on the job for the NYPD for five years.

Cliftonmagazine.com • July 2022

Striking A Balance Few people can say they had fun not sleeping for 38 hours, but they “I always wanted to be a cop,” likely didn’t have Kelly (Hanrahan) said Hader, 28. “My parents, Cummings’ job. She worked for about Ryszard and Renata, have always a year doing post-production with been supportive of everything that MTV. During that time, she experiI did and are really hard-working enced the behind-the-scenes action of people.” the VMAs and other shows. Hader added that the rewarding “It was a lot of fun,” said Cumpart of the job is “definitely helpmings, 28. “I was running drives back ing people. Even when it’s the little and forth from Time Square to MSG things you do like taking reports, and then back again.” you’re helping businesses and peoBut her entry into the world of meple,” he said. dia production started back in her ClifThe couple live on Staten Island ton years. Cummings attended School and when they have free time, Pa11, WWMS, and CHS. She said her van said they enjoy taking road trips favorite high school class was CAST. to Pennsylvania. “We like to get out “I was inspired to work in TV by Kelly (Hanrahan) and Chris Cummings of the house and explore different Mr. McCunney,” said Cummings. “I towns throughout the states,” she was part of the first period, creating said. They also come back to Clifprojects and then editing them. I’d work on editing portions ton often to visit their family. Pavan’s father and Hader’s of other people’s projects.” parents and brother Jacob (CHS 2021) still live in the city. During high school, Cummings was also named as the Hader also has another brother, Luke (CHS 2010). Boys & Girls Club of Clifton’s 2012 Youth of the Year. She went on to study Media Production at William Paterson and interned with Viacom, which is how she landed the gig with MTV. Cummings’ other past internships included interning with GameDay Ops with the NY Jets. She is now a coordinator with the On Air Promotion Department at MLB Network in Secaucus. Still living in Clifton, Cummings married her husband, Chris, on May 27 and said they are “trying to live happily ever after.” Chris also grew up in our city but went to DePaul Catholic in Wayne. “We want babies, a house, and a backyard for our dog to run around,” said Cummings. “I want the work-life balance to be equal and to have fun.”

CLASS OF

The Right Direction Utilizing your strengths is important, and Emill Feratovic has exhibited his ability to do that on the CHS volleyball court and now in the professional world. Feratovic has been an account executive for Adobe since May of 2021. He held prior sales positions at Justworks and Comodo. But when he attended Rutgers in New Brunswick, Feratovic originally was to pursue criminal justice. What inspired him to pursue financial sales out of college was simple. “I really liked the competitive aspect,” said Feratovic (CHS 2012). “Even the grind of be-

July 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Cliftonmagazine.com • July 2022

CLASS OF

Emill Feratovic and Jenna DeLiberto. Ryan Hariton and Kaitlyn Amoruso.

ing in sales. I have been playing sports my entire life and have always been competitive.” “You’re constantly communicating with people, whether it’s to the internal team or working with clients,” he added. “There’s a lot of strategy involved in talking with people and learning about their businesses … to align Adobe’s product to them.” Feratovic, 28, was born and raised in Clifton. He attended School 12, the Classical Academy Charter School

July 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

of Clifton for sixth and seventh grade, and WWMS for eighth grade. In high school, Feratovic enjoyed CAST and gym class. “I definitely miss those high school days and just seeing all of my friends and teachers all the time,” said Feratovic. On March 18, Feratovic married Jenna DeLiberto (CHS 2012). The couple currently live in Clifton and met during their freshman year at CHS. Despite being in the

Patrick Ferrara and Gina LoBue.

same friend group, Feratovic said they didn’t start dating until senior year of college. “We were talking on and off throughout the four years and she’d come visit me,” he said. They have a puppy who they’re working to train. Feratovic added that they try to spend as much time with their friends and family, including their same high school friend group. One of the lessons that Feratovic said he wished he understood when he was younger is that patience about your life is important. “I kind of wanted to grow my career path very quickly and when it didn’t happen at the rate that I wanted it to, it impacted me personally,” said Feratovic. “Everyone will hit where they want to be in life. It took me a few years to realize that and trend in the right direction,” he continued, “I wish I knew that back in high school.” Seeing the Results Although sales is not Ryan Hariton’s personal identity, what he enjoys about his job is helping others meet their goals. The Class of 2012 grad will get to do that more often now following a promotion to a sales manager for ADP. Hariton has worked for ADP since he graduated with an Energy Business and Finance degree from Penn State. “I like having the opportunity to … see the results of hard work, and sales provides that,” said Hariton, 28. “You have to go and achieve goals and take control of them, and I like that challenge What you put in, you get out of it.” Hariton went through Clifton Schools for all 12 years. He attended School 16, WWMS, and CHS. He was shortstop on the baseball team and running back and safety for

the Fighting Mustangs. When he reflected on his time in high school, those sports teams were the first memories. “Baseball and football were a major part of [the experience],” he said. “The sports teams that I was fortunate enough to be a part of are immediately what I think of. I’m still friends with those people.” Hariton and his fiancée, Kaitlyn Amoruso (CHS 2012), bought a house last year in West Caldwell. Amoruso works as a nurse on the cardiac floor of Morristown Medical Center. The couple started dating when they were juniors and Hariton acknowledged how common that was amongst his high school friends. “We’re fortunate that our group stayed together and a lot of them married each other,” he said. “It makes it easier and more fun.” Building Relationships and Respect When most people mention building blocks, it’s just a simple metaphor. For Patrick Ferrara, it’s what led him to his career as a project engineer. “I was always building with Legos and blocks,” he said, “and then I realized what civil engineering is all about.” Once he also realized that he was good at math, he took his childhood interest and ran with it. He has worked the past five years for J. Fletcher Creamer & Son, Inc. Prior to that, he earned his bachelor’s degree in civil engineering at NJIT. “We build bridges, utility work, foundation work for PSE&G and water companies,” said Ferrara, 28. “We do a bunch of everything.” Ferrara attended School 2, WWMS, and CHS. He was the starting quarterback all four years for varsity and played center field for baseball. Now a Woodland Park resident, Ferrara got married in January to his high school sweetheart, Gina LoBue (CHS 2012). Gina was a star soccer player and is now an occupational therapist. They were both voted ‘Class Couple’ at CHS. In his free time, Ferrara enjoys working out, spending time with his family, and playing pickup games of football, baseball, basketball, or softball. He also has the goal of eventually opening his own business and starting a family. His greatest inspirations are his parents, Patrick and Sharon. “Hard workers,” said Ferrara. “I would go to my dad’s shop in Bergenfield and work with him and see what he did on a daily basis. How he interacted with other people. They’re always looking out for others,” he continued. “That’s the way that I want to be, too.” Cliftonmagazine.com • July 2022

CLASS OF

One Common Goal gineer at Varonis. “The best High school remains important part of my career is that I use to Timothy Brown and his friends my degree. I know that a lot because it’s where they formed of people don’t get to,” said many of their lifelong friendships. Brown, 28. “And I get to ex“I was recently in three wedpand on what I learned in coldings for Clifton friends from lege.” the year that I graduated. We’re “I enjoy selling something still a tight knit group, luckily,” that I believe in. Not used said Brown (CHS 2012). “We see cars or something that doesn’t each other most weekends. I never work,” he added. “When I talk thought that we’d all be this close.” to people about cybersecurity Another cornerstone of Brown’s and how it’ll help you, I’m not high school era was his involvelying.” ment with sports. He was a forward Brown lives in Passaic for the basketball team and eventuPark with his girlfriend, Jacally became the team’s captain. He lyn Giordano (CHS 2013). Timothy Brown with Jaclyn Giordano. was also a Fighting Mustangs tight The couple were friends in high end. school and started dating soon Brown went on a football scholarship to after she graduated. Giordano’s brothers, Wesley College in Delaware. After a year, he Nick (CHS 2010) and Anthony (CHS 2007), realized the small liberal arts college wasn’t both coach Clifton football. for him. He transferred to Kean University Brown also stays connected to his homeand graduated with a bachelor of applied scitown. This year was his first year coaching the ence in information technology. city’s Little League team. “Sports helped me He recently earned his master of science at and gave us all good values and good things MSU in information technology. Since May, to hold close to home,” he said. “It has us Brown has worked as an Enterprise Sales Encoming together for one goal.”

July 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Once A Mustang ... bunch. There were never any Family has kept Emilie dull moments with my graduOakley local and deeply inating class.” volved in her community. The Petritis, 28, transferred from CHS 2012 grad is the lead DePaul Catholic High School teacher at the Clifton Little to CHS in her sophomore year. School, at 391 Broad St. She had also attended St. Phil“I love it and l loved being ip’s prior to her entry into Clifa Mustang,” said Oakley, 28. ton Public Schools, so she said “Once a Mustang, always a it was a big adjustment. But mustang.” she made two lifelong friends Above Emilie Oakley and below Amanda Petritis back Before CHS, Oakley atwhile at CHS – fellow 2012 in high school and today. tended School 15 and CCMS. grads Katherine Carpio and Among her favorite high Najat Boudaher. Her brother, school memories were the Michael, also graduated from times that she spent with her CHS in 2016. friends and roaming the halls. After CHS, Petritis did She also fondly recalled all about a year and half of comthe time she spent hoping that munity college. She was workshe wouldn’t get caught withing a few jobs but then she felt out her school ID by English that she needed to move away teacher Kevin Ashworth. and “progress in life.” In 2015 Oakley later graduated she went to a recruiting office from Passaic County Commuand enlisted in the military. nity College with her associToday, she is a petty officer ates degree in early childhood education. She’s currently third class in the US Navy. Her specific job title is a Magoing for her bachelors in P-3 and special education at Wilchinist’s Mate, which sees her working on hydraulics and liam Paterson University. other boat mechanics responsibilities. Her parents both She describes working with her three-year-olds an also served in the Navy. “amazing” experience. “The most rewarding thing I would “They always told me that they loved being in the Navy,” say is watching them grow and seeing them put what they said Petritis. “I knew I couldn’t do the frontlines, so the learned into the world and into the classroom,” said OakNavy was kind of where I saw myself. I can do boats really ley. “They are so smart and funny.” easily – I don’t get seasick and traveling was big for me.” But there are challenges as well. The biggest one has Petritis has traveled to 14 countries in six years, includbeen navigating the COVID-19 pandemic. Oakley added ing Singapore, the Philippines, Hong Kong, and Austrathat juggling school and working full time also requires eflia. She’s now based in San Antonio, Texas on shore duty fort. She manages it, though, and offered some advice for for almost a year and is recruiting a new generation. prospective teachers. “Kids will say, ‘I’m afraid to leave home’ or ‘I don’t “Never give up and try your hardest,” said Oakley. “No know how it’ll feel if I have to deploy,’” said Petritis. “Easmatter how hard it may seem, keep pushing because it will ing their minds about it is probably one of the best parts all be worth it in the long run.” because … I don’t [BS] them. I’d rather them be wholeheartedly invested in something that I didn’t sell them.” The way we first connected with the former Mustang Called to the Sea was through her mother, Samantha, who said her daughter Amanda Petritis’ memories of her CHS graduating is her hero. class a decade later are fond. During those years, she re“That’s a lot,” said Petritis. “Honestly, my mom is my calls going to football games each Friday night and evhero because for a while growing up, it was just me and eryone painting their bodies to show school spirit. “We her. “She’s overcome so much in her life to make her [the were all kind of like a dysfunctional family,” said Petritis person] I want to be and who I am today.” (CHS 2012). “We definitely were the loudest, rowdiest Cliftonmagazine.com • July 2022

July 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Cliftonmagazine.com • July 2022

Coldwell Banker Realty Branch Vice President Mandy Lucia and staff hosted a “Hometown Heroes” event on June 16 to honor the Clifton Fire Department, Clifton Police Department and Clifton EMTs. Clifton Mayor James Anzaldi and other city officials attended the event, in which Coldwell Banker Realty in Clifton presented checks for $1,500 to each of these organizations on behalf of the Coldwell Banker Realty Cares Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Coldwell Banker Realty.

Learn about stress, how it affects your body, and more with Power of One’s Kim Castellano. The Intro to Stress series is at the Clifton Main Public Library, 292 Piaget Ave. Dates include July 21, Aug. 18, and Sept. 15 from 6-8 pm. After attending a session, people are also eligible for Castellano’s StressAnxiety-Grief Support Group at Clifton Senior Center, 900 Clifton Ave. Barn C5. Dates include July 14 and Aug. 11 from 6:30-8 pm. For more info, call 862-239-5905 or email info@powerofoneccom.org.

St. Brendan and St. George parish hosts a Food Truck Festival on July 9 (raindate July 16) from noon to 6 pm at the church on the corner of East 1st and Lakeview Ave. Admission is $2 for ages 3 and up. On July 15 the combined parish hosts a Tricky Tray with over 300 prizes. Tickets cost $25 until July 8. Visit stbrendan-george.org/tricky-tray for advance tickets For more info, call 973-772-1115.

One June 11, Clifton marked Philippine Independence Day with a flag raising and ceremony on the Great Lawn of City Hall. Hosted by Bible Church International, 9-year-old Sienna Torres opened with the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by The Star Spangled Banner and the Philippine National Anthem sang by the BCI-campus choir.

July 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Artist and poet Madhukanta Sen with a sample of her abstract art “Meanders”, which is part of her Aug. 21 exhibit.

Madhukanta Sen will open her studio on Aug. 21 to display her Abstract Expressionist pieces, some of them depicting moods while some others depicting social issues. Sen has previously exhibited her work at venues in Kolkata, India. Sen’s studio tour, at 24 River Rd. Garage 29, in Patricia Village will begin at 1 pm and display pieces that she created while living in Clifton. Sen will take orders for prints of her paintings and sell some originals. One visitor who signs her guest book will also win a free print. Visit her website at artbymadhu.com.

Mark Peterson, president of the Theater League of Clifton, on June 1 with CHS Class of 2022 scholarship winners Lukas Kulesa (left) and Liam Reilly. Kulesa received TLC’s scholarship, while Reilly received TLC’s Joanne Mazzarisi Memorial Scholarship. The $500 scholarships are to assist students in pursuing their college education.

Art Parasols workshop offered by the Clifton Arts Center.

Art Parasols in the Garden is a two-day workshop for kids which incorporates fabrics, paints and other items. Held at the Clifton Arts Center, at 900 Clifton Ave., instructor Marisol Rodriquez is a city resident and teacher. Dates are July 21-22 for ages 5-7; July 28-29 for ages 8-10, and Aug. 18-19 for ages 9-12 at 1:30-3:30 pm. The fee is $65 per student, which includes material supplies and reception. The Passaic County Board of County Commissioners, through the Department of Cultural and Historic Affairs, helped fund the project. Register by July 15 to secure a seat. For more info or to register, write rcammilleri@cliftonnj.org or call 973-472-5499. Cliftonmagazine.com • July 2022

School 9 did shine on June 10 as the Bulldogs celebrated the school’s centennial. Located at 25 Brighton Rd., those in attendance included students, alumni, faculty, staff and school leaders. Below is the living image to mark the milestone event.

Clifton Night At The Jackals is July 12 at 7 pm at Yogi Berra Stadium, MSU campus with a Pajama Party theme. Tickets are $11. Pre-registration required. Purchase by clicking on the Clifton Night FEVO link on cliftonrec. com, under Clifton Night at the Jackals. Clifton Family Campout is Aug. 19-20 (rain date Aug. 26-27) in Albion Park, 201 Maplewood Ave. Presented by the Clifton Rec with the Clifton Special Police Law Enforcement Officers Association and the Clifton Fire Department, camp set up begins Friday at 4 pm and then pack it up by 1 pm on Saturday. Fee is $10 per campsite (a single tent with up to four people) or $20 for out-of-towners. Pre-register at cliftonrec.com or at the Recreation Office until Aug. 17. Call 973-470-5956. The Clifton Rec Department’s Subway Series Game is Aug. 23 at Yankee Stadium. Coach buses leave from CHS front parking lot at 3:45 pm and returns at 11:30 pm. Tickets are $142 and include a game ticket, transportation and a 90-minute all-you-can-eat buffet. Seats are located in Section 234. Get tickets at cliftonrec.com.

July 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

The Historic Botany Summer Concerts continues in Sullivan Square and Lake Ave. July 8: Rick Finks One Man Band; July 15: The Outcrops; July 22: The Powertones; July 30: Rock Kandy 80’s Experience. Bring chairs for the free outdoor concerts. Shows begin at 6:30 pm and run through Aug. 27. For questions, call Joe Nikischer at 201-757-5607.

Clifton’s Special Olympics athletes and their families met the Special Olympics Torch Relay on June 10 as it wound its way through New Jersey to the weekend event in which at least two Clifton athletes came home with the gold.

The Passaic County Fair 2022 is Aug. 11-14 at Garret Mountain Reservation. Presented by Friends of Passaic County Parks, admission is free to the four-day event but there is a $5 parking fee. Enjoy rides, fireworks, games, live music, health screenings, or simply enjoy a walk through the park. For more info, visit seepassaiccounty.org. Come to Clifton Rec’s Aug. 2 Drive-In Movie screening of “Encanto” under the stars at Main Memorial Park in Downtown Clifton. The free family event starts at approximately 8:30 pm or once it’s dark enough to view. Bring your blankets or lawn chairs and enjoy the show on a large movie screen, under the twilight. Food will be available for purchase. For more info or health and safety regulations, visit cliftonrec.com. America’s Polka King, Jimmy Sturr and His Orchestra, will return for the 19th consecutive year in Passaic on July 21 for a free concert. The event kicks off at 7:30 pm in Third Ward Park, at the corner of Passaic and Van Houten Aves. Concert-goers are reminded to bring their own seating. The concert was organized by Greg Komeshok and sponsors, with assistance from the City of Passaic.

The Hawthorne Caballeros return with nine other drum and bugle corps to Clifton Stadium on July 9. Doors open at 5:30 for the 56th Grand Prix with high stepping performances beginning at 6:30 pm. The night of moveable music honors the memory of Clifton’s favorite Cab, the late George Hayek (inset). Band lineup and more info: hawthornecaballeros.org. Cliftonmagazine.com • July 2022

Birthdays & Celebrations - July 2022

Send dates & names... tomhawrylkosr@gmail.com

Nicolas Marcel Calvo turns 13 on July 11. Isabella Andruch is 16 on July 1. Co-best man for Joe Hawrylko’s upcoming wedding to the lovely Arielle Simonis—Jesse Hasting turns 37—on July 10. Mammie Angello hits another milestone on July 3. Robert Marriello celebrates on July 9. Phyllis Bivaletz turns 92 on July 17.

Mary (Brugnoni) Kennedy will be 93 on July 18. Ernie Scheidemann is 87 on July 17. At right in photo, Isaiah and Sabrina Buonafina announce the May 21 birth of their daughter Ariella. Pictured from left are grandpa and grandma Oscar and Ana Buonafina, uncles Liam, Landon and Zayden. And we forgot to mention that Landon turned 7 on June 11! Amanda Di Angelo............. Marie Angello.................... Chris Torrao....................... Nicholas Iannacone............ Bob Landrith....................... Robyn Sue Lord................... Frank Rando....................... Lori Lill............................... Susan Rego........................ Darlene Franek................... Ron Curtiss......................... Angelo Grippo................... Thomas Marriello................ Edward Sepulveda.............. Jenna De Liberto.................

7/3 7/3 7/4 7/5 7/5 7/5 7/5 7/6 7/6 7/7 7/7 7/7 7/7 7/7 7/8

July 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Christopher Landrith............ 7/8 Cynthia Kester.................... 7/9 Kristi Schopfer.................. 7/10 Brian Counterman Jr.......... 7/12 Anthony Zaccone.............. 7/13 Alyssa Marie Misyak......... 7/14 Ann Schamble.................. 7/15 Derek Dobol..................... 7/16 Jessica Dobol................... 7/16 Joanne Gursky.................. 7/17 Kenneth & Donna Chipura on July 11 celebrate their 51st wedding anniversary.

Carrie Szluka................... 7/18 Alexander Razvmov.......... 7/19 Ryan Saccoman................ 7/19 Cocoa Saccoman............. 7/19 Ashley Jacobus................. 7/19 Linda Portaro.................... 7/20 Megan Suaifan................. 7/20 Priya Shah........................7/22 Kaitlin Vinciguerra............. 7/22 George Shamar................ 7/23 Kayla Lord....................... 7/24 Anna Schubert.................. 7/24 Eva Gasporowska............. 7/25 Kathy Valdes.................... 7/25 Jack DeVries Sr............. ....7/26

Olga and Efren Zamora celebrate Olga’s birthday and their 45th anniversary July 3. Joseph Lopez.................... Ornella Ganoza............... Gina Oliva....................... Brian Counterman Sr......... Amanda Fabiano.............. Lee-Ann Varga.................. Stephen Camp Sr............. Joe Prebish....................... Obs Zayatz...................... Frances Greco.................. Sue Sadik........................

7/27 7/27 7/28 7/29 7/29 7/29 7/30 7/30 7/30 7/31 7/31

Joan and Gene Murphy’s 58th anniversary is July 25. Cliftonmagazine.com • July 2022

The Theater League of Clifton presents Man of La Mancha at the CHS auditorium, July 15 to 24. Cast members include Frank Ortega (Don Quixote), Matthew Blum (Sancho Panza), Sindy De La Cruz (Aldonza), David Shaw, Don Flynn, Romana Schaeffer, Luke Ostrow, Karen Bednarz, Felipe Rodriguez, Jessa Blackthorne, Stuart Shafran, Thomas Sherlock, Kenneth Fowler, Drew McGuinness, Emma Wein, Wendi Marak, and Amanda Regan. Visit theaterleagueofclifton.com for tickets.

The Peruvian Parade begins at 930 am on July 31 in Passaic and follows Main Ave. through Clifton and into Paterson, said Guillermo Garcia, General Manager of the Paulison Ave. ShopRite, and the 2021 Parade Grand Marshal.

July 2022 • Cliftonmagazine.com

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