Clifton Merchant Magazine - October 2021 by Clifton Merchant Magazine

Tom Hawrylko

From the Editor

Be Engaged. Vote Nov. 2 The inspiring thing about school board candidates is that they get into the race often because of their kids. That’s the common ground for the nine Board of Education candidates. They all are parents and/or educators who want to advance our community. If elected to one of the three open seats, for the next three years they become part of a nine-member policy making board which offers no salary, no expense accounts, nor health care benefits. As a board of education commissioner, they’ll sit through at least two open board meetings a month in which, at times, angry speakers will share grievances and sometimes be disrespectful to these volunteers. Beyond the hard aspects of the job, there are many joys, no doubt. Through sub committee meetings, they get to shape and advocate for policies important to themselves and our community. So on the following pages, we have profiled each of these candidates, giv-

ing them the opportunity to tell our readers more about themselves, their thoughts on making policy and issues that are important to them. Continuing our civic mission, we also have profiled six candidates running for three open Passaic County Commissioner seats and the two candidates for the single Passaic County Surrogate Judge position. Clifton is part of the 34th Legislative District and seven candidates are running for one NJ Senate seat and two NJ Assembly positions, which represent our city, as well as East Orange, Montclair and Orange. At the top of the ticket is a race for governor, with two major party candidates and three others who run on platforms which are not Democrat or Republican. The wheels of democracy have many spokes, as the above list illustrates. You have some options and decisions. We hope our election primer gets you motivated and engaged. Please vote on Nov. 2.

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One of the many roles of a publication is to inform the public. We have dedicated the following pages of our magazine to inform residents about local elections.

9 BOE Candidates 3 Open Seats On Nov. 2, Clifton voters will head to the polls. Voters will cast their ballots for the 2021 school board election and state elections. On the following pages, we have written synopses on those who are running for state positions and profiled all the nine of the Board of Education candidates about their perspectives and what unique qualities they feel they can each bring to the Clifton Public School district. Profiles by Ariana Puzzo

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“The thing that sets me apart is that I’m not afraid to put myself out there and take a stand.”

- Judith A. Bassford

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Judith A. Bassford Judith Bassford has served on the BOE for three terms, but her involvement with the school district extends further. Bassford joined the School 5 Home & School Association when her children Samantha (CHS 2008) and Keith (CHS 2014) attended the school. As the HSA president, Bassford noted her involvement in the district’s efforts to pass budgets, and said she helped bring awareness to parents and guardians about educational matters and advocated for fair funding in the city to legislators. Her passion for talking about special education students and their accommodations is what led her to co-found a Special Education Parent Support group in Clifton, Clifton PRAISE (Parents Requiring Assistance In Special Education). It was also the deciding factor when she chose to first run for a seat on the board in the April 2011 election. “The thing that sets me apart is that I’m not afraid to put myself out there and take a stand,” said Bassford, 61. “I always felt like I was the voice of the people.” An Albion resident, Bassford has lived in our city for 36 years. She works for Berkeley College as an Admissions Associate and is a part-time student, hoping to advance her own personal educational goal by studying Justice Studies. Her commitment has also allowed Bassford to recognize the importance of the 2021-22 school district’s budget of more than $210 million and the district’s previously approved referendum. “We are a large district … [and there are] a lot of needs for our students,” said Bassford. “The whole board approved the referendum, and I supported it.” “It’s fiscally sound,” she added. “One thing with the Clifton BOE that you can understand is that we are prudent with the way we spend money to educate our students. … We give them what’s appropriate and needed … from [general education] to special education students.” During her 10 years on the board, one thing she noted is a general improve-

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Mark J. Brunciak Mark J. Brunciak is running for a seat on the BOE with the hope of representing the district’s parents that he feels are underrepresented. For the CHS 1999 graduate, the desire stemmed from when his daughter was about to start kindergarten last year. - Mark J. Brunciak “They mentioned the reopening plan in July of last year and based on the district’s provided presentation, I felt they could assure ment in the district’s test scores. She also reminded that children’s safety,” said Brunciak, 39. teaching in 2021 has “morphed to a different capacity” As the 2020-21 school year approached and parents than teaching in the 2011 era and said while testing is imlearned that there would be a delay for an in-person portant, it should not be done every year.

To all the voters of Clifton, I deeply care about your children’s education... I won’t let anything get in my way.

Bassford also expressed pride in the board’s handling of staff during the coronavirus pandemic. “When COVID hit, the board decided to have committees meet [remotely] more often than usual,” she said. “When talking about how to handle COVID … one of the pleas of the committee was to repurpose our bus drivers so we didn’t have to lay them off.” “I’m proud to say that we did that,” continued Bassford. “Some were given other duties in the district, and we were able to retain those bus drivers and not really be impacted where other districts are hurting right now.” When talking about health and safety in the schools, Bassford said she supports Superintendent Danny Robertozzi’s decision to uphold Governor Phil Murphy’s indoor face mask mandate. She added, though, that she sees how in certain cases the situation can become nuanced. “I’m going to make sure that if a student has an [Individualized Education Plan] and can’t wear a mask, their IEP will be followed,” she said. As for whether remote learning should remain an option, she said that should be assessed on a school-by-school basis. “I’m not an expert or scientist, but I think it’s important to keep a component of remote learning in case there’s another wave,” said Bassford. “Why make up time at the end of the year when we can implement remote learning?”

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option until at least October, Brunciak began speaking up to the district. “It had been too late to get on the ballot for 2020 at the time,” he said. “So, I made a decision at the time that if positions opened in 2021, I would give it a shot.” “Every board meeting, I would attend as well to let them know how dissatisfied me and other parents were in the district. Brunciak’s background is accounting and he works as a senior analyst with Aerojet Rocketdyne. Through his work at the $4 billion company, Brunciak feels prepared to take on the task of being part of the decision-making process for a district budget exceeding $210 million. “The rules at my job for us are that we have budgets that we need to go by. If we go over, we better have a good explanation why we did,” said Brunciak. “There are lots of rules in the corporate environment that are applicable in the public environment,” he continued. “I believe that I can handle that.” Part of that, he noted, also relates to hiring new teachers and retaining others while the nation grapples with shortages of educators around the country. “I think potentially signing bonuses should be associated with it,” he said. “In private enterprise, we see it all

October 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

the time. ‘If you stay with us, your performance is good for X,’ and then you set a benchmark. Perhaps offering a bonus as a result.” But ultimately, he wants parents to have greater options for their children. For Brunciak, it further means giving parents an option for face masks, like when it came to choosing if their child would learn in-person or remotely full-time. “Lots of parents were scared this September for their kids to even come into the classroom, but they did not give an option to give full remote learning for parents who wanted to have that,” he said. Brunciak acknowledged how refusing to comply with the governor’s mandates could jeopardize district funding. However, he wants to work on ways to get parents more options because while it may be in the students’ best interest to learn in-person where they also obtain social skills, the family units can differ. “Some children are in households where [family members] like parents or grandparents are at high risk … and this is a virus that kills a lot of people over the age of 70,” said Brunciak. So, in reference to his campaign slogan “Our Children First”, what sets him apart?

“To all the voters of Clifton, I deeply care about your children’s education and I won’t let anything get in my way,” said Brunciak. “As long as I’m on this commission, I will accept nothing less than excellence, and I will hear all of the parents’ concerns.” Vita Marlena Cowan Like many parents, Marlena Cowan has a vested interest in ensuring that Clifton students receive a high quality education. The mother of four is a first-time candidate for the BOE. “I have three boys in the Clifton Public School system, with the fourth to join them in a few years,” said Cowan. “I believe the district and the staff have done so much for my family [and] I would like to give something back.” Cowan has lived in Clifton since 2006 and has lived in the Allwood section since 2007 with her husband and lifelong resident, George Cowan (CHS 2000). The couple’s three eldest boys are currently attending Clifton schools at the elementary level. When Cowan considers facility improvements, she believes any school upgrades based on climate concerns would need to be managed by a professional and

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I would like to see the district take on a more active role … and offer [before and aftercare] services at all of our schools. - Vita Marlena Cowan

“done on a building by building basis.” “Obviously schools that were severely impacted such as School 16 should be examined more closely,” said Cowan. “Perhaps a better drainage system could be installed to prevent future flooding.” “The district may have to bring in an engineer or a landscape architect to figure out some way water can be diverted from the building,” she added. There are other district investments that she considers valuable. As far as greening the school buildings, an idea that she proposed was investing in solar panels to “offset electricity costs.” A separate consideration is hiring and retaining non-certified staff members like bus drivers.

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Cowan suggested that aside from increasing their pay, the possibility of offering incentives like tuition reimbursement to appeal to individuals who may be attending college part time. Cowan also considered the retention of the district’s paraprofessionals. “We could offer a better package for paraprofessionals,” said Cowan. “Some districts do hire some paraprofessionals as full-time staff and offer benefits. Although … we would not be able to do this for every paraprofessional needed, we could offer some full-time positions.” Cowan earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Montclair State University. She is now six credits away from getting her master’s degree in Management at Thomas Edison State University. She works as the Payroll/Benefits Coordinator for the Glen Ridge Public School district. “I am very familiar with school budgets and the work that goes into creating them,” she said. If elected, one thing that she would like to see evolve over the next three years is the district’s role with the before-care and aftercare programs. “Mr. [Bob] Foster and his staff at the Boys and Girls Club are doing an amazing job, but with a district so large and the demand so high, the burden should not be theirs alone,” she said. Cowan continued that she has spoken to parents who were waitlisted or turned away due to the Club’s capacity limitations. “I would like to see the district take on a more active role in this and offer these services at all of our schools to make it easier for parents and to not overwhelm the Boys and Girls Club.” Lucy Danny Lucy Danny is a self-proclaimed “lifelong learner” and has spent 10 years on the BOE. Danny, who recently earned her doctorate in educational leadership from St. Peter’s University, has worked as an educator for 20 years in Paramus. “I add something to the Board of Ed because I’m an educator, so I look through that lens,” said Danny, 51. “So I can understand the full dynamic and implications of … something that we are looking to explore.” Danny is no stranger to serving on her own school’s

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[Remote learning] forced [teachers] to utilize technological tools, and I think students benefited from that. The silver lining is that it modernized education. - Lucy Danny

committees and working in conjunction with the administration. What it boils down to, she said, is the students. She noted that one of the board’s successes during her tenure is keeping the budget at a 0% increase. That, she continued, is consistently a top priority. But another priority is making the necessary improvements to the buildings and facilities for the sake of the students and staff. Now, especially due to the coronavirus pandemic, the physical needs are part of the priority. For future budget allocation, Danny sees that going to several areas. Some of it needs to go toward building maintenance and security, as well as updating security protocols. The other element is the social and emotional needs of the students. “We will be allocating money, I think, toward … the social and emotional needs and the learning gaps,” said Danny. “It will also include supporting the administration and continuing with some of the after-school programs that provide academic support.” Making sure the schools can stay open also relates back to that. Danny spoke to the fact that an important facet moving forward is talking about how climate crises and natural disasters such as Hurricane Ida will affect learning in the future. More specifically, how to give all children the best education experience even if these disasters damage facilities like at School 16. “When something like this happens, it’s gut-wrenching, especially in a pandemic year when all was set to open. It’s not acceptable,” she said. “One thing that I was thinking about and I don’t know about logistically, would maybe … be busing the students to other schools while theirs is being cleaned.” “It’s really a team effort,” she said. “One idea bounces off of another.” As a teacher, she is also no stranger to the triumphs and shortcomings of Distance Learning. During the pandemic, she said the board received updates from the

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superintendent and got emails from parents who expressed positive feedback about what the teachers tried to do. Danny added that remote learning may have aspects that are worth keeping going forward. Part of that could even include keeping a virtual option in the event of students or classes who need to stay quarantined at home. “I think it’ll change education, but it pushed many of the educators into the technological world, which was good,” she said. “It forced them to utilize technological tools, and I think students benefited from that.” “The silver lining is that it modernized education.” Danny lives in the Dutch Hill neighborhood. She has a daughter, Tara (Danny) Candelario, who graduated with the CHS Class of 2007. She also has a grandson, who is the next generation to go through the school district. Along with wanting to improve education because she lives it, she also wants to secure it for future generations. “I want to keep the academic rigor high because that makes people want to move into our town,” said Danny. “I want my grandson to be proud of the school he’s in.” Robert D’Arco Robert D’Arco is no stranger to the Board of Education. The Clifton resident served as a commissioner from 1981-84 and then again from 1998-1999 as a 1-year replacement. Today, D’Arco is now retired after a 25-year career in the human resources management field and feels ready to return to the BOE. “I had a serious problem with my spine and was forced to have a disability retirement,” said D’Arco, 67. “I had seven surgeries on my cervical spine in the last 16 years. Last October, on the seventh one, they finally got it.” “Now, I am basically rejuvenated and feel so much better … with time on my hands,” he added. “It’s a good time to get back into the swing of things.” D’Arco is a lifelong resident and graduate with the CHS Class of 1972. He is married to Patricia (Murdoch) D’Arco (CHS 1975) and they have two children, Robert (CHS 2003) and Melissa (CHS 2007). If elected in November, D’Arco’s main focus is not hurting any of Clifton’s academic programs. Along with his fellow candidates, D’Arco was asked about the school

October 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

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I am an individual who firmly believes in following the science. I believe whatever the governor should mandate is what we shall and will follow. - Robert D’Arco

district’s 2021-22 total budget. The budget amounts to more than $210 million for the academic year. “Back in my first term … I was head of the finance committee,” he said. “[We] reviewed the budget that the superintendent back then had put forth.” “My background in the financial area, though not as strong as the human resources area, is still a pretty strong one.” D’Arco’s present day focus on maintaining academic programs stems from the past year of Distance Learning, and more specifically the loss of in-person instruction. “I believe we’re at a very critical point in time because of the pandemic and the return to in-class instruction,” said D’Arco. “I don’t want to see anything put us possibly any further back than the students might be because of remote learning.” One element that many people credit for ensuring inperson instruction is wearing masks in school. Early in August, Governor Phil Murphy signed an executive order mandating that all students, educators, staff, and visitors wear face masks indoors for the beginning of the new academic year. Clifton is following that mandate, but all of the interviewed board candidates were asked their own positions on the mandate. “I am an individual who firmly believes in following the science,” said D’Arco. “I believe whatever the governor should mandate is what we shall and will follow.” Another element for preserving in-person learning is looking at the schools’ infrastructures. In the wake of Hurricane Ida and the rise of climate concerns, D’Arco said there needs to be a thorough review of the facilities. “I think a very thorough review is going to be paramount to making sure in the future that we don’t have the kind of destruction that we had [from Hurricane Ida],” said D’Arco. “We have some very qualified peo-

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ple on staff, but not enough people to do that [review] in-house without outside professionals giving us their feedback on it.” D’Arco’s perspective is that the schools would benefit from an outside company giving the district a full review that outlines where the district is in terms of future potential losses. He acknowledged that some residents may be apprehensive about the cost of these updates. However, D’Arco stated that he’s “not looking to tax people unnecessarily.” “I’ve been a fiscal conservative my entire life,” he said. “As the head of the finance committee, I was referred to as a young whipper-snapper because I went over the budget with a fine tooth comb.” Avraham Y. Eisenman Avraham Y. Eisenman may be running for a seat on the BOE for the first time, but he’s plenty familiar with community involvement. For the past decade, Eisenman has served as a volunteer EMT with Hatzolah of Passaic/Clifton EMS. In Passaic, he’s also involved with the Office of Emergency Management, and he works as an emergency nurse practitioner at Saint Joseph’s Medical Center in Yonkers, NY. “Growing up, I always wanted to be a doctor,” said Eisenman, 30. “Then, as a child, I had some surgeries … and that turned me to nursing more. They’re really there day in and day out.” “I’m a people person,” he added, “and I love taking care of people.” It’s those qualities that he wants to bring to the BOE, if the voters elect him next month. It’s also why his campaign slogan is: “Representing us all.” For Eisenman, that means making sure that his contact information is public so residents do not need to wait to come to a meeting to speak with him. He added that it also means not simply raising taxes and then not seeing the desired results. “I want to represent all of the people in Clifton,” he said. “I’m Orthodox Jewish, but I’m not running to represent that community over another.” “Every Clifton person has a voice … and I want to hear their concerns and be transparent with them,” he continued. “If a child needs … special education services, I want to make sure we … get those students the proper needs to succeed.”

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When I say representing us all, I really mean it. If elected, I will be transparent and will hear from the constituents. - Avraham Y. Eisenman

To his point of transparency, Eisenman is forthright about his limited budgeting experience. He said working with the district’s budget would require him doing more research into where the money comes from and where it goes, but he feels that he’s up to the task. “My training in emergency medicine [means that I’m comfortable] rolling with the punches and looking at everything from a new perspective,” said Eisenman. “‘How do we do this and do it better moving forward?’ I’m prepared to look at it with a fresh set of eyes.” To that end, he also offered some thoughts on the nationwide issue of hiring and retaining educators and non-certificated staff members. As a reference point, he drew upon his own experience within the healthcare field hearing that many people leave their jobs due to the feeling that they’re not appreciated for their work. “Hiring is one part of it, but then retention through appropriate salary and non-salary incentives [are also important],” said Eisenman. It’s not simply for those directly teaching students either, he added, but those who perform ancillary services to allow schools to function. “It’s about going out and meeting people and asking, ‘What’s gonna make you stay and want to work here?’” he continued. “Sometimes it’s the small things, but we need to ask, ‘What do you need to make your job the best, and how can we provide that to you?’” Eisenman lives in Delawanna with his wife, Yitti, and their three children, aged 7, 6 and 18 months. Eisenman said his oldest attends a private school that meets his special education needs and his second son followed after the parents “fell in love with the school.” He hopes to help provide similar experiences for Clifton Schools parents. “When I say representing us all, I really mean it,” he said. “If elected, I will be transparent and will hear from the constituents. I want to be there for them [and] be their voice.”

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Daniel Gaudet Daniel Gaudet may be one of the newcomers running for a seat on the BOE, but he doesn’t shy away from voicing his beliefs. “I’m running for one reason and one reason only – to have safer routes to school,” said Gaudet, 57. “We have to fix the traffic all around the city.” Gaudet became a parent advocate when his daughter started first grade. At the time, she attended School 11, and he found the “traffic congestion to School 11 was unacceptable.” Now 10-years-old and a fifth grader in a charter school, Gaudet wants to see things improve for other Clifton families. His efforts have included meeting with former Councilman Steve Hatala, repeatedly visiting City Hall, writing a letter to City Manager Nick Villano, and speaking with the BOE and Superintendent Danny Robertozzi. “If [students] don’t feel safe getting picked up by the bus because of people running by the stop sign like it’s not there, how does that start the day right for learning? How do kids learn anything in those conditions?” said Gaudet. “I met a dozen times to get the city to put serious consideration into better drop-off points for children,” he continued. “If I don’t and someone gets hurt, I’ll blame myself.” He has seen some progress for his efforts in speaking with Robertozzi. Part of it is a proposal to replace the existing grass area with a new drop-off for School 11 families. “I want a voice. I’ve never been elected to an office,” he said, “but I’m hoping that I can meet enough people, talk to enough people, and get the message out there.” Gaudet’s background includes over 30 years of construction experience with a background in engineering. He started putting sidewalks at the age of 13. Originally from Massachusetts, he married Mustang Michelle (Audette) Gaudet (CHS 1988) and moved to Clifton in 2015. The Lakeview resident also stated that he is not intimidated by “big numbers.” While working as a quality control manager in Boston, the largest budget that he worked with was $300 million. If anything, he was transparent in saying he has no issues with paperwork, but is uncomfortable when it comes to having to get up at meetings and speak in public. But acknowledging his blessings and paying it forward is what Gaudet says gets him up in front of his community. That, and making sure parents are heard in all situations. “For equipping the schools, I honestly feel that the

October 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

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I honestly feel that the board should be looking for more direction from parents and be more open to parents. - Daniel Gaudet

board should be looking for more direction from parents.” That means maintaining a call-in from home option during BOE meetings. He added that he believes the City Council should also “be more open to having a call-in option.” Gaudet said what sets him apart from the other candidates is his passion and desire to make things better than the way he found them. “People saw me go to City Hall to complain about crosswalks to get them painted, but that wasn’t enough. Then, I petitioned for a crossing guard, which I got. I just want to make this world a little bit better because I’m in it,” said Gaudet. Frank W. Kasper Frank Kasper is completing his first term on the BOE and expressed a sense of pride in how far the district has come since he was elected in 2017. Kasper is in his 12th year as a special education teacher in Saddle Brook. During his time on the board, he served on the Education Committee. His main focus was to update the curriculum and help special education students in receiving the “best education that goes with their IEPs.” “I first ran trying to make a difference for our students,” said Kasper, 36, a CHS ‘03 grad. “I’d like to continue serving the people of Clifton, to continue what I’m doing while making the district a better place to learn for our students.” When he considers what progress has been made since 2017 that makes him the most proud, he thinks of the district’s 1:1 initiative. The initiative became instrumental for students’ ability to learn remotely during the coronavirus pandemic. By providing a device to every student, all students could remotely access the same resources from home, regardless of socioeconomic status and other ability factors. “I was on the Technology Committee for two years, and that’s when we started the 1:1 initiative,” said Kasper. “Luckily, with Dr. Robertozzi, we were able to completely go 1:1 for all the students in the district.”

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When speaking about his support of the district’s 2021-22 budget, Kasper emphasized that the budget takes care of both the students and the staff. “That budget helps keep the staffing level where it is, but it also keeps the programs for our students,” he said. These include programs for students who may wish to pursue a future in education or even accounting. “We’re helping to build more programs – that way, we can give more options [to] our high school students,” continued Kasper. The board members acknowledged the severity of the shortage of teachers and non-certified workers across the country. Given his own role as a teacher, Kasper offered his perspective. “It’s tough not seeing enough people wanting to be in education,” said Kasper. “I like to be out there telling people what a good thing education is. To locally encourage people to … see how it’s not just a teacher or a principal running school. There are also teacher’s aids, those helping with lunch, and those who help keep our schools clean.” Kasper, like many other teachers, acknowledged the inherent difficulties with remote learning. The toughest part, he said, was probably when students were back in the classroom and there were others joining virtually from home. Still, he believes there is a place for remote learning in the future. “As of now, I’m in favor of students and staff wearing masks and, for me, virtual learning is important for some of our … more vulnerable students,” he said. “Moving forward, for those that really need it, I think we should keep

October 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

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I would like to continue serving the people and students of Clifton … while making the district a better place to learn. - Frank W. Kasper

that there for them.” Ultimately, what matters most to him is guaranteeing a thorough and efficient education for all of Clifton’s students. “My main focus [if re-elected] would be to keep on making learning for our students the most impactful,” said Kasper. “I want to make sure I’m a part of …making them succeed in their school career here in Clifton.” Alan Paris Alan Paris is recognizable to many people through his roots with the Clifton Mustang Marching Band and the Community Band, but the Clifton native has a diverse range of experiences that he hopes to bring to the BOE. Paris, 62, retired in June as Director of Applied Microscopy for Leica Microsystems, a company that manufactures scientific equipment. Along with his background in biology, he also minored at Montclair State in education and is a New Jersey state certified K-12 teacher of science, though not practicing. Running for a seat on Clifton’s BOE is something that he wanted to do for a while. Now, he has the time to fully commit to the endeavor.

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“I think that I have a lot to bring to the commission,” said Paris (CHS 1977). “It has a lot of challenges ahead of it, from the infrastructure needs of the schools to the safety and secure learning environment that we need.” “Also,” he continued. “I think the ability to maintain a strong curriculum and extracurriculars are very important. Both my business and personal experiences serve me well as far as tackling some of those issues.” When asked about his perceived top priorities, Paris immediately said building security. Another element that he made mention of was the school buildings’ infrastructure needs and how they connect with the environment. “I think the implementation of security vestibules is the first priority. Along with that, I’d say the environmental HVAC systems [because they] can help us in the future with what we are experiencing with the pandemic,” said Paris. “The system will help our school year by not having to take days off due to excessive heat, and will provide a better environment … if challenged again with the kinds of issues we have now with the pandemic,” he continued. Paris added that after that, he would like to see the district update the bathroom facilities by making them compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act. The lifelong resident lives in the Allwood section with his wife, Karen (CHS 1976), and they have a daughter, Alaina (CHS 2004). Karen and Alaina work for the Clifton School District. Karen is a French teacher at Christopher Columbus and Alaina teaches third grade at School 2. In terms of the past year, Paris has seen second hand the difficulties and triumphs that resulted from remote learning.

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A lot of the challenges and issues that we’ve had to tackle have been related to not having a good understanding of each other. - Alan Paris

“I think Clifton did a really great job overall [with the 1:1 initiative,” he said. “There were some bumps as everyone was getting used to it. But by taking advantage of what we learned and coupling it with the in-person learning that we have today, it can be a powerful combination.” Lastly, what would his campaign slogan: “Clifton Education Excellence” look like in three years if Clifton elects him? Part of it is acknowledging Clifton’s long-lasting strong programs. “Over the next few years, we have an opportunity to really help guide our actions and directions to meet the needs of the community and expand our extracurriculars because that’s where the students find themselves … and develop their life passions,” said Paris. The other element is the significance of addressing the city’s diversity. “There are things that you can do in the curriculum that help reflect that and help students to see more of themselves in the classroom and to help them to understand individual cultural differences, individual practices, and have a better understanding of each other.” “A lot of the challenges and issues that we’ve had to tackle have been related to not having a good understanding of each other,” he said.

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October 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

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Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2021

Election 2021

Passaic County Government

8 Candidates vie for

3 Commissioners & 1 Surrogate Court Judge On Nov. 2, Clifton residents will join other eligible Passaic County voters in electing three new commissioners and a surrogate court judge. A seven-member Board of County Commissioners governs Passaic County. Voters elect each commissioner at large for a three-year term. County Commissioners conduct executive and legislative duties. The county surrogate touches many lives in the county. Individuals may visit the surrogate for the supervision of an adoption or for the appointment of someone to manage an estate. See who’s on the ballot … Assad Akhter, County Commissioner (D) in our region’s annual infrastructure. Passaic County reCounty Commissioner Assad Akhter was appointed ceived more than $115 million in federal infrastructure to fill a Passaic County Board of County Commissioners funding since Bartlett joined the NJTPA. These funds vacancy in 2016. He was then elected in November of helped support numerous projects, including the comple2017 to complete the rest of the term and re-elected for a tion of Passaic County’s section of the 103-mile Morris full three-year term in 2018. Prior Canal Greenway historic site. to the role, Akhter has worked Bartlett is a resident of Wayne, for Congressman Bill Pascrell, where he resides with his wife, Jr. (D-NJ). His work for Pascrell Dr. Khyati Y. Joshi, and their son. spanned over 11 years in his New The Commissioner earned his deJersey and Washington offices, gree at Harvard Law School and and he was Deputy Chief of Staff works as a Partner in Murphy Orfor the Congressman. lando LLC. Prior to law school, His other title for Congressman he graduated with a bachelor’s Pascrell was Legislative Director degree from Brown University in the Washington, DC office. and was a Raoul Wallenberg He worked on multiple pieces of Scholar at the Hebrew University Assad Akhter, John Bartlett. legislation while in that position. of Jerusalem. The legislation included: The Affordable Care Act (ACA), the American Recovery and Zoila Cassanova, Surrogate Court Judge Candidate (D) Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA), and the Dodd-Frank As an Attorney for the New York State Unified Court Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act. Akhter System, Zoila Cassanova has worked in multiple areas, earned a Bachelor’s of Science degree from Seton Hall including: Medical Malpractice, Civil litigation, CrimiUniversity’s School of Diplomacy and International Relanal litigation, Election law, and Labor law. Cassanova tions. He and his wife, Saira, reside in Paterson. previously served as the court attorney to the Manhattan County Surrogate. A resident of Wayne with her husband John Bartlett, County Commissioner (D) and two children, Cassanova earned her bachelor’s degree John Bartlett was first elected in 2012 to the Passaic in Labor Relations. She graduated later with a Masters County Board of County Commissioners. During his time of Science in Education and was licensed as a New York as a Commissioner, he has served on all of the Board’s State Teacher. Cassanova earned her Juris Doctorate from standing committees. Bartlett’s priority as Passaic CounSeton Hall University School of Law. ty’s representative on the North Jersey Transportation Cassanova served for six years as a member of the Planning Authority is overseeing more than $2 billion Board of Directors of YouthCollege, Inc., which

October 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2021

Election 2021

Passaic County Government

The Commissioner currently serves on several committees, including: Health & Human Services, Administration & Finance, and Budget. Lazzara expresses an understanding of how difficult families can find it to make ends meet. She has worked with the Board of County Commissioners, County Administrator, and the Passaic County staff to help guarantee that taxpayers reZoila Cassanova, Nicolino Gallo, Sandi Lazzara. ceive the most value from the money that they earn. Lazzara has spent more than exists as a non-profit urban youth outreach organization. 25 years in education. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Cassanova emphasizes the importance of mentoring othHuman Ecology at Montclair State University. She later ers and giving back. In her own capacity, she has menearned an M.Ed. in Administration and Supervision from tored other individuals for more than 20 years. Cassanova William Paterson University. also participated in “Know your rights” outreach events. Aisha Mamkej, Surrogate Court Judge Candidate (R) Nick Gallo, County Commissioner Candidate (R) Aisha Mamkej emigrated from Damascus, Syria at age Born in Italy, Nicolino Gallo immigrated with his fam6. She, along with her parents and five siblings, settled in ily to the U.S. in 1974. Gallo maintains his parents’ early Passaic County. Mamkej became a U.S. citizen in 1981 instilled values of love and respect for America. He and and grew up both in Paterson and Hawthorne. She lives his two siblings grew up in West Paterson, and their parin Haledon with husband and former Haledon Councilents ensured that their children learned English. While man Ayman Mamkej. She attended Mary Help of Chrisgrowing up, Gallo recognized the difficulty of his parents tians Academy in North Haledon, and took several classes sending three children to college. Gallo started his own at Bergen County Community College after completing landscaping business on the weekends at 18. Today, the high school. part-time business has evolved into a larger construction Mamkej began her professional career in the private business. banking and technology sectors. She has worked previGallo promises that if elected as Commissioner, he will ously at the Sony Corporation of America. Later, in 1993, help other local small business owners. His goal is to help she entered the public space by working at the Passaic them recover from the coronavirus pandemic and guarCounty Board of Elections. She then moved to the Passaic antee Passaic County’s viability for new business ownCounty Clerk’s Office as a Senior Election Official. Durers. Gallo lives in Totowa with his wife, Nancy, and they ing her time there, she worked among Republicans and have three children. He serves as a member of the Passaic Democrats to uphold the integrity of our county elections. County Sheriff’s Community Emergency Response Team As County Surrogate, Mamkej endeavors to protect the (CERT). county’s most vulnerable residents. Sandi Lazzara, County Commissioner (D) Lifelong Passaic County resident Sandi Lazzara was first elected to the Passaic County Board of County Commissioners in 2016. Lazzara is a Paterson native who expressed a commitment to serve Passaic County’s residents. Lazzara has twice served as Chair of the Passaic County Human Services Committee. She has also served as co-chair of the Planning and Economic Committee.

October 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

William E. Marsala, County Commissioner Candidate (R) William Marsala is a four-term Councilman and a twotime Deputy Mayor in Ringwood Borough. Marsala emphasizes his understanding of local taxpayer needs. He has also expressed a goal of ensuring that government is both efficient and effective for everyone. Marsala’s portfolio while in governmental roles includes managing local finances and striving to preserve the open

Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2021

Election 2021

Passaic County Government

space from further development. He has also expressed a passion for environmental obstacles. Marsala graduated from St. John’s University College of Business Administration with a bachelor’s degree in Finance. He also would earn his Juris Doctorate from the St. John’s University School of Law. Marsala passed the bar in New Jersey, as well as New York. He specialized in complex civil and comAisha Mamkej, William E. Marsala, Lucy Aileen Rivera. mercial litigation and real estate as an attorney. Marsala lives in Ringwood with of the Stephen Komninos’ Law. The law strives to protect his wife, Roxanne. His goal as Commissioner is to use individuals living with developmental disabilities in New his public and private sector experience to make Passaic Jersey. Her recent efforts include promoting the passage County’s government efficient and transparent to taxpayof the Billy Cray Law, which would govern surveillance ers. cameras inside of group homes. The Advisory Council on Disability and the Passaic Aileen Rivera, County Commissioner Candidate (R) County Freeholders have recognized Rivera in the past Aileen Rivera served previously as the 5th Ward Counfor her work. The Wayne Elks Lodge has previously cilwoman in Wayne Township. She lives there with her named her “Citizen of the Year.” As Commissioner, Rivehusband, Joe, with whom she has three children and five ra’s goals are to guarantee taxpayers receive good governgrandchildren. Rivera’s advocacy efforts include those for ment at the lowest cost and that no resident in the county individuals who are developmentally disabled and those is overlooked. living with Autism. She helped lead the charge on behalf

Dr. Marc Haspel

Dr. Nader Ghobrial

October 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

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Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2021

Election 2021

NJ State Elections

Vote for Governor, plus Select 1 Senator & 2 Assembly Members The New Jersey State Senate and General Assembly make the policies, the Governor signs these policies into law – and all of these seats are up for election. Incumbent Phil Murphy (D), Jack Ciattarelli (R), Madelyn Hoffman (G), Gregg Mele (L), and Joanne Kuniansky (Socialist Workers Party) are all running in the general election for Governor. On Oct. 5, Lt. Governor Sheila Y. Oliver (D) and former Senator Diane B. Allen (R) will debate at Rider University. Here in the 34th district, two General Assembly seats and one seat in the State Senate is up for election. Read on to meet some of those candidates. Tafari K. Anderson (R) Tafari K. Anderson is running to become a new assembly representative and expects to lower taxes, energize the economy, and reform education. Anderson has served on the Board of the New Jersey School Boards Association, as President of the Passaic County School Boards Association and on the Clifton Board of Education. Anderson works as a Director of Technology at Leonia Public Schools. Tafari K. Anderson, Clenard Childress Jr., Irene DeVita. A husband and father, he has lived in Clifton for more than 20 years. He states Irene Devita (R) that he will improve healthcare affordability for every famIrene DeVita is a lifelong Clifton resident and hopes to ily. He supports legislation to put more money into homebecome New Jersey’s next assembly representative. She owners’ pockets through lower property taxes. Anderson is the first born daughter of her Italian immigrant parents. said law enforcement can count on his vote to give them DeVita’s parents instilled in her the values of hard work, the tools and backing they need to keep New Jersey safe. education and patriotism. During her formative years, DeVita attended school in Clenard Childress Jr. (I) Montclair. She remains an active member of the LacorPastor Clenard Howard Childress, Jr. is running as an indaire Academy Alumni. dependent for the assembly. A resident of Montclair, he reAfter high school, she went on to study at Pratt Instisides there with his wife. He joined the New Calvary Baptute, where she earned a B.F.A. in fashion design. She tist Church in 1974 and was named Director of the Youth works today as a fashion professional in the NYC garDepartment in 1978. ment district on Seventh Avenue in New York City. Other roles include Chair of the Board of Trustees, SuFormer District 34 Assemblywoman Marion Crecco perintendent of the Sunday School Department, and VP served as a close friend and mentor of DeVita. Her friendof Outreach. Childress and his wife, Regina, founded the ship with the Crecco family sparked an interest in pubEutychus Mission in 1997. They designed the ministry to lic policy and civic service. DeVita volunteered for years offer rehabilitation to recently released juveniles. In 2003, producing Crecco’s “Heartbeat Ball.” The ball raised Childress joined the Board of The Center for Bio Ethical funds for medical equipment needed at numerous local Reform. The national group’s purpose is “educating the nahospitals. Issues such as those which are communitytion and foreign countries on the rights of the unborn.” oriented are on DeVita’s agenda.

October 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2021

Election 2021

NJ State Elections

Thomas P. Giblin (D) number of bills while a member Many Clifton residents may of the General Assembly. recognize Assemblyman ThomIn 2020, she was a primaas P. Giblin simply by the fact ry sponsor for A1825. The bill that his district office is on Valcreates presumption that some ley Road. firefighters who develop cancer In fact, you may have visare entitled to receive workers’ ited there to deliver gifts for compensation, as well as accichildren during the holiday seadental disability pension. son. Giblin, who is running for re-election, first co-founded the Thomas P. Giblin, Britnee Timberlake. Holiday Toy and Book Drive Nia Gill (D) in 2010. The toy drive serves Nia Gill is a member of the children linked to organizations New Jersey State Senate. Runsuch as the Boys & Girls Club ning for re-election, Gill repof Clifton. resents the 34th District, whch Giblin earned his bachelor’s includes Clifton, and first asdegree in Political Science at sumed office in 2002; her curSeton Hall University. He went rent term will conclude on Jan. on to pursue his postgraduate 11, 2022. studies at Seton Hall University Gill earned a bachelor’s deand Rutgers University. gree in history/political history Giblin’s military service infrom Upsala College. She later Scott Pollack, Nia Gill cludes serving as a Staff Serreceived her Juris Doctor from geant with the N.J. Air National the Rutgers School of Law. Her Guard from 1966 to 1972. professional background and work experience includes He was first elected to the New Jersey General Assemworking as an attorney. bly in 2006 and became Deputy Majority Leader in 2008. Gill served in the New Jersey General Assembly from Giblin joined the International Union of Operating Engi1994 until 2001. neers, Local 68 at age 17 and is a Labor Union Officer. Her 2020-21 committee assignments included: Senate Law and Public Safety Committee, Transportation ComBritnee Timberlake (D) mittee, and Legislative Oversight Committee. Assemblywoman Britnee Timberlake was elected to the New Jersey General Assembly in 2018. The current Scott Pollack (R) committees on which she resides are Community DeScott Pollack is running against the current democratic velopment and Affairs (Vice-Chair), Housing, and Joint incumbent for election to the New Jersey State Senate to Committee on Economic Justice and Equal Employment represent District 34. Opp. Timberlake served as the Essex County Board of Pollack is a longtime Montclair resident and business Freeholders President from 2014 to 2018. She is the execowner. He has worked for 30 years as a financial planner utive director of the Essex Community Land Trust. advising businesses and nonprofits. Pollack earned his deTimberlake graduated from Seton Hall University with gree from Connecticut College. a bachelor’s degree in Political Science. She then earned Pollack has owned Pollack Financial Group since her Master of Public Administration degree at Seton Hall 2005, which is located in Montclair. He is also the current University in Public Administration. chair of the Montclair Republican Committee. For the past three years, Timberlake has joined fellow Pollack said that as the state senator, he would work to Assemblyman Thomas P. Giblin (D) in co-hosting a Hol“fight the establishment and special interests”, focusing iday Toy and Book Drive. Timberlake has sponsored a on issues that matter most to District 34.

October 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2021

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The Clifton Boys & Girls Club’s 8th Annual Car, Truck & Motorcycle Show on Sept. 8 set records with over 400 vehicles on display and over 6,000 visitors. Held at the Allwood Atrium, a committee of volunteers made the event run smoothly. DJ Nick at Nite and Swingman & the Misfit Mutts provided the soundtrack. The show’s goal is to raise funds for Club programs, so thanks to the exhibitors, volunteers, sponsors and attendees who helped make the event a success. Five pages of photos follow...

October 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2021

October 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2021

October 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2021

October 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2021

A stroke changed Steve Bauer’s life. Then his heart went into AFib.

As a cofounder of Ghost Hawk Brewing Company, located on River Road in Clifton, it seemed that most of the obstacles Steve Bauer would face in 2019 would have to do with the new business. Their opening day, April 20, was the brewery’s craziest day of sales to date. The line of customers wrapped around the corner for nine hours straight, all waiting for a taste of the new brew. All those transactions were rung on the single register and POS station the brewery had at the time. Bauer described the day as a “trial by fire,” unaware that in a few months, he would face the biggest challenge of his life. On the evening of Dec. 11, 2019, doctors found that he showed the beginnings of what would be a massive stroke at just 42 years-old. After undergoing open brain surgery and being released from the hospital less than a week later, there’s nothing that can rattle him. He proved this to be true just a few minutes further into our conversation. When asked about a cardiovascular procedure he had done in April 2021, he casually replied that he had “totally forgotten about it.” “After brain surgery, nothing tops that,” Bauer said. “There’s no fear anymore.” Story by Ashley Parsons • Photo by Jovo Bjelcevic

October 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Taken by Surprise Dec. 11 began as a normal day. After driving his father to a doctor appointment, Bauer’s mother called him inside to fill out a Christmas card, which ended up being the first sign that something was wrong. He remembered holding the pen to sign the card but realized he couldn’t move his hand to grip the pen or write. This frustrated him but didn’t cause major concern. At the time, Bauer didn’t pay much attention to his health. He wasn’t eating well or exercising, and weighed about 70 pounds more than he does today. He was also drinking alcohol too often and water too little. “I blamed it on having a rough night the night before,” said Bauer. “I thought I just needed more sleep, so I went home and took a nap.” Once he woke up, he showered and went to Ghost Hawk to work for the evening. By about 7 p.m., his symptoms hadn’t cleared up. Bauer headed to the ER at St. Mary’s General Hospital in Passaic. A few preliminary tests revealed that he was in the early stages of a stroke. The St. Mary’s staff told him that he was already admitted to University Hospital in Newark and sent him there by ambulance. They told Bauer that the neurology team there was one of the best in the state. A few hours after his arrival, he lost both his speech and mobility. He stayed fully conscious of everything happen-

“

“Things people take for granted— like talking and walking—having to learn those again is insane.”

ing around him but was unable to express even a single word. He described the sensation as nothing short of “an actual nightmare.” Further testing showed that Bauer had a blood clot in his brain, which restricted blood flow and resulted in the stroke. Doctors hoped that they would be able to remove the clot with a non-invasive surgery, but it was unsuccessful. They had to resort to a different method: open brain surgery. Bauer said that the week between being admitted and having his surgery were a daze, between countless tests, medications, and drips. But he very clearly remembered doctors often coming in with several medical students because University Hospital is a teaching hospital. Doctors would explain the situation to students and which treatment options were being considered.

Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2021

Out of the Woods “I was an interesting case for them because of my age and what happened,” he said. “I was aware of all of this but couldn’t vocalize it. I liked it much better to hear the doctors use normal terms, not super medical terms, so it was easy to follow. I didn’t want to be left in the dark.” The concept of brain surgery is so difficult to grasp that it’s often used as a metaphor for anything extremely difficult. When someone struggles with a simple task, they might be teased and told it’s not like they’re performing brain surgery. The reality of the surgery is even more daunting. On Dec. 19, Bauer spent 8 hours on the operating table, where doctors removed the blood clot and bypassed an artery from his neck into one in his brain. They achieved success where the first attempt had not. Incredibly, Bauer was released from the hospital just five days later on Christmas Eve. “I was in disbelief,” said Bauer. “I was in a wheelchair, had staples in my skull, and couldn’t even say my first name, but the staff said I had a [higher] chance of catching an infection in the hospital.”

October 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Hard Work for Recovery By the first week of Jan. 2020, Bauer began his rehabilitation. He attended physical therapy at Forward Motion in Clifton and said the staff was excellent and “really got [him] back to where [he is] now after the surgery.” He laughed when thinking back on how out of place he must’ve seemed there. Bauer was surrounded by many older people in therapy, and there he was, in his early 40s and covered in tattoos. He attended speech therapy at Montclair Speech Therapy’s Caldwell office and said that everyone else in the office was only about four years old. To them, he said he must’ve “looked scary like Frankenstein” with the huge scar on his head. Bauer described both experiences as deeply humbling. He was forced to relearn basic, everyday functions. “Things people take for granted—like talking and walking—having to learn those again is insane,” he said, reflectively. “No one could guarantee my recovery, but doctors told me that some stroke patients still have paralysis or speech impediments a decade after the fact.”

Out of the Woods

“

Bauer stayed home and ating his story on social metended outpatient therapy for dia, hoping to prevent others the first few months of 2020. from going through what he “There’s some reason I’m here. He remembered feeling some did. He referred to his lifeI got a second chance, and I’m not style before the stroke as he semblance of normalcy again in early March. He still strugand his friends “living hard” messing around. I’m doing every- and that he “hadn’t been to a gled to fully regain his speech but knew he was improving. hospital since he was born, thing right for my health.” After going out to dinner with or to a doctor since his twensome friends, he started to feel ties.” like himself again. Since sharing his experiThen, on March 13, COVID-19 was declared a national ences, he has had numerous friends and acquaintances tell emergency, and the country shut down. him they went to the doctor after years of not going and The pandemic added another layer of difficulty to his how grateful they were for his motivation to do so. Accordrecovery. All the therapy locations he attended were closed. ing to Bauer, that is precisely the reason for his transparThankfully, Bauer had made enough progress that he was ency: “That’s why I do it, for people to go get checked out.” able to continue his speech and physical therapy exercises at home. A Challenge of Heart By April, he was able to do light cardio and weightliftAfter all the hard work he put into to his recovery, ing to maintain physical progress. For speech, he mainly Bauer was determined to maintain his good health and is worked on reading things out loud. His therapist had given proactive in every way possible. him a ton of printed material but encouraged him to read “There’s some reason I’m here,” he said. “I got a secanything, even if it was just a box of cereal. ond chance, and I’m not messing around. I’m doing evHe credits the Ghost Hawk staff for stepping up and erything right for my health—eating right, exercising, keeping things running as smoothly as possible during his medications. I [didn’t] ever want to be back in that hosrecovery, but he missed his work doing all things digital for pital again.” the brewery. He makes sure to keep up with doctor visits, including Bauer said, “As soon as I was able to get on my laptop, a cardiologist he began seeing after the stroke. The speI was working again—before I could even speak again. It cialist told Bauer that it was likely he had sleep apnea and kept my brain going. I think it helped me a lot being able that some kind of heart condition was present. to work. I didn’t need speech or the ability to walk or use The doctor ordered a sleep test, which confirmed the my computer.” first of those suspicions. During the five-hour test, Bauer Along with resuming his work, Bauer also began sharwas reported to have stopped breathing 90 times.

Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2021

Out of the Woods He began using a CPAP machine to help regulate his breathing and, in his own words, was “cruising along until December.” Near the end of Dec. 2020, Bauer began having chest pains. He went to the hospital several times, including having to call 911 on one occasion. He was experiencing intense palpitations, and his heart rate and blood pressure were through the roof. Bauer was given some medication to calm down, but the hospital staff couldn’t discover the cause of the issue. They recommended he follow up with his cardiologist and released him the same night. Bauer’s cardiologist ordered an initial stress test, which yielded no results, so he then ordered a higher-tier test that had more potential for discovery. Unfortunately, that test had to be scheduled over a month out, and Bauer continued experiencing chest pains the entire nerve-racking time. Even worse, the day before the test, the doctor’s office called to tell him that his insurance denied the claim and that they had to cancel his appointment. Bauer’s cardiologist went to bat for him and protested the denial, which was then reversed, but the second stress test would have had to be rescheduled another month out. Unfortunately, this wasn’t the first time health insurance added another layer of stress to Bauer’s situation. After his brain surgery, he received a bill for nearly $500,000 because he didn’t have health insurance at the time. Fortunately, he was able to work with University Hospital’s charity care to remedy most of the bill. All of his therapy and medications still had to be paid for out-of-pocket, none of which were cheap. Just one of his six daily medications cost about $600 for a month supply. To help with these costs, many friends and family stepped up.

October 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

“

“That was the issue with me. I used to live life like I was invincible, and it wound up almost killing me.” There was a GoFundMe account set up for him, as well as fundraisers held at Barrow House, Harp N Bard, and St. George Greek Orthodox Church in Clifton and Ariane Kitchen & Bar in Verona. Bauer was able to get insurance not long afterwards. He is now able to get his medications and attend all necessary doctor visits without worry. By April 2021, Bauer still hadn’t received the second stress test. He decided to take control of his heart health by checking back into the hospital and making them administer it. The hospital scheduled the test for the following morning, but a shocking discovery was made even sooner than that. The very night that Bauer checked in, while he was sleeping, his heart went into atrial fibrillation (AFib)— an irregular heartbeat that can lead to blood clots. This was precisely the underlying issue he and his doctors had been looking for since the stroke, but it can be difficult to detect. Doctors can’t diagnose AFib without a reading or confirmation that it occurred. Even though he had had a small heart monitoring device implanted just under his skin months prior, it hadn’t been able to detect any irregularities. Bauer had checked himself into the hospital just in time. He was hooked up to

Out of the Woods about “80 different machines” at the time doctors detected the irregularity and got all the readings they needed. Without any hesitation, he scheduled the surgery to correct his AFib. Luckily, this was possible to remedy with a non-invasive procedure. Starting through an artery in his leg, doctors worked their way up to his heart, were able to pinpoint the sections of the heart causing the issue, and removed them using a procedure called ablation. He was out of the hospital the next day, and just a few weeks later, he was back up and running, resuming his elliptical workouts, hikes, and being more hands-on at the brewery than ever.

the brewery in my brother’s memory—not just for him, but also for all friends that have died. Wherever they are, they’re seeing what’s going on. I’m just trying to carry on their spirits until I can see them again.” When asked if he had any final words of advice, Bauer referred to something doctors tell him often: live your life in moderation. “You don’t have to be a saint and never drink or eat what you want,” he said, “but you can’t have that be all you do. That was the issue with me. I used to live life like I was invincible, and it wound up almost killing me.”

An Optimistic Outlook These days, Bauer is in good health and even greater spirits. He joked about how much his routines have changed in the past few years: “At 40, I was still going out all the time, the life of the party. Then at 42, I came inches from death and had to start carrying around an old-fashioned pillbox.” Not many people would be able to laugh off open brain surgery and heart surgery, but Bauer is nothing but grateful for getting a second chance. He keeps up with his diet and exercise regimens, medications, and follow-ups with doctors. He will likely have to continue taking medication for the rest of his life, but he has no problem doing so if it will keep him healthy. Bauer is also acutely aware that things could have turned out very differently for him, and he reflected on friends and family who, sadly, weren’t able to defeat the forces that challenged their lives. The name of the brewery was inspired by Bauer’s late brother, Danny, who tragically passed away in 2016. “I’m proud of myself for the recovery I’ve made,” Bauer said. “I have something to live for. Ghost Hawk took so much legwork just to get the doors open, and even after that, it’s been a whole other journey. I got a second chance, and I’m so grateful for it. I just have to keep going.” He continued, “I’m proud to carry on Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2021

October 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2021

An Unexpected Advocate By Ariana Puzzo

Trisha Wishard never expected to become a voice for cancer awareness. But as Breast Cancer Awareness Month begins, she recognizes the importance of sharing her experiences, even if it encourages one person to schedule a check-up or mammogram. After all, she was always meticulous about attending her annual mammogram appointment. She always tried to schedule her yearly appointments around the same time and was prudent about doing her own self-examinations. Those efforts were in part what led to her receiving a good report this past January when she entered remission. But the journey to reach that point involved the support of her family and friends, the dedication of Hackensack University Medical Center, and Wishard’s own positive perspective since she was diagnosed with Stage 1 Breast Cancer in November of 2019. “At the time,” said Wishard, “I was called back for more films, and that’s not unusual because of density and so forth. Same with the ultrasound.”

October 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

“

“I didn’t think I would get the results that I did, so when they called and told me that I had to see a breast surgeon and an oncologist ... I was quite shocked.”

“They saw a spot, so they had me go for a biopsy. It was nothing that I felt,” continued Wishard, 64. “I didn’t think I would get the results that I did, so when they called and told me that I had to see a breast surgeon and an oncologist … I was quite shocked.” The news was made no less significant given that she received it the day before Thanksgiving. She waited to share the news until the day after the holiday and recalled how telling her family was “the hardest thing I had to do.”

Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2021

The American Cancer Society has found that when breast cancer is detected early and in the localized state, the five-year relative survival rate is 99%. Early detection can include doing a monthly breast self-exam, as well as scheduling regular clinical exams and mammograms. For more information, visit cancer.org or nationalbreastcancer.org.

But there was hope: It was caught early enough that it was treatable. So, in January 2020, she underwent a lumpectomy. By February, she started chemotherapy once a week for 12 weeks. Then, she received radiation five days a week for one month. But what no one could’ve predicted is how the coronavirus pandemic would upend everyone’s lives, particularly the lives of people who needed other forms of life-saving medical treatment. “Talk about isolation,” said Wishard. “I wasn’t going out because my system was compromised … but I never missed a beat. I continued working full-time [from home] and took a half-day on Thursdays to get my treatment.” Ultimately, Wishard moved forward during the uncertain times because she knew how important it was for her health. She also expressed gratitude for HUMC’s John Theurer Cancer Center. “Hackensack is just awesome. I can’t say enough about them and their cancer center,” she said. “I felt a little better knowing that the building was separated from the main hospital.” “A lot of people had hesitations during the pandemic,”

October 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Bill and Trisha Wishard with sons BJ and Brenden.

she added, “but something like this is too important to let anything get in the way of, including COVID.” Despite doctors catching the cancer early, Wishard was among the 20% with breast cancer to more specifically have HER2-positive breast cancer. Due to the aggressive form, Wishard will remain on medication for five years, and she took Herceptin as a treatment every three weeks for one year. Originally from Massachusetts, Wishard has lived in Clifton for over three decades. She is married to husband, Bill, of 37 years. The couple have two sons, Bill Jr. (CHS 2007), 31, and Brenden, 27. Wishard works as the Director of Operations for HumanEdge, a staffing firm located in Rutherford. Despite her initial hesitancy about sharing her story, her desire to help others encouraged her. So did the supportive words of her children. “When I told my kids, they both said, ‘You need to do this, you’re our hero. You need to do this for others,’” she said. “I’m very blessed. My husband and kids are my rocks.”

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Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2021

Pride in Service-and Family By Ariana Puzzo

Edward Kovacs still remembers the silence. It was July 27, 1953 when U.S. Army Lieutenant General William Harrison Jr. signed the Korean Armistice Agreement. The ceasefire, Kovacs recalled, took place at 10 pm on a moonlit night. “We had to remove all of the bullets from our guns and heard no noise of gunfire,” said Kovacs, 89. “The road in the valley was the boundary line between the South and the North.” In a couple of years, the Armistice signing will mark its 70th anniversary. But Kovacs also has his own personal milestones in the more immediate future. On Oct. 9, he and his wife, Evelyn (Hollasch) Kovacs (CHS 1956), will celebrate 56 years of marriage. Then, later this month on Oct. 20, Kovacs will celebrate his milestone 90th birthday. We spoke with the Clifton couple, who shared the story of Kovacs’ service and their nearly six decades of marriage. The years also saw them become parents to Cathy (CHS 1987), who played the flute and piccolo for the Marching Mustang Band and the Syracuse University Marching Band, and grandparents to Mikayla and Juliana. “We made many nice memories as a family,” said Evelyn. “We still do.” An Honor to Serve Kovacs grew up in Linden and attended Linden High School in his youth. Then, at age 20, he was drafted into the United States Army in April of 1952. He isn’t the only family member to serve in the military either. His oldest brother Michael served with the United States Air Force and his youngest brother, Albert, also served in the Army. Kovacs completed his 16 weeks of basic training at Fort Indiantown Gap in Pennsylvania. After completion, the Army assigned him to go to Korea. His group arrived in Incheon, South Korea by troop transport ship. Once they stepped off a landing craft onto the land, Kovacs and others were transported to Seoul and the Cheorwon Reservoir area. Kovacs was assigned to the recoilless rifle squad.

October 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2021

later. Twenty-five years later, the State of New Jersey sent Kovacs a certificate. Then, 50 years later, he received an acknowledgment from the Korean government. Veterans groups also have readily acknowledged the service. Kovacs has also gotten involved over the years to make sure other veterans are recognized. Over the years, Kovacs and his wife, Evelyn, have attended numerous Memorial Day and Veterans Day parades in our city. Kovacs has also marched in the parades as a member of the St. Philip’s Knights of Columbus. Together, the couple has attended the “Salute to Veterans” Recreation Department programs at the Boys & Girls Club. “He is a very humble man who never brings attention to himself or his accomplishments, was proud to serve his country and always remembers veterans,” said Evelyn. Ed and Evelyn with granddaughter Mikayla, daughter Cathy and granddaughter Juliana.

“It was nice to serve under our flag,” said Kovacs. “Especially in the mornings when you came out for attendance. We saluted the flag and stayed in position. It was a morning ritual when in the reserve area.” Kovacs spent a few months on the front line before moving to a reserve area. During that time in the reserve area, they slept in large tents rather than bunkers. At times, they would sleep on the ground if they were in the Combat Zone. “On a daily basis, we would see helicopters fly by with two stretchers on either side taking the sick or wounded soldiers to the MASH Hospital a few miles down the road,” recalled Kovacs. During his service, Kovacs was first with the 7th Division, 31st Regiment, and then later with the 3rd Division, 65th Regiment. When the ceasefire was called, he was located at the 38th Parallel. Then, like many service members before and since, he would need to adjust to life when he returned home. The Forgotten War It’s a sentiment expressed by many, and Kovacs remembers that’s how it felt coming home after the ceasefire. Even today, he said, the feeling that the war is overlooked and forgotten persists. “When you first come home you expect some kind of greeting, but you don’t get it,” said Kovacs. “People were not too interested in what had happened in Korea at that time unless they were personally involved with someone who was there at the time.” In certain regards, the acknowledgments came decades

October 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

56 Years in the Making After returning stateside, Kovacs studied engineering for two years at Newark College of Engineering. Finding a job in 1957 was a challenge, though. Eventually, he ended up working for a scale construction company for a number of years. Then, he worked for 30 years at a metal fabrication company in Passaic. As for how he met Evelyn, you could consider it in many ways to be your typical “boy meets girl” scenario. The pair ultimately met through the Union County Catholic Group when they both went to the same bowling meeting. After a year, Kovacs asked her out and the couple would go on to wed at The Mountainside Inn on Oct. 9, 1965. The Hazel Street banquet hall is also where they celebrated their 50th anniversary. Despite taking the time to get to know each other, both of them felt something strong for the other from the start. “She looked like a pretty girl to me, and I wondered if I would be marrying her,” said Kovacs. And what was Evelyn’s first impression? “I liked him from the day that I met him. I thought he was a very kind, gentle man,” she said. “I kind of observed him, and I was impressed as time went by.” Through the years, their favorite memories included traveling around the country. Their travels together have taken them to approximately 40 out of 50 states. The other highlights were the moments they have had with their daughter and granddaughters. “I remember when our oldest [granddaughter] took her first steps,” said Kovacs. “She held onto the coffee table and then let go. Now, they’re taller than us.” “It’s a wonderful feeling to have them with us,” agreed Evelyn. “[We’ve been] happy through the years.”

Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2021

Strengthened by the Storm By Ariana Puzzo and Tara Fueshko

Clifton residents are nothing if not resilient, but their neighbors still remain eager to assist them during a crisis. Although Hurricane Ida first made landfall in Louisiana on Aug. 26, its effects on the TriState area and specifically Cliftonites were significant. Many individuals and families lost their cars. Others have needed to boil water since Top, FEMA reps registering vehicle claims. Clifton volunteers collect Sept. 2 after the Passaic Valley Water Comdonations at the Elks and then transport items to the Power of One for mission posted the areas with a potential or distribution at Grace Church on Hazel St. From left, Councilwoman Lauactual threat to the water supply. ren Murphy, Keith Oakley, Cathy Callahan-Linker, Robin Gibson, Gina Others also lost most, if not all, of their first Matano-Scaduto and Janina Lapczynski. floor belongings. Throughout the past month, the needs have na Lapczynski. The group also reached out to their friends become great. But the volunteer efforts have striven to for help. Murphy further credited Mayor James Anzaldi for meet those needs. Councilwoman Lauren Murphy saw sending messages to friends and companies. that passion firsthand. “We got many gift cards, thousands of dollars worth, for “We were collecting at the Elks Lodge and using it as ShopRite and Stop and Shop,” said Murphy. “People could a storage, collection station,” said Murphy in mid-Sepuse the cards to buy food, as well as a mop or bleach.” tember. “Every couple of days, we would bring items to But personal residences were not the only places afGrace Church, which is run by the Power of One. There fected. were donations coming from everywhere.” Take for instance, the Parish Hall of St. Peter’s Episcopal Church on Clifton Avenue. Many archives were digitized and catalogued over the past seven years. But the Church’s Preserving Community History and Haven’s offices, and the archives, were located in the Other volunteers included Keith Oakley, Cathy Callahbasement that got nearly five feet of water. an-Linker, Gina Matano-Scaduto, Robin Gibson, and Jani-

October 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2021

The Storm Many helping hands, especially in the week following Ida, were instrumental in trying to preserve more than 125 years of history and prudent documents in current use. Religious books as old as 1843 had to be retrieved and, in some cases, put into freezers in order to prevent mold. Meanwhile, records and photographs had to be broken out of busted filing cabinets and spread out across the main floor of the Parish Hall to dry them. Some items survived while others, unfortunately, perished. Why are the personal and public items important? Because they tell our stories. In the Parish’s case, those who helped recover record books helped show who came and went from the city and the parish through baptismal and confirmation records, as well as wedding and funeral services. For instance, Clarence Finkle, interim mayor when Clifton was incorporated, was a prominent member of St. Peter’s Episcopal Church. Other items recovered from the flooded areas of the Parish Hall included former mortgage and deed agreements, as well as build-

October 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Power of One volunteers offering relief to residents.

Volunteers help preserve the records and history of both St. Peter’s Church and St. Peter’s Haven. From left, Janet Wells, Marcin Iwaniki, Tara Fueshko, Pam Fueshko, Naomi Horsky, Lillian Vega, Angie Rispoli.

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Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2021

The Storm ing plans for the new church that was built in 1965, a cigar box marked with “the keys to the Kingdom,” and an old bottle of Sacramental wine that no one dares to open. In some cases, it’s the more recent history that is more sacrosanct as there are people still alive to remember the finite details. Items like a slightly sarcastic letter to a diocesan accountant or a newsletter where a request to discontinue putting slugs in the phone’s coin slot make for an amusing read. Photos containing the bicentennial celebrations of the founding of the United States, as well as the plays, dances, and parties held in the Parish Hall for all members of the community to attend left with little notes attached to them, point out different people’s sense of humor and fashion sense. Newspaper clippings about the important events, fundraisers, and food drives held in the Parish Hall carefully preserved in scrapbooks show the hard work and dedication by various people since its inception. Endless Gratitude But grappling with personal loss is another challenge all-together. So, Clifton volunteers helped alleviate the burden in other ways. Murphy said that they went door-to-door on the streets that the DPW marked as hit the hardest. They spoke to those living in first floor residences and gave them flyers to visit Grace Church, at 45 Hazel St, to get food, clothing and cleaning supplies, water, or even garbage bags – anything they need to get through the crisis. The City of Clifton Mayor Council and City Manager also sponsored a Community Donation Drive. The drive was at the Rec Center, at 1232 Main Ave., and went from Sept. 7-11. Clifton residents affected by the crisis were offered new clothes, household items, and non-perishable food items. The Hurricane Ida Help Center remains in effect at the same location on weekdays from 3-7 pm. For info on volunteering, call 973265-1531 or email donations@clifton.nj.org.

October 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Historic records, artifacts and religious books pulled from the flood waters. The second photo shows a bottle of wine for communion found floating in the basement of St. Peter’s Church. Some books were damaged when the water took them from their shelves.

Grace Church also continues to help those recovering from the devastation. The Emergency Relief Center helps provide essential supplies, as well as helps with FEMA applications and resources, and offers counseling and comfort for displaced families. Services are offered from 10 am to 3 pm, with evening hours TBA. Call 201-3282326 or email info@powerofoneccom.org for assistance. “Devastation is the word,” said Murphy. “Many [people] have nothing left on the first floor … [but] they were calm about it. People were very grateful for us helping them.” Murphy considers the volunteer efforts highly successful. “In times of stress like everybody went through … it’s very rewarding to put yourself out there.”

Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2021

Clifton’s Halloween Parade, Costume Contest and HarvestFest is returning on Sunday, Oct. 24 at the City Hall Municipal Complex. Pictured above are some past kids decked out in their Halloween best. The Clifton Mustang Marching Band will lead the parade, starting promptly at 12:15 pm. The parade will proceed down Van Houten Ave. to City Hall, at 900 Clifton Ave. Costume contest participants cannot pre-register or register online for the contest. Info: cliftonrec.com/info/activities.

October 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

The 2020 Clifton Athletic Hall of Fame luncheon is Oct. 10 at noon at the Brownstone. Call 973-470-2280 for tickets which are $50. Class of 2020 inductees include: Tom Acton, 1987, Soccer; Anthony Giordano, 2007, Football; Jeremy Hernandez, 2014, Cross Country and Track; John A. McClain, 1986, Baseball; Jackie Pangilinan, 2004, Swimming; Anthony Tuesta, 2001, Soccer; Kelly Douglass, 2015, Volleyball and Basketball; Michael Doktor, Boys and Girls Volleyball Coach; Jack Whiting, 1969, Contributor. Also the members of the 2005 Boys Volleyball Team as well as the 2007 Mustang Softball Team. Jeremy Hernandez’s legacy in Mustang track is being burnished with his induction to the CHS Athletic Hall of Fame. The 2014 grad was a six-time first team All Passaic County in Cross Country, Indoor and Outdoor track. He was also a nine-time first team All League in those same sports. He set CHS records in Indoor Track in the 800- and 1000-meter runs. But he doesn’t take all the credit. “I wouldn’t have achieved anything if it weren’t for Coach John Pontes,” said Hernandez. “He taught me so much in order to be successful on and off the track.” “It takes consistency, dedication, and hard work to achieve goals,” he continued, “and I wouldn’t have understood those principles if it weren’t for the experiences I had running Cross Country and Track and Field.” Hernandez also became a record-holder in the Indoor and Outdoor Track distance Medley. He was the first Clifton Track athlete to earn four medals in state sectional

meets, placing in the 800, 1600, 4x 800-meter relay, and winning the sectional championship in the 3200. As a senior, Hernandez qualified for the state Meet of Champions in both the 1600 and 3200. He also competed in the 800-meter run. Hernandez studied and ran at Ramapo College. He was a multi-time Division 3 All American and the first sub 4-minute miler in Division 3 History. His personal best in the mile is 3:55. Hernandez graduated in 2018 with a degree in Computer Science and works as a software engineer for an automotive company in New York. “My best decision ever was deciding to join the distance squad in the summer of 2012 to transition into cross country, and that still holds today,” said Hernandez. “It changed my life forever.” Hernandez is in training and now focused on the 2022 World Championships and finalizing his transfer to represent the Dominican Republic for the 1500/800m events.

Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2021

Rawan Awadalla, Albaraa Gebril, Mariam Gebril.

October has arrived for Mustangs of the Month.

The vice principals from each Clifton High wing have spotlighted three students, all class presidents. The freshman class is not featured since elections were not held by the time of publication. Senior Rawan Awadalla’s plans include pursuing a dual bachelor’s degree in sociology and economics, with a concentration in Law and Society. The senior hopes to later get a master’s degree in English. “I became fascinated with an intersection in sociology and economics after acknowledging that, in this increasingly globalised world,” said Awadalla (CHS 2022), “it is crucial to have a thorough understanding of socioeconomic factors … to better understand and recognize society’s intricacies and how it can be configured to suit the country’s ever-increasing diversity.” Awadalla was highly active in extracurriculars over the past three years at CHS. That involvement has included membership with: Clifton Student Union, Key Club, Model United Nations, and Future Business Leaders of America. Outside of school, Awadalla formed a youth organization with friends and ran food drives that collected $2,000. Awadalla is also active with the Boys & Girls Club and BLM Paterson. As for inspiration, the senior looks no further than her father. “Every day, I see my father be a leader as he overcomes cultural barriers in a land where he was not born,” said Awadalla. “Witnessing his hard work and dedication to provide a better education and life for my sisters and I has truly shaped me into becoming the person I am today.”

October 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Junior Albaraa Gebril has always possessed an interest in human behavior and the mind. So, it makes sense why Gebril enjoys Mr. John O’Reilly’s AP Psychology class. “With the proper psychological knowledge, I believe anyone can reach their full potential,” said Gebril (CHS 2023). “O’Reilly teaches the subject with such passion.” Gebril is a three-sport athlete, the Vice President of Key Club, Treasurer for the Muslim Student Association, and an immigrant mental health advocate. The junior said the Key Club has offered not only a sense of community, but also lessons on how to become a proper leader. But Gebril has also experienced hurdles. One of the biggest for students was navigating through quarantine during these otherwise social years. “About two weeks in, I was questioning the existence of God and life,” said Gebril. “I also fractured my left foot and was withheld from running track. The structure and stability in my life all came from running and, without that, I was struggling.” Gebril added the pandemic offered a chance for growth. It provided a stronger stress tolerance and let Gebril focus on future goals. “It matured me and proved that I have to put my mind and body through extreme discomfort … [to gain] control over my life.”

Sophomore Mariam Gebril has a passion for language arts, but enjoys history because of how the past informs the future. “As an activist, it’s important that I keep myself in the loop of current and past pressing issues,” said Gebril (CHS 2024). “Many of the social injustices that us marginalized groups face have deeper roots.” “Being able to go to the origins of many of our struggles allows me to connect the dots in my everyday life.” Gebril credits her mother as her most influential teacher. Her mother, she said, taught her the values of “tolerance, empathy and hardwork.” “There wasn’t any handbook or lesson plans given to her when she took that role of being my first and forever teacher,” she said. Gebril’s extracurriculars include the Clifton Student Union, Superintendent Ambassadors and Black Lives Matter Paterson Youth Council. Gebril is particularly inspired by the organizer of BLM Paterson. “Zellie has shown me the importance of community, mutual aid, and advocacy,” said Gebril. “The entire team gave me the opportunity to voice what I’m most passionate about to people who were so willing to listen.” “I’m forever blessed for finding a second family and being able to give back with and to the communities that I cherish the most.”

Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2021

After our September 2021 edition went to press, marking 20 years since the tragic events of 9/11/01, we heard from Ernest Scheidemann. Scheidemann, whose real estate agency is across the street from our office, told us about Richard David Rosenthal. He said that he taught Rosenthal many years ago and that the CHS 1969 grad also lost his life that day. Then, with the additional help of Brenda Calandrillo, who referenced her 2012 Alumni Directory, and articles published by The New York Times and The Star-Ledger, we could better honor the life of the tenth individual from Clifton lost on 9/11. One of the first things that we discovered is how Rosenthal, 50, had a “childlike adventurous streak.” In 2001, his sister, Audrey Model, told The New York Times how Rosenthal’s 40th birthday had a “Three Stooges” theme. It was just one example of his bright spirit. Rosenthal lived in Fair Lawn with his wife, Loren, and then, teenage sons, Evan and Seth. He and Loren had met at CHS when he was 17 and she was 14. In September 2001, the couple were approaching their 24th wedding anniversary. And the couple shared many fond memories, with Loren telling the Times that they spent a great deal of time

October 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

together. During one family vacation, he even encouraged Loren to try white-water rafting while they took a cruise. But alongside his carefree demeanor, he was also a devoted husband and father. The parents worked well together to navigate Evan’s familial dysautonomia, a genetic disease that affects nerve cells. Rosenthal spent 15 years serving as treasurer of the Dysautonomia Foundation. Rosenthal also served as treasurer for the Jewish Center in Fair Lawn. But his day job was working on the 101st floor as the vice president at Cantor Fitzgerald. He was only six months into the position. It’s clear how a great many people highly regarded Rosenthal. Along with enjoying his sarcastic sense of humor, he was also recognized as highly intelligent. Rosenthal graduated from Boston University with a bachelor’s degree and earned his MBA at Rutgers. He had diverse interests as well – although an avid football fan, he also enjoyed gardening. He even tried parasailing at the Jersey Shore that previous summer. Speaking to The Star-Ledger in 2001, Loren recalled Rosenthal’s last words to her that Tuesday morning, which even to an outsider seem to capture his essence: “Have a great day, honey. I’ll see you later.”

CLASS OF 1948

They are all nearing 91 but these Mustangs recalled their three years at Clifton High with smiles and pride. The June CHS Class of 1948 enjoyed their 17th reunion in the 73rd year after they graduated CHS. While there were 253 graduates, around 35 grads and spouses made it to the reunion at Mario’s on Sept. 16. Kudos to organizers Dominic Puleo and Marie (Ermanville) Grey for keeping it going...

Back in 1948, Mustang Class Smiles Richard Demchak and Joan Wolf; Pride of the Faculty, Betty Christensen and Joseph Silverman.

Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2021

Photo by Steve Cohen

CLIFTON Story by Tom Szieber

SPORTS

Behind Kate Lauer #9, with help from Morgan Lesler, the Mustangs Volleyball team is 9-0 and ranked as the top seed in the Passaic County Tourney, while getting notice across the region. At right, Senior WR/CB Donovan Swasey #6 has been one of the breakout stars of the fall season, scoring seven total touchdowns (three receiving, three interception returns, one kickoff return).

A year after COVID-19 threw the Clifton football team’s season into chaos, the Mustangs are back to 2019 form. Clifton, a North II, Group V finalist two seasons ago, looks even better than they did then, appearing to be a serious threat to win a sectional championship this fall. Senior cornerback/wide receiver Donovan Swasey has emerged as one of the biggest playmakers in the area during the Mustangs’ 4-0 start. He has returned three of his four interceptions for touchdowns, including a 102-yard pick-six in Clifton’s seasonopening victory over Cicero-North Syracuse (N.Y.) at the Carrier Dome. That play broke a school record held by Dominick Fego, who returned an interception 98 yards in 1972, some 49 years ago. Swasey has played the run well, too, and has 11 catches for 102 yards and three touchdowns on offense. Swasey took the opening kickoff 81 yards to the house against Hackensack, as well. Speaking of records, Mustangs head football coach Ralph Cinque achieved some history in Clifton’s Sept. 25

October 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

41-16 blowout of Passaic, passing Ron Anello for most wins by a Clifton head coach, with 40. Clifton girls volleyball has opened eyes, as well, starting the season 7-0 with a win over a strong Bergen County foe in Old Tappan on opening day. The Mustangs defeated the Golden Knights, 14-25, 2523, 30-28, behind 28 assists from senior setter Morgan Lesler. Clifton rolled by their next six opponents thanks to the offensive firepower provided by senior outside hitter Kate Louer, who has 56 kills and 25 digs this season. Clifton’s efforts earned it the top seed in Passaic County Tournament. The Mustangs already won the Passaic County Invitational Tournament hosted by Wayne Valley. “It has been a pretty good start,” said head coach Jorge Rodriguez. “We have good chemistry. The girls seem to be having fun. Everything is just clicking.” The Mustangs’ boys soccer team has proven that despite massive graduation losses, it is still a force. It won its first six games, plowing through Passaic County rivals and beating Don Bosco Prep, 3-0, on

Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2021

MUSTANG Sept. 14. Its hot start was halted on Sept. 25 in a 1-0 loss to Ramsey. The loss to the Rams was its second such setback in the past three seasons. Ramsey is the only team to beat the Mustangs during the regular season during that span. “Our guys have been great all year, said Clifton head boys soccer coach Stan Lembryk. “6-1 is great when you have three returning starters and 20 first-year varsity players. We just have to roll up our sleeves and get back to work Monday.” Junior forwards Ben Nelkin, Steven Ozga and Danny Ogudo have led the offense, with sophomores Alex Fiedoruk and Vitali Datsyk making contributions, as well. Senior Jacob Zybura has performed well in the goal, making 15 saves. For the last two years, Zybura has been the understudy to two future Division I soccer players, Eryk Dymora and Gabe Maksymiu. According to Lembryk, that time was invaluable to his growth. “Being behind them has been wonderful, because he knew the value of learning the trade from those guys, as well as Coach Marlon Flores,” he said. “Jacob has made the absolute most of his opportunity.”

October 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

SPORTS

Photo by Steve Cohen Clifton head football coach Ralph Cinque, now in his seventh season leading the Mustangs, earned his 40th victory with Clifton’s Sept. 24 win over Passaic, allowing him to pass Ron Anello for third on the program’s all-time list. The late Bill Vander Closter, who led Clifton from 1964 to 1979, is in second place with 106. Above right, Clifton senior goalie Jacob Zybura.

Zybura posted shutouts in wins over Bosco and Wayne HIlls, making key saves in both. He has allowed just three goals in seven games.

Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2021

21st Annual Military Concert and Tattoo Marching Mustangs among featured performers

The West Milford Highlanders’ Tattoo returns for the 21st annual celebration of music and movement by bands guaranteed to have you high stepping. After a hiatus in 2020, this indoor musical showcase of West Milford High School’s bag piping bands, drum corps and Clifton’s high-stepping Marching Mustangs, among others, is on Saturday, Nov. 13, 6:30 pm at West Milford High School, 67 Highlander Drive, West Milford. Top of page: Meet the West Milford Highlander Drum Majors Maxine Kunz and Shane Get there early for best seats as Duffy, who lead the Highlander Marching Band and the Color Guard. The Pipes and Drums leaders are Madison Babcock, Ava Murphy and Julia Dan. doors open at 5:15 pm. Advance tickets range from $10 to $20 while Their beats were doe den tap toe (old Dutch for “turn kids under age 4 enter free. At the off the tap”) instructing innkeepers to stop serving beer door, tickets are $20 for seniors and $25 for adults. To and send soldiers back to barracks. While the Highlandpurchase tickets, visit wmhighlanderband.com or mail ers will not be serving beer, the beats of seven bands will checks to WMBPA, PO Box 603, West Milford, NJ 07480. get you moving and keep you entertained. But what’s a Tattoo? The word dates to the 17th cenThe Highlander Band theme this year is entitled Ring tury British Army. Drummers marched through town to of Fire. Expect music from Cirque du Soleil, The Poinform soldiers to return to their barracks.

October 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

lice and composer John Mackey. Led by Drum Majors Maxine Kunz and Shane Duffy, Ring of Fire opens with a bit of Bruce Springsteen’s Dancing in the Dark, followed by Distorted from Cirque du Soleil. The middle section is a tango based on Roxanne by The Police. After a bagpipe and percussion feature, the Highlander’s show closes with a hot interpretation of John Mackey’s Asphalt Cocktail. In addition to the Highlanders, other performers include the Claddagh Pipe Band, Clan Na Vale Pipes, Mag 7, Rory O’Moore, the Colonial Musketeers Junior Fife and Drum Corps, and the Marching Mustangs. Funds raised help support the Highlander Marching Band and their April trip to Disney in Florida. For two decades, the Highlander Tattoo has become a must-see moving musical showcase of band precision, bagpipe glory and drum excellence. The Tattoo has also become a way for the Mustangs and Highlanders to see and hear different genres of music and movement and to connect with high school musicians from the region.

The seniors of the West Milford Highlanders.

The Marching Mustangs perform their 2021 music and movement score on the gym floor, and will join the Highlanders and other bands for a grand finale with a salute to the officers of the West Milford Police Department.

The 83rd edition of the Mustang Marching Band will perform at the Tattoo led by Drum Major Angelina Pacosa. Photo by Steven Cohen. Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2021

The Clifton Republican Club will host a BOE Candidate Forum on Oct. 12 at 7 pm at the Clifton Elks Lodge, 775 Clifton Ave., will precede the upcoming Nov. 2 Board of Education Election. This year’s election is more crowded than last year’s, with nine candidates vying for three available seats as opposed to only three candidates running in 2020. While the forum is open to the public, it will also be taped for broadcast on Clifton 77 and the Clifton City website. About 150 people attended a Republican Party Rally at the Elks on Sept. 14, including Clifton Republican Chair Ricky Farfan, Passaic County Regular Republican Organization Chair Peter Murphy and longtime GOP party stalwart member Paul Graupe. The goal of the event, they said, is to let Cliftonites know that the GOP party is active and viable. On Sept. 29 representatives from Special Olympics and Jersey Mike’s Subs met at the Jersey Mikes i nthe Promenade Shops on Route 3 West to surprise Special Olympics New Jersey athletes and brothers, Derrick and Delon Noble of Bloomfield with the news that they will be attending the 2022 Special Olympics USA Games, June 5-12, 2022 in Orlando, Fla. They are members of the flag football team. Every four years, more than 5,500 athletes and coaches from all 50 states unite to compete in one of the most beloved and inspiring sporting events in the US – the 2022 Special Olympics USA Games. It is all part of a global movement using sports to end discrimination and empower people with intellectual disabilities. Jersey Mike’s is a sponsor of the 2022 Special Olympics USA Games. Statewide, 138 athletes from New Jersey are invited to attend the games. 2021 PRICE INCREASE

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

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

October 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2021

St. Peter’s Episcopal Church will host its Annual Blessing of the Animals on Oct. 3 at 4 pm. Located at 380 Clifton Ave., all animals large and small are welcome. Social distancing requirements are in effect. For those not comfortable attending in person, you can view the service’s live stream on St. Peter’s Facebook page. St. Peter’s Haven teamed up last month with Assemblyman Thomas Giblin and Peace Islands Institute New Jersey to distribute 300 pounds of meat to neighbors in need living in Clifton and Montclair. Pictured from left are Lolita Cruz of the Assembly office, Adam Bulent Ozdemir of Peace Islands, Assemblyman Giblin, Lilian Vargas of St. Peter’s and Savas Metin of the Embrace Relief Foundation with Pam Fueshko of St Peters.

The Clifton Rec Dept. is sponsoring a Scarecrow Building Contest. Let your creativity and great ideas take over and make a scarecrow as a family at home. Pre-registration is required and the deadline to register is Friday, Oct. 1. Scarecrows need to be ready to be displayed by Oct. 18 & 19 at the Clifton City Hall Municipal Complex, at 900 Clifton Ave. They will be displayed from Oct. 19-26 along Linzenbold Ave. Judging takes place on Oct. 24 during the HarvestFest at 3 pm. The contest is free to enter and is for city residents only. Please only register one person per family. Once everyone is registered, participants will receive an email closer to the display date with scarecrow drop-off instructions. Scarecrows must be picked up by the end of the work day on Tuesday, Oct. 26.

October 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Clifton Veterans can enjoy a free hot meal and a gift of appreciation on Nov. 12. Meals will be delivered to the veteran’s home between 5–7 pm. and will consist of sliced turkey, mashed potatoes, vegetables, cranberry sauce, roll, dessert and bottled water. As you eat, you can enjoy CATV’s airing at 6 pm of the 2018 & 2019 Salute to Veterans Concert on Channel 77. Pre-registration is required of each veteran by Nov. 10. Call the Rec Dept. at 973-470-5956. Veterans will need to provide their full name, address, phone number, and branch of military. Let us know if you will answer the front door or if someone will assist you. Volunteers cannot enter homes to drop off food. To help drive and deliver the meals that evening, email the Rec Dept. at cliftonrec@cliftonnj.org.

Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2021

The Annual John Samra Scholarship Memorial 5K Run/Walk & 1 Mile Family Fun Run/Walk was on Sept. 26 at City Hall. Milton Camas of Clifton, 37, finished first, clocking 16:35.8. Brianna Potaki, 14, finished first female, at 20:44.9. John Charles Samra (inset) graduated CHS in 1980. He served for six years in the US Air Force as an MP and later became a Clifton Police Officer. Samra died in the line of duty on Nov. 21, 2003 after a minivan fled the scene of a crime and struck him. He was the first and only Clifton police officer to die in the line of duty in the 83-year history of the department. Clifton PBA Local 36 has held the road race for over a decade to honor Samra, and, with the help of local businesses, fund the scholarship.

October 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2021

Superfresh in Botany Plaza Autumn. Halloween. Futbol. Thanksgiving. Start the new season by attending a can’t miss event in Clifton on Oct. 16: the Superfresh Autumn Festival. Part of the renewal of Clifton’s Historic Botany Village and new Botany Plaza where the old PathMark and Kmart were once the anchor, Superfresh is the new place to shop. Superfresh offers this neighborhood a most needed source of fresh fruits, colorful vegetables, well priced groceries and meats. Superfresh is also the home of Dulce’s Kitchen Catering, under the direction of owner and General Manager María de Jesús. With over 16 years experience, at places such as President’s Supermarket, María de Jesús brings culinary skills and business acumen to this store. As a way to say thanks and to celebrate the opening of the new store, the public is invited to the Superfresh Festival on Oct. 16. Live bands and dancing, giveaways, music, food and more begins at 11 am.

October 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Botany Plaza Superfresh General Manager María de Jesús. Víctor Quezada Sax, with his Progressive Latin Jazz Ensemble, plus Rubby Perez and Orchestra with beats by DJ Mambo Q. Get down to Superfresh before Oct. 16 and fill out a coupon for the sweepstakes for your chance to win a Toyota RAV4 2021, plus widescreen TVs, bicycles and kitchen appliances.

COME AND JOIN US ON OUR FIRST

SUPERFRESH

FESTIVAL SATURDAY OCTOBER 16

FROM 11AM - 4PM IN THE PARKING LOT OF OUR STORE

SUPERFRESH CLIFTON LOCATED IN BOTANY PLAZA (WHERE THE FORMER PATHMARK WAS)

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MISS IT! DO NOT MISS THIS GREAT PARTY WITH THE SPECTACULAR PERFORMANCE OF:

RUBBY PEREZ JAZZ BAND

AND

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COME PARTICIPATE AND WIN! SIX BIG SCREEN TVS - OCULUS VIRTUAL REALITY GAMES - BICYCLES KITCHEN APPLIANCES AND MANY SUPERFRESH GIFT CARDS

Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2021

Learn the sounds of fire safety!

is the 2021 Fire Prevention message. October is Fire Safety Month and the Clifton Fire Safety Coloring & Activity Book for Kids is once again available. 7,000 books have been published at no cost to taxpayers thanks to members of Clifton FMBA 21, the Clifton Fire Prevention Bureau, Tomahawk Promotions, Clifton Merchant Magazine and a variety of businesses and schools. Listed below, their sponsorship fee have paid for the booklet’s printing and help spread the word about fire prevention. Designed for kids, grade 3 and younger, pages offer simple messages that kids can learn from as they color. They will color a smoke alarm, follow the steps to practice exit drills in case of a fire and they can join Sparky the mascot to cook with care in the kitchen. During October, Clifton firefighters will visit public and private schools to distribute the booklets. In case you did not get a copy, the Clifton Fire Safety Coloring & Activity Book for Kids booklets are also available by calling 973-470-5804.

Thank You Sponsors! • Clifton FMBA 21 Members • Clifton Fire Prevention • The Apprehensive Patient • State Farm Agent Thomas Tobin • State Farm Agent Bill Eljouzi • Corradino & Papa, LLC • Mr. Cupcakes • Shook Funeral Home • Athenia Veterans Post Members • Assemblyman Thomas Giblin • Downtown Clifton • Paramus Catholic High School • Carl Zoecklein, Esq. • P & A Auto • Clifton IHOP • Cake Factory/Lakeview Bakery • Tenafly Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine • Boys & Girls Club of Clifton

October 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Two All The Way Two! Frenchy, All The Way! Make it Nice! For 60 years the family owned Hot Grill has been doing it their way and making legions of diners very happy. The Lexington Ave. landmark has been visited by TV crews from this area and afar as they try to figure out how the Hot Texas Weiner had its start in Paterson and found its home in Clifton. The story can actually be found in the Library of Congress! To help make The Hot Grill’s founding official, be sure to visit Oct. 9 and 10 to join in the festivities, the food and the fun. Come hungry and bring the family. There will be fireworks at dusk on Oct. 9!

Clifton Health Department 2021 Fall Drive Through Rabies Clinics for Dogs Clifton Dates

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

Dogs: (Free) Wednesday, November 17th 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm

Saturday, November 20th 2:00pm - 4:00 pm

2021 Dog Licenses for those who still need to license their dog are available for Clifton Residents Only CALL CLIFTON AT (973) 470-5760 FOR MORE INFORMATION.  DOGS MUST BE ON LEASHES;. NO ONE UNDER THE AGE OF 18 WILL BE ALLOWED IN WITHOUT AN ADULT.  MUST HAVE VALID FORM OF IDENTIFICATION  ALL NEW JERSEY RESIDENTS ARE WELCOME 



You will remain in your car throughout the registration process

2021 SEASONAL FLU VACCINATION CLINICS CLIFTON HEALTH DEPARTMENT *DATES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE*

Monday, October 18th: Tuesday, October 19th: Tuesday, October 26th: Monday, November 8th: Tuesday, November 16th:

3:00pm-6:00pm 9:00am-12:00pm 9:00am-12:00pm 2:00pm-5:00pm 9:00am-12:00pm

Location: Clifton City Hall 900 Clifton Ave., Clifton, NJ 07013 Vaccination Tent is located across from Parking Lot #4 This clinic is a walk up site* Residents must wear masks and practice social distancing at all times. *********************************************************************************

Cost: Free

Residents with Primary Medicare Part B Only and not enrolled in an HMO please present your Medicare card at time of vaccination. *********************************************************************************

BOOKING AN APPOINTMENT PLEASE CALL OR REGISTER ONLINE

Please wear face coverings when leaving your vehicle and practice social distancing.

Call: 973-470-5760 Visit: https://booknow.appointment-plus.com/cxjv4cb4/ to register and for more information on these clinics.

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

The flu clinics are open to residents of Clifton & Little Falls 6 years of age and older. The Clifton Health Department is a contractual health agency serving the Township of Little Falls.

Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2021

Birthdays & Celebrations - October 2021

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

Happy 17th birthday to Noel Coronel on Oct 16. Our favorite retired Clifton cop Edward Holster celebrates on Oct. 18. Kim Oeffler has a birthday on Oct. 8. Congratulations to Orest and Barbara Luzniak who celebrate their 41st anniversary on Oct. 1.

Joseph Hawrylko (CHS ‘03) popped the question to Arielle Helena Simonis on Sept. 25 while on a trip to Sleep Hollow. The date for the wedding has yet to be set. Sarah Bekheet................... 10/1 Melissa Szwec................... 10/2 Awilda Gorman................. 10/3 Ashley Messick.................. 10/3 Christopher Papademetriou.10/3 Charlene Rivera................. 10/3 Grace Robol...................... 10/3 Frank Antoniello................. 10/4 John Brock Jr..................... 10/4 Kimberly Ferrara................ 10/4 Kayla Galka...................... 10/4 Lisa Junda......................... 10/4 Alan Merena..................... 10/4

October 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

Susan and Ray Cramer will celebrate 26 years of marriage on Oct. 1. Steve and Barbara Bivaletz were married 42 years on Sept. 30.

Bruce Merena.................... 10/4 Rosalie D. Konopinski......... 10/5 Kyle Takacs....................... 10/5 Gene D’Amico................... 10/6 Nicole Nettleton................ 10/6 Joseph Tahan..................... 10/6 Cheryl Cafone................... 10/7 Christopher Phillips............. 10/7 Jilian Fueshko.................... 10/8 Nick Kacmarcik................. 10/8 Kim Oeffler....................... 10/8 Michael Biondi................ 10/10 Rich Montague................ 10/10

Kyle Zlotkowski................ 10/10 Eileen Patterson............... 10/11 Anthony Shackil............... 10/11 Michael D. Rice............... 10/12 Stephanie M. Palomba..... 10/13 Kimberly Beirne............... 10/14 Lil Geiger........................ 10/14 Mary Anne Kowalczyk..... 10/14 Andrea Kovalcik.............. 10/15 Stephen Kovalcik............. 10/15 Maria Kulyk.................... 10/15 Marianne Meyer.............. 10/15 Nicole Zlotkowski............ 10/16

Next time you are in the Paulison Ave. ShopRite, let Maryann Illenye know about her 60th birthday happening on Oct. 31. Benjamin Brody............... 10/17 Nancy Hromchak............. 10/17 Devin DeVries.................. 10/18 Matthew Fabiano............. 10/18 Edward Holster, Sr........... 10/18 Jamie Norris.................... 10/18 Brian James Grace........... 10/19 Kristen A. Hariton............ 10/19 Ben Brody....................... 10/19 Joan Bednarski................ 10/20 Jean Chiariello................. 10/20 Lea Dziuba...................... 10/20 Pactrick M. Doremus Jr...... 10/21 Eugene Osmak................ 10/21 Nathaniel Santelli............ 10/21 Katelyn Smith.................. 10/21 Ted Guzowski.................. 10/21 Jonathan Rossman............ 10/22 Toni Van Blarcom............. 10/22 Daniel Atoche.................. 10/23 Andrew J. “Dez“ Varga.... 10/23 Allison Beirne.................. 10/24 Sandra Kuruc.................. 10/24 Heather Fierro................. 10/24 Paul G. Andrikanich......... 10/25 Matthew McGuire............ 10/26 Kristofer Scotto................ 10/27 Cliftonmagazine.com • October 2021

Birthdays & Celebrations - October 2021 Nicole Keller................... 10/28 Ashley Gretina................. 10/29 Lindsay Berberich............. 10/30 Hadeel Aref.................... 10/31 Raymond Romanski.......... 10/31 Josef Schmidt................... 10/31

Fr. Andriy Dudkevych, celebrated his 14th year as pastor of St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Church in Passaic, his 50th birthday and 25th year of ordination last month. Mary Hartman turned 100 on Sept. 27 and shared the milestone with great grand daughter Samantha Declet, daughter Barbara Kloss, and grand daughter Barbara Declet as well as friends at the Evergreen Manor on Sade St.

October 2021 • Cliftonmagazine.com

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