We’re celebrating the small businesses of our home town.
Johnny can cook anything — just ask those who know Jon Kushnir best. But if you want a slow, fire-roasted whole hog, he’s also your guy.
Kushnir’s business, Smokey Boys BBQ & Catering, is among those that we connected with for May’s Small Business Month. Smokey Boys was founded about seven years ago. Yet the Connecticut native has always had a passion for cooking. Kushnir graduated culinary school at Johnson & Wales University in 2000. He worked at his family’s business, New England Meat Company, in the Bronx.
Moving to New Jersey is when his friend volunteered him to cook for the Athenia Veterans Post.
“I put a lot of love into cooking,” said Kushnir, 41. “After I did the pig roast for the veterans, I was like, ‘Wow, I enjoy this.’” So it began.
Smokey Boys is Kushnir’s self-described one-man “side gig.” His day job is working as part of “the heartbeat” of Morristown Airport in facilities/operations. Prior to the coronavirus pandemic, Kushnir would cater one to two pig roasts every weekend throughout the summer.
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What got him “rocking and rolling” is now an expense many people cannot afford. But he’s still out there. At the end of April, Kushnir already solidified two roasts each in May and June.
He was gearing up for the 13th Annual Pig Roast by The Friends of The Athenia Veterans Post on June 17 from 1-6 pm at 147 Huron Ave. Another event is the 4th Annual Scotty Mac’s Sippy Poo BBQ on May 6 from noon to 5 pm. It’s held at Demarest Farms, 244 Werimus Rd, Hillsdale, and benefits The Fisher House Foundation. Buy $35 per person tickets at demarestfarms.com.
Kushnir expects Athenia Vets to pull about 100-130 people. In Hillsdale, Kushnir’s hoping for a number closer to 600. He’s done other catering gigs in the past with about 4,000 people per day.
“The bigger [the event], the better. I have big equipment so that I can cook for a lot of people.”
Kushnir has a 20-foot trailer and bought a wood fire rig to practice on when he first got started. He heats the
charcoal all night and said preparation takes about one hour for every 10-pound swine.
“Say it’s a 120-pounder That’s at least 12 hours of cooking if everything is going perfect,” he said.
“Then add on an hour or an hour and a half because it never goes perfect.”
Kushnir gets many repeat customers and actively services New Jersey and New York. He’s also brought his truck to Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Pennsylvania. It’s something to share with his family.
Kushnir is married to Larissa (Diduch), who grew up in Clifton and teaches at School 13. The couple have a daughter and son, aged seven and five.
“My daughter already wants to be the one who’s taking orders and collecting money,” said Kushnir. “My son wants to be a pig roaster with me. One day I saw him loading up the trailer and he said, ‘We’re going to a pig roast, Dad.’”
Keep reading for more small businesses stories...
If you see the Championship Yankees, Giants or a group of celebrities on a parade float in NYC, know that the floating stage was made in Clifton. You can also see it closer than just on your TV or in your newspaper.
Located today at 111 Clifton Blvd, Bond Parade Floats has had multiple transformations. That doesn’t mean that it hasn’t kept its purpose of serving its communities. Dating back to WWII, founder Gilbert Bond would drive around and sell war bonds.
After the war ended, the business switched gears with the evolving economy.
“They advertised movies,” said Robert DeVito, Sr. “They drove floats around with commercials to go see this, go see that.”
By the late 1950s, they developed into parade floats. The second owner, Rudolph Ehrlich, was a gentleman who took over for Bond. Robert Sr. started working for Ehrlich in 1974, straight out of college, and was an artist who designed floats and painted backgrounds.
“There were no computers and printing stuff up,” laughed Robert Sr., 72. “I would do everything by hand back then. I became a pretty good sign painter.”
Robert Sr.’s background included two years of junior college in Trenton, then attending William Paterson. He earned a bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts with a teacher’s certification, although he never taught. He bought the business from Ehrlich in 1980.
Fast forward four decades, his son Robert Jr. (CHS 2000) is running the company.
“I’m just so glad my son followed along with me and kept it in the family,” said Robert Sr. “I’m 72 and still working. It’s a nice thing.”
Bond Parade Floats originated in Wallington, but Robert Sr. later worked in our city for a few years under Ehrlich. Once he paid off the business, he bought the building in the early 80’s.
Ushering in a new era, Robert Sr. saw how parades grew and a demand for floats followed suit.
“More ethnic groups started their parades. Parades that were never done before,” he said. “Sikh parades, Chinese parades. When I started here, those parades didn’t exist but they blossomed.”
Robert Jr. added that a lot of the diversification took shape as new ethnicities moved to the U.S. “There used to be no Mexican parades,” said Robert Jr., 41. “All of a sudden — there were five different Mexican parades.”
Robert Sr. said that trying to make everyone happy and working within their budgets is important to them. Both men also agreed that their business’s mission is making sure anyone who wants a float is given that opportunity.
“Everyone deserves a voice,” said Robert Jr. “There are different parades that start smaller than others, and somebody has to work with them to make it work. To give them the ability to grow.”
It may mean giving a committee a single float for their first year. Five years later, they may make 15 floats for them. One major growth and source of revenue are Pride Parade floats. They make floats for pride parades in NYC, Asbury Park, Newark, D.C., Brooklyn, and Queens.
When World Pride was in NYC in 2019 for the 50th Anniversary of the Stonewall Riots, it was a massive project. Bond Parade Floats sold out as many as 50 floats.
“[Pride parades were] super taboo, if you will. It started small, like most parades,” said Robert Jr. “It then gained momentum and popularity. The growing voice of each community means their particular parade can grow as a result.”
The business has contributed floats to different sized groups over the years. From the smallest churches to the T-Mobiles of the world. Some of the represented cultures were Israeli, Pakistani, Turkish, West Indian, Peruvian, Hispanic, Nigerian, Polish, and Italian.
They also do celebratory and special interest floats, like the New York Giants Championship and holidays. In Clifton, they create floats for Veterans and Memorial Day, Boys Scouts, the VFW, Knights of Columbus, and the Christmas float that accompanies Santa around the city. No event or organization is too small. The business
has roughly 10 to 12 full-time workers and a handful of weekend workers for parade days. If they have 40 floats, they need 40 drivers.
What Robert Jr. appreciates about working with his father is the experience and the knowledge that he brings to the process.
“We get along very well, which helps a lot,” said Robert Jr. “I see him more than I see my wife.”
Robert Jr.’s higher education was from his father’s alma mater. As opposed to Robert Sr.’s focus on sculpting and painting, Robert Jr.’s degree emphasized drawing and graphic design.
“It’s a good balance of old school and new school,” said Robert Jr.
Stand-out floats included Robert Sr. doing floats for former President Ronald Reagan’s 1985 Inaugural Parade, which was canceled due to cold. More recently, they made floats for former President Barack Obama’s 2008 Inaugural Parade.
Whether they travel as south as D.C. or as north as Boston, they’re always eager to add a new parade to the line-up. Next week is their second annual Japan Day Parade. At the end of the day, it’s a learning experience for all involved. “We went from being art majors to history majors,” laughed Robert Sr.
Pharmacy has changed over the decades, but Sara Damiano saw major changes occur in a quick period during the COVID-19 pandemic. The institution that has existed for thousands of years is one that Damiano hopes endures for a thousand more years.
“People need their pharmacists,” said Damiano, 47. “People come in here all the time to ask us questions. We’re the first line of defense.”
She’s referring to Damiano Pharmacy, at 270 Parker Ave. The store, which recently marked 90 years, was established in February of 1933. Damiano is the pharmacy’s third-generation owner. Her grandfather Joseph opened its doors. Her father, John, became co-owner in the 1970s and the full owner by the 1980s.
There are about 15 staff members today. Among the pharmacists are Damiano (CHS 1994), her uncle John Dufleid, who has worked there for over 60 years; Oksana Boroday, who has worked there for a couple of years and speaks Russian and Ukrainian; and John. Damiano said they’re looking to hire an additional pharmacist.
To celebrate 90, the pharmacy displayed a window with their old cash register. They also put up photos from “back in the day” and are looking for more. Damiano added that she had hoped to do more, but they had debated for a while whether the anniversary was in February or March.
“When I found out that it was February, I got everything together really quick,” she said. “For 100 years, I’ll do something really big.”
As Clifton’s oldest pharmacy, they’ve seen a lot. Damiano said the pharmacy is situated within a niche community. The area was once highly populated by Italian families. Now, the demographic includes Spanish, Ukrainian, Russian, and Polish families.
“A lot of our patients come to us because they know they can rely on us,” said Damiano. “We hire within the community, which gives them a sense of security. We speak multiple languages to make sure that we’re here for everybody that’s in our local area.”
Despite the changing scenery, certain things have remained the same. Damiano Pharmacy, first and foremost, wants to take care of others. Whether it’s during a pandemic or amidst the Great Depression, in Joseph’s case.
“It wasn’t all that easy to get a hold of medicine or money. He was here for the community,” said Damiano. “Sometimes [clientele] would pay him with chickens or eggs.”
Entering the pharmaceuticals world always had curb appeal for Damiano. Growing up, she went to School 3 and CCMS. She credited Clifton Public Schools for its “great education” and variety of science opportunities in high school.
In later years, she attended the University of Rhode Island for her undergraduate degree before attending pharmacy school at St. John’s University in Queens, NY. In 2014, Damiano became partners with her father and assumed full ownership about two or three years ago.
“It’s awesome [to work with my dad]. He’s a great guy,”
she said. “I have learned so much from him. I couldn’t ask for a better partner.”
She continued that she has a niece and a nephew who, though young, indicated that they might be interested in joining the pharmacy in the future.
“We hope to keep it in the family if we can,” said Damiano. “Hopefully we will be here for another 90 years.”
Loyalty is what Kathy Vera Tudela admires most about Clifton’s residents.
Tudela is co-owner of Santa Brasa, at 1291 Main Ave., with her sister, Yanina Zampetoulas, and their mother, Luz Marina Sota. The restaurant opened in Downtown Clifton on June 8, 2021.
One of the first things Tudela, 54, said she noticed was that the city streets were clean and the customers were loyal.
“People that live in Clifton like to … eat local,” said Tudela. “That’s what I like the most. Their support of the Clifton community.”
Tudela wants their customers to have a “real taste” of how “we eat in Peru.” That means sharing with them the correct amount of food and using the right ingredients. Despite the smaller space, authenticity is at the forefront of the business.
Settling in Clifton wasn’t always the plan. The women looked for a restaurant space for years. In the past 20 years, they sold their food at street festivals and many parades, including Peruvian, Puerto Rican, and Brazilian parades.
They decided they wanted to settle down in recent years. Tudela said the time had come where it was difficult to sustain working festivals every weekend.
That was when a rental caught Tudela’s eye. She was
driving Downtown and liked the area, and she admitted that she didn’t consider how hard it would be or that it would take more than a few renovations.
“It was long,” she said. “It took almost three years to get it open because of the permits and changing it completely. COVID made it a little harder to continue working, but I don’t regret it.”
The family hopes to eventually find another place to expand their business. Tudela added they’ll wait until the right place comes along.
“It’s hard to find a place where you can really say, ‘OK, this is where we want to be,’” she said. “We’ll take it one step at a time.”
“This is the baby,” continued Tudela, about their Downtown Clifton restaurant. “We have to let the baby grow a little bit more, then we can move on.”
The April 28 grand opening of Bohemian Bistro, 1281 Main Ave., was set to include live music, great food, and a terrific atmosphere.
We caught up with the mother-daughter duo, Laura and Maribel Almonte, about two weeks prior to the official opening. Speaking for herself and translating for
her mother who speaks Spanish, Maribel said they’re both excited to open their first restaurant in Clifton.
“We love this area and moved from Florida about two months ago,” said Maribel. “It was a pretty big change, but we did it to open a restaurant and take bigger risks.”
“Clifton is great,” she added. “The street that we’re on is a main street and has a great clientele. Everyone passes by to visit or even just to say, ‘Hi.’ It’s super friendly.”
Laura is the owner, whereas Maribel is the restaurant’s server-manager. Although the restaurant industry is new to Laura, her daughter has worked in restaurants for a number of years.
Despite holding opposite roles, they have the same goal: bringing Caribbean-style food to their customers. They also want to provide quality service that you might not find in some restaurants for any number of reasons.
“We’ve been to a few restaurants in the area and the customer service isn’t as great as it should be,” said Maribel, 25.
“Nice-wise and personality-wise, and taking too long or not communicating why it’s taking so long.” She added that Clifton is a great place to do business as it is “in the middle of everything.” Aside from Maribel’s technical
background, Laura brings cooking experience. The women intend to settle for a few years before looking to open additional locations, perhaps in NYC or Florida.
Laura, 53, has cooked for family and friends for years. Opening up a restaurant was always her dream. So when the opportunity to open occurred in Clifton, it was a nobrainer. Their short-term plans include obtaining a liquor license to expand the restaurant.
The women even found an apartment four minutes away. “We basically walk around everywhere and talk to everyone,” said Maribel.
The realization that her dream was finally actualized is an emotional experience for Laura. She hopes that the restaurant meets everyone’s expectations and is a great addition to the area. “We’re excited to grow and meet everyone,” agreed Maribel.
A lot has changed since Ernest J. Scheidemann’s grA lot has changed since Ernest J. Scheidemann’s grandfather opened the family real estate and insurance agency in the early 20th century. But his second cousin Jim Zimmermann is eager to preserve and grow that family legacy.
The cousins are in the midst of transitioning ownership as Scheidemann, 87, nears retirement. It signifies a shift to the fourth generation of Ernest T. Scheidemann Real Estate and Insurance, at 1297 Main Ave. Once finalized, the business will be named the Scheidemann Agency.
Today, the building neighbors a diverse mix of businesses and cultures. In 1916, the country was rounding out the Progressive Era and Woodrow Wilson was completing his first presidential term. Clifton was one year away from incorporation as a city on April 26, 1917.
As for Zimmermann’s great-grandfather, James H. Hilton, he simply needed work.
“He was a fairly young man at the time,” said Scheidemann, 87. “He was working … and got his hand caught in a machine. He couldn’t continue in that particular venue.”
The injury led to the Lakeview resident opening up the agency on Main Avenue. “The building was heated with a pot belly stove in the back,” remarked Scheidemann.
After Hilton’s death in 1935, the family held the agency together. Scheidemann’s father, Ernest T. Scheidemann, took over around 1940 until 1988. Scheidemann, who taught science at CHS, helped out for about two years before retiring from the school system in 1990 after 33 years.
Scheidemann switched to real estate full time due to his father’s declining health. Ernest T. passed away in 1993.
“I’ve been associated with the office since I was probably 18-years-old,” said Scheidemann. “It was good for me.”
Zimmermann (CHS 1984) is a long-time associate and acknowledges Scheidemann’s wealth of knowledge. Zimmermann graduated Seton Hall with a degree in finance in 1988 and joined the business in 1993. He transitioned to full-time real estate in 2005 and added insurance in 2006.
“Ernie was a vast source of experience in the insurance and real estate parts, to life in general,” said Zimmermann. “I have learned everything from him.”
When Scheidemann became the owner, the transition felt natural. He added that he “eased my way into this business by living” and it wasn’t like starting a new career. He understood what the business’s values were from the beginning.
“[My grandfather] was successful because he was known for his honest and fair dealings,” said Scheidemann. “That had to be exactly what my dad was like, and
I try to carry on that tradition. That’s what’s kept us going here.”
It’s not to say that local and global competition hasn’t intensified. Scheidemann said that they’re fighting big business more now since many businesses have a lot of money to push advertising.
Yet people remember the Luddington Avenue resident. Whether he has worked with individuals who were looking to buy, sell, or needed insurance, the personal contact was consistent.
“I had a fellow stop in here the other day and say, ‘You won’t remember me, but you sold me a house 42 years ago.’ That’s the kind of thing that happens,” said Scheidemann last month.
Zimmermann added he would like to maintain that sort of connection through their current client base and grow as much as possible. Despite their smaller size, he said there are insurance customers who have exhibited great loyalty. “Some insurance customers have been with Ernie for 50 years,” said Zimmermann.
Joseph DeLora, Sr. took a chance when he opened DeLuxe Cleaners in 1930 amidst the Great Depression. Ninety-three years and three generations later, quality is still the priority.
“There are always obstacles with a family business, but we all sort of got along really well,” said third generation co-owner Patrick DeLora, Jr. “My father [Patrick DeLora, Sr.] acted as a mentor to us. He taught us traditions that his father taught him, and we still carry those out.”
An important tradition that DeLora (CHS 1979) and his sister, Linda (CHS 1976), carry out is how they treat employees. DeLuxe has retained employees who have worked there for many years. Creating a good work atmosphere and letting workers grow with the company has made the difference. They presently have 25 staff members.
In the 1950s, DeLuxe ownership switched from Joseph to his sons Patrick Sr. and Jim after they completed their education. Patrick Sr.’s children took full ownership in the 90’s. DeLora said they worked there from their junior high school years through college.
“We both tried different things before taking full time positions here,” said DeLora. It was important they experience working in the “outside world” before committing to the family business. DeLora said he returned pretty soon after college and Linda followed thereafter. Their cousin Robert Genuardi now runs the Formal Wear Department.
What keeps the business strong is that they do pickup and delivery. Even with core customers in Clifton, they service Passaic, Bergen, and Essex counties. Yet the Clifton customers will always have a special placet.
“Their loyalty,” said DeLora about what he appreciates most about Clifton. “I’ve worked here for so long that I’ve seen three generations of families coming in here also.”
The pandemic and inflation have had an effect. DeLora recalled how the first few months of the pandemic left them in “really bad shape.” People working from home and dressing down continue to affect all dry cleaners. Expenses like hangers and poly garment bags skyrocketed due to supply chain issues. Even as prices leveled out, the business dealt with the rising cost of gasoline for pickup and delivery services.
Despite being three generations strong, DeLora doesn’t anticipate a fourth generation taking the business over one day. He said that his three children and Linda’s child have their own interests, and he expects that they will look for someone to buy the business once that time arrives.
Until then, DeLora is dedicated to DeLuxe and the Downtown Clifton neighborhood where it stands. When a Downtown Clifton group started the Special Improvement District project back in 1999, DeLora was heavily involved.
“The whole Downtown Clifton SID was something that I spent a lot of time helping build,” said DeLora. “We were trying to keep this area clean and safe. It has taken a lot of work, and I am very committed to that.”
Missing the smells and tastes of Grandma’s kitchen? There is always some “fresh mutz” on the menu at IL Posto Eatery. And if Mike Mele hopes for anything, it’s for his classic Italian deli to evoke a certain nostalgia.
“I always wanted to create almost like a home-y environment. I want [customers] to feel like they are not somewhere foreign or new,” said Mele, 28. “So the food takes you away to your mom’s cooking.”
Located at 754 Clifton Ave, Mele took sole ownership of IL Posto Eatery in October, 2021. In his youth, Mele learned a lot of cooking techniques from his family members.
“My father is from Naples, Italy and … I learned a lot of technique from his mom — my nonna — and from my mother who cooks well,” said Mele. “I had a good foundation.”
His skills expanded while working for seven years at Giovanni’s Italian Deli in his hometown of Secaucus. Yet seeing his parents own a business inspired him to want to own something. When the opportunity came to have that in Clifton, he went for it.
Mele added that although there weren’t many good things about the COVID-19 pandemic, doors did open for him. He noted that the previous restaurant owners brought him in as a partner for the first four or five months with their son, who was a chef.
Mele eventually bought them out and has seen much of what Clifton has to offer since then.
“[There are] so many great people around [Clifton],” said Mele. “There’s diversity and there is so much opportunity.”
He hasn’t connected to many businesses, but he sees the loyalty around him. He neighbors All Surf No Turf, which is co-owned by a lifelong Cliftonite.
“There are so many proud Clifton people,” said Mele. “Many mention that there’s no good Italian spot … and I think that it’s a real good honor to give the city what it needs. The good Italian deli that they deserve.”
Maintaining that “good Italian deli” status relates back to providing the fresh mutz. Some of the dishes that include the popular mozzarella are on his Specialty Sandwiches menu, such as the Chicken Cutlet, Grilled Chicken, Capicola, Hot Soppressata, and Mortadella.
As you will see on the menu and hear in the deli: “Every day is a good day for a Sangweech!”
For the long term, Mele hopes that his services can provide mass catering for local schools and shelters. He said that word-of-mouth is still one of the best ways to get your business and name out there. Social media is another tool that helps attract clientele from other cities and towns.
“I like that Clifton is connected to so many different cities,” he said. “I want to be a big presence in the city and be able to feed people and make people happy.”
Antonia Membreno of All Surf, No Turf, Nelson DeLa Cruz of Notorious Cuts Barbershop and Mike Mele of Il Posto Eatery.
All Surf No Turf is a love letter to seafood, but it’s also the start of a legacy. Owners Christian and Antonia Membreno started their business in 2017 with a food truck. They ultimately got rid of the food truck and opened their 752 Clifton Ave. storefront in July of 2021.
“We wanted everyone to come in with the expectation of getting a traditional dish, but I’m putting my spin on it,” said Antonia, 41. “We have a classic lobster roll, but I like to make it with coleslaw in it.”
“I don’t know if people will understand my vision of how I prepare my food,” she continued, “but 98% of our customers enjoy the food.”
One of those is Athenia resident Lisa Pendola. She regards All Surf No Turf as the “best eatery in town” and said she gets food from there at least weekly.
“The recipes are creative and the frequent Specials are amazing,” said Pendola. “Antonia really cares about her customers. She wants everyone to have the best experience, and she will tailor each dish to their preference.”
It didn’t happen overnight. Getting all the permits and approvals took longer because at the time there were a lot of officials who worked remote. Ordering equipment also took patience due to a number of supply chain shortages.
For food, Antonia said that it was hard to get lochs. The price of crab was also higher, and even finding celery, carrots, and bread were ordeals. Some ingredients needed substitution and other recipes were temporarily changed.
“It’s calmed down in the last eight to ten months,” she said. “The cost of everything fluctuates by a few dollars now versus $10 to $20.”
The Membrenos opened a restaurant in Clifton, as they were already a part of the city. Christian is a CHS 2002 grad and their children attend School 13. They’d like to invest even more in the community, especially with their business.
Antonia believes the local government can help by welcoming new individuals who want to have businesses within the city’s limits.
“Maybe they could offer a warming package when you go to sign up, or excite them by saying, ‘Hey, you’re going to be part of Clifton,’” said Antonia. “I didn’t get that experience and would’ve loved to have it, but we made the best of it because we were in the middle of the pandemic.”
Antonia reminded that Clifton businesses attract revenue from outside the city borders as well.
“[City officials] don’t even have to come and buy food,” she said. “But telling their families and friends is great as well. Every inch of support … helps. It keeps our doors open.”
She practices her own ideals, too. She mentioned by name their neighbor IL Posto, Sugamama Bakeshop (457 Clifton Ave.), George’s Coffee Shop (227 Parker Ave.), Love of Grub (606 Van Houten Ave.), Happy Belly Cafe (616 Van Houten Ave.), Grande Saloon (940 Van Houten Ave.), and the Allwood Diner (913 Allwood Rd.).
“I always highly recommend them to all of my customers. It’s not something you normally see,” said Antonia. “There are so many good places and we eat at all of them because we want to support them, too.”
Christian and Antonia live in the Athenia section with Luca, 9, and Luciana, 6. Their children are always eager to help out around the store.
“Washing a dish, sweeping the floor, or bringing a bag out with food to a customer in a car,” said Antonia. “They’re more than happy to do that.”
As the parents work and they do their homework, they get to see the business firsthand. Antonia is hopeful that in the next year or so, they’ll expand their store from take-out to sit-down dining.
It will mean relocating from the current 300 sq. ft. space to ideally another space in Clifton. Then the children will have the opportunity to keep helping Antonia close up before they go home and do the same thing the next day.
“This is all for them,” said Antonia.
Like for all small businesses, there were no guarantees for The Salt Cavern when the coronavirus pandemic hit in 2020. Except that Clifton would have its back.
“Clifton was a blessing from the beginning,” said coowner Willie Dunai. “When we first came to Clifton City Hall to create our business, they were welcoming and helpful. Not like other cities.”
“They helped us go through the whole thing,” he added. “So when COVID happened, we were told we didn’t have to close down because we were alternative.”
There was still a period of time when they did close their doors, but only to move down the road. Now located at 658 Allwood Rd, the business that Dunai and his wife, Eva, founded in 2010 was originally located at 654 Allwood Rd.
That original space two doors down offered them 600 sq-ft for the first decade of their business. Nowadays, they have 3,000 sq-ft. The increased space has benefited their business model and allowed them to expand beyond simply offering salt therapy.
“Salt therapy is the base of our wellness [services]. It brings in the most people,” said Dunai, 58. “Now we have all the rooms privatized. Only the people who come in with you go into a room.”
“In the other building, there were a lot of problems with people coming in late or them opening the door with other people in there,” he continued. “There were so many other problems and it just got solved by having private rooms.”
Bringing salt therapy to Clifton was not the original plan. The original plan also long predated the business’s opening on Jan. 24, 2010. Finding a place is what proved the most challenging in the six years leading up to the business’s start.
Yet the husband and wife duo were determined. In part because when Eva worked as a nurse in Hungary, one of her nursing friends had a magazine that discussed salt therapy. Eva also knew about it because she had a cousin in Hungary who did the therapy.
Dunai, who then had worked in electronics for 26 years, said he is a technical person.
“She showed it to me … [and] when I did the research, I was sold right off the bat,” he said. “The first thing I had to do was find out more information.”
He found many studies accessible on the computer but said none of the doctors supported the practice or agreed with the studies because “they were done by foreign nations.” It was when he and Eva went to Canada that they connected with a man who would sell them a salt generator.
Once the couple tried it for themselves, they realized that it was what they wanted. Then it sat in their basement for about five or so years. During that period of time, their friends tried it and the Dunais tried finding a space to rent in different towns.
Among the communities that they considered were Montclair, Bloomfield, and Montvalle. They got close a few times, but it always fell through because it was either too expensive or the city’s government wouldn’t give them the green light.
Now, their location in Clifton couldn’t be more convenient. “We live a block away and don’t have to drive,” laughed Dunai.
Starting with the basics was an early mission for the Dunais. It meant understanding and also communicating with others what those basics are in our lives.
“When you look at the basics of life, you have water, food, salt, and minerals that are important for your body,” said Dunai. “[They] should be the first things you look for.”
From there, they strove to offer services that are an alternative or complementary to traditional western medicine. Instead of instantly seeking antibiotics for a cough or cold, Dunai hopes more people will seek non-chemical solutions.
“We wanted to do things naturally. With all the studies that we learned and read about, there was nothing bad about [salt therapy],” said Dunai. “We wanted it so that people would come all the time and use it as much as they wanted to.”
Aside from halotherapy, the business has expanded its offerings. At the present location, visitors can seek nail care, massage therapy, facials, waxing, yoga, acupuncture, and even explore the use of a hyperbaric chamber. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy involves breathing 100% pure oxygen while in a special space.
Among the employees are Heidi Ali, who leads yoga and meditations, and Mary Howard, who leads Thursday meditations. The business’s receptionist is Dana DeRobertis, nail technician is Susie Wolfar, massage therapist is Odette Maia-aly, and aesthetician is Malgorzata Ciborowska.
The Salt Cavern not only pulls in customers from Clifton, but from different towns and states.
“We were getting people from Upstate New York. People who would come for a two-hour drive and stay and do a double session,” said Dunai.
As competition emerged in places like Garfield, Caldwell, Montclair, and Fair Lawn, Dunai said it thinned their customers. Yet when COVID-19 closed businesses, they started doing well again.
“Also because we added all of these other services,” he added. “We were charging $10 per [salt therapy] session, which is good, but it’s hard to survive on that.”
Along with a helping paw from their pomeranian, Cesar, the Dunais have the support they need to incorporate their new services. Last month, they introduced an acupuncturist and a physical therapist.
They were also in the process of bringing about earthing, or “grounding”, which refers to making contact with the Earth’s surface electrons by walking barefoot. As for any expansion, they are happy with their current arrangement.
“It looks like this could be replicated some place else, but we find that we have great people that work with us. When you get along, it becomes a great family,” said Dunai. “It’s hard to imagine that happening again.”
Vanessa (Vargas) Biscaia knows there are many ways to brighten people’s spirits. Which is why the part-time surgical assistant is all about beautification.
“Making floral arrangements has always been a passion of mine,” said Biscaia (CHS 2004).
Biscaia, 36, has worked in the healthcare field for 15 years. After her maternity leave ended last year, she found it difficult to transition back into her work. That’s when she made the decision to pursue a floral career.
But with a twist.
“I told my husband, ‘We’re going to buy a horse trailer,’” said Biscaia. “We converted it into a mobile flower trailer, and we travel to different events. Farmers markets, festivals, street fairs.”
“We do events at schools and private events,” she added. “Pretty much anywhere that people would like to have us.”
The business is called Love at First Bloom. Fitting in well with the DIY-era of craftsmanship (do-it-yourself), they offer a mobile flower bar. Customers select their stems and create their own bouquets. Then, Biscaia wraps and puts the flowers into an arrangement.
“It’s a fun, interactive experience for our clients or guests. The new ‘in’ thing and people like it,” said Biscaia. “It’s definitely different.”
Speaking with us last month, Biscaia said they were entering “the perfect season.” January until Valentine’s Day is generally quiet, but she said that they’re booked April through June.
Although she still works at Progressive Surgical Center in Englewood Cliffs, Biscaia would love to one day dedicate her efforts full time to her business. For the Dutch Hill resident, it means opening a brick-and-mortar shop in Clifton.
“That’s definitely my number one goal,” said Biscaia. “I’m open to where the location would be. We’re still looking around to see the best fit in Clifton.”
Along for the ride is her husband, Ulysses. The decadelong couple have two children, Delilah, 6, and Sienna, 1.
While Biscaia focuses on the product creation, Ulysses is responsible for the technical end of things, like driving the trailer to different locations and helping Biscaia with the loading and unloading.
Business hours are Wednesdays through Sundays, 8 am to 5 pm. Customers can order through DoorDash, their website loveatfirstbloom.com, or Instagram @loveatfirstbloom_. Find the latest schedule or see where they’ll be on a given weekend on social media or their website.
“We were at the Halloween Parade and Harvestfest last year. This year we are doing the NNJ Empanada & Music Fest at the Boys & Girls Club,” said Biscaia. “We do a lot of food truck events.”
Their most popular events are brunches, birthdays, bridal showers, engagement parties, baby showers, corporate events, fairs, festivals, and photo shoots. They also attend farmers markets and are visible on most Sundays at the Garden State Plaza Farmers Market.
“We love collaborating with other businesses and doing community events,” said Biscaia. “Our mission is to put a smile on people’s faces and watch them have fun and get creative.”
Vanessa (Vargas) Biscaia with husband Ulysses and daughters Delilah, 6, and Sienna, 1.
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In its fourth generation as a family-run business, William Morton continues to see what Richfield Farms & Garden Center offers its community.
Located for 106 years at 1139 Van Houten Ave, Morton said that Clifton doesn’t need any more storage units, QuickCheks, or Dunkin Donuts. It’s small and local businesses with — it has to be said — deep roots that create lasting relationships.
“I’d like to keep [the business] going. There are a solid 20 years of work left in me,” said Morton, 40. “By then my son … may want to take it over. [My kids] have shown interest and said they’d like to be a part of it.”
It’s a time-honored tradition. Established in 1917, the original landowners were Leonard and Nelje Schroeder. Leonard moved from New York to Clifton like many Dutch settlers. He used the land for regular daily crop farming and gathered the produce to sell in New York City markets.
“They felt they could get their stuff a day or two earlier to the market because in this little valley here … they had good, fertile soil,” explained Morton.
Morton’s great-grandfather had help. Leonard’s sister built “the little roadside stand” that exists today as the little wooden room outside of the office. She sat there and sold only vegetables.
The business expanded to selling plants, shrubs, and now a variety of products for home and commercial use. What has remained consistent is the dedication — whether for the ownership tenures of Morton’s grandparents Carl and Elinor Schroeder, Morton’s parents Jack Morton and Debora Schroeder-Morton, or now Morton and his sister Jessica Byrne. “My oldest son is 12, and he even works here now,” said Morton.
Morton took over in 2020, but he already knew the lay of the land in every sense.
“As a kid, I was always here on the weekends and would help out,” said Morton (CHS 2001).
Morton studied business administration at Champlain College in Vermont. He said he didn’t plan on returning to the farm as an employee. Eventually, his parents asked for him to return as they were getting older. It was then that he recognized his natural abilities on the job.
That was around 2004. Once the pandemic hit, he stepped up again. Morton said that Jack and Debora were previously reluctant to retire. But they were in South Carolina as the lockdown went into effect and Byrne was homeschooling her kids. It left Morton with a decision.
In 1998, grandparents Carl and Elinor Schroeder, uncle Carl Schroeder, William Morton, Debora Morton and Jack Morton.
“I don’t want to say I didn’t have a choice, but it worked out that the pandemic put me in charge, pretty much,” he said. “We had such great years [in 2020 and 2021] that [my parents were] like, ‘OK, you can handle it. Go ahead and do it.’”
Morton handles hiring and purchasing, while Byrne manages bookkeeping. Popular items are organic vegetables and herbs. The farm sells different perennials and high-end landscape materials as well.
Working with nature is something that Morton loves and wants to keep doing.
“It is rewarding and puts a smile on people’s faces when they come in and say, ‘What you told me to do in my garden really worked.’ People have a lot of gratitude,” said Morton.
Morton said customers also appreciate that they don’t charge for seeking gardening advice.
“We stopped giving it out over the phone because it gets too hectic,” said Morton, “but if people come in, we like to give them all the advice that we have.”
The phone regularly rings. “Richfield Farms, hold please” is repeated by Morton. He wasn’t the first to say it and that, in itself, offers a sense of familiarity and nostalgia.
“We’ve really kind of been ‘The Little Engine That Could’,” said Morton. “We’re not a juggernaut or place in California with 10 locations. It’s really just [grounded in] hard work and based around the family.”
Morton added there were always at least one or two family members at the business every day for 10 months out of the year. Each member with the express purpose of serving the community.
“It’s one of the only places that provides quality products and services and has family on site to further the business,” said Morton. “We pride ourselves on quality.”
Morton is married to his wife of 15 years, JoAnne. They have three sons: Benjamin, 12, Oliver, 8, and Noah, 7. But their family stretches even further.
Among 15 to 20 full- and part-time workers, they also have people who have helped them out with handiwork for 30 years. There are other employees working there for as long as 15 years to as recently as the past two years.
“They feel like part of the family business,” said Morton. “We call it a farm family because that’s how we treat them.”
the orders; I come. [Handing off responsibilities is] how you make mistakes.”
The bakery kept in touch with its Eastern European roots. Aside from trademark wedding cakes, they’ve sold specialties like babka and poppyseed cake. Sotamba integrated Latin sweets in the past two decades, like flan and torta de tres leches. Popular items now include pecan danish, cheese danish, and their own croissant.
Sotamba was emphatic that “everyone has an opportunity to have a business” like his in Clifton.
Carlos Sotamba is the man behind Lakeview Bakery, but his humility allows him to realize that it takes a community to make a business successful.
“I’ve always told customers, ‘I’m not the owner. The customer is the owner because they bring their business to us,’” said Sotamba, 44.
Founded in 1935, Lakeview Bakery has long attracted customers from our city. The bakery, 308 Lakeview Ave., continues to provide a variety of fresh-baked goods for walk-in clientele and wholesale baked goods for diners.
Sotamba first saw the bakery in action in 1998. Born in Ecuador, Sotamba immigrated to the U.S. He attended Passaic Community College to learn English and started working as a cleaner at Lakeview Bakery. He swept floors and cleaned cases until 2001, which was when he learned the original owners wanted to sell it.
“They wanted to retire and sell the bakery … and I told them that I’d buy it from them,” he said. “They didn’t believe it.”
Once Sotamba assured them that he could do it with help from his family, they agreed but said it was not an easy job. Only aged 22, Sotamba committed himself to a hands-on approach.
“As retail, we keep in business because most of the time on Thursdays, I do the appointments with the cakes,” said Sotamba. “We don’t have to tell another person to take
“There’s Allwood Bakery,” he said. “Mr. Cupcake’s has good cupcakes. Styertowne Bakery has nice crumb cakes. I always suggest them, too.”
“They are doing the same thing as us — waking up in the morning and trying to run a business and have customers,” continued Sotamba. “You have to pay the bills.”
There are challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic. Sotamba recalled how they were closed for two months and the two people in the two apartments upstairs passed away. Sotamba saw how scared his workers were and closed while paying them and keeping everyone on staff.
“It was hard coming back after closing. We put aside separate money for an emergency, but the bills never stopped,” he said. “You can’t prepare for something like that.”
The team today consists of 12 people, including four bakers. Some people have worked at the bakery for 10 years or before Sotamba arrived.
Sotamba is married to his wife, Dayana, and they have two children, Angely, 11, and Daniel, 10. The bakery is a legacy that he hopes to pass on to the School 2 students.
“We will talk about maybe opening another bakery in another town because I have a wholesale license,” said Sotamba. “We’ll have to see about the future, but I want to see if I can teach my son how to run the business.”
“They’re [young], but they like it,” he said. “They see that I work hard.”
Steve Corbo knows quality — that’s why his customers never expect anything less.
Corbo, 68, is a fourth-generation owner at Corbo Jewelers of Clifton with his siblings Cathy and Michael. He lives in Clifton with his wife, Ellen (Nunno) Corbo (CHS 1976), who specializes in litigation in New Jersey and New York.
Corbo works side-by-side with family, including his daughter Stacey. His family’s business has allowed the five generations to feel the support of their communities.
“Thank you,” said Corbo about what he’d like to say to the customers. “We sell a product that’s a celebration. Be it an engagement ring, for the birth of a child, an anniversary, or a birthday.”
“We share that with them in the purchase that they’re making,” he added. “I get excited knowing that person is giving the gift of jewelry, and jewelry is a great gift because it lasts.”
So does Corbo Jewelers. In 1898, first-generation owner Alphonso emigrated from Naples, Italy with his wife and eight children. Alphonso was a watchmaker and expanded his services by bringing them door to door.
The second generation continued the tradition. In 1918, Alphonso’s sons Mike, Dick, and Nick serviced door-todoor clients in Passaic, Bergen, and Essex counties. Alphonso’s daughters Julia, Mae, and Pep later opened the first Corbo Jewelers store in Newark.
By the third generation, Mike’s son Alan joined the business. The year 1950 saw the company open its second store, located at 1055 Bloomfield Ave. in Styertowne Shopping Center. While Clifton’s location is the sole remaining store, the business at one time had expanded to twelve brick-and-mortar locations.
Ten of the stores were based in New Jersey and the other two stores were located in New York. Corbo noted that retail has changed over the years and become a “tough business today.” He added that he’s seen a lot of great retailers, not only in the jewelry business, go by the wayside.
“One of the reasons why we closed all of our stores was because we got to the point where we couldn’t provide service, quality, and pricing that we were happy with,” said Corbo. “Now, we are able to make sure we maintain our foundation.” If that keeps the business going for another five or ten years, Corbo is proud of that legacy. That longevity has enabled them to keep customers’ family mementos in good condition.
“I don’t know how often someone comes in and wants something repaired,” said Corbo, “and it’s their grandmother’s or mother’s.”
“They’re keepsakes,” the Clifton resident explained. “I know some people can’t afford certain things. I don’t want to put people down, but we sell things that we feel will last for generations.”
Corbo said that the business plans to stick around, but he doesn’t know if it will extend beyond his generation. Even if it ends with him and his siblings as owners, he said their family has built their “reputation on honor, integrity, and honesty.”
They don’t just sell a product. They have jewelers and technicians who stand behind products.
“People on the internet are more into marketing than they are jewelry,” said Corbo. “They buy a product and sell a product. We understand a product, we romance a product, and then we sell it to a client,” he continued. “There is a little bit of us in everything that we sell.”
Fourth generation owners and brothers Michael and Stephen Corbo, with Stephen’s daughter Stacey in Styertowne Shopping Center.
Waves and cheerful farewells fill the halls of The New Bairn School. There’s a sense of pride — children have spent another day learning in a supportive, affordable environment. Just like when the school opened 50 years ago.
“The school is doing as great as it’s ever done,” said Director Kristin Frontauria. “My goal is for us to be the best child care center in Clifton and for the surrounding areas. We are here to stay.”
Founded as the MacAdie Bairn School of Passaic in 1973, the late Hortense Jacobs and Lynne Ascoli-Shaw opened its doors. The school went up to high school until laws changed. It then went up to sixth grade. By the 1990s, it became what it is today — infants through kindergarten.
Today, they service 140 families and accept infants as young as six-weeks-old.
“The highest-rated infant and toddler program was the school at the time, and it still is now,” said Frontauria, 37. “We stuck with that to keep the business going.”
The original name stuck through 1982 until they became New Bairn Elementary School.
They were located at 181 Lafayette Ave. in Passaic for 31 years. The school’s next home was the old YM-YWHA building at 199 Scoles Ave., now Clifton Sports & Fitness Club. For 17 years, they’ve had their current name and are now located at 66 Mount Prospect Ave.
A unique, school-aged summer camp began in 2020. It’s included in the tuition and students can learn about robotics from a scientist. Each year features a carnival, but this year kids will go visit Legoland.
As we spoke over the phone, Frontauria looked at historical advertisements for the school. One stated: “MacAdie School – A Sensible School”. Five full days cost $19 per week.
Full-day care is now from 7 am-6 pm and half-day care is 7-11:45 am. Families can select three, four, or five days. The school’s highest tuition rate is $1,065 and it goes down from there. They offer a 10% military discount and 25% discount for a younger sibling.
“Even in the infant programs, they’re learning,” said Frontauria. “We’re not babysitting them. We are teaching and giving them life lessons.”
The curriculum prepares the children. It’s not about screen time. Kids participate in yoga, karate, gymnastics, and class trips. There are soccer classes in the fall and T-ball in the summer.
“Having affordable care where children are not only learning but excelling is extremely important because you can go to any daycare center,” said Frontauria, “but you’re not getting the same quality with years of experienced staff.”
“We’re in it to provide the best care possible for [working families].”
The last three years required quite a bit of pivoting. But no obstacles were quite as difficult as Ascoli-Shaw’s passing on May 26, 2022 from cancer.
“It’s been quite hard,” shared Frontauria. “I purchased [the school] from Miss Lynne in 2020. She was 74 when she decided to retire with the virus going around.”
The late Lynne Ascoli-Shaw of the New Bairn School with some students in 2010 and below, current owner Kristin Frontauria.Jacobs, the original executive director, left the school around 1987. Ascoli-Shaw, who was the assistant director, became the acting director until her retirement. There’s a tree planted for her on their playground and a memorial plaque in the school.
“She was a mentor and second mom to me,” said Frontauria. “She was a very important person in my life.”
What Frontauria hopes people remember is AscoliShaw’s 45-year dedication to the school and children.
“She trusted me with the school and was able to pass that legacy onto me before she got sick and said, ‘You’re gonna do great,’” said Frontauria. “I miss her so much. She touched thousands of lives in Clifton.”
When Frontauria re-opened the school’s doors in August 2020, there were 37 kids. Now, they’re back to full capacity with a waiting list of about a year and a half.
It’s a testament to the school’s history. Some staff have worked there over 30 years. Frontauria came in June 2012, even though there wasn’t an available spot for her.
“Miss Lynne said, ‘Something about you is really special,’” said Frontauria. “She hired me and I … floated around for a bit.”
Eventually, she was placed into the three-year-old program and worked alongside Juanita Saco, who just retired after 48 years. Then, she got her own pre-k classroom
and taught until 2020. In February 2020, Frontauria and husband Alfred welcomed their daughter, Madison, 3.
When the pandemic hit the following month, AscoliShaw was honest.
“She said, ‘If you don’t buy this school, I’m gonna close it,’” recalled Frontauria. “I said to my husband, ‘We have a two-month-old. Are we going to take all of our savings and put the house on the line and hope it works out?’ He said, ‘Let’s do it.’”
They purchased the school in July 2020 and refinanced their home to make it work. Stronger enrollment numbers mean they have stayed involved with the community in other ways. They sponsor Clifton Girls Softball and run a food drive benefiting a shelter for Thanksgiving. Their 2022 beneficiary was St. Peter’s Haven, at 380 Clifton Ave.
Despite the school’s technological advancements with SmartBoards for classrooms aged three and up, they maintain certain values.
“We still want our children to learn traditionally and maintain the same momentum that we have had,” said Frontauria. “But we always want to make sure we’re doing more new and innovative things.” Follow their latest activities on Instagram @thenewbairnschool.
“Lynne left her legacy to me, and those are very big shoes to fill,” she added. “It’s about trying to make sure her legacy is as positive as it can be so New Bairn School is here for another 50 years.”
Working on Van Houten Avenue has remained a passion for Charles Nouhan. Nouhan, who turns 90 in July, is the owner and long-time licensed real estate broker of Four Star Agency, Inc., the white marble building at 1232 Van Houten Ave.
Nouhan is preparing to fully retire and is looking to rent out the space that was like another home for 63 years.
The building moving forward will become known as The Four Star Building, something Nouhan’s family desires to preserve their patriarch’s legacy.
When the agency’s doors opened in April of 1960, Nouhan was one of the four original “stars.” His partners were Edward Gelok, Alton Welts, and Peter Valentino. The four men had worked as associates at the Diamond Agency, which Nouhan joined in 1958.
After two years, he suggested that perhaps they should go into business together. “We went in to tell [Morris Diamond] that we were leaving,” said Nouhan, “but said
that we would give him six months’ notice so he could replenish the staff. He was annoyed. He fired all four of us on the spot.”
Finding an office space was essential. Nouhan had two children under the age of five and some of the others had families as well. They found the ideal location to rent for
In 1960, from left, Peter Valentino. Alton Welts, Edward Gelok, Charles Nouhan. At right, Charles and Phyllis Nouhan in 2010.$125; a small office where Clifton Barber Shop stands today.
“The four of us are in there painting … [when] the Diamond Agency’s manager comes in with an order to cease and desist,” he said. “In other words, stop working immediately, and you have to go to court.”
One year later, the four men won the case. They also received the $4,000 owed to them from the Diamond Agency. Since then, Nouhan has kept a copy of that check in his desk drawer.
“And the rest is history,” said Nouhan. “We took Passaic County by storm.”
Nouhan and his partners — along with his brother, attorney Joseph Nouhan and Joseph’s three law partners who joined them in the space — would outgrow the small office. They purchased the building in 1967 and expanded. They created an addition that became the real estate office today, along with two additional apartments above.
“There were seven of us. We bought the building for $30,000 and took a first and second mortgage,” said Nouhan. “Our down payment was $500 — $250 for us and $250 for my brother Joe and his partners.”
“My share was $67.50,” added Nouhan with a chuckle.
Nouhan eventually bought out all of his partners and purchased the house and lot between the office and School
2. He redeveloped the land with a 14-unit garden apartment in 1973, which he named Kimberly Arms.
Four Star became somewhat of a family affair through the years. Nouhan’s wife, Phyllis (Pecci), CHS June 1952, worked there as the secretary from 1968 until 1996. Nouhan’s late brothers George and John, as well as their eldest sister, the late Frances Martone Florentine, all worked as realtors in the office at times. As did his eldest son, Charles (CHS 1974).
His daughter Kim Puzzo (CHS 1976) began working as the Saturday secretary at age 13, replacing Nouhan’s niece Maureen McKay, whose first job was at Four Star. Today, his youngest son Mark (CHS 1981) runs the business, which transitioned to property management over the past several years. Mark will continue to manage the family properties and several others under the watchful eye of his father, who still enjoys going to the office daily.
Nouhan, known for his strong work ethic, began working as a shoe shine boy at age seven. He and his seven siblings helped their widowed mother support the family. The decision to retire did not come easy.
“[Phyllis] and I have spent most of our lives living in Clifton,” he said. “I’m 63 years in business here. It’s been a good run.”
Clifton is integral to Alexandra Constandinou’s identity, even when she moved away as a child. Today, the broker salesperson at Nicholas Real Estate Agency is more connected than ever.
“Clifton has been my life,” said Constandinou, 33. “Even my fiancé, Robert Ferreri (CHS 2001), was born and raised in Clifton.”
Constandinou joined Nicholas Real Estate, located at 1624 Main Ave., as an agent in 2013. Her exposure to real estate came at an early age. Her mother, Sophia, has worked in the business for 25 years.
She credited Sophia and broker Nicholas Tselepis for continuing to guide her since she earned her license in 2013 to the present day.
“Nicholas has been in business for 45 years [and we] work hand-in-hand,” said Constandinou. “I learned a lot from my mom in the beginning, but I learned in depth from my broker.”
Speaking of Tselepis and her mom, she added: “Without them, I wouldn’t be where I am at all. They really molded me to be as successful as I am.”
Constandinou’s recognitions include the 2022 National Association of REALTORS Circle of Excellence – Platinum and the Nicholas Real Estate Salesperson of the Year 2021. She is also a past bronze, silver, and gold recipient for the Circle of Excellence, dating back to 2015.
Tselepis’ early lessons have stuck with her. One that she recalled was Tselepis’ reminder to stay persistent, consistent, and positive.
“He told me that you can’t change everything; things will happen,” said Constandinou. “It really stuck with me because my first deal fell apart, and you can get intimidated.”
“This job can be so stressful and so defeating, but so much more rewarding when I get clients to a finished goal. He’s like a machine and doesn’t stop. It rubbed off on me,” she laughed.
Although the office is in Clifton, Constandinou works in several counties. She has represented foreclosure banks since 2018. Her roles see her working in Passaic, Bergan, Morris, and Essex counties.
She said her priority is continuing to do what she’s doing — stating that while awards are nice, it is more important that she is “staying true to myself and helping my clients.” Constandinou also wants to stay with Nicholas Real Estate.
“We are a family here. That is, first and foremost, the most important,” said Constandinou. “We all help each other. We all support each other.”
“I think that’s what makes us so successful,” she added. “I don’t feel like I would find that home anywhere else.”
An Exhibit & Sale by open to the public
May 10th until July 29th
Returning this month with more Clifton Nostalgia & History is Mike Finegan who publishes daily on FB with his “Clifton New Jersey: The Golden Years”.
On Oct. 5, 1969, Army Major Edward Haggard, right, presented awards to John Cyran in Sperling Park. Cyran is the father of the late Richard Cyran, 20, and pictured on left of page. He was Killed In Action on June 6, 1969 in Vietnam. Looking on is Cyran’s other son, Air Force Staff Sgt. John Cyran.
Some 50 years ago, a treaty was signed on January 27, 1973, to establish peace in Vietnam and end the Vietnam War. The Paris Peace Accords began the process but it would take until 1975 when the US was fully out of war.
The treaty included the governments of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam (North Vietnam); the Republic of Vietnam (South Vietnam); the United States; and the Provisional Revolutionary Government of the Republic of South Vietnam (PRG), which represented South Vietnamese communists.
This Memorial Day in Clifton, services at 11 am at the Veterans Memorial on Main Ave. will recall the 50th anniversary of that withdrawal of U.S. coalition forces. In a tribute to The Fallen of Vietnam and other wars, Mike Finegan brings us two tales of service by Cliftonites.
Many boys on the frontline, like Richard Cyran, became men well before their 20’s. Late in 1968, the Cyran family of 31 Samuel Ave. could barely celebrate the safe return of their eldest son, Air Force Sgt. John Cyran, Jr. (CHS 1964), who was an eyewitness to the Tet Offensive. Their other son just received his orders from the Army.
Richard (pictured on previous page left) began his tour in Vietnam in November, 1968. Holding the rank of Spec. 4, he was a driver for Company B, 4th Battalion of the 23rd Infantry.
Richard (CHS 1967) received the Purple Heart for wounds suffered in action. He died in Tay Ninh province on June 6, 1969, the 25th anniversary of thousands of Americans from the previous generation dying on the beaches of Normandy, France.
Overcome by grief, his father, John, expressed anger about mounting casualties. The war couldn’t be justified. It was a feeling that kept growing. By the time of Richard’s death, 36,000 sons had died in Vietnam.
Richard was the fifteenth Cliftonite Killed In Action and sadly he would not be the last. Besides his parents and brother, he had three sisters, Josephine, Rose, and Helen.
Josephine Vetanovetz, a lifelong resident until her death aged 85 in 2016, was active in St. John Kanty R.C. Church. In retirement, she served as a crossing guard for the Police Department at School 3. She had six children and eleven grandchildren.
Richard wasn’t afraid of scrapes.
A news clipping tells of how he was playing behind the old Terrazzo-Marble Co., Inc., 1 Mount Prospect Ave. Aged 12, he got a cut on his left ankle after a slab of marble fell. He was treated at Passaic General Hospital and detained for X-Rays. Aged 13, Richard cut his right knee when he fell in fields behind the railroad tracks at the
dead end of his street. He needed four stitches.
Richard didn’t spend all his time at the hospital. He hit the trails with the Boys Scouts of Troop 54, sponsored by the School 13 PTA. He played “Midget League” baseball and football, was a member of the basketball team of his church, and worked for DeLuxe Check Printers of Clifton.
Athenia posthumously honored its first fallen son in Vietnam. Richard’s friends collected funds for the construction of a memorial. His death shattered the group, comprising his boyhood friend Louis Cagna, 20, and 16-year-old twins Joan and June Latawiec, who lived around the corner.
“We were really buddies since kindergarten,” Cagna told a local reporter at the time.
They collected $650 and received city endorsement to install the monument in Sperling Park. A dedication ceremony was attended by officials from 10 city veteran posts, the late Freeholder William Bate, and late councilmembers Anna Latteri and Israel Friend.
US Army Maj. Edward Haggett III presented Richard’s father and brother with a posthumous award. Richard’s mother, Mary, was receiving breast cancer treatment when the family learned of his death and held on for another month before succumbing to the disease and her sadness.
Josephine, who we spoke to in November 2014, recalled that time.
“It was a war everyone felt we shouldn’t be in,” she said. “Every time I try to forget it, someone brings it up.”
Captain Michael Tarlavsky didn’t die for the president. He didn’t die for the oil. “He died for blue, red, and white — the American flag,” said his father Yury in 2004.
Michael, 30, dreamed from an early age of being a soldier. The native Latvian couldn’t become the next president after all. Born under Soviet rule and a Communist regime, Jewish families like the Tarlavskys faced severe discrimination.
The family escaped when Michael was aged five in 1979 and later settled on Madeline Avenue in Clifton. Michael was an Eagle Scout and captain of CHS’ swim team. Later, he was husband to Tricia and dad to 11-month-old son, Joseph.
Michael (CHS 1992) was a Special Forces Captain in the US Army. His unit was part of the 5th Special Forces Group in Iraq. On Aug. 12, 2004, Michael was killed in Najaf when his unit came under small arms fire and grenade attack.
“Everything he did was a natural expression of who he was,” Maj. Nate Allen, who served with Michael in Hawaii, told the Herald News. “He loved his work because it was so aligned with what he did.”
Known affectionately to his Army buddies as “Super T”, “Mini Mike” and the “crazy Russian”, the Cliftonite hiked, skydived, and did push-ups for fun. But he was a son and a father whose life was cut short.
Parents, Yury and Rimma, respected Michael’s choice to serve but didn’t agree with war or the former President
George W. Bush. “When we go to Arlington National Cemetery, there’s a new row every time,” Rimma told the Herald News. Yet that’s not how Tarlavsky was remembered. He was always on the move – giving one friend four days notice for his Hawaii wedding. He was also a leader. Someone who put the safety of others, and his country, first.
This month, Rich DeLotto details the Battle of Okinawa, codenamed Operation Iceberg. The last battle of World War II stretched from April 1 to June 22, 1945…
Navy Task Force 58 was allotted 200,000 men, 700 ships, 5,000 planes, and unlimited support in order to secure the last stepping stone to Japan.
In the preceding three months, the military lost 12,000 while taking Manila and 23,000 while taking Iwo Jima. The War Department wanted to overwhelm the enemy and quickly take Okinawa. They felt the enemy was on its last legs. They could not imagine what awaited Task Force 58.
Sixty thousand GIs and Marines hit the beach on April 1 and ran into nothing more than snipers and booby traps. On April 5, the war began with artillery and mortar barrages, suicide planes, and troop assaults throughout the island.
It would take 86 days before the enemy was neutralized and Okinawa was taken. On land and sea, it would cost over 50,000 casualties.
Nine of those killed were from the City of Clifton. They included Navy Sm/2 John Hushler, 294 Harding Ave. The aerial gunner would launch with his crew on April 28 but never be recovered (MIA).
On April 19, Sm/2c Joe Hoffer, 101 Clifton Ave., and RM/3c Joe Piccolo, 206 Scoles Ave., go down with the USS Pringle when it is struck by a kamikaze, blows up, and splits in half.
On May 11, a kamikaze slammed into the USS Bunker Hill and cost over 600 casualties, including GM/1 Tom Dutton, 97 Van Winkle Ave. (KIA).
On land, US Marines PFC Harry Carline, 14 Mahar Ave. and Pvt. Bill Niader, 142 Orono St.; and Army Cpl. Rich Vanvliet, 20 Concord St.; Sgt. Paul Domino, 126 Highland Ave.; and PFC John Fusiak, 215 Speer Ave. lost their lives in ferocious battles between midApril and June 12.
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Also on April 19, the same day that Hoffer and Piccolo were KIA aboard the USS Pringle, the USS Intrepid was heavily damaged by a kamikaze but survived the battle. Today, the USS Intrepid serves as a floating museum in New York City.
Okinawa was declared secure on June 22. The battle took over with 50,000 dead, wounded, and missing. The generals in Washington, D.C. only had one question: If it takes 85,000 casualties to take three objectives in six months, what will the invasion of Japan cost?
Twenty-four days later, an alternative to invasion occurred.
On July 16, 1945 at 5:29 am in a lonely New Mexican desert location, the U.S. military detonated the very first atomic explosion. Light from
the detonation was spotted 280 miles away in Amarillo, Texas.
As the government pondered the use of atomic weapons so late in the war, Americans continued to lose their lives.
On Aug. 6, 1945, the city of Hiroshima was leveled by an atomic bomb. On the same day, the submarine USS Bullhead, while on patrol in the Java Sea, was struck by an aerial torpedo, blew up, and sank — taking the entire crew to their deaths.
One of the men aboard was Sm/2c Alfred Aiple, 8 Englewood Rd., who was serving as the sub’s quartermaster. The Bullhead was the 52nd and last submarine lost in the war. Seaman Aiple was the last serviceman from Clifton to sacrifice his life in WWII.
The Fallen. Organized by the war in which they served, we have again published the name of every Cliftonite who died while in service to our nation.
World War I
Louis Ablezer
Andrew Blahut
Timothy Condon
John Crozier
Orrie De Groot
Olivo De Luca
Italo De Mattia
August De Rose
Jurgen Dykstra
Seraphin Fiori
Ralph Gallasso
Otto Geipel
Mayo Giustina
Peter Horoschak
Emilio Lazzerin
Joseph Liechty
Jacob Morf, Jr.
William Morf
Edwin C. Peterson
Robert H. Roat
Alfred Sifferlen
James R. Stone
Carmelo Uricchio
Angelo Varetoni
Michael Vernarec
Cornelius Visbeck
Ignatius Wusching
Bertie Zanetti
Otto B. Zanetti
Army Sgt. David C. Van Dillen served for 16 months in France during World War I and returned home to Clifton safely.
World War II
Joseph Sperling
Charles Peterson
Thomas Donnellan
Jerry Toth
Frank Lennon
Joseph Carboy
Julius Weisfeld
Edward Ladwik
Israel Rabkin
Peter Pagnillo
Harold Weeks
William Weeks
Salvatore Favata
Herman Adams
Edward Kostecki
Charles Hooyman, Jr.
Salvatore Michelli
Richard Novak
James Potter
Adam Liptak
John Van Kirk
Carlyle Malmstrom
Francis Gormley
Charles Stanchak
Joseph Ladwik
Karl Germelmann
Robert Stevens
Albert Tau
William Scott
Benjamin Puzio
James Van Ness
Gregory Jahn
Nicholas Stanchak
Frank Smith, Jr
Carl Bredahl
Donald Yahn
Joseph Belli
Edwin Kalinka
Stanley Swift
Charles Lotz
Joseph Prebol
Walter Nazar
Benedict Vital
Thaddeus Bukowski
Leo Grossman
Michael Kashey
Stephen Messineo
John Janek
John Yanick
Herbert Gibb
William Nalesnik
Joseph Sowma
Bronislaus Pitak
Harry Tamboer
John Olear
John Koropchak
Joseph Nugent
Steven Gombocs
Thomas Gula
Raymond Curley
Harry Earnshaw
James Henry
John Layton
Charles Messineo
Joseph Petruska
Bogert Terpstra
John Kotulick
Peter Vroeginday
Michael Sobol
Donald Sang
Andew Sanko
George Zeim, Jr.
Robert Van Liere
Vernon Broseman
Harold O’Keefe
Edward Palffy
Dennis Szabaday
Lewis Cosmano
Stanley Scott, Jr.
Charles Hulyo, Jr.
Arnold Hutton
Frank Barth
John Kanyo
Bryce Leighty
Joseph Bertneskie
Samuel Bychek
Louis Netto
David Ward
Edward Rembisz
Lawrence Zanetti
Alfred Jones
Stephen Blondek
John Bulyn
Gerhard Kaden
William Lawrence
Robert Doherty
Samuel Guglielmo
Robert Parker
Joseph Molson
World War II
Stephen Kucha
James De Biase
Dominick Gianni
Manuel Marcos
Nicholas Palko
William Slyboom
Herman Teubner
Thomas Commiciotto
Stephen Surgent
Albert Bertneskie
Charles Gash
Peter Jacklin
Peter Shraga,Jr.
John Aspesi
Micheal Ladyczka
Edward Marchese
Robert Stephan
Roelof Holster, Jr.
Alex Hossack
Siber Speer
Frank Klimock
Salvatore Procopio
Harry Breen
Gordon Tomea, Jr.
Douglas Gleeson
Fred Hazekamp
Harold Roy
Andrew Servas, Jr.
Francis Alesso
Walter Bobzin
Vincent Lazzaro
John Op’t Hof
Joseph Sondey
John Zier
Peter Hellrigel
Steve Luka
Arthur Vanden Bree
Harold Baker
Hans Fester
Patrick Conklin
John Thompson
Thomas Dutton, Jr.
Harold Ferris, Jr.
Donald Freda
Joseph Guerra
Edward Hornbeck
William Hromniak
Stephen Petrilak
Wayne Wells
Vincent Montalbano
James Miles
Louis Kloss
Andrew Kacmarcik
John Hallam
Anthony Leanza
William Sieper
Sylvester Cancellieri
George Worschak
Frank Urrichio
Andrew Marchincak
Carl Anderson
George Holmes
World War II
Edward Stadtmauer
Kermit Goss
George Huemmer
Alexander Yewko
Emil Chaplin
John Hushler
Edgar Coury
Robert Hubinger
Wilbur Lee
Vito Venezia
Joseph Russin
Ernest Yedlick
Charles Cannizzo
Michael Barbero
Joseph Palagano
William Hadrys
Joseph Hoffer, Jr.
Joseph Piccolo
John Robinson
Frank Torkos
Arthur Mayer
Edward Jaskot
George Russell
Frank Groseibl
Richard Van Vliet
Benjamin Boyko
Harry Carline
Paul Domino
John Fusiak
Louis Ritz
William Niader
Alfred Aiple
Mario Taverna
Sebastian De Lotto
Matthew Bartnowski
John Bogert
Joseph Collura
Matthew Daniels
James Doland, Jr.
Walter Dolginko
Peter Konapaka
Alfred Masseroni
Charles Merlo
Stephen Miskevich
John Ptasienski
Leo Schmidt
Robert Teichman
Louis Vuoncino
Richard Vecellio
Robert Hegmann
Ernest Triemer
John Peterson
Richard Vander Laan, Jr.
Stephan Kucha
‘Gigito’ Netto
Korean War
Donald Frost
Ernest Haussler
William Kuller
Joseph Amato
Herbert Demarest
George Fornelius
Edward Luisser
Reynold Campbell
Louis Le Ster
Dennis Dyt
Raymond Halendwany
John Crawbuck
Ernest Hagbery
William Gould
Edward Flanagan
William Snyder
Allen Hiller
Arthur Grundman
Donald Brannon
Our November 2000 magazine celebrated Korean War veterans. Pictured on that cover from left are, John Biegel Jr., Andrew Den Bleyker, Tom Miller, Ken Supko and in front, John Ryan. They are superimposed over a campaign map of Korea.
Vietnam War
Alfred Pino
Thomas Dando
William Sipos
Bohdan Kowal
Robert Kruger, Jr.
Bruce McFadyen
Carrol Wilke
Keith Perrelli
William Zalewski
Louis Grove
Clifford Jones, Jr.
George McClelland
Richard Corcoran
John Bilenski
Donald Campbell
James Strangeway, Jr.
Donald Scott
Howard Van Vliet
Frank Moorman
Robert Prete
Guyler Tulp
Nicholas Cerrato
Edward Deitman
Richard Cyran
Leszek Kulaczkowski
William Malcolm
Leonard Bird
John France
Stephen Stefaniak Jr.
Nov. 8, 1961
Plane Crash
Robert De Vogel
Vernon Griggs
Robert Marositz
Robert Rinaldi
Raymond Shamberger
Harold Skoglund
Willis Van Ess, Jr.
Gulf War
Michael Tarlavsky
To all our 2023 BLOOMIN’ Sponsors, Runners, Walkers and Volunteers
THANK YOU for helping us keep our food pantry running and growing!
See you next year at Bloomin’ 2024
These four students, one from each grade, were selected by the vice principals at CHS, to be spotlighted for their personal achievements and school-wide contributions.
Freshman year is when students transition and acclimate to their new surroundings. That’s what Nathaly Romero Vera is doing on Colfax Avenue.
The CHS Class of 2026 student enjoys spending time in math class because “it entertains me and keeps my mind active.” Separately, Vera’s most influential teacher is Rebeca Espinal, who is an ESL/Bilingual teacher.
“I like [Espinal’s] way of teaching and I learn with her,” said Vera.
Vera is taking some time to consider CHS’ extracurricular options before committing to any area that is of interest. For the future, Vera expressed an interest in taking advantage of academic programs that CHS has to offer. These range from the Bergen program, the PCCC program, Academies, or the MSU program.
“[These programs] would help me get closer to what I want to be when I grow up,” said Vera.
Vera’s parents serve as an inspiration for the freshman. “They make an effort every day,” said Vera. “They have taught me how and why things happen.”
Vera keeps a few helpful tips in mind while continuing to adjust to days spent on Colfax Avenue.
“I am successful by completing the activities that [teachers] give me, writing down the most important things, and helping my classmates if they need help.”
Teachers can influence us at any age. One that sophomore Arman Rasouli has not forgotten is School 13 fifth grade teacher Linda Onorevole.
“[She] still has a big impact on my life,” said Rasouli (CHS 2025). “Being one of my only teachers who deeply believed in me, she never managed to fail, making me feel like my life was on the path to success.”
“Being so young back then, I never truly understood how nice of a woman she was,” continued Rasouli. “But now looking back on it, I couldn’t be happier to be a part of her class that year.”
Rasouli enjoys math as a favorite subject. Its favor relates back to the “importance it holds in our everyday lives.” Rasouli has also noticed over time the talent that he holds for the subject.
Some of Rasouli’s extracurriculars include soccer, bodybuilding, swimming, martial arts, and Key Club. Rasouli also enjoys singing, songwriting, reading, writing, and drawing. He’s started looking into the Bergen Program, which quickly caught his attention.
Rasouli’s greatest inspiration is his grandmother.
“Even though she’s not with us anymore, I’ll never forget the positive energy that she held when you were around her and the smile nobody could wipe off her face,” said Rasouli.
Nathaly Romero Vera, Arman Rasouli, Miha Garcia, Emmanuel West.Miha Garcia’s long term goals include becoming a midwife or nurse practitioner. Further into the future, she may open her own medical practice to assist women or families who are planning to welcome children.
“Not only do they assist in the delivery of newborns, but they also give care to females,” said Garcia (CHS 2024). “I am excited to attend college and complete my dreams.”
Garcia enjoys taking Intro to Health Profession during her junior year. She appreciates how the course offers students the chance to learn about job descriptions and working environments, education and training, licensure and certification, and earnings.
“This subject is highly beneficial to individuals who want to study medicine but don’t know what careers they want in the medical industry,” said Garcia. “I totally recommend this class.”
Garcia’s activities outside the classroom include cheerleading with the Clifton Junior Mustangs for four years. She credits coaches Melissa Inoa and Maria Betances for supporting her athletic career and her education. Along with cheerleading, she’s part of Heroes & Cool Kids, Dance Ensemble, and Pre-Med Club. She coaches younger girls with Clifton Junior Mustangs Cheer. “My inspiration is my brother, Kevin Verla,” said Garcia. “He has encouraged me to improve and pursue my dreams.”
Emmanuel West – Senior
Students can discover what it is they want to do at any age in their lives. Senior Emmanuel West has one teacher in particular to thank for helping guide him toward his future career path.
“Mr. [Bryan] Stepneski … helped me realize my true passion for music,” said West (CHS 2023).
West has not only found a passion but a community within his extracurriculars at CHS. West is a part of the CHS Mustang Marching Band, the Mustang Band Wind Ensemble, the Orchestra, the Mustang Concert Band, the Jazz Band, and the Pit Orchestra for the musical.
He plans to attend Passaic County Community College in the fall. There, West intends to study music production and will transfer to another institution after his sophomore year. As he rounds out his time in high school, West has enjoyed taking American Sign Language.
“I like to learn about signs and the deaf community and deaf culture,” said West.
One of his greatest obstacles that he overcame was “being comfortable with where I was” and not constantly striving for “greatness and improvement.” He overcame that mentality by looking to his family as his role models.
“My parents inspire me with how hard they work and how they are leaders in the community.”
School 15 is turning 100 years old! Join students, alumni, and current faculty and staff on June 4 as they celebrate their centennial from 10 am to 2 pm. The event is at 700 Gregory Ave. and the rain date is June 11. The outdoor Centennial Fun Fair is open to the public with food, a DJ, sand art, craft sale, photo booth, face painting, inflatables, balloon art, memorabilia, student art, and a chorus performance. The event is open to the public. Email School15Turns100@ gmail.com with any questions.
Dutch Hill Residents Association’s Annual Flea Market is June 3, from 9 am to 4 pm, in Weasel Brook Park, along Paulison Ave. For $40, dealers will be assigned an 18-foot space in the park. No pre-registration. The cash fee will be collected at the flea market. Set up begins at 6:30 am; space is first come, first served.
The Passaic County 200 Club’s Valor Awards is May 9 at 6 pm. Come out to support and honor Passaic County’s heroic Police, Fire, and EMS First Responders at The Brownstone, at 351 West Broadway, Paterson. Advanced tickets are $75. Tickets will not be sold at the door. To purchase: pc200club.org/valor/tickets.php. Make checks payable to: Passaic County 200 Club, 41 Chestnut Ct. Cedar Grove, NJ, 07009. For more info, call President Christine Schultz at 973-202-3295.
Tosca, an opera by Clifton’s Garden State Opera, will be presented May 7 at 3 pm at the Clifton Jewish Center, 18 Delaware St. Fully staged, with orchestra and the participation of the Caldwell School District Adult and Children Choruses under the direction of Dr. Elsie Timpson, admission is free, but registration is required due to limited seating. Register at gardenstateopera.org.
The role of Tosca will be sung by Roseanne Ackerley, Cavaradossi by Anthony Daino, and Barone Scarpia by Chris Fistonich. The program is funded by the Passaic County Cultural and Heritage Council, a partner of the New Jersey State Council on the Arts and from the Musicians Performance Trust Fund. For more info, email cliftonjewishcenter@verizon.net or call 973-772-3131
The Clifton Arts Center takes patrons on “Sculptural Journeys” from May 10 to July 29, as part of an exhibit and sale presented by members of the Sculpture Affiliates of the Art Center of Northern New Jersey.
The show examines how our cultural diversities can affect differences in choice and application of materials. All artwork will reflect the detailed craftsmanship and skill of each artist. The Sculpture Affiliates of Northern NJ was founded in 1972. The public is invited to a reception on May 13 from 1-4 pm. The exhibit is open Wednesdays through Saturdays, 1-4 pm, except for May 29 and July 4.
Clifton Arts Center is at 900 Clifton Ave. For more details and other info, follow Arts Center on Instagram and Facebook @cliftonartscenter or call 973-472-5499.
Brookwood Unplugged—John Giardina, Mike Cetinich and Tex O’Connor—perform at the Grande Saloon on May 12. Enjoy dinner and drinks and Brookwood’s acoustic sound.
Arbor Day on April 27 was marked by Clifton’s Beautification Committee with the planting of another crepe myrtle, which will bloom in summer, on the grounds of the City Hall campus.
Clifton Public Schools was honored April 20 for the fourth consecutive year with the Best Communities for Music Education designation from The NAMM Foundation. Clifton was recognized for its outstanding commitment to music education after answering detailed questions about funding, graduation requirements, music class participation, instruction time, facilities, support for the music program, and community music-making programs.
Above, Ihor and Kristy Andruch celebrated 22 years of marital bliss on May 4; their son, Stefan Andruch is 19 on May 3. At right, Jurij P. Dubas turns 19 on May 3.
Right column from top, Mia Medina is 9 on May 22. Heaven Medina is 21 on May 2. Happy Birthday to Devan Simpson turning 8 on May 7. Can it be? Brittney Abell will be 34 on May 25!
