Clifton Merchant Magazine - September 2007 by Clifton Merchant Magazine

Clifton Merchant Magazine • Volume 12 • Issue 9 • September 7, 2007

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September ‘07 It’s back to school and that means back to the fields, courts and classrooms. Our Fall Sports section begins on page 42 where we preview seven teams, as well as the cheer squad and the Marching Mustang Band. Pictured on the cover are athletes from each of the CHS fall sports teams. Rear from left: gymnast Brooke Mullen, runner Steve Meana, Eddy Olave of the boys soccer team and runner Layla Darzanof. Front from left: Alison DiAngelo of the volleyball team, football fullback Matt Davella, girls soccer midfielder Holly Sieradzki and tennis player Shweta Rana. At left, Drum Major Robert Harsaghy who this fall will lead the Marching Mustangs onto the football field and along parade routes.

Table of Contents The Dutch Hill Castle ………………10 Council Campaign Begins …………17 Ed Passino Leads the Charge ………28 School Chief Tony Barbary …………30 Ramadan & Rosh Hashanah ………32 Meet Adam Ricci ……………………38 Death of a BeBop Wife ……………72 Sacred Heart School…………………82 Boys Club Reunion …………………86 Clifton Merchant Magazine is published monthly at 1288 Main Ave., Downtown Clifton • 973-253-4400

Brighton School Approved by Jordan Schwartz In a 22-page written opinion, Passaic County Superior Court Judge Robert Passero may have ended the long-standing and controversial overcrowding issue in the Clifton School District. On Aug. 30, Passero found that the Clifton Zoning Board of Adjustment’s decision to deny the Board of Education’s use variance for the proposed 500-student 9th grade high school annex at 290 Brighton Rd. was “arbitrary, capricious, and unreasonable.” The judge’s conclusion went on to state “that a significant need for this annex exists; that the annex is among the most inherently beneficial of all uses; that the placement of the annex at the subject property will not substantially impair the intent and purpose of the zone plan and zoning ordinance; that the annex will not create a significant detriment to the surrounding neighborhood; and that the benefits of this annex outweigh the detriments.” Cliftonites passed a referendum on the annex in a 68 to 32 percent vote on Dec. 14, 2004, but in a 5-2 vote, the Zoning Board last year denied the district’s application for a variance to build the annex following 17 hearings over the course of 10 months. The School Board appealed the March 16, 2006 decision to Passero who remanded the case back to the Board of Adjustment, instructing its members to rule on the variance without considering matters that aren’t its legal responsibility, such as sidewalks, walk routes and transportation patterns. On June 7, 2007, the Zoning Board, with three new members, once again denied the application, this time by a vote of 4-3, saying the school would negatively affect the industrial zone. The BOE again appealed to Passero, who in his decision last week, opted not to send the application back to the Board of Adjustment for a third time, and instead, simply granted the variance himself. “Based on the extensive litigation and hearings that took place over the last three years, it would be futile and illusory to remand this matter to the Zoning Board for further consideration,” said the judge. “In addition, this is a matter of great public interest where two public entities are expending a great deal of public funds to litigate. Therefore, a final decision must be rendered as to this use variance application. The 6

September 2007 • Clifton Merchant

application for a use variance to construct an annex, in accordance with the referendum vote of December 2004, is hereby granted,” Passero concluded. Board of Education Attorney Anthony D’Elia said he was pleased by the decision not to remand it back to the Zoning Board. “I’m really convinced that the political fight over 290 Brighton Rd. had poisoned the air so much that we couldn’t get a fair hearing,” he said. “It would be a waste of time to go back in front of the Board.” Zoning Board Attorney John D. Pogorelec said he was disappointed by the decision. “I felt all along that the Board did its job,” he said. “Two different Boards, two different sets of personnel each came to the same conclusion.” Pogorelec said it will now be up to the Board of Adjustment to decide if they want to appeal the ruling. One of the intervenor’s in the case, Van Ness Family Trust, indicated its intentions to appeal. Their lawyer, Charles Rabolli of the law firm Carlet, Garrison, Klein and Zaretsky, requested that construction on the project be stayed pending an appeal, but Passero denied the request and said it would have to be made to the Appellate Division.

“This Court finds that the Zoning Board’s decision to deny the use variance for the proposed annex was arbitrary, capricious, and unreasonable.” – Passaic County Superior Court Judge Robert Passero In a written statement issued by The Marcus Group, a public relations firm hired by Van Ness, the company said it will continue the appeals process. “It is unfortunate that a judge would substitute his opinion for that of the Board of Adjustment, which heard countless nights of testimony and carefully weighed the credibility of the witnesses and their arguments,” read the statement on behalf of Van Ness. “The Board got it right twice that a school does not belong in an industrial zone, a location that is sure to place children in unnecessary danger.” The other intervenor in the matter, ProLogis 230 Brighton Rd., represented by attorney Christine Cartwright Baker, may appeal as well. During arguments made in the case on Aug. 28, D’Elia said the Zoning Board was unreasonable in its decision to accept some experts’ testimony during the 17 hearings, while it rejected others. Pogorelec countered by telling Passero that there was substantial evidence to show the ruling was correct. He added that the industrial zone in which the property is located is the most intensive zone in Clifton and schools are not permitted. The judge then said that the city’s zoning ordinances aren’t compliant to building schools and they should be changed as soon as possible. “Where the Mayor and Council have failed to address the issue, the courts must step in,” said Passero. Pogorelec also argued that recent state assessment results showed that students have improved despite the perceived overcrowding. “But maybe they could have done better,” Passero said. Clifton students scored higher in 2007 than they did in 2006 in 11 of the 16 assessment tests taken in language arts, mathematics and science. 16,000 MAGAZINES are distributed to hundreds of Clifton Merchants the first Friday of every month. SUBSCRIPTIONS $15/year in Clifton $25/year out of town CALL 973-253-4400 entire contents copyright 2007 © tomahawk promotions

Former Superintendent Dr. Michael F. Rice, a major proponent of the Brighton Rd. school, presented these results at his final Board meeting on July 25. He has since moved to Kalamazoo, Mich. to take the superintendent’s job there, but he was elated to hear of Passero’s ruling. “It’s a victory for children and it’s too bad that the city Board of Adjustment wasted so much of the taxpayers’ money,” he said.

Re: Hawrylko Complaint against Kevin Coradeschi Docket No. S-2007-000745-1602 Cheryl I sincerely apologize to Tom and magazines Hawrylko for taking more of their Although n. take than I, in retrospect, should have n anyone’s it was not my intention to infringe upo nt that my first amendment rights, to the exte ate result, I actions may have had that unfortun am truly sorry. Kevin F. Coradeschi Our legal matter with former Board of Education candidate Kevin Coradeschi was settled Aug. 30 with the above letter and payment of an undisclosed amount to us. The matter stemmed from an April 5 incident regarding bundles of our April edition being removed from a local retailer. We value our right to free speech and take issues involving freedom of the press seriously. Do you disagree with an opinion we’ve published? Letters to the Editor are always welcome. Be sure to include your name, as anonymous letters are never used. by Tom Hawrylko EDITOR & PUBLISHER Tom Hawrylko BUSINESS MANAGER Cheryl Hawrylko GRAPHIC ARTIST John Feasenmyer

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WRITERS: Jack DeVries, Cheryl Hawrylko, Joe Torelli, John Bendel, Joe Hawrylko, Jordan Schwartz September 2007 • Clifton Merchant

Letters to the

Clifton Merchant Magazine 1288 Main Ave. Clifton 07011

tomhawrylko@optonline.net

Editor

The Clifton Roosevelt Post 8 baseball team reached the state finals of the American Legion Junior Baseball Tournament in the summer of 1961. Kneeling from left are F. Zimmerman, F. Kneller, Jerry Sienicki, Lou Mendyke, Ed Curreri, Simon Booths, Bart Capuano and Bob Havasy. Standing from left are E. Gall, Dave Demchak, Bob Hrabovsky, Ken Hook, Vince Lupinacci, John Rutledge, Lew LaMotta, Paul S. Bondinell, Frank Giavacco, Rich Wernau and Coach Tony Romaglia.

Paul S. Bondinell, who we featured in last month’s magazine for the “perfect perfect game” that he threw during the 1957 Clifton Little League season, mailed us this photo of the Clifton Roosevelt Post 8 baseball team which he played for. The team reached the state finals of the American Legion Junior Baseball Tournament in the summer of 1961. As a graduate of Montclair H.S. Class of 1956, I recognized the name Moose Bosson in your August edition. He was a star player for our football team, but transferred to Clifton where he was a lineman that helped to build a football dynasty in your town. But I knew David when he lived in Montclair, before he even shaved, when he was in Betty Chartrand’s Central Presbyterian Church’s Senior Fellowship’s annual show. David was mature for his age and was chosen to sing Diamonds are a Girl’s Best Friend with two other kids. I believe David was all of 13. I took a picture of David performing in that show and presented it to the former All-American from Duke at his 50th high school reunion. This guy is a hero and we from Montclair didn’t want to let him go. Grange “Lady Haig” Rutan Cedar Grove 8

September 2007 • Clifton Merchant

Thank you so much for the beautiful article you wrote in your July issue about my great grandson David Porter (above). You covered him and the family so well. All my grandkids are exceptional in so many ways. I have made many copies to send to relatives in distant states. Evelyn Kresky Forked River

To donate to the David Nicholas Foundation, visit thedavidnicholasfoundation.org.

(pictured here), back when when we were attending Fairleigh Dickinson University. It featured some of the greatest musicians ever from Clifton; Louie Budz and Muzzy Napadano on saxophone along with Vic Danzi on bass. Muzzy and Vic are still performing... Once again, thanks for the great story on Frankie and for all the good work you and your team does. Al Mardirossian Jr.

Correction: City Council candidate George Silva contacted us to thank us for our article on the special election race in the July edition of the magazine. But he also wanted to correct us on one fact that we included about him. He is the Clifton ACTION group representative for Dutch Hill, not Botany. The Botany rep is Helen F. Berkenbush. That’s Frankie Lisbona Randall up front with The High Fives. Rear, from left: Louie Budz and Muzzy Napadano on saxophone, an unidentified drummer and Vic Danzi on bass.

The August story about my good friend Frankie Randall was fantastic, but let me add something which I know Frankie would be too modest to mention: he is a Casino Legends Hall of Fame Inductee. You will also find his name on the Palm Springs Walk of Stars along with Frank Sinatra, Marilyn Monroe, Bob Hope and many others. My Clifton friends and I remember going to see Frankie and his fabulous group, The High Fives Joseph G. Bionci

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Clifton Castle ...continued

The Castle on the Hill by Joe Hawrylk o

by Joe Hawrylko Our story last month on the Castle on the Hill, pictured at right, has generated a wide variety of responses from our readers. Thanks to their comments and contributions, we have lots of new information on this iconic Clifton residence, which was in Dutch Hill. Based on personal accounts of those who lived nearby, some reports do conflict with others. However, just before we went to press, Denny Kleber, the grandson of Marie Kleber Baylis, called us after receiving the magazine from a relative. He was able to confirm much of the information supplied by readers. Marie Kleber Baylis did indeed inherit the fragrance factory directly next door (now the Clifton Skatezone) from her father Dr. Clemens Kleber, who adopted her. He had founded the Clifton Chemical Co. (also known as the Fritzsche Brothers Co., the property later changed hands several times) in 1906 with family

This image, taken in 1955, is of Bob Kovalycsik in front of the Highland Ave. entrance to the Clifton Castle on the Hill. 10

September 2007 • Clifton Merchant

Love letters fou nd amongst the rubble, photograp hs scattered in the debris and other memorab ilia give us a glimpse into what was once called the Castle on the Hill . Sitting on three wooded acres, the estate, its servan ts quarters and guest home look ed out over Weasel Brook Par k, near Third and Highland Ave s.

August 2007 • Clifton Merchant

members from Long Island. However, there was a discrepancy as to when the Castle was built and if there was anything predating it on the property. Joan Statzer, a resident who grew up right by the Castle and was friends with the family, said there was a much smaller home on the property in 1908, right by where the Castle’s obelisk stood. She claimed that in 1915, Dr. Kleber had the castle built and the original home was remodeled into the guest house. “The inside of the house was art deco. They didn’t have it in 1908,” said Statzer, backing her claim of the age of the castle. “Not even those glass cubes on the wall.” However, Denny Kleber, who based his information on his father, Jack ‘Hans’ Kleber—who was Marie’s only son—said that construction began in 1906. The numbers 1915 that sat atop the servants’ quarters was the date when all of the structures were completed, possibly explaining the difference between his and Statzer’s accounts. However, he added an interesting fact about the property. “My great-grandfather was friends with the man (Catholina Lambert) who built Lambert Castle,” said Kleber, a 1974 CHS grad who starred on the ‘72 and ‘73 undefeated football teams. “They decided that they would build their castles on opposite ends of Clifton.” It is also important to note that Statzer—and Kleber— said that Marie Baylis’ name from her first marriage was

Thienes, not Thiemes as we had reported in last month’s edition. She added that Jack Baylis was also in his second marriage and was a Commodore in the Coast Guard up in Skaneateles, NY. Statzer was also able to recall what the magnificent home was like on the inside. “There were also secret passages in the walls,” she claimed. “One went from the bathroom in the basement to the library on the first floor to the master bedroom suite.” Statzer then began speaking about Marie, whom she idolized growing up. “She was like a mentor of mine, but much older. She more or less adopted me as a young friend,” recalled Statzer. “I grew up going in and out of that house.” Marie worked for the Red Cross in Puerto Rico during WWII, where she taught English over the radio. There, she received a Lhasa Apso from an Admiral as a gift, which she brought back to the United States. She said the canine was one of the first of its kind in the country and a prized possession of the family. Over the years, Baylis also owned a Scottie named Max and a gray Great Dane named Rope. Denny Kleber, who now lives in Charlotte, NC, added that his grandmother also owned a number

A photo of the interior of a room at the Castle on the Hill, which was recovered at the Highland Ave. site by Mark Dauphars prior to its demolition in June 1983.

of Collies throughout the years, including one which he said was of the original sons of the TV Lassie. Statzer said that Baylis was also involved in the Paterson Operatic Society and that she had a lovely singing voice. Kleber added that his grandmother also sang in Manhattan at one point. Even though he now lives in Middletown, Dominick DiDonato still remembers the Clifton Castle. “I used to live with my parents Joseph and Katherine in the house to the left of the Castle entrance,” recalled the former Clifton resident of 64 years.

He and his family were friends of the Baylis’ caretakers, John and Tess Bilowith. Although he has not talked to them for some time, he said he last recalls the Bilowiths living in a senior community center on Van Houten Ave. DiDonato said that he was also well acquainted with the Baylis family. He and his relatives were regulars there, and DiDonato remembers many dogs, including a Great Dane named Shatsu. He also recalled the massive valerium, complete with tropical plants and a fish pond, as well as the spiral stairway passages.

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The castle in June 1983, prior to its demolition. Photo supplied by Mark Dauphars.

DiDonato said that Marie would come down once a year for his mother’s peonies flowers, which she used for the centerpiece on her tables at her annual barbeque. According to Mike Russinn, who knew Hans through his brother, the parties included many recognizable names.

“All the stars went there, even the Rockefellers,” he claimed. “In the basement, there were autographed pictures of all the stars, including Clark Gable. That lady was very influential.” Kleber confirmed what several readers had claimed: Baylis was friends with the Roosevelts and the famed First

Lady Eleanor was even in her wedding. Kleber added that his grandmother had a distinct fashion taste, only driving Cadillacs. She also had about 12 fur coats in a walk-in closet. These items remained family heirlooms for years. “But they were very nice people,” summed up DiDonato. “Not snooty or anything like that at all.” Without the help of our readers, this follow-up story would not have been possible. The individuals who called, gave us information or provided photos include Denny Kleber, Joan Statzer, Dominick DiDonato, Ernest Fodor, Kim Puzzo, John Nouhan, Mike Russinn, Bob Kovalycsik, and Francis Nouhan Florentine. If you have any additional information or comments, send an email to writer Joe Hawrylko at tomahawkwriter@optonline.net or call the Clifton Merchant office at 973-253-4400.

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Purple Heart Veterans Rudolph Zajac, Gib Kanter and Dominic DiPaolo at the Purple Heart monument which is in front of the Clifton Library on Piaget Ave. These three men and other individuals who served in the military are invited to march in the Clifton Veterans Parade on Nov. 4. The route will bring the vets along Main Ave., from Sylvan Ave., and to the monument in Main Memorial Park. Step off is at 2 pm. For info, call John Biegel at 973-471-8828 or Keith Oakley at 201-774-6666.

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City Council Special Election Nov. 6:

Meet the Candidates Matt Ward was appointed to fill Tony Latona’s seat on the City Council when Latona resigned in Oct. 2006. But on Nov. 6, another election will be held to choose Latona’s permanent replacement through the year 2010. Writers Joe Hawrylko and Jordan Schwartz interviewed the candidates who are lined up to compete for this three year term.

George Silva George Silva wants to know why Matt Ward hasn’t kept his promise. Ward campaigned during last year’s City Council election on a platform that involved converting to a neighborhood-style form of government. He finished eighth in the race (just outside the top seven who won seats on the Council), but was appointed to fill Tony Latona’s seat on an interim basis. This came after Latona resigned in Oct. 2006 due to a judge’s ruling that stated Latona couldn’t hold a job as a Clifton Firefighter and be an elected Clifton official. Ward has not brought forward his proposal on a wardstyle of government during his time on the Council, but he has said that he would like to wait until he is officially voted in by the people before presenting his plan. Silva, 57, would like to see a neighborhood-style government instituted in Clifton and he believes he’s the man who can make it happen. “We need all parts of town to have representation,” he stated. None of the current Council members reside in Dutch Hill, where Silva lives on Strangeway Terr., or in Botany/Lakeview, where Silva used to own a business– areas that he says are currently under-represented.

“We need more police patrol,” said Silva, who finished 14th in a field of 16 in the 2006 Council race. “We do have the (Passaic County) Sheriff helping down in Botany, so that helps us with police visibility, but I think there’s plenty of crime that we don’t see.” Silva is a founding board member of Clifton’s Historic Botany District where he is a liaison to the police department on matters of security. He regularly attends Council meetings, is a member of the Dutch Hill Neighborhood Association and a representative on the city’s ACTION committee. “I’m not a Johnny-Come-Lately,” he said. Another issue that concerns Silva is overdevelopment. “There’s no land left for Clifton,” he said. “And I don’t think we should put a fire building on Schultheis Farm.” The city is planning to demolish the farmhouse and the old storage building that are located on the premises and replace them with a 10,000 sq. ft. auxiliary garage to store emergency vehicles. As far as the school overcrowding issue goes, Silva said, “We definitely have to build a new school.”

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City Council Special Election Nov. 6

“We need more police patrol. We do have the (Passaic County) Sheriff helping down in Botany, so that helps us with police visibility, but I think there’s plenty of crime that we don’t see.” – Candidate George Silva He can’t say where the best place would be to locate it, but Silva contends that the Board of Education should hold onto Latteri Park until the members determine where they want to build a school. Silva, who has lived in town for 20 years, summed up his reasons for running for Council in one sentence: “I think I can do better than the people in there are doing now.”

Joe Chidiac Joe Chidiac has noticed a disturbing trend within the ranks of those employed by the city. He claims that those in power are feeding into a cycle of cronyism, giving perks, pay raises, promotions and other benefits to political allies and friends. It’s not just limited to those that collect a paycheck from the city of Clifton either, he said. Look around town… some streets seem to get snow removal much faster

than others, along with other city services, he added. ““What I want to do is eliminate the gray area, because wherever there is a gray area, there is politics.” explained Chidiac. This philosophy is the basis of Chidiac’s campaign slogan, “Let’s Replace Politics with Policy.” He wants to remove any chance of favoritism within a city department by strictly enforcing what he calls standard operating procedures. “This policy can’t be hurting the morale of the guys in the Fire Department or DPW who don’t get a promotion,” said Chidiac, who worked nights for 27 years as a US Postal police officer. “There’s got to be a standard operating procedure for how it’s done.” He added that his federal job, which entailed preventing internal and external theft, instilled this theory of policy in him.

“My whole life has been structured by numbers and I’d like to see a policy in effect for every situation,” he continued. “I know you have to be flexible and adapt at times. But look how Council members reacted to the lack of snow removal this past year, I can’t believe they act like this is the first time it was brought up.” The way that the DPW deals with Old Man Winter is just the tip of the iceberg in terms of a broad range of issues that Chidiac plans to address should he secure the Council seat. He wants an access tunnel built from the Senior Horizons housing complex to Pathmark because poor

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weather makes the Clifton Ave. sidewalk dangerous for seniors. Chidiac also wants to look into the police vehicles in the DPW lot that he claimed are leaking hazmat fluids. He also says that the condition of Currie Park just next door—and others around the city—are deplorable. Another big issue for Chidiac is litter strewn around the city’s streets, specifically Kuller Rd. “We could put video cameras over there to catch dumpers,” he said. “I like to get things done, that’s just the way I am. I don’t sit on them.” But in Clifton, issues are ‘sat on’, something which is clearly bothersome to Chidiac. “Things don’t change. The school problem has been going on since 1997, so we’re talking 10 years,” he said. “It’s a disgrace. We’re an established city that just celebrated 90 years and we’re still having problems with park clean up and street plowing?” Chidiac said that if Clifton voters elect him, they

will have a responsive leader, not one who ignores their needs. “I’m approachable. This is what I’ve always been about,” he said, pointing to his campaign card that urges residents to call him with concerns. “Any problems you have, let’s put our heads together.” However, Chidiac does not feel that a change of government will make dealing with neighborhood issues any easier. “A lot of candidates want to go on the November line with ward representatives,” said Chidiac. “We want to stay unified as a city. We want less division, not more.” He says that it will cause more political posturing and back room dealing. Ward representatives would have a very large influence on what happens in their neighborhood, something that isn’t necessarily good. Chidiac thinks that it is better to be familiar with the whole town. “My parents and grandparents lived in Lakeview, I lived in Albion

for 30 years,” said Chidiac, a Hazel resident. “I’ve also visited all the parks with my daughter and have participated with the Rec. Dept. I’ve got city-wide familiarity. That’s what people should look at.” Another characteristic that Chidiac says separates him from the pack is his integrity. “Last year, I decided to run and did it in six weeks on my own,” said Chidiac who finished 11th. He also ran for Council in 1982 and lost. “I campaign door-to-door, face-to-face, with voter registration forms in hand for both English and Spanish.” Chidiac also prides himself on the fact that he does not accept contributions of any kind. Campaign expenses comes right out of his pocket. Chidiac is just a regular guy who happens to be running for Council, he stated, not someone who wants a pension and then will bolt for Wayne; he’s in Clifton for the long haul, he added.

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City Council Special Election Nov. 6

“I want to be here as a senior citizen. I want to have good ambulance service. I want to pay my taxes and know I’m getting my money’s worth.” – Candidate Joe Chidiac “I want to be here as a senior citizen. I want to have good ambulance service,” said Chidiac, who expressed admiration for Mayor James Anzaldi, whom he views as a dedicated Cliftonite. “I want to pay my taxes and know I’m getting my money’s worth.” Working and living in Clifton is important to Chidiac. He’s held positions at various locations in town, including working security at the County Club Towers, Baskingers and a job as a supervisor at the Herald News, among others. He wants to see city employees share that mentality. “I want more Clifton guys in the police,” said Chidiac. “I want more people to work in town and stay here.” Overall, Chidiac would like to raise awareness in town and generate community involvement. “If you have the community work with you, it’s not all Ty Pennington and Sears coming to help you,” he said, adding that he

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would like to host another Family Day, like the one he helped Clifton coordinate in 1966. “I want to raise Clifton to a new level of awareness. I want people to participate in government and add faith and integrity,” said Chidiac. “We’re not fighting for the death penalty or abortion here. This is backyard politics.”

Matt Ward For a journalist, Matt Ward is your ideal interview. He’s approachable, gives a wealth of opinions and information even if you don’t ask for it and, best of all, gives memorable quotes that are perfect for print. Of all the analogies and metaphors that he tosses around when he speaks—not just in an interview, watch Ward on Channel 77—he probably best assessed his situation with this one: “I’m like a relief pitcher,” Ward said over the phone. “I came in for

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someone else. Now I’m trying to crack the starting line up.” The interim Councilman, who finished eighth in the May 2006 City Council election, said that if it were not for residents, he wouldn’t have been appointed to fill the shoes of the resigned Tony Latona. “If it wasn’t because of that deep feeling that we needed to put the eighth place person on the Council, we still would have been in the denial stage,” said Ward, referring to the previous elected City Council, which he feels largely ignored many issues. “The push was all from the residents.” But as happy as he was to have the support of his peers for

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or some 34 years now, Anthony A. Accavallo, shown here, has been helping make the American Dream become a reality, right here in Clifton. As President of Federal Mortgage & Investment Corp. at 1111 Clifton Ave., Clifton, he and his firm have written millions of dollars worth of mortgages which have allowed people to purchase homes. And while that work has been fulfilling, Accavallo said he is getting his greatest satisfaction these days by helping senior citizens with reverse mortgages. A reverse mortgage is a special kind of mortgage loan for seniors. “It is a safe, easy way to turn your home equity into tax-free cash,” he continued. “Unlike a home equity loan, you do not have to make

monthly payments. Instead, a reverse mortgage pays you. More importantly, you do not have to repay the loan for as long as you live in the house. It’s a great way to keep your home and get money from it at the same time.” The name “reverse mortgage” describes exactly what the mortgage is — it is the exact opposite of a conventional mortgage. That is, with a conventional mortgage the borrower pays the lender but with a reverse mortgage, the lender pays the borrower. In the past, a senior citizen in need of money would have to take out a loan against their house and immediately start making monthly payments again or sell their home. But a reverse mortgage allows seniors to borrow against the equity

How do I qualify for a Reverse Mortgage? It’s simple. You and your co-borrower must be at least 62 years old. You must own your home free and clear or have just a small balance on your existing mortgage. Best of all, there are no income or credit requirements to satisfy. How can I receive my money? You can receive it in several ways: • Equal monthly payments as long as you live in your home • Equal monthly payments for a certain period of time • As a line of credit you can draw upon as needed, for whatever reasons • As a lump sum draw at closing • A combination of the above, to meet your requirements. When must I repay the loan? You must repay the loan if you no longer live in your home. In the event of your death, your heirs can choose to repay the loan and keep the house or sell the house and repay the loan, What are interest rate charges & fees? • An adjustable rate of interest is charged on reverse mortgages • Closing costs are typical for any mortgage closing and all may be financed • No out-of-pocket expenses at closing Are Reverse Mortgages safe? • Yes, FHA and FannieMae guarantee the payments you receive • FHA and FannieMae also guarantee you will never owe more than your house is worth — no debt left on estate

they already have in their home... and they never have to make a monthly payment. Each reverse mortgage candidate is required to attend a free counseling session with a local independent housing agency approved by FHA (Federal Housing Administration). Candidates are encouraged to bring other family members with them to help in the decision-making process. “This process ensures that the borrower understands the program fully and aides them in determining whether or not a reverse mortgage is for them,” said Accavallo.

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September 2007 • Clifton Merchant

City Council Special Election Nov. 6

“If we don’t attack the issues where they are now, it’s going to just be a big domino effect. It goes from one side of the city to another incrementally and you won’t even see it.” – Interim Councilman Matt Ward the position, Ward said his role as an interim has somewhat limited his effectiveness. He has not begun to foster a formal discussion for a change of government—which he has been a proponent of for years—because he was appointed to the post and had to deal with existing issues and focus on the Nov. 6 election. But even with the figurative handcuffs that were placed upon him, Ward feels he still accomplished much during his short tenure. “The awareness level of where the city is at today has been raised. The inability to understand where the city stands is one of the key reasons that four people were defeated last year,” he explained. “The ability to be forthright and offer meaningful solutions is geared towards reality.” Ward believes his ability to listen to both sides of an argument

and address pertinent issues has become apparent to residents. “People have seen enough of me to know that I approach things in a level headed fashion, but I have no problem saying candidly what should happen,” he said. “I think I’ve highlighted the challenges that the East Side is facing. We have to maintain neighborhood stability.” Ward, who lives on the Lakeview and Main Ave. border, believes he is more in touch with reality in his area when compared to other Council members and candidates. “Besides the Mayor, I’m the only guy on this side of town,” he stated. “Unless you travel here, it’s out of site, out of mind. Very few people see the city entirely.” To illustrate his point, Ward referenced a controversial July 16 Herald News article which highlighted the exponential growth of Clifton, specifically the East Side.

In it, the census data revealed what the Councilman has been saying all along: East Clifton has been growing at a much faster rate than the rest of the city and it is not receiving the proper attention it needs. Between 1990 and 2000, the population of East Clifton (everything beyond Main Ave.) rose from 29,283 to 34,555, an 18 percent increase. This makes up 44 percent of the city’s population. During the same time frame, the Caucasian demographic plummeted from 90 percent to 66 percent and Hispanics rose from 12 percent to 33 percent. Foreign-born resi-

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dents also jumped, going from 22 percent to 33 percent. Median income dropped from $48,654.80 to $44.479.15, an eight percent drop that includes inflation. Also indicative of a problem brewing in the region is the disproportionate number of quality-oflife 911 calls made between Jan. and May of this year. Of the 828 calls made city-wide, 430 were from East Clifton. “Race is certainly a part of Clifton’s evolution and it needs to be brought into the discussion. To deny that or simply play it down is not in our city’s interest,” said Ward. “We don’t have the 70’s demographics of Clifton anymore. We have to think in the context of our diversity and the differences in our neighborhoods.” He feels that the issue has been swept under the rug by Clifton politicians for too long. No one seems to want to deal with a potentially controversial subject, which can be dangerous, said Ward.

“If we don’t attack the issues where they are now, it’s going to just be a big domino effect. It goes from one side of the city to another incrementally and you won’t even see it,” he cautioned. “Overcrowding, illegal housing, loud music, dogs barking... just general, little quality of life issues that eventually lead to residents saying, ‘I can’t live here anymore.’” It’s not like Clifton is the only large city experiencing a mass exodus of residents. According to Ward, New Jersey has the third highest net migration out of state. “The idea that people will be loyal to your city and never venture out has gone the way of the dinosaurs,” he said. “Today, people can Google information and find a better place.” Ward continued: “It’s like going shopping. If a consumer isn’t happy with one brand, they’ll go to another. If we don’t get our act together soon, people are going to start shopping at other places.”

Ideally, he feels that a change of government will be necessary to fix the issues that Clifton faces. But it won’t happen immediately. “You can’t just turn this around in 15 minutes,” explained Ward. “The first step to getting well is figuring out why you’re sick.” He said all Clifton residents need to feel that they are under one roof, something that Ward believes would be better accomplished in a ward-style government. “Wayne Township seems to have a very good model,” he said. They utilize a Mayor-Council form of government, with a direct-elect mayor, at-large and district Council members that run on staggered terms. But a change of government isn’t going to solve everything. It’s the people in there that will solve it. And I believe with my background, I have a proven track record,” explained Ward. “I don’t want people to think that I sing great in the shower but not in Carnegie Hall.”

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City Council Special Election Nov. 6

Beverly Carey Of the four candidates that have thus far pulled petitions to run on the Nov. 6 ballot, only Beverly Carey, a Montclair Heights resident, enters the race with no political background. For the more cynical Cliftonite, she’s the safe vote. “The opportunity had just never presented itself before,” said Carey, responding as to why she chose the Special Election to run over the general election in May 2006. “It just wasn’t right for me at the time. My job is very demanding. But what really got me going was when I joined the ACTION committee. I thought to myself, ‘I like this’ and there happened to be an election coming up.” Carey, a sixth grade teacher in the Passaic School System, has represented her neighborhood for

the ACTION committee since its inception last year. “I heard about it and volunteered. I’m the type of person that sits back and looks at all of my options,” said Carey, a resident of eight years who lived in Passaic prior to Clifton. “I thought that this was a perfect opportunity to start getting involved.”

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Since joining, one issue that Carey has crusaded against is Montclair State University’s plans to turn the Quinn Rd. entrance— currently a steep one-way road— into a two-way street. While she deflects all credit for leading the charge to Ed Pasino, the other Montclair Heights representative, it is a topic she is passionate about. “He’s leading it, I’m helping him in any way I can,” she explained. “But basically, the way I see it, this isn’t just a Montclair Heights issue, it’s a Clifton issue. “My daughter goes there and I love the fact that MSU is there. It’s great they’re expanding and it’s great that more of Clifton is going there,” she continued. “But we have to think of them as a neighbor and they have to be considerate. I just hope they respect the resident’s comments and concerns.”

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With more than 16,000 students, 80 percent of which are commuters, there certainly is reason for concern. But Carey said it would be naive to think that the only issues she has taken interest in are located in the Montclair Heights neighborhood. “First for me—and everybody else—is taxes. I don’t have a magic wand and I don’t know what the answer is, but I do have some ideas,” said Carey, continuing: “We need to aggressively seek outside sources of revenue; think outside of the box. We really can’t ask the taxpayers for more.” One method of stabilizing taxes that she proposed was to acquire funding through federal, state and county grants. Carey is also adamant about the need to attract new business to Clifton to build up the ratable base, using incentives or advertising if necessary. However, she believes that the easiest way to attract companies would be to sell the city’s biggest asset: location. “We need to actively go out and attract brokerage firms, corporate offices, technology businesses... they’re all going to Secaucus,” she explained. “But we’re 20 minutes from New York City and close to all major highways, plus we’ve got parks. We’re a suburb. We have everything you need. “These are the kinds of businesses that would have very little impact on traffic,” Carey continued. “You’re talking about Monday through Friday, 9 to 5 people who would be working for the company and may want to settle in Clifton.” She also added that the city does not have to limit itself to small to medium businesses, it should try to attract the large companies—the ones that pay more taxes—as well.

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City Council Special Election Nov. 6

“We need to aggressively seek outside sources of revenue; think outside of the box. We really can’t ask the taxpayers for more.” – Candidate Beverly Carey “We had ADP (Automatic Data Processing) here, I used to work there,” said Carey. “Obviously they moved out because of Clifton Commons, but let’s raise the bar a little. Let’s go for these big companies again.” Another issue that drew the ire of Carey in her phone interview was the large number of illegal residences that seem to plague Clifton. “People really don't realize it,” she explained. “But all these illegal apartments cost taxpayers money.”

While she says the city brass has identified the problem and is making a sincere effort to correct it, Carey believes more can be done. “I think Clifton needs to be a town with zero tolerance for it. People need to say, ‘Oh, I’m not going to do that in Clifton,’” she explained, while giving her own recommendation. “I’ve been researching online and I know other communities are experiencing the same problem,” she said, adding it seems to be a

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regional problem. “Some of these cities have created a task force just to address the issue.” Such a task force—which Carey said various city officials have told her is possible to establish immediately—would be made up of representatives from the fire and health departments and would be the best solution to address the problem. “I’m the daughter of a lawyer and municipal judge,” Carey commented. “It’s against the law and that bothers me.” When asked if a ward-style of government would help eliminate illegal apartments or improve the quality of life in general, Carey stated that she was still researching the issue and could not provide an educated opinion. “But that’s up to the people,” she added. “If that’s something they want, I would push for it.”

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Town & County vs. Campus

One Man’s Uphill Crusade With the intentions of converting the one way avenue Quinn Rd., into a two-way street, Montclair State University has drawn itself into the sights of one determined local who is against the project: Ed Pasino. A 1975 CHS grad, Pasino resides on Adams Terr.—in Montclair Heights, right by MSU—and has been vehemently opposed to the construction that he projected to deliver an additional 8,500 cars a day to Valley Rd. “Since February 2005, the residents and City Council of Clifton have been engaged in a battle with Montclair State University,” he explained in an email. “This is in spite of the fact that when the road was originally constructed in 1992 it was with the understanding from the City of Clifton and the County of Passaic that the road remain a one way, entrance only.” While city officials and other residents have jumped on board in opposition, it has been Pasino—a graduate of MSU and Rutgers, who teaches Economics and History at Northern Valley Regional High School in Old Tappan—who has spearheaded the campaign. He has gathered over 400 signatures of Montclair Heights and Clifton residents for a petition to stop the project. And now, thanks to Pasino’s efforts, both the city and the Passaic County Freeholders have gone on 28

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record against the project. He has even gone as far as proposing an alternative plan for the college. By expanding the seldom-used Clove Rd. exit in Little Falls—a non-residential area—and building a flyover to Rt. 46 West, MSU could accomplish the same goal. However, the university has rejected his proposal and will appear before the Clifton Planning Board at 7 pm on Sept. 25 seeking approval for the project. Winding up to MSU on a steep slope, Quinn Rd. (where Pasino is pictured above) is already dangerous, as cars are known to slide backwards in the snow. The school’s traffic study has indicated that upon completion, 55 percent of normal traffic—8,500 cars—would use the exit. A traffic light on Valley Rd. is included in the plan. Pasino predicted use will grow once MSU builds a new parking deck at the top of Quinn Rd. “This exit would be a danger to Clifton and to all the students and faculty that use it,” he concluded.

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Welcome back Tony Barbary by Jordan Schwartz Interim Superintendent Dr. Anthony G. Barbary doesn’t want to be just a caretaker. “I wouldn’t just hold down the fort, but I won’t make changes just for change’s sake,” he said. The former Clifton assistant superintendent and principal began his one-year contract with the school district on July 30. He said it feels great to be back in town. “I know the culture of this community,” said Barbary. “It’s refreshing to see old associates and former colleagues.” Barbary, 59, grew up in Paterson off of Hazel St. near the Corral. He graduated Paterson Central High School in 1965 and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Musical Education from Montclair State College (now University) in 1969. After graduating MSU, Barbary enlisted in the Army and served for

three years. He then returned to Passaic County where he began his career as an elementary school music teacher in Clifton in 1972. After 19 years, he was appointed as a full-time administrative intern assigned to the superintendent and assistant superintendent. Barbary then went on to serve as principal of School 8 on Oak St. in Delawanna from 1992 to 1997 and of School 5 on Valley Rd. from ‘97 to ‘99. He was then assistant superintendent until he retired in 2003. Since then, the River Edge resident has mentored a newly-appointed principal in Bergen County, taught a graduate course at Fairleigh Dickinson University and served in Tenafly as an interim superintendent and an educational consultant. In June, the Clifton Board of Education tapped Barbary to replace Superintendent Dr. Michael F. Rice,

who resigned to take the top public school job in Kalamazoo, Mich. Barbary said Rice got him caught up on the happenings in the district. “Rice’s focus on details helped me a lot,” said Barbary. The Montclair State alum said maintaining and increasing the rate of student achievement is his top priority. But Barbary knows that he must

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The Board has begun advertising for search companies that may help hire a new superintendent; firms have until Sept. 14 to submit proposals to the Board which will then interview selected firms. The BOE used a search firm in 2002 when it hired Rice. Hakim said she personally does not prefer using an outside vendor, but the Board as a whole wants to consider options. She estimated it will take at least nine months before a candidate is selected.

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also play a part in the controversial overcrowding issue. The interim superintendent has some experience in this matter. He was a member of the Community Advisory Committee that researched 18 potential locations for new school buildings. But Barbary left the district and the CAC before it finally recommended Latteri Park in the fall of 2003. Residents defeated the proposal in Dec. 2006, but the issue has recently resurfaced with the City Council expressing interest in purchasing the BOE-owned land and the School Board rejecting the city’s offer. Barbary said he has no personal opinion on the matter but he will support the Board in what it chooses to do. School Board President Marie Hakim said Barbary would serve as interim superintendent for most of the upcoming school year at a per diem salary of $800. The BOE voted unanimously to appoint Barbary, after also considering Assistant Superintendent Ira Oustatcher, Business Administrator Karen Perkins and former Clifton school chief William Liess.

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S WIM T EAM P RACTICES B EGIN : Mon, Sept 17th . . . . . . . . 5:30–8:00 pm Complete Program includes: Dual & USA Swim Meets, Daily Practices (Mon–Fri), New Jersey Swimming Membership & Much, Much More…Fall Season from 9/17 – 3/08. Spring Season from 3/08 - 8/08

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C LUB –P OOL R ENTALS /B IR THDAY PAR TIES Have your Child's Birthday Party at The Boys & Girls Club–Swimming Pool The club pool will be available to outside community groups for rentals, birthday parties, community groups must have certificates of insurance. All party groups must sign a contract with Hold Harmless Agreements. Children (6 & under) must be accompanied by an adult in the water. Children under 4 years old not permitted in the pool. • 2-Hour Rentals ‘Birthday Parties’ – 1-Hour in pool, 1-Hour in the Party Room • Days: Saturdays & Sundays • Time: Saturdays 4-7 pm, Sunday NOON-2 PM, 3-5 PM & 4-6 PM • Fee: $225 (Maximum of 25 children, each additional child $10) • Contact: Front Desk (No reservations made over the phone-must sign contract) All groups subject to pool rules & regulations

To Register for any of these programs please come to the Boys & Girls Club at 181 Colfax Ave. For further info call

973.773.2697

1264

September 2007 • Clifton Merchant

A Month of Celebration by Jordan Schwartz

Religious holidays converge in September this year. Those of the Jewish faith will celebrate Yom Kippur, Rosh Hashanah and Sukkot this month, while Muslims begin the 30 days of Ramadan. Muslims start their observance of Ramadan after sunset on Sept. 12. During the holiday, people of the Islamic faith fast from dawn to dusk. A pre-dawn breakfast meal is usually consumed prior to starting the daily fast and an evening meal is taken to break it. “The holiest night of Ramadan is Laylat al-Qadr, or Night of Power,” said Clifton resident Ahmad Habal, who attends services with his family at the Islamic Center of Passaic County in Paterson. “Any good deeds done on this night are greatly rewarded.” Since Ramadan is believed to be the month in which God revealed the Koran to the Prophet Mohammed, many Muslims attempt to read the entire book during the holiday. Muslims who have reached puberty are required to abstain from food, drink and sex between sunrise and sunset. Habal’s daughter Sidra is just nine years old and entering the fourth grade at School

the

The Habal family of Field Road: Ahmad, Anne and their children Danny and Sidra.

2, but she will attempt to fast for the first time this year. Her sixyear-old brother Danny is entering first grade and his mom Anne said he will try to fast for half the day. At the end of Ramadan, a festival called Eid al-Fitr is held on the first day of the following month, celebrating the completion of the fast.

“It is a very joyous time,” said Anne Habal, who grew up a Roman Catholic before converting to Islam 15 years ago. “Muslims gather at the mosques to pray together. It is a fun time when people put on their holiday best and children look forward to opening presents.”

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September 2007 • Clifton Merchant

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Ramadan offers Muslims the opportunity to feel compassion for those who are less fortunate, build a sense of self-control and purify their bodies as well as their souls. “During Ramadan, in addition to the five required prayers each day, we have special prayers called Taraweeh,” said Mrs. Habal, who grew up in the same home she lives in now on Field Rd. “Muslims are also required in Ramadan to give charity to the poor, or Zakat.” Ramadan begins on the same night this year as the Jewish New Year of Rosh Hashanah, which continues until Sept. 14. “It is a time for introspection and reflection and to review the past year’s achievements and to make resolutions for the coming year,” said Rabbi Ari Korenblit of the Clifton Jewish Center, a conservative congregation on Delaware St. This is the holiday during which Jews head to synagogue to pray and hear the blowing of the shofar, a Directions: Route 3 to Bloomfield Ave Exit. Make right at Bloomfield Ave. Go halfway around Allwood Circle and continue on Bloomfield Ave. We are located just past the Home Depot.

The Muslim Holy Days of Ramadan begin on the same night this year as the Jewish New Year of Rosh Hashanah, which continues until Sept. 14. trumpet made from a ram’s horn. The sound is designed to alert the listener to the coming judgment. Meals during Rosh Hashanah often include apples and honey, to symbolize a “sweet new year.” A round challah bread is served, as well, symbolizing the year’s cycle. Rosh Hashanah also signifies the beginning of The Ten Days of Repentance during which those of the Jewish faith are supposed to start a self-examination and repentance. This period concludes with the holiday of Yom Kippur, or Day of Atonement, which begins this year on the evening of Sept. 21 and ends the following day at sunset. The day is marked by intensive prayer and a 25-hour fast. “It’s the day of forgiveness when we get a chance to start anew,” said Rabbi Korenblit. “We understand

that it is a world of forgiveness with a God that forgives anyone that has regrets for anything done wrong.” Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur combine to make up what are called the High Holidays. A less intensive holiday that follows soon after in the Jewish calendar is Sukkot, which runs from Sept. 26 to Oct. 3 this year. “During Sukkot, we build a special booth, or sukkah,” said Rabbi Stanley Skolnik of Beth Sholom Reform Temple on Passaic Ave. Religious Jews typically construct a temporary structure in which they eat, relax and sleep. The purpose of the sukkah is to remind Jews of the huts in which the ancient Israelites lived during their 40 years of wandering through the desert after the Exodus from Egypt. Join our email list today! Send your Address to:

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Santa Margherita Pinot Grgio 750ml ..........$18.01

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Prices effective through 9/18/07. Good only at Shoppers Vineyard in Clifton. We reserve the right to limit quantities. Prices do not include sales tax. Not responsible for typographical errors. No rainchecks. Limited to store inventory.

September 2007 • Clifton Merchant

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includes Whole Sub, Fries With Cheese & Gravy And Large Cherry Pepsi (5 to 9 pm only) Thursday Monday Roast Beef Grilled Chicken Tuesday Friday Football Sundays Chicken Parm Tuna With your $20 order, add an Wednesday Saturday order of Buffalo Wings Turkey Bacon Cheese Steak for just $2 (Sundays Only!)

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September 2007 • Clifton Merchant

Dr. Unay and his staff proudly announce that Clifton Dog & Cat Hospital has again received the Highest Accreditation from the American Animal Hospital Association

Clifton Dog & Cat Hospital 1315 Main Ave, Clifton â&#x20AC;˘ 973-772-6686 Clifton Dog & Cat Hospital, the oldest hospital in Clifton, received a full accreditation from the American Animal Hospital Association, the highest accreditation bestowed by this international organization of animal hospitals. Clifton Dog & Cat Hospital has consistently passed and obtained the highest accreditation on AAHA evaluations since 1989. Awarded to a select few veterinary hospitals, this full accrediClifton Dog & Cat Hospital tation was made after a comis a full service facility prehensive evaluation of the facility. The evaluation, which was conducted by independent consultants includes a quality assessment review of the Main Ave. facility, medical equipment, practice methods and pet health care management. The AAHA designation instills confidence in the public by letting them know that the staff at Clifton Dog & Cat Hospital adheres to the strictest guidelines when treating patients. Dr. Unay, the owner of the facility since 1982, credits his wife, Edna, who coordinates and supervises adherence to practice protocol, Sandie Conklin, a long time employee since 1991, Clifton Dog & Cat Hospital Hank Harmon since 1982 and the rest of the staff. offers Boarding Services The American Animal Hospital Association is an international association of more than 16,000 veterinarians who treat companion animals, such as dogs and cats. Established in 1933, the association is well known in the veterinary field for its high standards for hospitals and pet health care. Only 17 percent of veterinary practices throughout the United States and Canada received full accreditation and had made the commitment to voluntarily participate to a complete hospital and practice evaluation to ensure compliance to these standards. Clifton Dog & Cat Hospital, at 1315 Main Ave., Clifton, at 973772-6686, is a full service veterinary hospital serving Clifton and the immediate vicinity. Dr. Eduardo Unay with his wife Edna. September 2007 â&#x20AC;˘ Clifton Merchant

Support Fighting Mustangs Football: A tricky tray beefsteak will be held on Sept. 29 at 6:30 pm to benefit Clifton’s champion football team. The event will be held at Local 464, 245 Paterson Ave., Little Falls. Tickets are $30 and must be paid for by Sept. 22. Make checks payable to the Clifton High School Football Booster Club, P.O. Box 843, Clifton, NJ, 07015. For more info, call Carl Gebbia at 973-772-6288, Steve Feliciano at 973-773-4671 or Jean Meade at 973-614-0757. The Clifton Hawks Baseball Club hosts its third annual Beefsteak Fundraiser Dinner, on Sept. 28 at 7 pm in the St. Phillips Auditorium, 797 Valley Rd. The St. Phillips Knights of Columbus 11671 will sponsor the event. Tickets are $30 and can be purchased at the door or in advance by calling 973-253-2399 or by e-mail at www.clifhawk@verizon.net.

CHS ‘01 grad and current New York Red Bulls player Chris Karcz helped kick-off the grand opening of American Bank of New Jersey’s new Clifton branch at 500 Clifton Ave. on Aug. 4. Pictured, from left, are bank President and COO Fred Kowal, Chris Karcz, his father Chris holding niece Emma, Branch Manager Nancy Iacbucci, Karcz’s nephew Andrew, mother Krystyna, uncle and Century 21 All County Real Estate Realtor Ed Stepien and grandmother Kaliksta Stepien.

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September 2007 • Clifton Merchant

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The U12-Stallions Soccer Girls are champions, winning the Northern Counties Soccer Association with a record of 9-0-1. They also finished second in the Brick Township tournament. The girls were then invited to the Disney International Youth Tournament, where they competed against teams from Louisiana, Florida, Brazil and Mexico, ultimately winning their division with a 2-0-1 record. For info or to become a team sponsor—featured on backpacks—call Al Guzman at 973-661-1849. The Clifton Chaos Girls Softball team defeated Saddle Brook 7-4 to win the 12-U UGals Championship on July 31. Now in its sixth season, UGals is a travel softball league made up of teams in Passaic and Bergen Counties. The teams in the league operate on a zero balance

budget; whatever isn’t used is returned to parents. Clifton Chaos, which is made up primarily of local girls, plays their home games at Veterans Memorial Field in Main Memorial Park, which was donated by the Clifton National League.

For more info about Clifton Chaos, email rchrugg@optonline.net. Cooking With Friends, a cookbook by the Hamilton House Ladies, is available for $10. Stop by the Museum, 971 Valley Rd. For hours, call 973-774-5707.

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It’s a muggy, rainy August day... ...at the Clifton Recycling Center behind City Hall and a smiling Adam Ricci is greeting citizens with a pink umbrella that drapes frills over his head. It’s just one of the many recycled items that Ricci finds use for. “It’s like therapy,” Ricci said of the 15 years he has served as groundskeeper at the Recycling Center. Monday to Friday, he’ll greet visitors and often turn their deposited items into ornaments and decorations “This stuff keeps me busy. I do it because I want to do.” Ricci was introduced to his job by Clifton Recycling Coordinator Al DuBois, who instilled the reusing spirit in him. He picked up the job after 23 years as a longshoreman on the Newark docks. Now, thanks to Ricci, many objects once viewed as trash gain a second life. Around the Center, discarded flowers and shrubs are planted to blossom again. Old artwork and projects made by students are displayed while various decorations and wind chimes adorn the rafters and doorways. After a trip to the Recycling Center, it’s apparent that Ricci takes a lot of pride in keeping it immaculate. Even during the soggy weather on the day of the interview, he was walking around, picking up glass shards and errant cans on the ground. “I bleach this joint at least once a week,” said Ricci, a Clifton resident of 25 years who grew up in Newark but who politely declined to disclose his age. “When it’s warm out, I’ll bleach it two or three times a week. You gotta keep it clean.” story by Joe Hawrylko 38

September 2007 • Clifton Merchant

Adam Ricci using spray paint to put the finishing touches on a recently salvaged ornament which will be hung in one of the recycling barns behind city hall.

On Monday mornings, Ricci, who also served three years in the Army, checks up on the overflowing bins after a busy weekend of recycling as he tries and reestablish order at the center. The large dumpsters and two historic barns are usually spotless when he works, from 7 am to noon, Monday through Friday. And his work doesn’t go unnoticed either.

The Passaic County Elks Cerebral Palsy School have given Ricci several awards—which are posted above the bins in one of the barns—for helping their students recycle over the years. But Ricci says just meeting and greeting those residents who come to the Recycling Center is more than enough reward for him.

September 2007 â&#x20AC;˘ Clifton Merchant

How to Recycle in Clifton Pick-up Curbside at Your Home Place all recyclables curbside the night before your day of collection. Glass: Bottle/jars only. Rinse and separate by color: brown, clear and green. Place in plastic or metal container. Aluminum Cans: All beer and soda cans only. Crush to save space. Place in plastic or metal container. Steel Food Cans: Rinse all tin and bi-metal cans: soup, pet food, vegetable, fruit, coffee, tuna, etc. Place in plastic or metal container. Newspaper/Magazines/Junk Mail: Must be placed in paper bags or tied in bundles not to exceed 50 pounds. Cardboard Boxes - Small Bundles: Flatten, tie or place neatly in boxes.

“I like coming here and talking with people. I’m friendly with 99.9 percent of the people who come here,” said Ricci, all the while stopping to greet people during our interview. “I enjoy my job. It keeps you busy and supplements the income a bit, which helps. The city gets their money’s worth with me.”

Drop-Off — City Hall Depot The drop-off site, located on Recycle Rd. within the City Hall complex, is open Mon.-Sat. from 7 am until 7 pm. Please separate all recyclables properly and do not leave any materials in bags or on the ground at the site. Recyclables accepted are: Newspapers/magazines/junk mail Aluminum beverage cans Cardboard boxes (must flatten boxes) Aluminum pie plates/trays Glass bottles and Jars Plastic bottles (#1 & #2 types) Steel food cans (tin & bi-metal) Household batteries only For more info, contact the Recycling Coordinator at 973-470-2239.

Congressman Bill Pascrell Jr. is proud to serve Clifton. Our offices are located at: Main District Office: Robert A. Roe Building, 200 Federal Plaza Suite 500 Paterson, New Jersey 07505 Phone (973) 523-5152 Passaic Office: 165 Prospect Street Passaic, New Jersey 07055 Phone (973) 472-4510 Bloomfield Office: Bloomfield Municipal Plaza, Room 200A Town Hall Bloomfield, New Jersey 07003 Phone (973) 680-1361 Washington, D.C. Office: 2464 Rayburn House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515 Phone (202) 225-5751 Paid for by Pascrell for Congress, Inc. C. Pagano, Treasurer 1096

September 2007 • Clifton Merchant

According to recent reports, each person in the U.S. generated an average of 1,643 pounds of trash in 2005, the most recent year for which data are available. Only 32 percent of this waste was recycled, a rate that has doubled in the past 15 years. The U.S. recycling industry has an estimated annual revenue of $236 billion. Here are some ideas for recycling:

Not all plastics are created equal and only types #1 and #2 are accepted at the Clifton Recycling Depot. Plastic must be sorted by type for recycling because each type melts at a different temperature. The ID system divides plastic into seven types and uses a number code found on the bottom of containers. The following explains a bit but for more details on plastic recycling, call 973-470-2239. Plastic #1: Polyethylene Terephthalate (PETE) Plastic #2: Hi-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) Plastic #3: Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Plastic #4: Low Density Polyethylene (LDPE) Plastic #5: Polypropylene (PP) Plastic #6: Polystyrene (PS) Plastic #7: Other

Sept. Installation Specials

Underground Sprinkler Systems

Smart shopping: Purchase products in recyclable containers such as glass or plastic, with a recycling code of 1 or 2. Buy in Bulk: Buy large containers of juice instead of boxes. Fill a Thermos with portions. Less packaging saves landfill space. Reuse Packaging: Give aluminum, glass and plastic containers a second life. Repair And Maintain: Follow maintenance schedules and mend items rather than toss them. Bring Your Own: Next time you go food shopping, bring old bags to carry things home.

Service & Installation Residential • Commercial • Athletic Fields BZ Irrigation Inc, headed up by Clifton’s Brian Kulesa, a NJ licensed irrigation contractor, has earned top industry honors for his expertise in underground sprinkler installations from the Toro Company Irrigation Division. Installing underground sprinkler systems the right way is what Kulesa does. He opened BZ Irrigation Inc., in 1999 after spending six years in the industry and a lifetime in home improvements.

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Compost: Grass clippings, leaves and many kitchen scraps can be turned into garden fertilizer. Compost also reduces the garbage hauled out of the city.

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Garage Sale: Items can be sold instead of discarded. Office Waste: Place faxes, print drafts and soda cans in a recycling bin. Don’t waste energy.

1940

visit us at www.bzirrigation.com September 2007 • Clifton Merchant

Fall Sports’07 • Football • Soccer • Volleyball • Tennis • Gymnastics • Cross Country by Joe Hawrylko and Jordan Schwartz The only thing more difficult than winning a championship is repeating the following year. Relish in your accomplishments for too long and you’re easy fodder for the teams that have already placed a bull's eye over your Maroon and Gray jersey. However, should the team string together a series of titles, they would enter the annals of sport history as one of the greatest squads ever. But fourth-year Fighting Mustang Head Coach Ron Anello isn’t throwing out the ‘D-word’, and his boys certainly aren’t complacent. “We addressed that the first day of practice. Last year is over,” explained Anello, Clifton’s 18th coach. “The only people that are allowed to talk about it still are all the seniors who graduated. This is a completely new season now.” They’re all gone—blood and guts QB Anthony Giordano, monster tight end Nick Cvetic, most of the massive Mustang linemen and a significant portion of the running back stable that churned the offense. But talk to Anello and he’s really not too concerned. In fact, the only things bothering him during the interview was the lack of electricity and hot water and the rain that has made of a mess of his field just before the Mustangs’ first scrimmage on Aug. 22. He’s got an experienced, hungry group that’s full of enerCaptains Stacy Myers (left) and Taryn Maliniak (above) gy. And while the chips are stacked against the Mustangs to lead the CHS Cheerleaders repeat, just keep this in mind: last year, Anello’s boys develpictured on page 61. oped quite a penchant for overcoming the odds. “The expectations of these kids have changed. They’ve got a taste of the playoffs, so they want to get back to the tournament,” he said, reaffirming his beliefs in the team. “We’ve told them since day one, every team is going to use us as a barometer.” Anello continued: “We may have lost a lot of key players, but we’ve got plenty of kids that have developed in our program. They’re ready to make their mark now.” 42

September 2007 • Clifton Merchant

Tennis Tennis Baseball Gymnastics Mustangs

Football Sept 8

at Kennedy

1:00 pm

Sept 20

Teaneck

7:00 pm

Sept 28

Hackensack

7:00 pm

Oct 6

at Nutley

1:00 pm

Oct 12

Eastside Paterson

7:00 pm

Oct 19

Montclair

7:00 pm

Oct 27

at Ridgewood

1:00 pm

Nov 3

at St. Joseph

1:00 pm

Nov 12

NJSIAA

TBA

Nov 22

Passaic

10:30 am

Tackling the most difficult question in front of him first, Anello revealed his field general, which has been in speculation since the Mustangs ceased celebrations after their 26-0 victory over the Eastside Ghosts in the Championship game in the Meadowlands on Dec. 2. “Crisjon Moreno,” he said. “Right now, he’s pretty much got the inside track.” The senior was the quarterback of the JV squad for most of last year and the coach expects him to take his game to the next level with the Varsity team.

Track

“He’s a different type of leader (than Giordano). He works just as hard, but he’s quiet,” explained Anello. “But he’s earned the respect of his teammates, coming up through the system and working hard. That’s important.” Junior Franklin Duran will be Moreno’s back up. Also in the mix is senior Matt Hunkele, who doubles as the punter. Senior John Tejada will handle kicking duties. Lining up behind Moreno at fullback is Matt Davella. A humanbattering ram, he can seamlessly make the transition to running back to grind out those tough yards that tire out the defense. The true halfbacks that will line up behind him will be seniors Rafael Polanco and Kemil Gell. Another guy who will see time in Anello’s running back by committee scheme is Al-Aziz Pitts. “He’s like how Josh Texidor was for us last year, but a little faster

and more powerful,” the coach said of the versatile junior, who can line up at full or half back. “We will be getting him on the field.” Unlike last year, where Nick Cvetic was the go-to guy at tight end, Anello has opted for a committee approach, using seniors Josh Killian, Derrick Martin and Westmore Bowman. Wide outs are pretty much solidified, with two-way senior star Lamar Rodriguez starting and classmate Ricardo Emile joining him in two WR sets. In the trenches, junior Jamir Dayya returns to anchor the center of the line after collecting All-League honors. Flanking him at either guard position will be senior George Fabre and juniors Josh Castro, Bryant Minuche and Malcom Carter. Tackles will be led by Dante Glenn, a junior who played last year. Classmate Mahmoud Ramadan and senior Greg Slater will battle it

Volleyball

Soccer

Lacrosse

Cross Country

Golf

September 2007 • Clifton Merchant

Champions Congratulations Coach Anello

& the Fighting Mustangs

Coach Anello, Staff and Mustangs! Roger Fardin and myself enjoyed meeting and talking with you on June 9. Like the Mustangs of generations past, you men are the undisputed kings of football—Group IV State Champions. We old Mustangs take great pride in your accomplishments and know that behind every great team there is an outstanding leader. I hope you all appreciate the hard work and dedication of Coach Anello and his staff. Years from now I hope you look back on the values Coach Anello instilled in you, much like my teammates and I remember Coach Grecco and Coach Vander Closter. Good luck to all of you and have a great season!

Dave ‘Moose’ Bosson, CHS Class of 1957 Dave ‘Moose’ Bosson was an All-State, All-Metropolitan and All-American Two Way Lineman and a member of the 1956/57 Fighting Mustangs, under Coach Joe Grecco and Coach Bill Vander Closter. From CHS, Moose went on to Duke University and was on the 1961 Cotton Bowl Championship team and selected to play in the first ever Coaches All American East-West Game. He has two degrees and spent 10 years playing, coaching,and scouting in football at Duke and then the CFL

and the AFL/NFL. Moose today has over 37 years of experience in Resort Real Estate, selling and managing some of the finest high echelon resort properties in the U.S. He currently owns Bosson Real Estate Co. in Aspen, CO, and Pinehurst,NC,representing major developers as well as individual buyers. Moose was recently named Regional Director for the Ritz-Carlton Club (locations below) and looks forward to helping his Clifton friends with their real estate needs.

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Call Moose (Mustang Hall of Fame) for a “Site Visit” to Help You Find a Fractional Second Home 44

September 2007 • Clifton Merchant

out for the other spot. Senior Shayanne Rodriguez, an intelligent swingman who can play anywhere on the line, will get time. “One of the things we want to do this year is limit our two-way players,” said Anello, adding that the odd man out in the position battles for the O-line will play DT. “Sometimes after kick off, you won’t see a kid again until halftime because he plays both sides. Now we’ll be able to take them out and coach them.” Khalid Pitts, a junior who played Varsity last season as a DT, will come in off the edge this year. Opposite him will be a rotation of seniors Westmore Bowman, Derrick Martin and Josh Killian. Behind the line rests the heart of the defense, the linebackers. “They’re definitely the strongest part of our team,” added Anello, who switched from a 4-3 base defense to a 4-4. The change will give his linebackers more freedom to roam the field to make plays.

CHS QB Crisjon Moreno.

At the core of the squad is Davella, an ILB who made the AP All-State second team and collected the Group 4 Defensive Player of the Year award. An inspirational leader—he fired everyone up by playing in last year’s Championship with a bum knee—he is also a devastating tackler. Second string QB Franklin Duran will anchor down opposite Davella.

On the outside, Polanco shifts from DE to LB for his final season. Senior George Fabarya is the other OLB. In the secondary, the cornerbacks remain up in the air, with seniors Ceasar James, Freddy Reyes, Mike Veal and Ricardo Emil as the top candidates. Sophomore Mike Chiavetta could sneak in as well. With a 4-4 defense placing an emphasis on run-stopping by swapping out a safety for a linebacker, the remaining guy will have to be a top-flight player. Luckily ballhawking senior FS Lamar Rodriguez, an All-State selection last year, will be floating around center field. Talented sophomore Craig Pitts backs him up. With two All-State defenders returning, it seems the ‘Stangs fortunes depend on how fast the offense meshes together. Certainly no one will take the Maroon and Gray lightly this year, but, as recent history will tell you, Anello’s boys relish fighting against the odds.

September 2007 • Clifton Merchant

September 2007 â&#x20AC;˘ Clifton Merchant

Senior Mustangs from left: Kristina DiDonna, Michelle Cadena, Holly Sieradzki, Chelsea Welsh, Lucy Szumilo, Nicole Beltran.

Now in his second year, head coach Dan Chilowicz is coming off a solid first season, in which his Lady Mustangs went 11-5. And with nine returning starters from last year’s squad, it’s certainly reasonable to expect the number in their win column to grow in 2007. “Last year, we were good defensively,” said Chilowicz, indicating where he’d like to improve. “We just didn’t score enough goals.” 24Hr Water Damage

Opposing strikers will have just as hard of a time finding the net this time around, with junior Lianne Maldonado between the pipes. The starter since her freshman year, Maldonado collected second team All-State honors for the second year in a row. A member of the U16 National Team, she turned down a scholarship to the elite US soccer facility, IMG Academy—where American

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phenom Freddy Adu and Cliftonite Danny Szetela attended—to play with her CHS teammates. However, to even take a shot, opposing footballers will have break through the experienced defense, which is the core of the Lady Mustangs. At left back is junior Alyssa Robinson, who was named to the All-County squad in 2006. Next to her at stopper is sophomore Only

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Gymnastics Michelle Ferrara, one of two new starters this year. Anchoring down the right side is senior captain Kristina DiDonna and at sweeper is junior Alexandra Gonzalez. Substitutes include senior Nicole Beltran and Lucy Szumilo, who will get time at defense and in the

Track

Volleyball

Mustangs

Soccer Sept 7

Eastside Paterson

Sept 8

at Kinnelon

4:15 pm

Sept 10

at Kennedy

Sept 14

Paramus

Sept 17

at Hackensack

4:15 pm

Sept 19

at Teaneck

4:15 pm

Sept 20

Ridgewood

4:15 pm

Sept 24

at Paramus Catholic 4:00 pm

Sept 26

Bergen Tech

4:15 pm

Oct 3

at Belleville

4:15 pm

Oct 5

Nutley

4:15 pm

Oct 9

at Bloomfield

4:15 pm

Oct 16

Montclair

4:15 pm

Oct 18

at Holy Angels

4:15 pm

Oct 23

IHA

4:15 pm

11:00 am

4:15 pm Lacrosse 4:15 pm

Cross Country

Golf

midfield. Freshman Lizzy Finkler could also steal time from an under-performing starter. At midfield, the tempo of the game will be keyed at the feet of Holly Sieradzki, (10g, 7a in ‘06) who was named to the All-County team. Currently being recruited to play college ball, the senior captain will have a bright season. She is flanked on the right by sophomore Vanessa Pino, who started along side Sieradzki in ‘06. At the left center position will be senior Chelsea Welsh, a new starter this season. She will split time with junior Elise Burnett, a starter in her freshman year who returns from a torn ACL in 2006. Rounding out the middies is Julianne Natale, who returns to the outside left position she played as a junior. Coming in as relief will be Szumilo, senior Michelle Cadena and junior Viola Gjoka, a natural athlete who also competes in Tae Kwon Do.

Up front, the Lady Mustangs will feature junior Kristina Cordova at one striker position, where she started last season. Jamie Lisante, another junior, is aiming for a position in either the midfield or up front. “Right now, she’s probably our left forward,” said Chilowicz, who teaches Chemistry at CHS. He added that freshman Megan Ferrara could see time in the attack. With experience in abundance, Chilowicz hopes his girls can improve upon last year and go deeper in the playoffs. Their post season included a loss in the semis of the Counties—Lakeland—and a second round defeat at the hands of Ridgewood, which was particularly hard to take. “Ridgewood, IHA and Montclair all went 2-0 against us last year,” said Chilowicz, adding what he expects from the Lady Mustangs. “This year, we want to split with them and go .500.”

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September 2007 • Clifton Merchant

Clifton enters 2007 looking to reclaim the dominance it lost last year when its streak of nine straight county titles was ended. Looking to make that happen are, from left, Jan Kutarnia, Chris Kosciolek, Eddie Olave, Chris Ronconcio and Enrique San Juan.

For the first time in a decade, the CHS Boys Soccer team will not be defending a county title this year. The Mustangs’ incredible streak of nine consecutive Passaic County

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Tournament championships was snapped last fall when Clifton fell 4-2 to arch-rival Wayne Valley. “It was a down year for us,” said sixth-year head coach Joe Vespignani. “We didn’t win any of the tournaments we played and we lost in the first round of the states. We got outworked and we didn’t want it enough.” A return to glory may be difficult in 2007 as Clifton High School returns just six varsity letter winners and only one starter. “We were a senior laden team last year with 14 seniors, most of which were starters,” said Coach Vespignani. Those 14 graduating seniors scored 51 of the team’s 61 goals last year, including 18 from captain and midfielder/striker Frank Vogas and 10 from Lucian Radoslovescu.

But don’t count out the Mustangs just yet. They return starter Manuel Caicedo, who put five balls in the back of the net last year and assisted on two other goals scored by teammates. Also back from the 2006 squad that finished 15-7 are fellow seniors Eddie Olave (12 games, 6 points), Chris Kosciolek (5 games, 0 points), Chris Roncancio (20 games, 3 points) and Enrique San Juan (15 games, 3 points). They are joined by junior goalie Tom Fraczek, who is the only returner from last year who saw any time in net, a place where he tallied 105 minutes and a goals against average of 3.05 in 2006. But Vespignani said there are three other guys competing for the position this year: Kosciolek, John Acosta, and John Ospina.

“We might even use a rotation in goal,” said Vespignani. “My first year, we used two guys all year.” It may take more than one guy to replace graduating senior Nick Mustangs

Soccer Sept 7

at Eastside Paterson 4:15 pm

Sept 10

Kennedy

Sept 14

at Paramus

4:15 pm

Sept 17

Hackensack

4:15 pm

Sept 19

Teaneck

4:15 pm

Sept 20

at Ridgewood

4:15 pm

Sept 24

Paramus Catholic

4:15 pm

Sept 25

at Bergen Tech

4:00 pm

Sept 28

Don Bosco Prep

4:15 pm

Oct 1

Passaic

4:15 pm

Oct 3

Bellville

4:15 pm

Oct 5

at Nutley

4:15 pm

Oct 9

Bloomfield

4:15 pm

Oct 11

at Barringer

4:15 pm

Oct 16

at Montclair

4:15 pm

Oct 18

St. Joseph

4:15 pm

Oct 23

at Bergen Catholic

4:15 pm

D’Alto who allowed just 26 goals in 22 games last year. The six returners will be joined by a host of varsity newcomers, but the coach isn’t too concerned. “Our JV team had a successful season, so I think we can bring them in,” he said. “The goal is to improve each league game. Last year’s team was making the same mistakes all season.” Vespignani said the coaching staff altered its approach to preseason this year. “We did less technical work and more physical work with a focus on defense,” he said. “We’re trying to defend better in the other team’s defensive third with our forwards and midfielders organizing better on how to pressure.” There are a number of guys that Coach Vespignani thinks can step in and fill the void left by all of the departing seniors. One of them is Jorge Atoche.

“He didn’t play for us last year, but he looked good in preseason,” said the coach, adding that they may use Atoche on the defensive side of the ball. One thing that didn’t happen this preseason was the emergence of a team leader. “I’ve always named the captain in June of the previous year, but I waited on that this year,” said Vespignani. “This team doesn’t really have an identity for the first time. We usually have a lot of returning stars and we’re usually defending a title.” But the coach said he’s not worried about the lack of senior leadership and he’s confident it will develop as the season progresses. Until then, Vespignani will continue to be the hands-on coach he has been since taking the job at the ripe old age of 23. “We need to form an identity and work out our defensive kinks and we’ll be fine,” he said.

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Tennis Tennis Baseball Gymnastics

Football

Track Mustangs

Volleyball Sept 7

Eastside Paterson

4:15 pm

Sept 10

at Kennedy

4:15 pm

Sept 11

Paramus

Lady Mustangs, at top from left: Estera Domian, Alison DiAngelo, Kim Lope, Kristen Gurka, Christina Young. Middle row: Brenda Slazyk, Dana Lyons, Alexandra Semidey, Jess Kosciolek, Sylvia Zubek, Natalie Zubek. Bottom row: Paola Restrepo, Natalia Dziubek, Madeline Prado, Amanda Kaznica.

Sept 14

at Hackensack

Sept 15

Clifton Tournament 9:00 am

Sept 17

Teaneck

4:15 pm

Sept 19

Ridgewood

4:15 pm

The development of the younger players—last year, Doktor described his freshman team as one of the best he’s seen—may be the missing piece of the puzzle in the Lady Mustangs’ quest for a State crown. However, for now, the towering duo of seniors Alison DiAngelo and Kim Lope and their setter, senior Alexandra Semidey, will be the centerpiece of the team’s offense. “We’ve got a lot of height and a lot of talent,” added Doktor, whose team broke the 500 win milestone last year. Both middle hitters, DiAngelo and Lope established themselves as a force last year through their

Sept 20

at Paramus Catholic 4:15 pm

Sept 21

at Wood-Ridge

4:15 pm

Sept 24

Bergen Tech

4:15 pm

Sept 28

at Passaic

4:15 pm

Sept 29

at Wayne Vall Tourn 9:00 am

Oct 2

at Belleville

Oct 4

Nutley

4:15 pm

Oct 9

at Bloomfield

4:15 pm

Oct 11

at Barringer

4:15 pm

Oct 13

PCCA 1st Round

2:00 pm

Oct 15

at Parsippany

4:15 pm

Oct 16

Montclair

4:15 pm

Oct 18

at Holy Angels

4:15 pm

Oct 20

PCCA Quarters

10:00 am

Oct 22

IHA

Oct 24

at PCCA Semis

6:00 pm

Oct 27

PCCA Finals

7:00 pm

TBA

NJSIAA starts

Although their 2006 record of 14-8 would be celebrated as a brilliant season in most high schools, coach Mike Doktor knows his Lady Mustangs were capable of doing much more. “It was little bit of an off season. We had a couple of games that we shouldn’t have lost,” explained the seventh-year coach. “We’re in a very tough league, playing against teams like IHA, Paramus and Ridgewood.” With four returning athletes— three of which were starters last year—the Mustangs will feature a blend of savvy veterans and a cast of talented underclassmen. 52

September 2007 • Clifton Merchant

4:15 pm Soccer 4:15 pm

Lacrosse

Cross Country 4:15 pm

Golf

4:15 pm

TBA

strong play. For her efforts DiAngelo received second team All-County and All-State honors and Lope collected second team All-League and Honorable Mention for All-County. Semiday, whose fluid-like passing sets up the precision strikes for her two classmates, was also recognized, receiving All-County and All-League honors. Blessed with great depth across his roster, Doktor will have several options as to who will be this trio’s supporting cast. Other setters include Natalia Dziubek—a sophomore who got some time on varsity last year— and junior Madeline Prado. The coach indicated that Christina Young, a junior, will likely play as one opposite hitter, with the other position up in the air. Outside hitters include juniors Dana Lyons and Jessica Kosciolck and senior Natalia Zubek.

“Our junior class is very, very strong this year,” added Doktor. When the coach’s middle hitter tandem of DiAngelo and Lope need a breather, Doktor will have several options. Seniors Paola Restrepo and Amanda Kazinca, junior Brenda Slazyk and sophomore Esttera Domian are all reliable subs. When preserving a lead, coach will rely on senior Kristin Gurka and sophomore Sylvia Zubek, his defensive players.

As it always is with Doktor, you play from week to week can determine whether you get time or take a seat. He coaches on current—not past—performance. “You have to keep fighting for your spot,” Doktor said to the team, which was wrapping up practice. He then gave his season projection. “I think we’ll be one of the top teams in our league and county this year,” said Doktor. “We could also be the sleeper team in Group 4.”

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September 2007 • Clifton Merchant

Dental Health Associates of Clifton is now...

Taylor Made Smiles 716 Broad St., Clifton • Phone 973-778-5006

Dr. Katherine Taylor has assumed the dental practice of Dr. Norman A. Sutta, Dental Health Associates of Clifton. In addition to her military experience & degree from Columbia University, Dr. Taylor, a Clifton resident, is an alumni of the Las Vegas Institute of Continuing Education, where she trained in the latest techniques in cosmetic dentistry. Dr. Norman A. Sutta, D.D.S., has announced his decision to retire from dentistry and to inform the public that his practice will be assumed by Dr. Katherine Taylor. Dr. Taylor has been a resident of Clifton for nearly two years and she and her husband Clint have a year old son, Nicholas. Dr. Taylor has a unique blend of practical and educational experiences. Most recently, she completed a training program at the highly acclaimed Las Vegas Institute of Continuing Education where she has been trained in the latest techniques of cosmetic dentistry. As a US Air Force Captain, Dr. Taylor had diverse experience in all phases of dentistry during the four years she served our nation. She is also a 1996 graduate of Columbia University School of Dental Medicine. 54

September 2007 • Clifton Merchant

Most recently in private practice, Dr. Taylor met Dr. Sutta and agreed that their philosophies and approach to dentistry were similar and the decision was made that Dr. Taylor would assume the practice that “Dr. Norm” has headed for the past quarter century. As the transition begins, the name of the practice will now be Taylor Made Smiles. The long time staff of Joan, Jessie, Lori and Patty will be joined by Chris, (another) Jess, Angela and Barbara. Other new techniques, approaches and changes will also be gradually introduced. Over the coming months, Dr. Sutta will continue to be in the office on certain days and he looks forward to personally introduce his longtime patients to Dr. Taylor and to consult with her regarding their treatment. Call the office at 973-778-5006 for more information.

Baseball Gymnastics

Football

Track Volleyball Soccer Lacrosse Mustangs

Another season, another league title to put on display for both the boys and girls cross country teams. The streak for the boys stands at an incredible seven years running, while the girls are at three. However, faced with a line up decimated by graduation the past two years, Head Coach John Pontes believes that, while his Lady Mustang runners (pictured next page) will fare well, the boys squad will have a more trying season. “We’ve got 20 guys coming out, which is a little less than usual,” said the coach, whose team went 34-2 and had second place finishes in the Counties and State Sectional. “It’s going to be a rebuilding year. We lost a lot of seniors who graduated the last two years.” However, despite a dearth of upperclassmen, Pontes will still have a few capable leaders on his team. Ryan Gabel, a senior who was named to the second team All-

County squad last season, is one of the three key components that the coach expects to lead the boys. Junior Ivan Enriquez and sophomore James Sahanas are the two other top flight runners that will score points. “Gabel’s got a good chance to make the All-County team this year,” added Pontes, now in his 24th season. “We’re hoping that Ivan and James can get up there as well.” The trio of Gabel, Enriquez and Sahanas are certainly good enough to consistently place in the top seven for meets, which are positions that net points. Pontes also said that he’s got his eye on two guys who he thinks will be making an impact this season. “Andrew Kopko has improved a lot and will be one of our top guys,” he added. “Sammy Mowaswes is also moving up well.” “The rest is yet to be determined,” Pontes cautioned, adding

Cross Country Sept 8

at Livingston HS Inv. 9:00 am

Sept 11

Eastside/Barr/Pas/AHA 4:00 pm

Sept 18

Ken/PC/Nutley/Mont4:00 pm

Sept 22

PCCA Coaches’ Inv. 9:00 am

Sept 25

BCT/St. Joes/IHA/BC 4:00 pm

Sept 28

Maroon Inv.

Golf

3:30 pm

Oct 2

Hak/DBP/Rwd/Bel/Tean 4:00 pm

Oct 9

NNJIL Champ

Oct 13

at Old Bridge Inv.

9:00 am

Oct 19

PCCA Champ

4:00 pm

Oct 25

West Milford

4:00 pm

Nov 3

State Sectional

9:00 am

Nov 10

at State Group Champ10:00 am

Nov 17

at State Meet of Champ 10:30 am

Nov 24

at N.E. Champ

4:00 pm

10:00 am

Cross Country

that a late preseason time trial will help to determine his depth chart. “We’ve had a good turn out and they’ve been working hard these past two weeks.” While the boys are young and lack experience, the girls are full of talented veterans. September 2007 • Clifton Merchant

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September 2007 • Clifton Merchant

Heading the charge for them is Susan Martinez and Sabina Weglinska, who both were named to the All-County squad last year. Joining them are Sarah Mendoza, Tara Anton, Elba Mendoza, Sarah Weiss and Alyssa Philhower, all veteran seniors who will be a major force in 2007. “They’re all returning and did real well last year,” said Pontes, who credited his assistant, CHS alumni Lisa Smith, with a large part of the success. “On any given day, anyone of that group I just mentioned has the potential to make the top seven.” First time runners that the coach believes will make an impact include sophomore Kerry Sorenson, and juniors Kayla Santiago and Eloisa Paredes. “I think the girls will make it to the State Groups and even if our team doesn’t make it, we’ve got a few individuals who should like Martinez,” predicted Coach, whose team went 26-8 while placing sec-

ond in Counties last year. The top five teams in sectionals go on to State Groups, and then the top three at that stage go to the Meet of Champions. However, if a team doesn’t advance, the top 10 individ-

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uals go on to the next round. “We’ve got a good mix of grades and they’re probably one of the best teams that no one knows about,” concluded Pontes. “But that’s just the nature of cross country.”

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Tennis Tennis Baseball

The 2007 gymnastics squad. At rear, from left, is Samantha Bassford, Brooke Mullen, Laura Jarufe, Jagoda Siembida and Stephanie Cornejo. In the middle is Donnalayha Cook, Soin Alexander, Erika Garcia, Maritza Domenack, Felicia Green and Kelly Dominguez. In front is Allison Guardiano and Danielle Tekirian.

Going into her 20th season, head coach Judy D’Argenio finds herself with a lot of natural atheltes who just lack gymnastics experience. “We’ve got a lot of dancers on this team,” she explained, pointing to senior Samantha Bassford, sophmore Alexandra DeLiberto and freshmen Allison Guardino and Maritza Domenack. However, D’Argenio’s girls will benefit from having Brooke Mullen— who was on the team for four years—as one of their captains. “She’s a great team leader,” said coach, who added that the all-around gymnast went to the State Sectionals last year. “The younger kids all look up to her.” Junior Chelsea Gurley also qualified for States and coach expects her to do well on floor and beam. Another all-around gymnast that D’Argenio expects big things from is junior Donnalayha Cook, who returns from an injury in ‘06. Sophomores making a name for themselves this year include Danielle Tekirian in vault and Erika Garcia, who performs bar and vault. Newcomers include Senior Felicia Green and freshmen Laura Jarufe, Jagoda Siembida and Kelly Dominguez. “We’re working with a lot of youth,” said D’Argineo, who has a new assistant, Rita Connizzo. “We’re just trying to build up.”

Football

September 2007 • Clifton Merchant

Mustangs

Gymnastics Sept 17

Montclair

4:15 pm

Sept 21

Wayne Valley

4:15 pm

Sept 26

at Indian Hills

Sept 28

at West Milford

4:15 pm

Oct 2

at Passaic Valley

4:15 pm

Oct 3

at Ramapo

4:30 pm

Oct 10

Fair Lawn

4:15 pm

Oct 12

Pascack Hills

Oct 16

at Wayne Hills

Oct 18

at Butler

4:15 pm

Oct 22

at Ridgewood

4:15 pm

Oct 25

QCGL Champ at WM 5:30 pm

Oct 26

NJIGL Champ at Rgwd 4:30 pm

Oct 29

at PCCA

Nov 2

at State Sectionals

Track

4:15 pm

4:15 pm Volleyball 4:15 pm

Soccer

4:30 pm

Lacrosse

TBA

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Tennis Mustangs

Tennis

Football

Sept 7

Eastside Paterson

4:15 pm

Sept 10

at Kennedy

4:15 pm

Sept 11

Paramus

4:15 pm

Sept 14

at Hackensack

4:15 pm

Sept 17

Teaneck

4:15 pm

Sept 19

Ridgewood

4:15 pm

Sept 20

at Paramus Catholic 4:15 pm

Sept 24

Bergen Tech

Oct 1

at Belleville

4:15 pm

Oct 3

Nutley

4:15 pm

Baseball

Gymnastics 4:15 pm

Track

Oct 8

at Bloomfield

4:15 pm

Oct 10

at Barringer

4:15 pm

Oct 15

Montclair

4:15 pm

Oct 17

at Holy Angels

4:15 pm

Oct 22

IHA

4:15 pm

TBA

Passaic Cty Tourn

Volleyball TBA

Look for these Varsity Mustangs on the courts. In rear from left, Bhoomi Upadhyaya, Lia Salierno and Michelle Kvitnitsky. In front from left, is Jeanna Yoo, Elizbibta Kochan and Katalina Jaramillo.

Soccer

“It was just a rough year,” head coach Chad Cole said of the 2006 season, in which the Lady Mustangs tennis squad went 4-12. “We lost a bunch of seniors to graduation and we’re in a tough league,” he continued. “We play a

lot of good tennis schools... Ridgewood, Montclair and all the parochials. It’s not easy.” However, a new hope may be on the horizon. With 34 girls trying out for the squad, it’s the largest team Cole’s had.

“I’ve actually got to make cuts,” he said, adding he’ll have 24 at opening day. “I haven’t done that once in 26 years.” Junior Lia Salierno—whose family has a long standing history of tennis excellence at Clifton High School—is Cole’s number one singles player and mentor for the younger players. Junior Bhoomi Upadhyaya is number two. Juniors Katalina Jaramillo and Jeanna Yoo, and sophomore Michelle Kvitnitsky will battle for the final position. The losers of the battle will duke it out for a doubles position along side senior Elizbibta Kochan. “I’m optimistic this year,” summed up Cole. “I’ve got two seniors here and the girls have been playing all summer. We’re looking forward to a better season.”

Lacrosse

Cross Country

Golf

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September 2007 • Clifton Merchant

Cross Country

The CHS Cheerleaders earned honors at the Pine Forest Cheerleading Camp on Aug. 16 to 19. The varsity and freshman teams were named Cheer Camp Champs, while JV was named Most Improved. Varsity also claimed Dance Camp Champs. Stacy Myers, Chelsea Gurley, Samantha Sonzoni, Jamie Lynn France and Sarah Melnik made the 2007 UCA All Star Cheerleaders squad and will have the opportunity to per-

form at the Macyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day Parade in NYC and a parade in London. Pictured above from rear: Lindsey Spagnuolo, Maura Houston, Amanda Murphy, Britttany Pinter, Nicole Scarpa, Allison Amoruso, Taryn Maliniak, Monika Szala and Kelly Moran. Front row: Dominique Romea, Chelsea Gurley, Beverly Lascina, Donnalayha Cook, Ashley Ranieri, Samantha Rosamilia, Stacy Myers, Samantha Woodruff and Kristen Marositz.

September 2007 â&#x20AC;˘ Clifton Merchant

Marching Mustangs From September to December, from kickoff to the final gun and from Clifton to Giants Stadium, the Marching Mustangs provide the soundtrack for the football season. Pictured on these two pages are Band seniors. Led by Drum Major Robert Harsaghy, they’ll be in Paterson on Sept. 8 for the season opener at Kennedy.

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With about 100 musicians, majorettes and color guard, the Showband of the Northeast performs in parades, concerts, competitions and, most importantly, CHS football games. The students attend a two week camp in August where they learn their marching and music, building upon a 69-year-old legacy. Practice continues season-long, as the music and the motion changes from game to game.

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This year’s seniors include Adam Zaccone, Ashley Parson, Bryan Quintero, Cara Reynolds, Catalina Rodriguez, Christina Wagner, Diane Neczepir, Elena Mora, Emma Gretina, Felix Perez, Freddy Gaestel, Jeannine Termyna, Jenna Lo, Joe Whitake, Katie Glass, Kim Chimento, Laurie Hallick, Melissa Barbera, Mike Gordon, Nicole Masiuk, Oliver Palma, Pat Lake, Ryan Meyer, Samantha Cerasiello, Shaun La Gala and Susie Dietze.

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September 2007 • Clifton Merchant

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Scholar, Athlete, Coach, ( )Mom Soon to-be!

Meet Teacher Lisa Smith • by Gary Anolik

CHS Cross Country Head Coach John Pontes and Assistant Coach Lisa Smith have many miles of shared friendship.

CHS Cross Country Coach John Pontes jokes that Lisa Smith and her husband are going to name their twins “Track” and “Field.” The pregnant fourth grade teacher (she is due in December) at School 15 coaches the Clifton High track teams with Pontes, is an NCAA Hall of Famer, a former Academic All American and a one-time dual collegiate track and cross country champion. Smith, whose maiden name is Giaconia, was born and raised in Clifton, graduating CHS fourth in her class in 1993. She ran track and cross county at Clifton High and continued her athletic career at St. Peter’s College in Jersey City. “I chose St. Peter’s because I didn’t want to go far from home. It’s a commuter college, it’s got a great reputation for it’s education studies and it’s a Division 1 school in the MAAC,” Smith said. The Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference is well known for its outstanding running. Smith admits that her athletic career did not bloom until her sophomore year of college.

“I ran a lot before that year, I had some great coaches, including Coach Pontes, but it seemed like everything clicked in my sophomore year in school,” said Smith. Running in any Division 1 conference is impressive, but what Smith did as a senior is something that few dream of accomplishing. She ran cross country and distance races in indoor and outdoor track from September to June that year, winning all her races except for one in which she placed second. The cross country season was first in 1996. Smith won the MAAC Women’s Cross Country Championship. The championship 5K course is at Van Courtland Park, one of the toughest in the nation. Lisa finished with a time of 19:08, a mark that was not eclipsed for several years. Smith then went indoors and ran 3,000 meters, or about two miles. She became the first women in St. Peter’s College history to win a championship in two sports when she claimed the MAAC 3,000 meter title. On the outdoor track, Smith again made the finals of the 3,000 meter championship placing second. She became one of a select few to participate in all three running finals. But Smith’s domination wasn’t limited to the track. She graduated with a 3.97 grade point average, majoring in both Elementary Education and Urban Studies. Smith was one of only 15 women named to the GTE Academic All American team in 1997 and was named New Jersey Female Athlete of the year. And then she received a phone call from the athletic director. “He told me that I had been named one of the recipients of the NCAA Women of the Year,” Smith said. “It was very exciting. I went out to the NCAA headquarters in Missouri and received the trophy. It was really an honor.” The NCAA Woman of the Year Award is given to 50 female athletes across the country. The award takes into account all aspects of its honorees, who are then inducted into the NCAA Hall of Fame. In 2007, Smith became a member of the St. Peters College Hall of Fame as well. After leaving college, it was time to get a teaching job. “I always wanted to teach in Clifton, but they did not have any openings, so I got my first teaching job in Guttenberg,” said Smith. September 2007 • Clifton Merchant

Then in 2000, she received a call from the Clifton Board of Education offering her a job at School 15. “I absolutely love teaching there. Every day I wake up and I am so excited to go in. Everyday is different, the kids are great and I love the staff,” said Smith.

She is also an assistant coach for the CHS cross country team with her mentor John Pontes. Smith describes herself as a Clifton girl “from head to toe.” “I was born here, I went to school here, my family is here, I met my husband here, I go to church with my mother every Sunday, which is very important, I’m all about Clifton,” said Smith. “You should see my grandmother’s house every Sunday night at dinner when we all get together. It’s packed with family. Everybody lives here.” Douglas Smith, Lisa’s husband, also graduated in 1993, but she didn’t meet him until graduation night “The rest is history,” she said. The couple are now expecting twins in December. When Smith graduated from St. Peter’s she had the world open to her. With here academic and athletic credentials, Smith had a resume that made her a prize catch for any

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school system in the country but she chose Clifton. Smith is a diamond that was forged in Clifton and after conquering all of the pressures of school and athletics, she has returned and can be counted as part of Clifton’s treasure. Specializing in Medical & Surgical Foot & Ankle Correction

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Richfield Rocker The Benjamins are rocking their way up and down the East Coast, but their lead singer now calls Clifton home • by Jordan Schwartz oe DeGennaro wanders around his suburban Clifton home with a cell phone attached to his left ear. He weaves around his colorcoordinated living room, avoiding the stuffed animals strewn across the hardwood floor. The 29-yearold talks to the person on the other end of the line about trademark laws and copyright infringement. But DeGennaro isn’t an attorney, and he doesn’t have kids. The play toys on the ground are for his three dogs. As for Joe? He’s a rock star. The Garfield native has been the lead singer for The Benjamins since 1999. The band is made up of his brother Ben on bass, Ben’s high school friend Jeremy Luke on drums and Anthony Picone of Yonkers, NY on guitar. After a couple years as The Benjamins’ front man, DeGennaro took over managerial duties for the band, too. “I’ve always liked to manage things,” he said. “I just bought a PlayStation 3 and I only play sports games because I like to manage the teams.” DeGennaro said he’s on the phone six hours a day scheduling gigs for the band. He even started his own artist development and management consulting firm about a year ago. “I try to bring some better talent into the pool,” he said. “There are some talented bands out there, but they don’t have direction. No one is really honing development.” DeGennaro uses his management company to help other bands

September 2007 • Clifton Merchant

Benjamins lead singer Joe DeGennaro with his guitar at his home in Richfield.

make it big, but his main focus is The Benjamins. Like many bands, The Benjamins started out playing other people’s songs, while the members continued to work day jobs in order to make a living.

“I was a plumber from 6 am to 6 pm and we’d play four nights a week, so I’d get home at 4 am and have about two hours to sleep,” said DeGennaro. The big leap of faith took place in 2002 when each musician decid-

ed to quit their day jobs and concentrate entirely on the band. “You don’t get to the next level if you don’t take some chances,” said the lead singer. It was scary at first, but the hard work paid off and before long, The Benjamins became known as one of the best cover acts in the Northeast. But they wanted the public to hear their original music also, and so in 2004, The Benjamins released their debut album Go. “The first record was a home studio recording to kind of test the waters to see if people liked our stuff and it was received well,” DeGennaro said. So well that the band earned a slot opening for Third Eye Blind at Starland Ballroom in Sayreville in Oct. 2005. “That was the pinnacle of what we were trying to achieve,” he said. “To take the stage in front of that many people who listened to our music, and to look out into the 1899

Catch The Benjamins at local venues throughout the month of September. From left, Jeremy Luke, Joe DeGennaro, Anthony Picone and Ben DeGennaro.

crowd and see people singing the songs that we wrote was amazing.” This past April, The Benjamins released a new full-length album Chronicles of the Garden State on Core Records (distributed by Koch Entertainment). With the absence of a major label behind them, the band has to tour constantly to sell records.

They play five or six shows a week at places ranging from Virginia to Connecticut. The Benjamins recently played shows at Bliss Lounge on Allwood Rd. in Clifton on Aug. 21 and 28. “The Benjamins are great,” said Bliss owner Joey Barcellona. “They draw, they promote and they are perfect for Bliss Live Tuesdays.”

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Like father, like son. Joe DeGennaro’s dad was a traveling musician back in his day. Here’s the pair at their Garfield home in 1982, when Joe was just four.

Despite the fact that they don’t have a major record deal, the band is successful enough that each member is able to make a living out of just playing music. In fact, DeGennaro was able to purchase his own home last year. “I like that Clifton has different areas,” said the Springdale Ct. resident. “Rts. 3 and 46 are very close so it’s easy to hop on a highway and go to a show.”

DeGennaro got his musical genes from his parents and grandparents, who were also musicians. Joe was born in Milwaukee, Wisc. but moved with his family to Garfield when he was just a toddler. At age five, he and his brother Ben began singing and learning music. Growing up, DeGennaro’s biggest influence was Bon Jovi, and he even has the tattoo on his right calf to prove it. Joe’s dream is to one day be as successful as his idol, and he won’t settle for anything less. “There’s no backup plan,” he said. “When you have one, that means you’re setting yourself up for failure.” The Benjamins are playing locally at the Whiskey Bar in Hoboken on Sept. 14, at Soundgarden in Lodi on Sept. 20 and 27 and at The Borgata in Atlantic City on Sept. 21. For a complete schedule and more info, go to thebenjamins.net.

Botany Blues

Nicole Hart and The NRG Band are one of five bands that will perform at the second Botany Blues Crawl on Sept. 29, from 8 pm to midnight. Blues and beer is the theme as you walk between five Botany bars to catch five different blues bands. Nicole Hart and The NRG Band are at Woody’s Grillhouse, 255 Parker Ave. Enzo and The Bakers return to the Italian-American Co-op. Big Mike and The Perpetrators will be at Johnny’s Bar. Kevin Kiley and The Outpatients are at Rossi’s Tavern and The Son Lewis Band is at Camilo’s Restaurant and Bar. A $10 cover (if purchased in advance, $15 the night of the Crawl) gains you entrance to all bars. Each of the venues offer food and spirits, and other taverns and eating establishments in the district will be open. For info, call 973-857-1467 or go to www.historicbotany.com 70

September 2007 • Clifton Merchant

A Grand Night

for Singing

A Grand Night for Singing is a musical review of Rodgers and Hammerstein presented by the Theater League of Clifton. A cast of nine—pictured from the top, left: Geraldine Bianco, Kristen Hariton, Miles Tepper, Penny Surgent, Roger Nick, Brian James Grace, Colleen Miller, Courtney Charatsaris and Mark Peterson—will perform 23 songs as an ensemble and as couples and solo. Barbara Novak is Musical Director, Teressa Kallay serves as Staging Director and Choreographer, and Mark Peterson is the Production Manager. Performances are at Clifton Public School 3, 365 Washington Ave., on Sept. 21, 22, 23, 28, 29 and 30. Tickets are $15 ($10 for students and seniors) and will only be sold at the door. Friday and Saturday shows start at 8 pm and Sunday matinees at 2 pm. On opening night, get two tickets for the price of one. For info on this and other TLC events, call 973-458-9579 or go to www.theaterleagueofclifton.com.

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Ex-wife of the accused

A footnote in last month’s historical timeline about a 1968 murder on Valley Rd. elicited a call from a reader, who happened to be the ex-wife of the accused. She wrote a book about the cold case and questions the innocence of Clifton jazz pianist Al Haig.

by Jordan Schwartz Clifton was still caught in the mess of the infamous Judi Kavanaugh case when another beautiful young woman turned up dead on Oct. 9, 1968. To make matters more complicated, this one was the 25-year-old wife of a popular jazz musician. Bonnie Haig was the third woman to marry bebop trailblazer Alan Haig, who had played with the likes of Charlie Parker and Dizzy Gillespie since around the time his young wife was born. The couple lived in a home surrounded by pine trees situated on four acres of land at 999 Valley Rd., commonly referred to by neighbors as “The Hermitage.” At 6:01 am on Oct. 9, 1968, Clifton Police Chief Joseph Nee received a call from the 46-year-old Mr. Haig, who excitedly said his wife was extremely ill, according to a report in the Daily News. City physician Dr. Harrison Gerow was sent to the house, only to find Mrs. Haig’s bruised body lying motionless. She was dead. Like in the Kavanaugh murder that occurred just two years prior, police suspected the husband played a part in his wife’s demise. Alan Haig said that Bonnie had been drinking and had died when she accidentally fell down some stairs. But Haig’s second wife, Grange “Lady Haig” Rutan, challenges the claim in a book she published this past April. Death of a Bebop Wife details the story of Bonnie Haig and presents various scenarios as to what might have happened that fateful morning. Rutan, 69, contacted the Merchant after we mentioned the case in last month’s history timeline. The author conducted a great deal of research for her book. Her Montclair High School classmate and former Montclair Police Chief Thomas J. Russo 72

September 2007 • Clifton Merchant

Was it murder? Bonnie Haig was found dead in her Valley Rd. home on Oct. 9, 1968, where she lived with her husband Alan.

introduced her to Chief John L. Nativo of the Passaic County Prosecutors Office, who allowed her to view the archives of the decades-old cold case. Rutan spent more than two years researching at the courthouse, only stopping after someone attempted to commit suicide by threatening to leap from the building’s roof. Her husband then asked if she would stop making the trip down to Paterson. “Fortunately, I had all I needed to know,” Rutan said. She found out how a woman named Harriet Holcomb offered her show dog as collateral for Haig’s bond, but with the clause that the dog could not be used for breeding.

Bebop pianist Alan Haig in a photo taken by world famous jazz photographer William J. Claxton in Dec. 1945.

Bondsman Lou Duva, who would later become a Hall of Fame boxing trainer and manager, approved the unusual request, but before the prized dog could be delivered, Clifton resident and fellow musician Billy Dennison posted his home for Haig’s bail. Haig had a lot of friends and fans and they came to his defense in 1969, said Rutan. Jazz legend Dizzy Gillespie gave a concert at The Top of the Gate in NYC along with Chick Corea and Dizzy’s Big Band. Al Haig even appeared at his own defense fund concert. Lady Haig said enough money was raised to hire veteran New York Medical Examiner Milton Halpren, whose theories allowed the jury in the murder trial to have doubt. Halpren said Bonnie could have died from a dangerous combination of alcohol and pills, despite the fact that he never conducted an autopsy, and the two autopsies performed indicated she was indeed strangled. “She was naked when we found her and there was a small puncture wound on her face, but the medical examiner said it had nothing to do with the death,” recalled Ed Snack, a 72-year-old retired Clifton detective who investigated Bonnie Haig’s death. Snack, who now lives in Lincoln Park, said a lot of mistakes were made during the investigation. In 1969, Alan Haig was found not guilty of murdering his wife. But what really happened that morning at The Hermitage?

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Eddie Linchen, a friend of the Haigs who saw Alan the night before Bonnie’s death, put together the pieces of Rutan’s research to come up with one scenario. Linchen said phone records indicate that Bonnie called her family hours before she died. She was said to have been excited because Alan was about to return home with a plane ticket for her so she could leave him and return home to West Virginia. In the book, Linchen stated he believed Alan came home without the ticket, sparking an argument that led to Mr. Haig choking his wife to death with her own hair. It’s then believed that Alan carried Bonnie upstairs and cleaned her up in the bathroom before lying her naked body out on the bed. Lichen claimed Haig cut off 12 inches of the woman’s long hair because she had vomited in it. He then wrapped up the clippings in a newspaper. Linchen’s scenario continued: “Al goes back into the bathroom to get the New York Times and its contents. He folds the paper tightly and quickly walks down the stairs out to the garbage can, lifts the dented top, closes it, lifts the empty can, walks it out to Valley Rd. to the curb, and goes back into the house. He then sits down, composes himself and calls Flo Kennedy, his lawyer, for the third time since the nightmare began. He calls her before he calls the police. He has an idea what he will be in for and is confident he will handle it. In the end, justice has not been done.”

Grange “Lady Haig” Rutan was the second wife of Clifton jazz pianist Alan Haig. Rutan’s book Death of a Bebop Wife describes Bonnie Haig’s story in detail. Rutan has a book signing at Centenary College in Hackettstown on Sept. 19 at 7 pm.

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September 2007 • Clifton Merchant

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Offering a different series of events in Rutan’s book is Bob Slenker, another friend of Al’s who attended every day of his trial. He claimed Haig returned home that night without the plane ticket and found Bonnie drunk on the couch. The couple then got into an argument on the second floor and Mrs. Haig accidentally fell down the stairs to her death. Rutan, herself, won’t say if she believes Haig really did it, but she admitted to “living in mortal fear” when she was married to him between 1960 and 1962. “He’d lock me in at night and quiz me about World War II. I couldn’t be with friends. He was very paranoid,” said the author, who now lives in Cedar Grove. “I escaped.” In her book, Rutan tells how her ex-husband had a history of domestic abuse with all four of his wives. She also quotes musician Hal Gaylor who was conversing with Haig before a show in the early ‘70s, when Alan confessed to killing Bonnie. “His contribution to society was 75 percent negative and the remaining 25 percent talent,” Rutan wrote. Alan Warren Haig was born July 19, 1924 in Newark. He began playing with Charlie Parker and Dizzy Gillespie in 1944 and recorded and performed under Gillespie until 1946, as a part of Eddie Davis and His Beboppers, which also featured Fats Navarro. It was the legendry Dizzy who gave Rutan the nickname “Lady Haig.” Alan also played with the Eddie Davis Quintet in 1947, under Parker from 1948 to 1950, and under Stan Getz from 1949 to 1951. He was part of the first session of Miles Davis’ Birth of the Cool. Despite the fact that Haig became known for his unique and pioneer bebop style, he actually spent much of his career playing in non-jazz forums, and his work was the subject of a revival in the ‘70s. Alan Haig died on Nov. 16, 1982, and with him, died the truth of what actually happened on that October morning on Valley Rd. in 1968.

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here’s something invigorating about the change of season. September heralds the arrival of fall and all the wonderful holidays to come. The excitement is equally as wonderful in the jewelry industry when all the new fashion trends arrive at the store. Each year, we find ourselves increasing our “international” inventory. Designs from different countries add such interesting diversity. A touch of Brazil, India, Italy & Israel are represented so far and we hope you share our enthusiasm for their craft. We also explored the debut of brand new designers and found so many talented newcomers. We chose one who works in the newly popular stainless steel, combined with sterling silver and touches of gold. We ordered a few bracelets to test the market and are looking forward to their arrival. News flash— redecoration will begin after Labor Day at Morré Lyons. New carpet, wall covering, ceiling and lights— and our face lift will be complete. One additional thought; we are tentatively planning to be closed Sept. 10-14, as we begin the demolition phase of our renovation. We will be having a renovation sale—so you can look forward to some sensational savings. This birthstone for September is Sapphire. Sapphire has been credited with profound powers such as the ability to protect the wearer against poisons and evil spirits. One of nature’s most durable gemstones. Sapphire shares this quality with its sister the ruby. Have a sensational September and we’ll talk to you next month.

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Birthdays & Celebrations! send us dates & names... tomhawrylko@optonline.net

The Bania Family Reunion convened in Seaside Park on July 22.

Michael Capwell ………9/1 Allison Di Angelo ………9/2 Bill Federowic ……………9/3 Dave Gabel …………….9/3 Sharon Holster ………….9/4 Joseph Shackil …………9/4 Eric Wahad ………………9/4 Christy Gordon …………9/5 Mohammed Othman …9/5 Ana Stojanovski.…………9/6 Darren Kester ……………9/7 Eddie Bivaletz ………….9/8

Nicole Julia Errico & David Richard Latour announced their plans to wed in 2008.

Shannon Carroll ……….9/8 Joanne Feasenmyer……9/9 Geoff Goodell. ………….9/9 Annamarie Priolo ……….9/9 George Andrikanich …9/10 Nicole Moore …………9/10 Ronnie Courtney …….9/11 Andrew Orr …………….9/11 Maureen Scali …………9/11 Andrew Shackil ………9/11 Lee Ann Doremus ……9/12 Dorothy Knapp…………9/12 Sarah Bielen ……………9/14 Anthony Dorski …………9/14 Jayde GouveiaHernandez …………………9/14 Manny Monzo …………9/15 Stacey Corbo ………….9/16 Nancy Ann Eadie ……9/16 Joe Genchi …………….9/16 Jaclyn Scotto …………9/16 Kathleen Gorman ……9/18 Amanda Meneghin …9/18 Dawn Smolt ……………9/18 Daniel Smith ……………9/18

Jonathan Nisivoccia completed Cooley Law School with a 3.8 GPA. The 2000 CHS grad is now attending Seton Hall University School of Law. Gloria Turba ……………9/18 Mickey Garrigan ………9/19 James Graham ………9/19 Sara Gretina ……………9/21 Lynne Lonison …………9/21 Annamaria Menconi….9/21 Peter Skoutelakis……….9/21 Valerie Carestia ………9/22 Beverly Duffy ………….9/22

Wayne Funke will be 60 on 9/12 while Dorothy Funke turns 85 on 9/16. 76

September 2007 • Clifton Merchant

dream dance paint think sew exercise Carly (12) & Cheryl Hawrylko (49) share a Sept. 12 birthday. Timothy St. Clair ……….9/22 Keith Myers ……………9/23 Brian Salonga. …………9/23 Brian Engel………………9/23 Pam Bielen………………9/25 Deanna Cristantiello. …9/25 Donato Murolo. ………9/25 Corey Genardi ……….9/26 Saverio Greco …………9/26 Barbara Mascola …….9/29 Thomas E. Moore ………9/29 Mary Perzely…………….9/29 Lauren Hrina…………….9/30 Ryan Lill. …………………9/30

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Jean Tauber celebrated her 90th birthday on July 18. At a family party on July 14, donations were made to St. Peter’s Haven Food Pantry, in lieu of gifts. Thirty bags of food and $500 was raised.

In person registration at Clifton High School Sept. 6th and Sept. 10th – 6 - 9 PM Senior Citizen registration 3:3 0 - 5 PM Classes Begin Thursday, Sept. 20 and Monday, Sept. 24 www.clifton.k12.nj.us September 2007 • Clifton Merchant

CHS Grad Karla Yeamans is among several performers who will take the stage at Woodrow Wilson Middle School Auditorium, 1400 Van Houten Ave. on Oct. 28 for Fall Fest 2007. Others who will perform include country singer Mary Lamont, the New Hope Players and Art and Folklore Dance Group. Doors will open at 4:30 pm for a pre-performance lecture and the first act will start at 5:30. For more info, go to www.njma.homestead.com or call producer Francisco Santelli of the Clifton-based New Jersey Music & Arts at 973-272-3255.

The Clifton Arts Center presents “Watercolor Symphony,” an art exhibit and sale of watercolor art by Fernando Santos. The exhibit opens on Sept. 19 and runs through Oct. 27. A reception is on Sept. 29, from 1 to 4 pm. Admission is $1. For info, visit www.cliftonnj.org. Glory Read, author of Everything Will Be Alright—an Alzheimer’s Memoir, will host a reading and book signing at the Clifton Main Memorial Library on Piaget Ave. on Sept. 15 at 2 pm. To purchase a book or for info, call 973-778-2774.

Joseph Marrocco grew this 3.1 lb tomato at his Clifton Community Garden plot. Using tips provided by CHS biology teacher Irene Dutch, good seeds from his nephew Henry and lots of mulch, his ‘Supersonic’ was certified by Richfield Farms on Van Houten Ave. The staff there turned the specimen to seeds so he can grow a larger (and hopefully prettier) version next year.

Red Robin 265 Route 3 West, Clifton ( just past Clifton Commons) 973-470-9222 • www.redrobin.com 78

September 2007 • Clifton Merchant

The CHS Class of 1962, the last to graduate the ‘old high school’—now CCMS—will hold a 45th reunion on Nov. 24 at the Athenia Veterans Hall. Tickets are $50. Call Georgette Zanetti Niland at 973-742-6772 or Carole Klein David at 973-365-2336. Celebrate the 40th Anniversary of the neighborhood and people of Dutch Hill at a dinner on Oct. 18 from 6 to 10 pm at the Brownstone. For tickets—which are $25—or to place an ad in the Souvenir Booklet, call Joan Sanford at 973-778-8337. Be sure to RSVP by Sept. 18. CHS Classes of 1958 and 1959 host a joint reunion on April 25 at The Bethwood. For tickets or to help locate classmates, call Marie Hakim at 973-246-7440 or write: mariehakim@optonline.com.

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PCTI PASSAIC COUNTY TECHNICAL INSTITUTE

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Adult students are able to complete their High School education and receive a High School Diploma. This program is fully approved by the New Jersey Department of Education and the Passaic County Technical Institute Board of Education. FREE to all interested adults. Call 973-389–4101.

Apprenticeship Program: Carpentry, Electrical, Machine Shop, Plumbing and Heating are available. For information call 973-389–4101.

GED Testing Center: Take the State GED Tests at Passaic County Technical Institute. For information call 973-389-4388

Adult Learning Center: We offer Adult Basic Education, English as a Second Language, Civics Education, and courses to earn a GED. For information call 973-684–0106.

Child Care Services Available: Reasonable Rates

Licensed Practical Nurse Program: Passaic County Technical Institute also sponsors a year long full–time days Practical Nursing Diploma Program which prepares the student to sit for the New Jersey Board of Nursing Licensed Practical Nursing Exam. Call for brochure... 973-389-2020.

Evening Career & Continuing Education Courses: • ACCA Refrigerant Handlers Certification • Accounting I & Automated Accounting/ Excel • Administrative Medical Assistant • Advertising Art and Design • Aerobics • Auto Body I & II • Automotive I & II • Bass Fishing (Spring) • Blueprint Reading I & II • CNC Lathe, Basic & Advanced • Computer Aided Drafting Basic & Advanced • Computer Keyboarding • Computer Repair Certification • Computer Survival Toolkit • Culinary Arts-Pasta,Pasta,Pasta • Developing Vocal Techniques • Dietary Managers (Fall) • Do-It-Yourself Home Improvement • eBay • Engineering Drawing • Entrepreneur • Electricity I & II • Excel • Fireman’s Black Seal Licenses • Food Service

• Golf • Heating • Home Remodeling & Improv. • House Framing I & II • Housewiring • Industrial Wiring I & II • Intro to the Internet & E-Mail • Intro to Computer Programming • Intro to the Web Page Design • Machine Shop I, II, & III • Manicuring (Fall) • National Electric Code • Networking for Home & Small Business • Nurses Aide • Nutritional Cooking • Personal Computer I, II & III • Plumbing I & II • Plumber’s License Prep • Power Point • QuickBooks • Real Estate Salesperson Licensing • Refrigeration I,II & III • Small Engine Repair • Sign Language • Skin Care • Stained Glass • Swimming • Welding Basic or Advanced • Word 2000 / XP

More Than 300 On-Line Courses Are Offered Each Month: Visit http://www.ed2go.com/pcti 80

September 2007 • Clifton Merchant

In-Person Registration Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday 6:30 - 9 pm September 11, 12 & 13

For Info, Call 973-389-4101 CLASSES BEGIN SEPT. 24TH

Clifton resident Slavco Madzarov, in photo at right, was recently named Honorary Consul of the Republic of Macedonia. He is pictured here with U.S. Rep. Bill Pascrell who were among the officials, family and friends at Slavco’s construction company headquarters on Getty Ave. on Aug. 29 to mark the occasion. Also pictured: Madzarov’s wife Kamenka and their kids, Blagica and Spase.

On 9/11 at 10 am in front of Clifton City Hall, a quiet service will be held to commemorate those who died in the terrorist bombings on that infamous day in 2001. A bell will toll for each of the Cliftonites who perished on 9/11/01: Timothy Grazioso, John Grazioso, John P. Skala, Edward C. Murphy, Kyung “Kaccy” Cho, Zuhtu Ibis, Edgar H. Emery, Ehtesham U. Raja and Francis Joseph Trombino. For info, call 973-470-5263. Hannah Banana’s Juvenile Diabetes Research: Nine year old Hannah Anolik and her family host a fundraiser at TGIF, Route 3 West, on Oct. 2. Dine in the restaurant from 6 to 9 pm and 20 percent of each check handed in with a ‘coupon’ will be donated to JDRF to help find a cure. Call parents Gary or Ellen Anolik at 973-779-2875 or write elgaralex@optonline.net for details. Clifton Police Officers hope to distribute 7,000 Halloween Safety Glow Sticks and Reflector Bags. Now in its fourth year, the campaign is based on a program begun by Fair Lawn Police Officer Mary Ann Collura, who was slain in the line of duty on April 17, 2003. About $8,500 is needed to be raised. For more info, or to become a sponsor, call 973-340-5151. 1799

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Pope Pius XII Class of 1968’s golf outing is Sept. 22 at the Water Gap Country Club near the Delaware Water Gap in PA. Cost is $100 for golf and dinner or $35 for just dinner at 5 pm. Contact Greg Barkowsky at 570-383-1513 or gmbarkowsky@yahoo.com or Joe Mathias at 973-473-7532 or joe.mathias@aceweb.com to sign up for the remaining spaces. The Coalition for Brain Injury Research’s 8th annual “Cure for Traumatic Brain Injury Walk-a-thon” dedicated to Dennis John Benigno is on Oct. 21. The three mile walk will start 9 am at Clifton City Hall. Walkers, sponsors and donations are welcome. Brain injuries strike without warning causing a lifetime of suffering for victims and families. Proceeds will benefit the search for a cure. Call 973-632-2066 for details. Avon Walk For Breast Cancer ‘Champion’ Janet Mozolewski reminds readers that pledge checks are needed by Sept. 7 to help this Cliftonite reach her goal of raising $10,000 for the Oct. 6 walk in NYC. Make check payable to Avon Walk For Breast Cancer and mail to Janet Mozolewski, 78 Scoles Ave., Clifton, NJ 07012. For info, go to http://tinyurl.com/yfq4qw.

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From the ashes...

to the Future

A 1981 fire at Sacred Heart School in Botany destroyed the auditorium and part of the school, both of which were rebuilt.

Even a fire couldn’t stop the spirit of Sacred Heart School. On March 11, 1981, a fire destroyed the auditorium and part of the school. Other parishes in the diocese offered the use of their schools and facilities and Pastor/Father Julian B. Varettoni proposed a unique plan for the use of classrooms at SHS. It included preparing classrooms to double as offices, cafeteria, gym, kitchen and nurse’s rooms during the day and meeting and bingo rooms at night.

The $50,000 investment included an inter-classroom communication system, air conditioning and the installation of a closed circuit color TV network. The school took the tragedy of the fire and turned it into a positive. This is the type of spirit that has kept Sacred Heart relevant since its opening in Sept. 1953. It started with 92 students in four classrooms. Sister Mary Gagliardi served as the first principal with a staff of three Filippini Sisters.

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973.478.6180 82

September 2007 • Clifton Merchant

1642

On Dec. 6, 1953, Bishop McNulty celebrated a Pontifical High Mass and blessed and dedicated the school and auditorium. By the 1967-68 school year, managing an elementary school had become a heavy financial responsibility and the payment of a debt exceeding $300,000 was the top priority for the parish. It was decided that a tuition of $40 per year would be an appropriate fee which would benefit the school without burdening the parents. In Sept. 1967, the ParentsTeachers Association also began sponsoring an additional night of bingo in order to raise money. Finally, on Dec. 2, 1972, Rev. Varettoni, conducted a ceremony to “burn the mortgage,” which signified that payments were completed on the Botany church. But with the 20th anniversary of the school in 1973, it became obvious that the expense associated with running SHS was becoming a burden and the church had to subsidize a larger portion of its cost.

Joe Triolo ‘66, Raena Macaluso-McCreath ‘92, Victor Sala ‘66, Micky Da Giau ‘66, Ralph Celentano ‘66, Fred Harraka ‘93

The 80th anniversary of the parish and 25th anniversary of the school were co-celebrated on Dec. 3, 1977. The year also marked the first time in SHS history that the church had remained debt free for five years. In Feb. 1979, the parish began a renovation project and the school was again used as the church. The birth rate dropped considerably during the 1970s and many schools were forced to close their doors due to low enrollment. By 1978, SHS was costing more than $100,000 a year and enrollment had been declining because there were less kids in the parish. That year, there were 169 children in the school and the parish census showed

only 82 kids under the age of five, not all of whom would attend SHS. The students that were going to Sacred Heart School were scoring well on standardized tests. Their scores were consistently above the national average and among the top ten percent of the diocese. The issue of dropping enrollment and heightened cost per pupil would have to be resolved if SHS was to continue. Varettoni pledged his complete support to the school and worked to find answers to the problem. Some considered consolidating the school with neighboring St. Cyril’s, but the proposed merger did not receive the support of St. Cyril’s and the matter was not pursued.

Parents and parishioners started Midnight Bingo and conducted auctions and sales in order to raise money, while students sold candy and staged performances. Another blow was dealt to the school in May 1979, when the Provincial Superior told Varettoni that the Religious Teachers Filippini Sisters would be withdrawn from the staff. The order was experiencing a drop in participants and since the enrollment at SHS was smaller than that of other schools taught by these nuns, it was felt that less families would be negatively affected by the withdrawal of the Sisters. Inflation during the ‘80s led to more problems at the school.

Spread the word about our reunion...

Ann Lynch ‘92

Joe Slawinski ‘92

Devin Ravettine ‘92

David Varano ‘92

Support Sacred Heart School’s History

Fred Harraka ‘93

Jennifer Weiss ‘93

Attend a reunion of all classes on Sat. Nov. 24 at Sacred Heart School, 43 Clifton Ave, Clifton. Buffet $45/person • Proceeds benefit Our School! call Vic Terranova 973-478-6180 Toni Russin 973-546-4695 September 2007 • Clifton Merchant

Clair Greco ‘66, Mark Carafora ‘93, Albert Vecellio ‘66, Laura Sala ‘66, Henry Sinatra‘66 and James Terranova ‘66.

By 1984, Rainbow Montessori was renting two rooms and the enrollment in Sacred Heart had increased 65 percent due to the successful child care feeder program. The School Sisters of Notre Dame took over supervision of the school in Sept. 1986 and within a

year, the school enrollment reached 240. In the 1990s, several improvements were made to the school. A new roof was installed in 1992. The next year, the parking lot received new lighting and repaving. In 1994, a new Science/Art Lab was constructed in the basement,

On Dec. 6, 1953, Bishop McNulty celebrated a Pontifical High Mass and blessed and dedicated the school and auditorium. Above, a procession around the grounds.

and in 1996, an external walk-in refrigerator and freezer was added to the kitchen. Finally, in 1997, an additional classroom was built in the balcony and a new faculty lounge was constructed in the basement. Sacred Heart School celebrates its 54th anniversary this September and SHS invites back all alumni, staff and their friends and family to attend a reunion on Nov. 24. As former students return to Sacred Heart, they might not be familiar with some of the external changes that have been made over the years, but they will no doubt recognize the school’s everlasting spirit.

Operating costs increased and low enrollment heightened the burden on each family as they attempted to fund a budget of $132,000. A new tuition policy was put in place in Sept. 1980 requiring $450 for the first child, $300 for the second and $200 for the third and fourth. Following the fire in 1981, new programs were introduced at the school. The Rainbow Montessori School rented one of the empty classrooms and Sacred Heart began its own Pre-K program. In Sept. 1983, a Child Care Center, open from 6:30 am to 6 pm was started. In March 1984, the National Catholic Education Association selected SHS as one of the most successful schools in the nation.

September 2007 • Clifton Merchant

Advertising Opportunities… In October, Clifton Merchant offers two special editions. The Fire Prevention Activity and Coloring Book and a Home Improvements Guide. Call Tom Hawrylko at 973-253-4400 for details.

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September 2007 • Clifton Merchant

Celebrate The Club Over the past several months, we have been writing about the Boys & Girls Club of Clifton and how it has evolved over its first 60 years. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve featured photos from the past (please help us identify this chief at left) and present, and told of programs that began decades ago and continue to this day. Now, organizers want all of us who have in some way been touched by the Club to come to the 60th anniversary celebration on Nov. 2 from 6 to 10 pm at its Clifton Ave. facility. Planning the gala are alumni Tom Acton, Frank Carlet, Dante Liberti, Sean Gunby, Rob Haraka, Paul Liberti, Joann Rean, Brenda Rubio-Van Malden, Lori Slater-Brigati and Executive Director Robert Foster The event will be a meet, greet and celebration... a time to connect with old friends, an opportunity to support the Club of today and to set firm the foundation for the Club of tomorrow. The Boys & Girls Club of Clifton has come a long way from its founding in Botany in 1947. Located at 820 Clifton Ave. since 1958, the Club remains at the forefront of youth development for kids from all walks of life.

Bob Lipala and some friends at Camp Clifton. 86

September 2007 â&#x20AC;˘ Clifton Merchant

60th Anniversary Celebration on Nov. 2

September 2007 â&#x20AC;˘ Clifton Merchant

Seahawks Swim Team Three members of the Seahawks Swim Team got some national swimming meet experience last month when the Clifton Boys & Girls Club squad traveled to Buffalo, NY for the 2007 Summer Eastern Zone Meet. Jasmine Spinely, 9, of Clifton, Ralph Cannorozzi, 10, of Hasbrouck Heights, and Andrew Reimon, 14, of Rutherford made the trip Aug. 8-11. Spinely, who has been swimming for four years, swam the 50 and 100 meter backstroke and the 50 meter freestyle races. Cannorozzi, who’s been in the water for five years, competed in the 50 and 100 meter breaststroke and 100 meter butterfly. Reimon, also a five-year veteran of the pool, swam the 100 meter breaststroke. Swim program coordinator Nadia Stavko credited the kids for their hard work, noting that they only have a few weeks off between the end of the summer session and the start of the Sept. to March season.

Seahawks Coach Vladimir Popyel. 88

September 2007 • Clifton Merchant

Seahawks Jasmine Spinely, Andrew Reimon and Ralph Cannorozzi represented the Clifton Boys & Girls Club at the Eastern Zone Meet in Buffalo, NY last month.

“Usually kids say they’re tired and they want a break, but these kids really dedicate themselves,” said Stavko. She also credits the swimmers’ parents, Coach Vladimir Popyel and Club Executive Director Bob Foster for their support. It cost $800 for each child to make the trip to Buffalo, $500 of which was covered by scholarships handed out by the Club. In order to make it to the Zone Meet, swimmers must be in the Junior Olympics swim group and meet qualification times. Spinely, Cannorozzi and Reimon were the only three to qualify but Stavkos said the other nine partici-

pants on the long course Seahawks team should also be recognized for their contributions. They are Tayana Castro, Samantha Poulis, Ilada Manomat, Britni Miller, Stephanie Urresty, Kim Martinez, Maeiej Paz, Ryan Santiago and Gio Urquille. The Seahawks Swim Team is open to all competitive swimmers from age 5 and up who swim at a Level 4 or above skill. Swimmers are expected to attend all practices, take part in all dual and United States of America Swimming meets. For more on how to become a member of the Seahawks, call 973by Jordan Schwartz 773-2697.

Celebrate The Club… Gala set for Nov. 2. Today, more than 5,000 boys and girls are taking adva.ntage of the services provided by the Club which offers access to a wide variety of programs. Summer Camp Clifton has been a staple at the Club for years, with day-to-day activities such as sports, swimming, arts and crafts, educational programs and field trips. A variety of Child Care Programs are offered at the Club as well. The Gingerbread House provides daily care for preschoolers and about 550 kids take part in After School Day Care. The Boys & Girls Club of Clifton is a place where kids take part in a broad range of character building, recreational and educational programs and are provided with a chance to set and achieve goals, make friends and simply have a good time. For additional information on the Club or the Gala Beefsteak, or to make a tax exempt contribution, visit or call Executive Director Bob Foster at 973-773-0966, write him at rfoster@bgcclifton.org or go online to www.bgcclifton.org.

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There Are Fish There’s Fish In In Racy’s Pond

Fish are still in Racy’s Pond and these kids were enjoying their last few days of summer fishing just off Main Ave. From left, Joseph Walker, 6, who attends School 1, his sister Gianna, 3, and Samantha Russell, 7, who goes to School 2. Samantha caught a ‘sunny’ the day this photo was taken.

Watch Dr. David Moore on ‘Health Talk’ on Clifton Channel 77 Friday 9:30 pm & Sunday at 8 pm

Educating Parents and Children on the long term effects of heavy and improperly worn backpacks is another service of On Track Chiropractic. Call to have a complimentary back pack fitting & computerized screening during September.

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September 2007 • Clifton Merchant

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