Clifton Merchant Magazine - September 2023

CITY RESOURCES

CLIFTON'S CULTURES

WHY I'M THE BEST FIT FOR YOU?

CUSTOM MARKETING PLAN

I h a v e d e v e l o p e d a w e l l - t h o u g h to u t m a r k e t i n g p l a n & s y s t e m t h a t d e l i v e r s a m a z i n g r e s u l t s .

STAGING SPECIALIST

I h a v e s t a g i n g d e c o r t o h e l p y o u a c h i e v e m a x i m u m v a l u e a n d

m a r k e t p l a c e .

e r s i n m y

a d v e r t i s i n g v i e w .

From the Editor

Tom Hawrylko, Sr.

Editor Ariana Puzzo began an ambitious project two months ago when she asked “what makes Clifton great?” In an era when the naysayers, complainers, haters and anonymous writers have big voices, it can be hard to stand for positivity.

But Ari persevered. She interviewed folks who offered up praise—and a little criticism—for our hometown. She shared that good news and also created a guide with a variety of resources, things to do, places to check out, stuff to do.

To many of us, Clifton remains a city of opportunity. And while it may sound a bit corny, I still believe in the slogan I created in 1998: As Clifton Grows, So Do We.

For me, the journey began in 1980, when I moved here after a hitch in the US Navy. I have achieved much since—raising four kids and starting Tomahawk Promotions and this magazine. It has not always been easy street, for myself or for Clifton. Over the decades, myself and my adopted hometown, have occasionally stuttered and faltered, but most often we’ve evolved and grown. So don’t go dark folks. Stay positive.

Finally I suggest no matter your race, creed or political persuasion, be part of your hometown. Contribute to making our community a better place to live, work and raise a family. And remember: as Clifton grows, so will we all...

16,000

Contributing

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

Editor & Publisher Tom Hawrylko, Sr.

Art Director Ken Peterson

Associate Editor & Social Media Mgr.

Ariana Puzzo

Business Mgr.

Irene Kulyk

August 24, 2023 is a day of celebration of Ukrainian heritage, culture and independence at Clifton City Hall.

Vyshyvanka, the Ukrainian word for a traditionally styled embroidered shirt or dress, is a key feature of Ukraine’s national clothing.

MUSTANG

SPORTS

Over his eight years leading the Mustangs, Ralph Cinque has turned the Clifton football team into a Group V power. For that reason, their 5-5 performance in 2022—not horrible, all things considered—seems somewhat disappointing.

But considering the quality of their opposition and relative youth, Cinque has kept things in perspective with regards to the second-worst season (in terms of win-loss record) of his tenure.

“If you look at that schedule when the year started and said we would be 5-5,” Cinque began. “Sure I would like to have gotten the Ridgewood game back. But we lost to Union City, beat a sectional champion in Northern Highlands, and lost to a Delbarton team that pushed Bergen Catholic in the playoffs, plus [North I, Group V champions] Passaic Tech.”

And so, Cinque and company will take on 2023 looking to show that the Mustangs are not simply a team, but a program, that can withstand the ups and downs of gradua-

Varsity Mustangs, standing from left: Aiden Farrell, Ricardo Bodden, David Chavez, Nate Ceneri, Adrian Nemeth, Trumain Lawson, Alexander Franco, Devon Stroble, Stephen Troller and Abel Chong. Kneeling: Kyano Jimenez, David Boria, Jack Seyka, Marvin Bailey, Steven Velastegui, Johnathan Santiago and Eric Cespedes.

tion losses, challenging schedules and normal year-to-year and week-to-week turbulence—such as the frustrating 30-15 opening-week loss they endured against Montclair on Aug. 26.

As always, that effort will begin under center, where junior Romelo Tables will start for the second straight season. He was more than serviceable as a sophomore, but his incredible and well-rounded athletic ability and the byproduct of his exceptional work ethic should be on full display this year.

“Melo is a competitor,” said Cinque. He never wants to lose. I think that’s what will make him successful not just in football but in life.”

Sports Stories by Tom Szieber • Photos by Andrei Daskevics

County Clerk Danielle Ireland-Imhof has made services more accessible with increased electronic documents and web capabilities, extended office hours, and multi-lingual staff and translation services. Her mobile office events bring services such as passports, Veteran IDs, military records, and notary oaths directly to residents at Clifton City Hall, the Clifton Library, Clifton Health Center, and many other events in Clifton and throughout Passaic County.

Our County Commissioners have provided funding for Clifton Parks and Infrastructure such as Weasel Brook County Park, Athenia Steel Park, Surgent Field LED lights, Sperling Park renovations, and the upcoming Mt. Prospect Road Reconstruction.

Clifton's hometown Commissioner Bruce James helped the Avenue of Flags acquire non-profit status, and secured funding to ensure all those Killed in Action are properly honored.

Seniors Nate Ceneri and Marvin Bailey are back to lead a group of wide outs that includes seniors Eric Cespedes, Rick Bodden and Alexander Franco and junior David Hannah.

Still, the Mustangs will take what defenses give them. Last year, they attempted just three passes in a playoff victory over East Orange Campus. They’re more than willing to pound

the rock, and senior running back Devon Stroble will be the workhorse when they do. Battle-tested, bigger and stronger, Stroble is poised to make the leap to the upper-echelon of running backs in the SFC Freedom Blue Division and Passaic County. He will be spelled by senior Kyano Jimenez, who has opened eyes with improved speed and quickness this

preseason. Junior fullback David Alvarez is a quality blocker and receiver out of the backfield.

Senior Trumain Lawson will be the Mustangs’ left tackle and will lead a line that is green but loaded with potential. Left guard Justin Gaviria, center Isaac Cazimoski and right guard Jassin Gaviria, all juniors, and sophomore right tackle Aiden Romero comprise the team’s front five.

Lawson will spearhead Clifton’s three-man front on defense, as well. The defensive end is a major Division I recruit and will be a frustrating matchup for any opposing blocker. Junior Alexander Francisco will play the opposite end, while Cazimoski will be the Mustangs’ nose tackle.

Clifton’s linebackers are a collection of unknown commodities, though all of them are able to swarm the ball and pack a punch. Jimenez, senior Abel Chong, sophomore Zaiden Hughes and junior Jason Alvarez are the probable starting four. Jassin Gaviria and senior David Chavez will see plenty of action with the group.

Bailey, a starting cornerback who also handles kick and punt returns, enters his third season as an impact player in the defensive backfield, playing opposite Cespedes. Ceneri and Stroble are Clifton’s safeties.

Ceneri will again punt for Clifton, while the hot leg between senior Adrian Nemeth and junior Joe Geleta will kick.

“I think we are good enough [to win games],” said Cinque. “We have a lot of athletes. What holds us back is football I.Q., which we are still developing.”

Elizabeth LaTorre, Brianna Thieu. Front: Nayely Guzman, Captain Brianna Gonzalez, Captain Nicole Modla, Captain C’Anni Green, Julia Erszkowicz.

Head Cheer coach Gina (Matano) Fersini is proud of last year’s Mustang Cheerleaders, and just as excited to see what this year’s squad brings to their competitions.

The squad is coming off an impressive 2023 season — perhaps their best yet. The Competition Team ended their regular season with a record of 7-1 and secured the title of Big North Liberty Division Champions for the second consecutive year. They also achieved the prestigious title of 2023 State Champions in the Intermediate CoEd Division.

“We are determined to have another successful season, putting in extra work and hours to make sure we are prepared for our long, yet exciting eight months,” said Fersini, a School 11 Kindergarten teacher.

Fersini, with assistant coaches Sarah Post, Samantha Segda, and Laura Tunnell, oversees 28 cheerleaders.

“Before we can fully focus on Competition season, the team is excited to cheer on their Clifton Mustangs during football season,” said Fersini. “Go Mustangs!”

From left top row: Jaslene Checo, Lila De Venio, Zoe Bodden, Sophia Munoz, Jayla Perez, Emily Fantry, Jaliyah Reyes, Melenny Inoa, London Jenkins, Jazlyn Lazu, Betzy Degante Lopez, Berenice Tlatelpa. Center: Allison Mendez, Veronica David, Ava Acuna, Janae Catala, Ellyanah Ramos, Jade Teo, Alexa Miller, Amilia Betances,

MARCHING BAND MUSTANG SPORTS

The 85th edition of your Mustang Marching Band has been hard at work since the start of Band Camp on Aug. 14, wrote director Bryan Stepneski.

In addition to performances at every varsity football game, the Marching Mustangs will perform at the North Jersey Band Festival on Oct. 29, the West Milford Tattoo on Nov. 11, and Under the Lights at CHS on Nov.

22. Their 85th Anniversary celebration will then continue with a performance tour to New Orleans in February. The Band is raising funds to defer the cost of the trip. Here are two ways to help: Contributions can be made via gofund.me/6406af4e. Checks can be made out to “CHSMBPAI” and can be sent to Bryan Stepneski c/o Clifton High School, 333 Colfax Ave., Clifton, NJ 07013.

Kneeling:

Negin Saidian

Natalie Rozon

Stephanie Feliciano

Chelsea Gutierrez

Casey Wellins

Standing:

Eleny Gervacio

Luz Perez

Miro Arenas

Isabel Cohn

Here are some of the Marching Mustang seniors photographed at band camp during mid-August: Harold Monge, Lily Kearny, Ryan Wellins, Samantha Bernal, Merve Candar, Irais Marin, Gabriel Tejada.

From a preseason storyline perspective, it’s more of the same for Clifton boys soccer: Stan Lembryk’s squad is preparing to win more championships.

It’s a testament to the consistent excellence Clifton has had under Lembryk, a Rossi disciple who gets the most out of every player he coaches.

If he does so with this roster, he and his players may well hoist a Group IV championship trophy at the season’s end.

“The expectation is that we have an opportunity to win a lot of trophies this year,” Lembryk said. “And we are not afraid to say that, because our players are working hard to be in this position.”

The Mustangs will bring back 20 players from last season’s 16-21 squad that lost in both the Passaic County and North I, Group IV title games. They are a different type of

team than the 2019 Group IV champions, who were built around two All-Americans.

MUSTANG SPORTS

BOYS SOCCER

“I feel like this group has more depth than we ever had,” Lembryk said. “You can take that as you will. I feel that we have every position, we were deep in 2019, but not this deep.”

Senior forward Vitalii Datsyk will lead the offensive effort, coming off a 2022 season in which he earned first team all-league, first team All-Passaic County and Soccer Coaches Association of New Jersey North I All-State honors. Tenacious, powerful, fast and fearless, Datsyk can finish with both feet and can battle multiple defenders to win a ball and score.

He will be flanked by sophomore Simon Deossa, with senior Alex Fiedoruk in the rotation, as well.

Wiktor Kiszkiel, a senior, will lead the midfield. He is a versatile athlete who can contribute effectively on

From top left: Alex Fledoruk, Wiktor Kiszkiel, Edward Peralta, Nate Phillip, Cameron Zutic, Mykola Datsyk, Kamil Ozga, Christopher Reece. Middle left: Justin Leach, Aiden David, Jaden Romero, Manny Alba, Maksym Kotsiaba, Fernando Puertas, Vitalii Datsyk, Aaron Miller, Simon Deossa, Cristian Rojano. Lower left: Johnny Aguirre, Yared Sanchez, Jomar Landa, Oswaldo Texcucano, Robbie Niessen, Ayel Barrera, Belal Ljbara, Gavin Gutshteyn, Lucas Chen.

both sides of the field. Kiszkiel played in every game last season, qualifying for the All-Big North Liberty second team and picking up honorable mention on the All-Passaic County team.

Senior Kamil Ozga did the same, and joins classmates Edward Peralta and Aidan David to form a strong midfield contingent. Among the position group’s other talents are junior Jomar Landa, senior Emmanuel Alba and sophomore Lucas Chen.

The hallmark of Lembryk’s Clifton teams has been tough defense, and the 2023 collection of defenders embodies same. Seniors Christopher Reece and Abraham Ochoa, junior Justin Leach and sophomore Mykola Datsyk will be key figures on the back line.

In the goal is another experienced stud in senior Cameron Zutic, who combined with nowgraduated Sebastian Perez to pitch 14 shutouts in 2022. Athletic and a strong distributor from the goal, his potential for dominance is high. Junior Nate Phillip will back him up.

“This year, we have a lot of really good players,” Lembryk said. “And with depth and really good players, it is an unbelievable combination.”

Amanda Gryszkin has a new role with the Clifton girls soccer program for the first time in 21 years—and it’s a major one. The long-time assistant and current Mustangs girls lacrosse coach is getting a shot to lead Clifton on the pitch and will try and improve the team from its 6-12 finish last fall.

“Obviously, we hope we can build the program up year after year and put it back on the map,” Gryszkin said. “I think we have great kids in Clifton and are set on changing the mindset. They have to believe in themselves.”

Varsity from top left: Nataly Gonzalez, Heidy Gonzalez, Sierra Fisbeck, Gianna Delgado, Nicole Acuna, Emma Dwornicki, Kate Arce, Mariela Garcia. Kneeling: Amanda Presutto, Zayda Murphy, Leslie Surita, Jackie Vizcaino, Carly Stoepker.

The Mustangs are senior-heavy but still a bit raw, and will need to keep games close. That task will be achievable with Leslie Surita-Perez in the goal.

A four-year starter, she has the potential for a big year, and much of Clifton’s success will be parallel to hers.

Of course, Surita-Perez will need support. Clifton’s defensive group will hope to provide some, and features the talented combination of seniors Sierra Fisbeck, Zayda Murphy, Amanda Presutto, Jackie Vizcaino, Lylah Flores and Kate Arce, as well as junior Mia DeVita.

“We can do good things this year,” Gryszkin said. “Our schedule is tough but you’ve got to believe that every time you step on the field.”

Offensively, the Mustangs will use a group of forwards and midfielders that are largely interchange-

GIRLS SOCCER

able. The senior group will hope to have Rutgers-bound Gianna Delgado. Seniors Nicole Acuna, Carly Stoepker, Emma Dwornicki, Heidy Gonzalez and Nathaly Gonzalez, juniors Emelia Wilk, Meagan Valido and Kayla Acuna and sophomore Zaina Aburomi complete the rotation.

Gryszkin’s staff will include Lindsey Cinque, Clifton’s girls flag football coach, and Michelle Krzysik—sister-in-law of the program’s greatest-ever player, Nikki Krzysik. The roster seems to be responding to the staff, and if that trend continues, the Mustangs may turn out to be a surprise player in Passaic County.

“They know what it was like last year and I hope they are using that as motivation to get better,” Gryszkin said. “They’ve been working hard. They know what to expect, they know the competition we play.”

Steven Alvarado knows the task. The 43-year-old has taken over a team that went 3-20 last year but is historically competitive. There’s a lot of work to do, but Alvarado is ready to do it.

“I definitely think we can compete this year,” Alvarado said. “With the combination of the players we have, I do think we have the talent to compete. We have a decent mixture of all grade levels.”

The Mustangs’ best play also happens to be a foundational piece of the program. Setter Mikaella Francisco is just a sophomore, but she will lead Clifton with a killer instinct and the ability to do it all. She will play as an opposite side hitter in the Mustangs’ 6-2 rotation, as well.

“She is a very advanced player,” Alvarado said. “She plays club. She can dictate the tempo of the game. Her hustle is great. She wants every ball. Wherever she is, she wants to take a swing.”

Offensively, the Mustangs will count on a pair of skilled outside hitters, junior Alyssa Pawlik and senior Ashley De La Santos, to put the ball down. Pawlik is hungry and is an aggressive hitter. De La Santos is a power player, too.

Senior Paraskevi Gerollari is a tall middle blocker with a high upside who is intense on the court. Alvarado is hopeful that she will be able to help out on the right and left sides. She will be joined up front by sophomore Michaela Mercado, another tall presence who looks confident and fearless at the net.

Senior setter Gabriella Cuevas, senior right side front row blocker Bianca Genardi and sophomore libero Jenna Alnatur will be additional important pieces of the Mustangs’ game plan. “I am extremely excited,” Alvarado said. “It is just a matter of getting our players game ready. It’s going well. They are starting to understand my coaching philosophy.”

Standing from left: Juna Crawford, Ashley De Los Santos, Michaela Mercado, Kendall Reed, Isabella Andruch, Paraskevi Gerollari and Gabriella Cuevas. Front: Alyssa Pawlik, Bianca Genardi, Jenna Alnatur, Mikaella Francisco and Ottilia Kedl. Missing is Jemilia Sanchez.

GIRLS VOLLEYBALL MUSTANG SPORTS

Sep 8 Passaic 4:30pm

Sep 9 TBA 9am

Sep 11 @ DePaul 4pm

Sep 13 @ Bergen Tech 4:15pm

Sep 14 Wayne Hills 4:15pm

Sep 15 @ Lacordaire 4pm

Sep 18 PCTI 4:15pm

Sep 19 Eastern Christian 4pm

Sep 20 @ Eastside 4pm

Sep 22 Fair Lawn 4:15pm

Sep 25 @ Passaic Valley 4pm

Sep 26 @ JFK 4pm

Sep 28 Lakeland 4:15pm

Oct 2 @ Passaic 4:30pm

Oct 4 Bergen Tech 4:30pm

Oct 5 Indian Hills 4:15pm

Oct 9 @PCTI 4pm

Oct 11 @ Ridgewood 4:15pm

Oct 12 Eastside 4:15pm

Oct 16 JFK 4:15pm

Oct 17 Lacordaire 4pm

Oct 20 @ Kearny 4pm

Oct 24 @ Paramus Cath 4pm

Oct 25 @ Wayne Valley 4:15pm

With Anias Jenkins, Clifton girls tennis believes anything is possible. Led by the senior first singles star, the Mustangs are hoping the 2023 can be a year when they can surprise prognosticators and improve on a 7-7 playoff season.

They have a reliable team point at the top of the lineup in Jenkins, who has won the Passaic County first singles title in each of the past two seasons (there was no tourney in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic).

Confident and possessing a powerful swing, she will look to make a greater impact in the individual state tournament in her scholastic swan song.

“She is just getting better and better,” said veteran head coach Chad Cole. “She hits a heavy ball. Anias is optimistic and she knows she is good. I am excited to see how she does this year in states.”

Senior Jada Witter returns at second singles a year after rising to that slot in just her second year of orga-

MUSTANG SPORTS

TENNIS

nized tennis. Athletic with superb hand-eye coordination, the team’s success will depend heavily on hers.

Senior newcomer Paulina Soto will play third singles. Soto, a transfer, has a balanced skill set and impressed in an 8-1 victory in a scrimmage with Rutherford this preseason.

The Mustangs’ doubles squads have not fully taken shape yet, but seniors Dina Asad, Amena Fahim, Tamara Korkmaz and Kailyn Rodriguez and juniors Jichelle Rodriguez and Viviana Santiago are vying for roles in the two duos.

Clifton, despite a roster with mostly seniors, is thin on depth and experience. Still, Cole expects progress in every outing and believes he will get the most out of the talented group.

“That’s what my job is: to get them to play the best tennis they’re capable of,” Cole said. “They are just nice kids and when they see themselves improving they enjoy it even more.”

Standing from left: Nour Abdallah, Dina Asad, Tamara Korkmaz, Paulina Soto, Viviana Santiago, Ann Jaimes, Paris Arroyo, Kayla Kozell. Kneeling: Lillian Eewshah, Jenna Saleh, Anias Jenkins, Jada Witter, Kailyn Rodriguez, Amena Fahim.

What is Self-Care?

Self-care activities can range from physical activities such as exercising and eating healthy, to mental activities such as reading a book or practicing mindfulness, to spiritual or social activities such as praying or catching lunch with a friend.

Power of One Stress, Anxiety, Grief Support Group

Self

Care is Preventative Health Care

Self-care means taking the time to do things that help you live well and improve both your physical health and mental health.

Self Care -Activities

Self Soothing

Comfort using your 5 senses

Listen to music, take a buble bath, use a stress ball, lighting aroma candles

Mediation

Gives you a sense of calm, peace and balance. Focus on 1 word like peace and hold your breathe for four counts and breathe out anxious thought.

Sense Check In

Bring yourself to the present moment by asking yourselfWhat am I hearing right now? What do I see? What do I taste? What do I smell? Take time to simply notice what you are experiencing can take your mind off of the negative thoughts.

Healthy Distractions

Read books, do puzzles, exercise, crafts, watch a movie or comedy, spend time with people you enjoy, clean the clutter, dance, go out doors, discover a hobby, Volunteer

Emotional Awareness Tools

Journaling- write down your feelings and work through them.

Positive Thinking- Look for the good things in a bad situation.

Forgiveness- Learn to let things go that you can't change so you can move forward in youre healing

Pray- Spend time in prayer and solitude

About Us Power of One

Our team is committed to alleviating poverty by providing Personal Development, Wellness Workshops and valuable resources that assist families and individuals back to independence.

Philippians 4:8 “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.”

PO Box 6080, Clifton, NJ 07015 862-239-5905

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It is rare for Clifton cross country to confront the “R” word, but it will need to in 2023. That word, of course, is “rebuild,” which they will need to do with significant contributors no longer on the roster for both the boys and girls.

But the tradition of success under head coach John Pontes should go a long way in ensuring that the Mustangs made big strides every time they race.

The Mustang girls—who won Passaic County titles in 2017, 2018 and 2019—will be looking to build on a 2022 season that saw them finish second in the county and earn a Liberty Division crown.

MUSTANG SPORTS

CROSS COUNTRY

Junior Hala Mohamad, a second team all-leaguer, returns, as well. Clifton—who took fifth in the North I, Group IV meet last year, has a number of young talents, including junior Denise Dubbels and sophomore Alexis Smith, who figure to be key contributors this fall.

To exceed those achievements, they will need senior Viktoria Green to be even better than she was in her terrific junior campaign. Green was a first team All-Passaic County and All-Liberty Division honoree a season ago, but Pontes sees no reason she can’t raise her game further in her final high school season.

“She has been training with [Remy] Dubac all summer,” Pontes noted. “As long as she stays healthy, I think she will be in the top three to five runners in the county.”

Her sister, senior Olivia Green, is back having earned those same accolades on the all-county and all-league squads.

The Clifton boys have won three consecutive county titles (if the county invitational from the COVID-altered 2020 season is counted), and will shoot for a fourth on the legs of junior Lamarr Olive. A first team All-Passaic County and All-Liberty Division honoree last year, Olive was arguably the top sophomore in the county. He has turned up his training heading into what is sure to be a huge campaign.

Senior Alexandro Ralli, also a first team all-league and all-county athlete, and senior Patrick DuBois will be number two and three in the lineup for a squad that finished third in the section a year ago.

“Distance running is unique,” Pontes said. “There is potential here, but it is going to be uphill in more ways than one. This will be a test with how we deal with a real rebuilding year for us. We’ve graduated so much on both sides. But if they jell well, we could be a contender.”

Front from left, Christian Cabanilla, Tapin Mistry, Alex Ralli, Joseph Lopez, Leo Spoon, Declan Eineker, Dylan Cabrera, Pat DuBois. Back from left, Alexis Smith, Nadine Judah, Christyn Duverge, Hala Mohamad, Isabella Latorre, Eddie Gomez, Denise Dubbels, Olivia Green.

MUSTANG SPORTS

GYMNASTICS

Amy Glenn’s formula isn’t complicated. Now in the third year of her second tenure as the Mustangs’ head gymnastics coach, she simply asks her gymnasts to keep their eyes on the prize and to improve every meet. The prizes, of course, are victories—achievements that eluded Clifton for over half a decade until they pulled out two in 2022.

“My philosophy has always been that it is about being better than you were the meet before,” said Glenn. “That is what I’ve always instilled in my girls.”

Junior Melinda Tajerian is the top competitor on Clifton’s four-gymnast roster. With clean technique and competing at an increased degree of difficulty, she will be looking for a breakout year.

Sophomore Briana Zalawadia excels on bars, but will compete all-around this fall—as will her three teammates.

“Briana loves to fly and be in the air,” Glenn said. “She has no fear. Sometimes I have to reel her back in a little bit.”

Freshman Bianca Alcantara is especially skilled on bars and beam, “floating” on the former according to her head coach. Sophomore Brinda Zalawadia, nimble on the balance beam, is graceful and athletic and rounds out the Mustangs’ lineup.

Brinda and Briana Zalawadia with Melinda Tajerian at center.

Stories by Ariana Puzzo

We asked Clifton through Facebook: What Makes Clifton Great? Some respondents pointed to city services, while others noted the open spaces. Although some skeptics feel the best days of Clifton are behind us, the thoughtful responses on the following pages remind us of all our city still has to offer.

Summers spent in pools and down the shore are what made Michelle (Nahass) Denequola and Ashley (Philhower) Polowniak Jersey girls.

What makes them Clifton girls is them raising their families’ next generations within our city borders while remaining the best of friends.

Their story began on Van Breeman Drive.

“Our moms met because our older siblings were at storytime together,” said Polowniak, 29. “Her dad grew up on the block and so did my mom, then both families bought houses on the block.”

The girls became friends at five- and six-yearsold, and multiple family members remain on that block today. Aside from swimming in each other’s pools and going to the beach with their moms, other pastimes that they remember include roller blading.

Now, they are hoping to continue that way of life with their sons.

“It’s cool, because we still live on the block and often bring our boys for walks on the block,” said Denequola, 30. “Just the other day, we were [saying], ‘Remember when this person lived on the block?’ There are all of these stories and we went down memory lane.”

Michelle (Nahass) Denequola, at left, and Ashley (Philhower) Polowniak have been friends for decades. Recently they both had children with Jason Denequola being born on May 3 and Dawson Polowniak entering the world on June 20. To celebrate their friendship and blessings, they recreated a photo at the Avenue of Flags with their newborns.

“It’s very cool that we get to do that from our childhood,” continued Denequola.

Denequola grew up with parents Donald (CHS 1976) and Barbara (Rolfs) Nahass, and brother Alan (CHS 2008). She graduated with the CHS Class of 2011 and married Mustang grad Kevin Denequola (CHS 2006). The couple started dating in 2010, but knew each other for longer since Kevin lived on the same block and is Alan’s best friend. Their son, Jason, was born in May.

Denequola works as a full-time Head Teacher at The Clifton Little School, at 391 Broad St.

Polowniak is the middle daughter of her parents, Ken (CHS 1981) and Donna (Turos) Philhower (CHS 1980). Her older sister, Alyssa, graduated from CHS in 2008 and her younger sister, Amy, graduated in 2015. Polowniak is a hair stylist and she has worked in Allendale at a hair salon. She and her now-husband Bartek Polowniak (CHS 2012) met during their freshman year of high school. The couple were friends, but they reconnected in 2015 and started dating after they “just hit it off.” Their son, Dawson, entered the world in June.

As first-time moms, there’s plenty of excitement. Both women hope to plan family beach days — like their moms did — and explore kid-focused and family activities that Clifton offers residents.

There are also understandable apprehensions as they adjust to their new life roles. What helps the most is that they’re not going through it alone.

“It was awesome that Ashley and I got to go through our pregnancies together,” said Denequola. “Anything that I experienced, I could turn to her and she’d say, ‘Oh, my gosh. I am experiencing the same thing.’”

Along with having the person that she’s known her entire life embark on a similar journey at the same time, Polowniak is grateful for what it means for their boys.

“I think it’s awesome [they already have] a built-in friendship,” said Polowniak. “They can relive what we went through.”

Much like their fellow residents describe on the following pages, both boys will get to do it in the same place that their moms describe by using a simple but meaningful word.

“Home,” both women said.

The Clifton Committees

Emergency Service Responsiveness

The Parks in Clifton

Carla (Agnello) Urbanowycz, Lifelong Resident Family is at the center of Carla Urbanowycz’s life in Clifton — and she has loved every moment of forming lifelong bonds with the friends who later became family.

Some of her friends are featured on our pages this month, including her best friend, Mary Lasky (CHS 1970), as they share their opinions on their hometown.

“Mary and I met over 60 years ago at the age of 11 at Christopher Columbus,” said Urbanowycz. “We are closer than sisters are. That’s been a beautiful blessing.”

Urbanowycz and her late husband, Steve, graduated from CHS in 1970 as well. The Mustang sweethearts had three children — Steve (CHS 1996), Jessica Mueller (CHS 1999), and Vicki Ferraro (CHS 2003).

“Now I have six beautiful grandchildren,” said Urbanowycz. “I’m very blessed. They are my life.”

Urbanowycz has always appreciated the committees that residents could join in Clifton. Along with teaching in the Clifton Public Schools for 29 years, she joined

Board of Recreation Special Education Program

the School 9 HSA while her children went through the school. Her husband, Steve, was also highly involved with Southern Division and was a commissioner on the Board of Recreation.

Today, Urbanowycz appreciates that residents can follow Clifton’s news and goings on whether they show up in person or tune in from home.

“I always watch the Channel 77 Council meetings and keep involved with what is happening at the Board of Education meetings,” she said. “The TV channels help people who are homebound to see what is going on in town.”

Urbanowycz expressed her gratitude for the quick responses of city services, including the Fire and Police Departments. She also encouraged her fellow residents not to give up on Clifton.

“We are lucky to have fire and police departments that come when we call. A lot of communities do not have that,” said Urbanowycz. “In the schools as well — our educators are dedicated to teaching children.”

As teens, from left, Mary Ferrara, Tom Lasky, Steve Urbanowycz, and Carla Agnello. Carla Urbanowycz and Mary Lasky today.

Mary Lasky, Lifelong Resident

Clifton’s proximity to New York City is a bonus for many residents, but it became a blessing over the years for Mary (Ferrara) Lasky’s family.

Lasky recalls fun times when she and her husband, Tom (CHS 1968), brought their now grown children, Nicky Lasky and Jacqueline Jones (CHS 2000), into the city. But there were plenty of other times when they needed to bring their son, Nicky, there to visit medical specialists.

“I basically lived in the city, and the proximity was wonderful,” said Lasky (CHS 1970). “In about 15 minutes, you’re in the city and could see all of those doctors. That was fantastic for me.”

Lasky, who worked in the Clifton Public School district for 27 years and retired as a School 12 Kindergarten teacher, also appreciates all that the schools offer students. For Nicky, she credits Clifton for their guidance while he was in the district’s special education program up until

fifth grade, and the support the district gave when his educational needs required an out-of-district placement.

“I thought it was a wonderful place to educate children and to accommodate the special needs of children who have intellectual or physical disabilities,” said Lasky. “Our Public School system is really above average for that.”

Despite completing his education out-of-district, the doors to Clifton schools remained open for Nicky. Lasky remains grateful for retired Principal Luca Puzzo, as well as her best friend and Nicky’s godmother, retired Kindergarten teacher Carla Urbanowycz, and School 1’s community for welcoming Nicky into the school system to volunteer in Urbanowycz’s class.

“It was great that Clifton allowed him to come back. It was a big thing for me,” said Lasky.

Other aspects that make Clifton home for Lasky include its many parks. She met Tom at Nash Park

Michael and Lynn Edreos.

when she was in middle school, recalling the park directors who organized games. She’s still fond of restaurants like The Hot Grill, Rutt’s Hut, and Sharky’s.

Other resources that remain important to her are the concert series, library programs, and the Boys & Girls Club, along with the Clifton Adult Opportunity Center — where Nicky went for about 15 years after transitioning out of the Early Childhood Learning Center at the age of 21.

“Nicky went to the all-day program,” said Lasky. “They would get the adults into the community, do some workshops, and have special people come in. That was really nice.”

In her Montclair Heights neighborhood, Lasky appreciates the support that neighbors offer each other. It’s the sort of thing that you expect to see in a small town rather than a large city. “We have a Neighborhood Watch, and people look out for each other,” she said. “It feels like everyone is respectful.”

Jonathan Justin (CHS 2008)

I love the diversity of Clifton and I love that it’s a city that still feels like a suburb. I love how kind folks are when strolling through town. I hope that Clifton can remain an affordable city where Small Business thrives after all of the hardships during these past few years.

Michael and Lynn Edreos, Clifton Homeowners 45 Years

Lifelong resident Lynn (Ercolino) Edreos is happy to see Clifton becoming more child friendly.

“We have grandchildren who also live in Clifton and are involved in soccer, lacrosse, basketball, baseball,” said Lynn (CHS 1967). “There are a lot of activities, which I feel is important rather than having them sitting around on their iPads.”

Lynn moved to Clifton at the age of 10. Her husband, Michael, moved to the city when they wed. They have two children and four grandchildren, and Michael agrees that the progress is a good thing. He added that the youthfocused opportunities reflect how the residents are dedicated to volunteering and supporting the groups.

“A lot of people volunteer and keep the clubs and activities running for the kids. It’s a nice thing,” said Michael. “The Little League is not as big as it used to be, but is now being broken into more spring sports than they had before.”

Other city benefits for Michael include access to highways and major roads and the many parks that are now getting upgraded with bocce, chess boards, and pickleball. Not to mention, the city services.

“Considering that we pay for departments like the DPW, fire, and police as services we get from the town, our taxes are not that high,” said Michael.

Lynn also noted other types of accessible locations and services. She appreciates that there are strip malls that do not require you to travel a distance to find something that you may need. Lynn feels similarly about the public library as a Rosemawr resident.

“There are two library branches, so you don’t have to go across town. The fact that there’s one right in our area is something that we like,” Lynn added.

Jonathan Justin and wife Katie, who have lived in Clifton for over a decade, with son Liam and daughter Mia, who are both Clifton natives.

Pat Ferrara, Lifelong Resident

I think what makes Clifton great are all our parks and how many things that our city has to offer food-wise. We have so many amazing restaurants and our parks are just beautiful. I also like the fact that I can commute anywhere that I want to go from Clifton. Additionally, our streets are plowed in the winter time and our Public Works is excellent. I don’t have a complaint about

them in the world, and I don’t think their services get noticed that much. Growing up in Clifton made us feel comfortable and safe. We were fortunate enough to raise our three children here and the sports programs were phenomenal. I think that it’s a great area.

Sharon (Finley) Ferrara, Lifelong Resident

Pat and I knew each other in middle school, because he was good friends with my brother, and we started dating after we graduated in the Class of 1978. What makes Clifton unique is having access to every highway, transportation-wise. Clifton is also a great school district to send your children. I worked with special needs students in the Clifton school system for seven years as a paraprofessional and know there are people who don’t want to send their kids to Clifton High. I, personally, enjoyed being there and was at Woodrow Wilson. Although people are fearful of the crowds and there will always be mishaps, it’s overall a great school to send your children.

Bill Hartmann (CHS 1977)

The unity that we had in Clifton and how it [felt like] a really small community, if you will, where everybody knew everybody made it such a great place to grow up. I still keep in close contact with the classmates that I graduated with, as well as others who grew up in Clifton. The lessons that I learned while growing up in Clifton helped me to succeed to the rank of Chief Warrant Officer 4 from E1 (Enlisted retiring as a Commissioned officer), retiring with 32 years. I was not a Rhodes Scholar in high school, but my dad was a Marine and a real hard military guy. I always learned that you don’t get [anything] in life for free. In order to succeed in this world, you have to work hard.

I was a drill instructor for the Navy and know a lot of people disagree with

Pat and Sharon Ferrara.

me on this, but I feel deeply this is so true. Parents can do everything possible to make you the best person that they possibly can, but I really believe … that it’s the friendships you acquire while you’re growing up in junior high and high school that really make you. A lot of people can just turn the other way, even if your parents do everything possible. If you hang out with the wrong crowd, it can lead to you making a wrong turn and then you’re done.

When I got commissioned in the Navy, there were 12 people who made it in my designator. I was selected as number six, and it was really a shock. But I had a “go get ’em” and “take care of people and they’ll take care of you” attitude. I owe it all to where I grew up and my upbringing. It all came together.

Marie Schultheis, Lifelong Resident

We have a great Fire Department and Police Department. They have a great response time when you call them. I know that from my patients, working as a home health aide for 36 years. The stores, restaurants, Boys & Girls Club, and transportation are great. I still go to George’s Coffee Shop and whether you take the bus or train, you can get to New York or wherever you want to go.

I am also on the committee for Clifton’s Avenue of Flags for 10 years or more. I was friends with John Biegel Jr., who had started it. He is the one that got me involved as a volunteer to put up the flags. We get a lot of volunteers at the Avenue of Flags, and the Fire Department is a huge help aside from regular volunteers. I appreciate them coming because they are a big help to us.

All of the qualities in Clifton are really great. Nobody around has what we have here. Now, we just got the Purple Heart Monument moved as another asset

that came to the Field of Honor for the Avenue of Flags. That’s a big thing.

Golden Friendships

Many Cliftonites start and raise their families within our city’s borders, and once their families have grown realize it’s their turn to enjoy all that Clifton and their community have to offer.

Bill Hartmann and Marie Schultheis.

A group of five women living at Senior Horizons at Clifton, 714 Clifton Ave., make the most of their close-knit circle. It began when CHS 1968 grads Barbara Baker and Joyce Smith wanted to get some fresh air during the coronavirus pandemic.

“[The whole place] was locked down, so … Joyce and I started sitting outside on the benches,” said Baker. “Then we got [lawn chairs] and people came to sit and join us.”

Five of the residents now have a group and enjoy chatting about everything. The group consists of Baker, Smith, Chris Liszner, Angie Mone, and Christine Guglielmino. What began as a time to socialize — often attracting more residents — recently turned into an adventure.

Baker, Smith, Liszner, and Guglielmino took a weeklong cruise this past April to Florida and the Bahamas with Royal Caribbean.

“It was so fun,” said Smith, with a bright smile.

Now that it’s safer, the women often meet in the common room on the ground floor. They’re able to avoid the heat and also greet other residents who stick their head in as they collect their mail.

Which was exactly what four did on a Wednesday night last month while we discussed why they like Clifton. Unfortunately, due to a family event, Guglielmino was unable to join us that evening.

Barbara (Klapmust) Baker

As a lifelong resident, Baker moved to the senior complex in 2019.

The former Mustang said that now as a senior citizen, she sees more offered from Clifton than ever before for that population. Picnics are one aspect, but all of the efforts made by the Clifton Health Department are appreciated.

“They came here a lot during COVID for testing,” said Baker. “They did a general health check as well for blood pressure, vascular testing on the legs, and a bone density scan.”

Baker expressed additional gratitude for Kim Castellano and the Power of One, Inc. for visiting the complex once per month and bringing food during the pandemic. Since life has re-opened, it means that Baker can enjoy the things that she’s always liked about Clifton.

“They [continue to] have the concerts in the parks, and now we’re getting bocce ball right up the street and pickleball,” said Baker. “All of our parks are beautiful. They upgraded them a lot.”

Access to stores and highways are major benefits, as well as a nearby train station and favorite restaurants like the Allwood Diner.

Baker doesn’t lose sight of how happy she is in the complex, either.

“They just installed cameras here,” she said. “It’s a good, safe place.”

Joyce (Vivinetto) Smith

Although Smith graduated from CHS the same year as Baker, they did not know each other until after moving to the complex in the same year.

Smith left Clifton for a period of time before returning to the city permanently in 1983. She has two daughters, Niccole Zaretski and Jackie Smith. Zaretski is a nurse at School 11 and Jackie is a fourth-grade teacher at School 12. The Clifton Public Schools is one thing that Smith admires about her city.

“Clifton has not cut any of its Fine Arts, sports, or music programs,” she said. “Unfortunately, we have

At Senior Horizons, from left, Joyce Smith, Chris Liszner, Angie Mone, and Barbara Baker.

seen [those cuts happen] in some other towns.”

Smith added that she admires how the school district offers support for students in need.

“They are looked out for and taken care of.”

Like Baker, Smith appreciates the Health Department’s active role. She noted one recent visit to discuss mental health and the ways that you can observe things in yourself and other people.

Individually, Smith said the group of friends take it upon themselves to organize Bingo twice per month. It existed years ago, but it’s back and they would love for more people to get involved. “It’s open to everyone in the building,” encouraged Smith.

Chris Liszner

Regarding Liszner, there’s a general consensus, stated first by Baker: “She is Miss Clifton.”

Smith agreed, adding that Liszner gives a lot of herself to the city. It’s a no-brainer for Liszner — her family and a desire to stay close to the city’s traditions have kept her engaged and involved.

“Probably the diversity,” said Liszner (CHS 1961) about why she remained local. “Growing up in Passaic, it was kind of a melting pot with a mixture of immigrants coming in and we’re that now in Clifton, and it’s nice. There is a lot of diversity in [this] building.”

Liszner has lived in Clifton for over 60 years and moved to the senior complex two years ago. A few favorite restaurants include Bruno’s Pizza, 1006 US-46, and Love of Grub, 606 Van Houten Ave. She mentioned how Chef Tracey at Love of Grub has helped support the city.

“During COVID,” recalled Liszner, “she kept her place stocked with bread, milk, and vegetables in case people couldn’t get to the store, and she delivered it.”

In earlier years, Liszner got involved with the PTA, as well as the Junior Women’s Club. She is a long-time supporter of the Community Band and Mustang Marching Band, and applauded Board of Education commissioners for not only maintaining a good budget but getting the referendum passed in recent years.

Veteran services like Clifton Cares, which she heads up with Dona Crum; the Avenue of Flags, and the American Legion are ones that Liszner holds closest to her heart.

“Anything to do with veterans, because my dad was a veteran,” she said. “[Clifton] continues the tradition of being one of the only towns with a Veterans Day Parade and putting up all the flags.”

Angie Mone

Everyone plays their role in keeping Clifton a nice place to live, but Mone gives credit to perhaps an unsung group of people.

“The homeowners,” she said, garnering unanimous agreement from her friends. “They maintain their homes very well in comparison to other neighboring cities.”

Mone grew up in Passaic and moved to Clifton over 30 years ago. This month, she has marked 19 years of living in the complex as one of the original residents. Around the city, Mone has liked the street fairs and support provided by the Clifton Senior Center.

The transportation service for seniors who need to visit doctors became essential after each of the complex’s residents lost their cars to Hurricane Ida. Mone still uses the senior transportation and pointed out that such a service doesn’t exist in neighboring towns.

“We also have paid fire and police forces,” she

The Gonzalez family, from left, Marvin, grandma Elizabeth, Jacob, Jerry, and Vanessa.

added. “Ambulances are here all the time … and it makes a big difference. We’ve been lucky. We really have.”

Jerry and Vanessa Gonzalez, 6-Year Residents

We want to give a big shout-out to the educators who were instrumental to our two sons, Marvin and Jacob. Thank you to Mrs. Megan Fitzpatrick, a Special Education teacher at WWMS, who to this day continues to reach out to us every day to check on how Jacob (CHS 2025) is doing. We also want to give a shout out to Coach Ralph Cinque, who guided our son through his years in high school and who is the reason why Marvin (CHS 2016) has become a Physical Education & Health certified teacher. Thank you to Mr. Andrew Jaeger, Mrs. Maureen O’Callaghan, CHS Principal Ahmad Hamdeh, Superintendent Danny Robertozzi, and so many more. Clifton Public Schools has been supportive throughout the years while providing the best educational growth.

We love the City of Clifton for its rich diversity and culture. Seeing so many different nationalities blend together as One Clifton generates greatness for all who live here. Clifton has so much to offer in terms of activities for the community, as well as valuable resources for bettering all the families who live here. There are so many great places to shop, dine, and visit in the city. Not to mention the great residents that we encounter in our area where we live, but everyone who we happen to talk to. If you’re not sure where your next move will be, make your stop in Clifton.

Cathy Boseski, 39-Year Resident

My husband, Bill, and I moved here from Jersey City in 1984 because our daughter, Cara, was starting kindergarten and we wanted to live in a town that had a good school system. When we moved here at first, it was a big adjustment for me. It was hard and kind of lonely, but once Cara started school, I got very active.

I was pregnant with my son, Billy, and because I was

home, I had time to get involved with the PTA at School 9. I really started to enjoy being here, and I also got friendly with people on my block while walking with the baby.

I think that Clifton is a very good community. I became very active in the Disabilities Committee and that has brought me to the forefront. We do a lot of things, for instance, visiting Ethan & the Bean in Little Falls with members of our committee to make our presence known in the surrounding area too. At events here in town, we take a booth or a table and offer our brochures so that people know that the committee is here.

Members of the group will go out to make sure places around the city have accessible curb cuts and handicapped parking. The John Samra Memorial Playground in Chelsea Park is an accessible-for-all-children playground that the Committee also fundraised for before I joined.

The communication with parents is terrific as well and is usually very open with the kids’ schools and teachers. If your child is having a problem, they’ll recommend services that the child might need or suggest extra help. I also like that while Clifton is a big city, we’re still a nice community with the convenience of getting to New York or going anywhere from here. We also have many nice events, like the Main Memorial concerts.

It still feels small enough in the town that they can do that, as well as Botany concerts and the Fourth of July picnic. It still has a hometown feel, which I like.

Marilyn Rowan, Angela Montague and Cathy Boseski.

In an instant, our lives can dramatically change. Whether by accident, neglect, or otherwise, emergency situations occur when we least expect them. Below is a list of contacts from crisis interventions to poison control. Put it somewhere handy, in case you need one of these numbers in the future.

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

Free and confidential 24/7 support for people in distress with prevention and crisis resources.

Call or text: 988 • Website: 988lifeline.org

Adolescent Partial Hospital as an after-school treatment program from St. Mary’s General Hospital.

973-470-3176

Adult Family Health Services is a private mental health and substance use wellness center that offers outpatient care. Location: 53 Orchard St. 973-330-8767 • Website: afhsnj.org

Child Find of America Hotline for parents reporting lost children. 1-800-I-AM-LOST (1-800-426-5678)

Website: childfindofamerica.org

Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline

Available for 24/7 responses.

(1-800) 4-A-CHILD, (1-800) 422-4453

Clifton Against Substance Abuse is a volunteer organization providing alcohol and drug prevention resources and education. Meetings are the last Tuesday of most months at 6:30 pm in Clifton Health Dept. • 862-686-3112 • Email: twhittles@yahoo.com or judybassford@yahoo.com

Website: cliftonagainstsubstanceabuse.org

Clifton Police Juvenile Division for child runaways, cyberbullying and harassment awareness, and similar emergencies. Incidents must first be reported through the Patrol Division. 973-470-5762 • Email: Commander – Detective Lt. William Frank, wfrank@cliftonpolice.org

Division of Child Protection and Permanency for reports on victims of child abuse, neglect, and abandonment. 973-977-4525

Love Is Respect provides information for youth on healthy relationships, personal safety, and supporting others. Peer advocates available 24/7. Chat available on website, or text “loveis” to 22522.

1-800-331-9474 • Website: loveisrespect.org

National Alliance on Mental Illness provides free information. The NAMI HelpLine is available M-F 10 am to 10 pm, ET.

Call: 800-950-6264 or text: “Helpline” to 62640

Website: nami.org

National Domestic Violence Hotline

1-800-799-SAFE (7233), TTY: 1-800-787-3224

Text: “START” to 88788 • Chat Live: thehotline.org

Kyle Terry’s story of addiction, recovery and subsequent loss also provided hope and faith to his mom and sister.

National Problem Gambling Helpline

Call or text: 1-800-GAMBLER

Chat: ncpgambling.org/help-treatment/chat

National Runaway Safeline for use in any crisis involving a teen or friend considering running away from home.

1-800-RUNAWAY or 1-800-786-2929 Chat: 1800runaway.org

National Sexual Assault Hotline, a 24/7 confidential hotline that offers services, legal, medical, and counseling referrals.

800-656-HOPE (4673) • Chat: hotline.rainn.org/online

NJ Child Abuse Hotline is open 24 hours per day and seven days per week. A concerned caller does not need proof to report an allegation and can make the report anonymously.

1-877-NJ Abuse (1-877-652-2873)

NJ Poison Control • 1-800-222-1222

Passaic County Division of Mental Health & Addiction Services funds services that include prevention, education, and treatment programs. 973-881-2834

Passaic County Human Services, offering 24/7 information and referral social services hotline. 973-881-2834

The Program for Outpatient Wellness, Enrichment and Recovery from St. Mary’s General Hospital. POWER offers adult outpatient mental health treatment for acute emotional distress. 973-470-3100

Project Youth Center, providing residence, habilitation services, and other care and treatment to children diagnosed with mental health illness, behavioral issues, and intellectual disabilities. 973-881-1611

ReachNJ is a central call-in line for New Jersey residents looking for help with a substance use disorder (SUD). ReachNJ serves NJ residents of all ages regardless of insurance status or their ability to pay. Available 24/7. 1-844-732-2465 • Website: nj.gov/humanservices/reachnj

Straight & Narrow, a subsidiary of Catholic Charities offering adolescent and adult alcohol and drug treatment center. Additional CC services for Crisis Intervention, COVID-19 Relief, Veterans Support, Immigrant and Migrant Support, and more. 973-345-6000 • Website: ccpaterson.org/sn

Student Assistance Program referrals and counseling from the Clifton Board Of Education.

Grades K-8: 973-470-5697

Grades 9-12: 973-470-2324

Trevor Project Lifeline, providing 24/7 crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to LGBTQIA+ and questioning youth. Available 24/7/365.

1-866-488-7386 or text “START” to 678-678

Chat: thetrevorproject.org/get-help

Victims of Crime Compensation Office provides financial assistance to victims, their families, and victim service providers in the aftermath of violent crimes.

973-648-2107 or 877-658-2107

Email: njvictims@njvictims.org

Website: www.njoag.gov/vcco

Your Life, Your Voice from Boys Town

Call line is open 24/7. Texting service is intended for preteens, teens, and young adults.

800-448-3000; Text: “VOICE” to 20121

Website: yourlifeyourvoice.org

Deflection Training in Clifton

By Ariana Puzzo

Drug overdose responses have historically differed for health officials, social workers, and law enforcement. Clifton, like communities around the country, strives to bridge that gap through the education and training of its front-line responders.

Members of the Clifton Health Department, Clifton Community Policing, and the Passaic County Department of Human Services attended a two-day Deflection Academy on July 25 and 26. The training at the Community Recreation Center, 1232 Main Ave, was hosted by Operation 2 Save Lives (O2SL) & QRT National.

Its goal was to foster a more cohesive and collaborative process between community partners and law enforcement when caring for individuals with substance use disorder (SUD).

“It was probably one of the best training [experiences] in my 33-year career. It really resonated with me,” said Clifton Health Officer John Biegel. “We really never had social services prior to last year, but the need is really there.”

“The amount of homeless individuals and the mental health issues have led to us expanding our mental health programs … [and] we need to reach our community,” added Biegel, 57.

Clifton Social Worker Adriana Alfaro agreed, stating that O2SL’s Deflection training for the city and county workers gave everyone a better knowledge of how to go into the field and “deal with someone who may be having an overdose, and also to follow up with them.”

“A big part is … following up with individuals and making sure they receive the care that they need afterwards within 48 hours,” said Alfaro, 31. “[It] is also connecting them to resources that are there to help individuals, [as well as] providing the resources for family members or whoever may live at home with them.”

“It’s about understanding addiction and that it is a disease,” she added. “And how to navigate the resources within the community based on what [someone] needs and is looking for, and doing this together with the police.”

O2SL members Scott Allen and Maureen Cavanagh, center wearing white, with members of the Clifton Health Department, Clifton Community Policing, and the Passaic County Department of Human Services.

Planting Seeds

Leading the two-day training were O2SL team members Scott Allen and Maureen Cavanagh.

Allen, O2SL’s chief operating officer, is a retired Chief of Police from East Bridgewater, Mass. He has over 25 years of law enforcement experience and, along with Vice President of Business Development Michael Botieri, launched O2SL in 2020. Shortly thereafter, Allen and Botieri met current O2SL Director of Operations Daniel Meloy, which led to the merger with QRT National in January of 2021.

“We’re all doing this work because it’s personal for us,” said Allen, 53. “It’s all about breaking down silos and working collaboratively, with police departments talking about policing through a public health lens.”

For Cavanagh, it’s deeply personal. She’s an educator and Family Addiction Recovery Advocate for O2SL. She also founded and serves as the president of Magnolia New Beginnings, a public charity dedicated to advocating for people affected by a substance use disorder. The New York Times bestselling author wrote, “If You Love Me: A Mother’s Journey Through Her Daughter’s Addiction and

Recovery”, published by Henry Holt/Macmillan in 2018.

Cavanagh’s belief system is the idea that addiction is a family disease. It’s through support and educating families that communities can work toward “improved care and sustained recovery.”

“Maureen brings her value as an educator … [and] has created her own curriculums,” said Allen. “Her focus is educating audiences on the importance of a family member or loved one’s support.”

“People in recovery often cite their loved one’s support as the reason they were able to connect to a treatment that’s successful,” Allen added. “We bring a mixture of professional and frontline experience.”

Deflection Training

Allen discussed how his own early law enforcement experiences lacked that unified approach. His background before retiring as Chief of Police was as a detective who ran a drug task force for most of his career.

“If you told me 30 years ago that I’d be doing this today, I’d say no way,” said Allen. “The only tool in the tool belt when I was at the Police Academy in 1995 was identifying drugs and making arrests.”

His perspective began shifting as a sergeant. Allen attended meetings where he heard firsthand accounts from the loved ones of individuals who overdosed. His exposure to groups like Angel Initiative — which helps place people requesting addiction support into treatment — helped him to “better appreciate the challenges.”

Allen stressed that education is every bit as important as connecting people to the help that they need.

“The big message was bringing resources and showing people you care in your community,” he said, “because the stigma [around addiction] is still so strong, and people die because they are so ashamed.”

Allen’s early engagement helping launch a drop-in center in his own community would ultimately morph into O2SL’s outreach model. Over the years, he’s witnessed mixed responses. Some loved ones were wary of law enforcement following up with treatment experts and peer recovery specialists.

Yet Allen noted how no one turned them away, including him during his 30 outreach visits.

“They would say, ‘Come into my living room, thank you for caring about my son or daughter,’” he said. “They’d listen and maybe not take treatment options the first time, but it planted seeds. People would later reach out and say, ‘I think my son or daughter is ready for treatment.’”

Real-Life Application

O2SL & QRT National has partners in other states like Kentucky, Connecticut, West Virginia, and Massachusetts. Nevertheless, Allen said he enjoyed his two days of bringing the Deflection Academy to Clifton.

“It’s unique to see a community that has such great engagement with its Health Department like Clifton does,” said Allen. “[John Biegel] and his bosses have already broken down silos with the police department. You can tell it’s a special community.”

Those who attended the Deflection Academy think highly of O2SL and its representatives.

“I think the most valuable thing about the training is the follow-up,” said Nate King, a social services assistant for Clifton. “We are trying to … weave connections not just with an overdosing individual, but with the family.”

King, 38, recalled that the first training lesson was writing down five important things to you. The attendees swapped lists and were told to identify two things they felt they can deal without, then give an explanation to their partner. One takeaway from the lesson stuck with King.

“‘It’s not up to you to decide what is most important to that person,’” King recalled. “‘You can’t assume what’s important to the individual you’re helping.’ Right out of the gate that was helpful.”

City social worker Tom Sadowski found the training led to having his “primal instincts rewired.” It also saw two trainees, a police officer, and a community engagement specialist responding to a call within two weeks of the training. Learned “situational awareness skills” from their Deflection training helped de-escalate a behavioral health emergency.

It goes beyond overdose cases. Sadowski, 34, said it helped after the first day of feedback and facts to jump into roleplays the second day. “You feel more comfortable in a situation afterwards,” he said. “You feel more prepared.”

A New Way of Working

The training was a worthwhile supplement for what Sgt. Gary V. Giardina said the Clifton Police have striven to provide for years.

“We went over basically the first interactions with people, which was new for the social workers, because usually they didn’t go to the scenes of people’s houses,” said Giardina, 38. “It was great to learn how to introduce the services that we already offer but people don’t know about.”

Giardina became a police officer in 2006 and joined Clifton’s Police Department in 2009. As part of the Botany Village Satellite Office, 207 Parker Ave, which marked one year of operation this past April, Giardina said the training helped formalize their services.

Giardina noted the Community Policing Division is supportive of creating a plan and procedure. He found that New Jersey’s Overdose Prevention Act, signed into law by former Governor Chris Christie on May 2, 2013, is what turned the tide. The act prevents the prosecution of individuals seeking emergency medical treatment during an overdose, even people in possession of drugs or paraphernalia.

“It’s not talking about drug dealers and large quantities. It’s the users who may have used a bag of heroin and overdosed,” Giardina explained. “We obviously seize the drugs … once we have identified them. The job drastically changed,” he continued. “It went from basically doing an arrest to truly trying to help people.”

Giardina said, like anything else, the evolving models include a learning curve. Yet he believes it has gone smoothly thus far. “Most of the time, all police officers want to do is help people,” said Giardina. “It’s now allowed us to do that.”

Earlier this year, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released its provisional data that shows an ongoing flattening of drug overdose deaths throughout 2022 and early 2023. The data indicates the halt of a years-long period of rapid increases in deaths from 2019 to 2021.

For additional support, call the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration at 1-800-6624357. SAMHSA has free and confidential 24/7/365 treatment referral and information services in English and Spanish for individuals and families facing mental and/or substance use disorders.

If you are in immediate danger, call 988 for the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.

From baseball and basketball to walking paths and rose gardens, Clifton’s 40 parks have something for everyone. Looking for an afternoon stroll? Try the walking paths at Dundee Island Park. Tennis, anyone? Hit the courts at Albion. Whatever your pleasure, here’s a list of everything Clifton Parks offer. If you have questions about the parks, or to report a problem, call 973-470-5956.

Acquackanonk Gardens • 35 Mt. Washington Dr. Jr. full court basketball, Little League baseball/softball, playground

Albion Memorial Park • 201 Maplewood Ave. Adult baseball diamond, Little League softball/baseball diamond, half court basketball, football/lacrosse field, tennis court, playground

Allwood Park • 1175 Rt. 3 Jr. full court basketball, playground

Anzaldi Park • 38 John Samra Way Football/lacrosse field, soccer field, walking path

Bayeux Park • 626 Van Houten Ave.

Passive park

Chelsea Memorial Park • 51 Brighton Rd. Tennis court, playground

Clifton Skatezone • 85 Third St. Full ice hockey rink, walking path, extreme skating

Delawanna Memorial Park • 379 Main Ave.

Passive park

Dudiak Park • 25 Stony Hill Rd.

Adult softball diamond, Little League baseball/softball diamond, Jr. basketball court, tennis court, playground, walking path

Walking path, passive park

Dunney Park • 82 Cherry St.

Adult softball diamond, half court basketball, tennis court, playground, walking path

Gregory Manor • 180 Patricia Pl. Jr. basketball court, playground

Hillside Park • 91 Paterson Ave. Half court basketball, playground

Hird Park • 480 Lexington Ave.

Passive park

Holster Park • 699 Grove St.

Adult baseball/softball diamond, full basketball court, tennis court, playground

Jubilee Park • 1355 Clifton Ave.

Walking path

Knollcroft Park • 195 Knollwood Terr. Jr. basketball court, playground

Little League baseball/softball diamond, T-ball field, half court basketball, playground

Latteri Park • 81 Allwood Pl.

Adult softball diamond, full basketball court, small hockey rink, soccer field, tennis court, playground

Legion Park • 135 Central Ave.

Passive park

Lowry Park • 101 William St.

Little League baseball/softball diamond, T-ball field

Main Mall Park • 343 Clifton Ave.

Passive park

Main Memorial Park • 1395 Main Ave.

Little League baseball/softball diamond, T-ball field, tennis court, playground, walking path, fitness center

Morris Canal Park • 1101 Broad St.

Walking path, grills and picnic tables, rose garden, passive park

Mount Prospect Park • 341 Mt. Prospect Ave.

Little League softball/baseball diamond, T-ball field, full basketball court, playground, walking path

Nash Park • 700 Lexington Ave.

Adult baseball/softball diamond, full court basketball, playground, rose garden

Normandy Park • 30 East Sixth St.

Half court basketball, playground

Oak Ridge Park • 1061 Clifton Ave.

Adult baseball diamond, half court basketball, small hockey rink, tennis court, playground

Paulison Promenade Park • 678 Clifton Ave.

Passive park

Randolph Park • 327 Parker Ave.

Passive park

Sunday, September 17th

am to 5 pm

Ravine Park • 101 Rutgers Pl.

Little League baseball/softball diamond, full court basketball, tennis court, playground, walking path

Richardson Oval Park • 45 Monhegan St. Adult softball diamond

Richardson Scale Park • 680 Van Houten Ave. Soccer field, playground, walking path, fitness center

Schultheis Farm • 171 Grove St. Community garden plots

Sperling Park • 295 Speer Ave.

Little League softball/baseball diamond, T-ball field, half court basketball, small hockey rink, tennis court, playground

Stefan Tatarenko Park • 55 Broadale Ave. Little League baseball/softball diamond, Jr. basketball court, tennis court, playground, walking path

Surgent Park • 963 Valley Rd.

Little League baseball/softball diamond, T-ball field, tennis court, playground

Urma Park • 168 Urma Ave. Jr. basketball court, playground

Washington Park • 1004 Paulison Ave. Softball diamond, half court basketball, playground

Zelenka Park • 10 Carol St. Half court basketball, football/lacrosse field, playground

Clifton Arts Center & Sculpture Park

Many of us go to the municipal campus on Clifton Ave. to pay our tax bill, drop off recycling, put a donated item in the Clifton Cares drop box, or attend a City Council meeting. Next time you visit, turn off the car and take time to appreciate the sculptures that fill the landscape. Clifton’s Sculpture Park is a real gift to the city. It is perhaps one of the most condensed displays of sculpture in this area. Local and internationally acclaimed artists have created the works of art on display here.

Free for all visitors and open dawn to dusk, park your car at the top of the hill, near the Clifton Arts Center. Wear comfortable shoes, preferably sneakers; hiking up small, grassy hills is required to get close to many of the sculptures. Sculptures are marked with the artist’s name and title of the work. Most sculptures are on three-year loans from the artists.

There are also guided tours through the Sculpture Park. Roxanne Cammilleri, the Director of the Clifton Arts Center & Sculpture Park, said booking a tour is possible over the phone or online. The CAC has provided oneon-one tours for the Girl Scouts and other groups.

“We go around and explain what the sculptures are in detail, and the materials,” said Cammilleri. Discussing the benefits of the park, she added, “Art is an integral part of people’s lives that we don’t always appreciate. Whether outdoors or indoors, it can help support your health.”

While touring the 26-acre complex, take time to view the historic brick and stone barns that once housed the US Quarantine Station for animals entering the country. Many residents have made sure that the buildings maintain a place on the National Register of Historic Sites.

One of the few municipal art parks in the country, Clifton’s Sculpture Park was the catalyst for creating the indoor art gallery and Arts Center. The Sculpture Park is the first of its kind in Clifton’s history. The late Dr. Jerry Raphael and the Clifton Beautification Committee conceived it prior to its opening in 1994.

Jerry, a former Clifton resident who passed away aged 82 in 2006, began collecting his earliest art pieces in his mid-orthodontic career.

“Dad was an independent thinker and an independent doer,” Jerry’s son Barry Raphael told Clifton Merchant in our September 2020 edition. “He took the opportunity from the connections that he had made with artists because of his love of art to bring those pieces to the town. He loved making it happen.”

Acting as an agency of the city, the Beautification Committee is staffed by volunteers. In addition to creating the Sculpture Park, the committee established the city’s first municipal tree farm and nursery, first concert series, first Arbor Day celebration, and it arranged for Clifton’s recognition as a Tree City U.S.A. Contact the Beautification Committee via cliftonbeautification@gmail.com. Call the Clifton Arts Center at 973-472-5499 or find them @cliftonartscenter on Facebook and Instagram.

When: Year round

Where: Municipal Complex, 900 Clifton Ave. Phone: 973-472-5499 • Website: cliftonartscenter.org

Social Media: @cliftonartscenter on Facebook and Instagram

CliftoNotes: The website will give you a virtual slideshow and guide map of the 30-plus sculptures on the grounds of the complex is available online at cliftonartscenter.org. The website will give you some more insight into the Sculpture Park’s history.

Few things bring out more patriotism than the Marching Mustangs. The Mustangs seem to create a moving wall of sound. And it doesn’t matter if the kids are performing a stand-still patriotic number or strutting their stuff to the CHS Fight hymn—they make the parade. While the Marching Mustangs are proud of their uniforms, the kids seem to have the most fun when they perform in Clifton’s annual Halloween Parade. In this event, the kids get to dress in themed costumes and cut loose. The parade winds down Van Houten Avenue into the City Hall campus, where HarvestFest is held. With kids and parents climbing aboard hayrides and plenty of tossed apples and pumpkins, the event transforms Clifton into Small Town USA. It’s not the only parade in town, either…

Clifton Parades

Memorial Day Parade & Services

The city of Clifton gathers each year to honor The Fallen and watch the annual parade, which features local police, firefighters, the popular Mustang Marching Band, scouts troops, veterans, and other attendees.

Where: Chelsea Park and Downtown Clifton to Athenia Veterans Post, and along the Avenue of Flags

When: May 27, 2024

CliftoNotes: The parade ends at Chelsea Park, behind Allwood Library, with a short memorial service. Another service is held at Main Memorial Park at 11 am.

Easter Bonnet Parade

The Clifton Bunny Bash is a long-standing city tradition, with families from all over Clifton bringing their children to hunt for eggs, play games, get dressed up, and compete in the annual Easter Bonnet parade and contest. The event

is organized by the Clifton Rec Department, as well as community and school volunteers.

Where: Nash Park (700 Lexington Ave.)

When: April 2024

CliftoNotes: The Easter Bonnet contest and parade gives Cliftonites the opportunity to show off their talents with fabric, paint, and hot glue.

Halloween Parade

Over a thousand folks are anticipated to participate in Clifton’s Oct. 29 Halloween Parade which winds down Van Houten Ave. into the city hall campus. There kids and parents climbed aboard a hay ride, tossed apples and pumpkins and had all kinds of inexpensive family fun games thanks to the Clifton Recreation Department.

Veterans Day Parade

Clifton residents appreciate how its city cares for veterans and shows that care year-round — in events like the Knights of Columbus Tank Pull Challenge, with donations to Clifton Cares, or the annual Veterans Day Parade. Where: Starting at the Athenia Veterans Post on Huron Avenue, along Van Houten Avenue, and into the Avenue of Flags

When: First Sunday of November

CliftoNotes: The parade includes a featured speaker, Grand Marshal, and performances by the Mustang Marching Band.

Santa’s Coming to Town!

Cold weather never deters St. Nick or his Clifton helpers from making sure the much-anticipated Christmas Eve tradition goes off without a hitch. Santa’s ride through the city on Christmas Eve is a Clifton event with more than half a century in its history. Santa, with his handful of helpers, rides through the city on a decorated float with sirens, lights, and Christmas music to spread a bit of joy and holiday cheer.

Where: Starts and ends at E. 7th St. at the DPW garage

When: Christmas Eve, starting around 3 pm

CliftoNotes: Santa’s past neighborhood section route, in order of appearance: Lakeview, Botany, Clifton Center, Dutch Hill, Oakridge, Athenia, Rosemawr/Delawanna, Allwood, Athenia, Montclair Heights, Maple Valley, Albion, Middle Village/West Lakeview, back to Lakeview.

Flag Raisings

Embracing identities and backgrounds helps to make a city of roughly 90,000 people feel like a close-knit hometown. One of the ways that Clifton residents of all ages connect with each other and their roots is during city flag raisings. We’ve attempted to compile a varied list of the most upto-date flag raising events, which take place at the Municipal Complex, 900 Clifton Ave.

Israeli Flag Raising • April 30, 2023

CliftoNotes: For over 30 years, Clifton has raised the flag of Israel in honor of Yom HaAtzmaut, known as Israel’s Independence Day.

Turkish Flag Raising • May 27, 2023

Palestinian Flag Raising • June 4, 2023

CliftoNotes: The first Palestinian flag event was in 2014.

Filipino Flag Raising • June 10, 2023

Pride Flag/LGBTQIA+ Raising • June 17, 2023

CliftoNotes: Resident Ray Robertello generally acts as the Master of Ceremonies. He is one of the original organizers for the annual event since its inception in 2016.

Peruvian Flag Raising • July 22, 2023

CliftoNotes: Peru’s Independence Day is observed July 28. A few days later, the 2023 Peruvian Parade crossed through our city on July 30. The parade started in Passaic and followed Main Avenue through Clifton and into Paterson.

Colombian Flag Raising • July 30, 2023

CliftoNotes: Over 40 people formed a sea of yellow, blue, and red on the front lawn of City Hall. Among those to express support for our Colombian community was Senator Robert Menendez, who wrote a speech that was delivered by a representative.

Ecuadorian Flag Raising • Aug. 6, 2023

CliftoNotes: Passaic County Hispanic organizations organized the flag-raising ceremony ahead of Ecuador’s Independence Day on Aug. 10.

Indian Flag Raising • Aug. 13, 2023

Pakistani Flag Raising • Aug. 14, 2023

Dominican Republic Flag Raising • Aug. 20, 2023

Ukrainian Flag Raising • Aug. 24, 2023

CliftoNotes: The Ukrainian flag has flown at City Hall since the war began.

Puerto Rican Flag Raising • Sept. 2 at 1 pm

Polish Flag Raising • Sept. 30 at 3:30 pm

Italian Flag Raising • Oct. 8 from 2-4 pm

Our city has a decades-long tradition of providing free musical events, with many of the events happening during the summer. From 70’s-themed concerts to the always crowd-pleasing Clifton Community Band and polka music, our city is home to many festive, family-fun events. Here is where you could find Clifton residents last month.

The 2023 Obser Concert Series • Cost: Free!

When: Every Sunday in August

Where: Main Memorial Park, Park Slope & Main Avenue

Recreation Weather Hotline: 973-470-5680

CliftoNotes: All performances begin at 7:30 pm. The featured groups this month are: Mid-Life Crisis (dance band), Tequila Rose (country western band), Mushmouth (cover band), and Super Trans Am (with anthems of the 70’s). In case of rain, concerts are canceled. Call the Recreation Weather Hotline after 5 pm. Contact the Rec Department in advance if you require assistance at the concerts, 973-470-5956.

Botany Village Summer Concerts • Cost: Free!

When: Every Friday in August

Where: Sullivan Square, Lake and Parker Avenue

Website: historicbotanyvillage.org

CliftoNotes: Bring a chair and your best dancing shoes! All performances run from 6:30 to 9:30 pm. The local performers featured this month are: Powertones, Due South, The Frostkings, and Kate Henry Band. All concerts are subject to weather conditions. For weather-related concerns, call Joseph Nikischer at 201-757-5607.

Jimmy Sturr and His Orchestra • Cost: Free!

When: Thursday, Aug. 31 at 7 pm

Where: Third Ward Park, corner of Passaic and Van Houten Aves.

CliftoNotes: If you missed America’s Polka King on Aug. 31, Sturr and his orchestra perform at the St. John Kanty Church picnic, 49 Speer Ave., on Sept. 10 from 3:30-6:30 pm.

Clifton residents and those passing through can purchase tickets to enjoy live music all year long. You just need to know where to go ...

Lollipops & Roses

When: May

Where: JFK Auditorium, CHS

Cost: $7; Free for Veterans, Active Service Members, and Children Under 12

CliftoNotes: Support the Clifton Education Foundation and Clifton Community Band annually while honoring active service members and veterans on Armed Forces Day.

Dingbatz • Cost: $20-25 (varies if purchased in advance)

When: Scheduled

Where: 620 Van Houten Ave.

CliftoNotes: The live music venue was born on May 22, 2004 as a sister to Dingo’s Den. Upcoming events include performers like: Madball (Sept. 2), Deadlands (Sept. 5), Gemini Syndrome (Sept. 10), and many more. Visit: dingbatzlive.com.

On the facing page, that’s the Misfit Mutts Clifton’s original party band. Jimmy Sturr who returns to Clifton on Sept. 10 at the St. John Kanty Picnic. Above, two CHS film students in a photo from last year’s C.A.S.T. Film Festival.

In the era of streaming services and virtual watch-parties, don’t let community entertainment be a thing of the past.

Take the Theater League of Clifton — where else can you see local performers in a setting that has made itself a staple in the city for over 15 years? TLC’s most recent production was “A Toast to Broadway: A Musical Revue”, a joint fundraising event alongside the Clifton Arts Center last month. Past performances were “The Prom” and “Meshuggah-Nuns!”, as well as the 2022 production, “Man of La Mancha”.

Since 2005, the city’s helped make TLC’s Dinner Theater a success. Call 973-928-7668 or visit theaterleagueofclifton.com to learn about scholarships, check for auditions, or make a donation. Visit their Facebook and Instagram @theaterleagueofclifton.

Clifton filmmakers do their part to entertain and inform at the Passaic County Film Festival, which is entering its 20th year. The free festival shows work from high school, college and independent filmmakers who live or work in the county.

CHS C.A.S.T. students keep you reaching for the popcorn. Families and community members are invited annually to the Clifton Education Foundation C.A.S.T. Film Festival.

“There really is such remark-

able talent in our schools,” said CEF Communications Director Kim Nouhan-Puzzo (CHS 1976). “We are looking forward to the 25th anniversary of the festival next May — sure to be a night of great family fun.”

One of the benefits of our city’s open space is how we can utilize it. Whether you grab yourself a lawn chair, blanket, or make use of the available benches at Weasel Brook Park, you would not be the first to enjoy Clifton’s many serene pastimes. Many of the events are free or inexpensive, and others offer a great opportunity to spend time with loved ones while cutting down on stress or screen time.

Passaic County Fair • Second Week of August

Where: Garret Mountain Reservation

CliftoNotes: The annual family-friendly fair features a midway with carnival rides and games for all ages, live music, festival food and treats, a beer garden, touch-atruck, face painting, health screenings, and more. Fireworks are held Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights at roughly 9:30 pm.

City Green’s Farm Festival • Sept. 14 from 5-7 pm

Where: 171 Grove St.

CliftoNotes: Free event. Enjoy live music and drinks, bring your own picnic, shop the Farm Stand, and visit goats and chickens in the Learning Farm. Show starts at 5:30 pm, with music by The Outcrops. More info: citygreenonline.org/events.

Clifton City Picnic • On or before July 4

Where: Main Memorial Park, 1395 Main Ave.

CliftoNotes: Families and individuals enjoy great food, crafts, clowns, free rides, and activities. Vendor opportunities are available by calling Lauren in the Health Department at 973-470-5758. Clifton Fireworks Display with Clifton Community Band is the same night as the picnic, at Clifton Stadium, at dusk. Tickets are $3.

Clifton Street Fair • Sept. 17, from 11 am to 5 pm

Where: A mile along Van Houten Avenue

CliftoNotes: The 21st annual street fair is sponsored by the Athenia Business Association. There is still time to be a part of this event. To become a vendor or info, call Chris at 201-410-1686 or Laurie at 973-202-8578.

Historic Botany Village Street Fair and Flea Market

Where: 237 Dayton Ave. • Sept. 3, from 9 am to 5 pm

CliftoNotes: The event is on Lake Ave. from Parker Ave. to the Village Square, and on Dayton Ave. from Parker Ave. Future dates include: Sept. 17, Oct. 1, Oct. 22, Nov. 19, and Dec. 10. Info: historicbotanyvillage.org.

Jubilee Park Flea Market & Collectibles

Where: 936 Allwood Rd. & the corner of Clifton Ave.

When: Oct. 22, from 9 am to 5 pm

CliftoNotes: This series starts in April. Vendor reservations are not required for outdoor markets. Exhibitors display an array of merchandise, from crafts and antiques and sports collectibles. Info: events@jcpromotions.info.

Senior Barbeque • Clifton Senior Center, 900 Clifton Ave.

When: Sept. 22 from 11 am to 2 pm

CliftoNotes: Free event by Clifton Health and Human Services. City residents aged 65 and older are welcome. Space is limited. Call 973-470-2234.

St. John Kanty Parish Picnic

Where: 49 Speer Ave. • When: Sept. 10, from 1-10 pm

CliftoNotes: The event includes Polish and American food, plus America’s Polka King Jimmy Sturr and his Orchestra on the bandstand for the first time. Call the Parish Office to volunteer at 973-779-4102.

St. Brendan and St. George’s Back-To-School Tricky

Tray • Where: 154 E 1st St. • When: Sept. 9

CliftoNotes: Tickets are $30 until Sept. 4. Regular price is $35. Parties of 10 may reserve a private tent with tables and chairs. Food, fun, and prizes will be available. Bring your own chairs and blankets. Questions? Call Crystal or Kathy at 973-772-1115, Monday–Thursday 9:30 am to 4:30 pm.

Main Memorial Park Flea Market • 1400 Main Ave.

When: Sept. 9, from 9 am to 5 pm

CliftoNotes: The outdoor flea market is held monthly on every second Saturday, running from March through December. The event is a fundraiser for the Clifton Recreation Department. More info: jcpromotions.info.

Passaic County Food Festival • Weasel Brook Park

When: Every July • Cost: $5, Free for 3-and-under

CliftoNotes: Enjoy delicious eats, live music, and tons of fun activities from noon to 7 pm. All kids activities are free, including a bungee trampoline, bounce house and minigolf. Sponsored by the Passaic County Board of Commissioners & the Friends of Passaic County Parks, Inc.

Polish Highlander Picnic • Early August, from 1-10 pm

Where: Clifton Masonic Lodge, 1476 Van Houten Ave.

CliftoNotes: Outdoor Polish Mass is at 12:15 pm. The picnic features raffles and contests, attractions for kids, Polish vendors, and authentic Polish food. Adults: $5, Kids 12 and Under: Free. Contact: Małgorzata at 551-206-4056, Maciej at 973-903-7366, Rafał at 201-220-3831.

St. Paul Roman Catholic Church Beefsteak Dinner

Where: 124 Union Ave. • When: Oct. 27

CliftoNotes: BYOB. Proceeds benefit the maintenance and repair of the church. For more info: stpaulcnj.org.

St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Church Festival

Where: 217 President St., Passaic, Sept. 17, noon to 9 pm

CliftoNotes: Rain or shine. Admission is $5. Enjoy Ukrainian food, folk art and gifts, games and art for kids, zábava, and music while helping raise funds to purchase an ambulance for Ukraine. More info: 973-471-9727.

Fall 2023 Zumba • Garret Mountain Reservation

When: Mondays from Sept. 11 to Oct. 16

Cost: $5 per session; $25 for all six classes

CliftoNotes: Open to residents and non-residents, 18+. Held from 6-7 pm at the Overlook Picnic Area with Pavilion. Mandatory pre-registration at passaiccountyrec.org. All skill levels are welcome.

For over 75 years, the Boys & Girls Club of Clifton has responded to the needs of our community. From swimming and basketball to soccer and volleyball, to reaching down to help a small child, the Club has been a source of a lot of good for our city.

Nurturing comes naturally at the Boys & Girls Club, which remains respected by residents for its many team sports, including swimming, soccer, basketball, cheerleading, hockey, and bowling. Sports and activities are the vehicles the Club uses to achieve its goals of building self-esteem and self-discipline while strengthening personal relationships and communication skills.

However, there is more to the Club than just sports. There is one-on-one mentoring from a coach to a child or an adolescent. Then there are leadership skills that teens learn when they become members of the Keystone Club, tutor younger Club members, or gain work experience as a B&G Club Youth Development Professional.

Additional programs offer specific emphasis on Education & Career Development, Health & Life Skills, The Arts, and Technology. In many instances, these are the opportunities that lead to a decade-long member becoming a Club scholarship recipient, or even the Youth of the Year.

Participants need to become a member of the Club to take advantage of the programs. A year membership costs $40 per child. Certain programs require additional payments, including the eight-week Summer Camp, which has trips, athletic games, contests, outdoor recreation, talent shows, and special guests. To register your child or look into Adult Membership ($60 per adult, $50 for seniors), call 973-773-2697, or visit bgcclifton.org and select the “Forms” dropdown tab.

The Club is a 501(c)(3) organization and donations are welcome. Call Executive Director Bob Foster at 973-7730966 ext. 119 for ways to help. As the Club continues to strengthen in the aftermath of the coronavirus pandemic, fundraisers and milestone galas are once again possible.

“The 75th Anniversary Celebration was our first effort to do a gala in a long time,” said Foster. “The warm welcome and support for the Club, and seeing people in person, was tremendous and overwhelming for me. I was so happy to see everyone.”

Foster encourages anyone who wants to learn more or become a member to give them a call.

“We’re happy to help,” he said. For info on all the programs, visit bgcclifton.org or call 973-773-2697.

Bob Foster with Anna Abakumova and Nadia Stavko.

The first day of Public School here in Clifton is Wednesday, Sept. 6. With 18 schools and over 10,000 students anticipated for the new school year, getting around the system can be daunting.

If you are new to our city or if your children are just reaching Kindergarten age, you will need to take a few steps to register your kids for school. The first thing is to have your child’s vaccinations in order.

When going to register your child on the dates listed below, you’ll also need to bring three proofs of Clifton residency, the child’s birth certificate, a current physical, and potentially a transfer of records from their last school.

Online registration is available and the quickest way to register. Begin registering by visiting the district’s homepage: clifton.k12.nj.us. Scroll over the drop-down menu labeled “Our District” and select “Registration Services” under the “Services” subcategory. Registration is also held at the Administration building, 745 Clifton Ave.

Public School Registration

When: Meetings are available between 8:15 am to 2:45 pm, Monday through Friday.

If you don’t have access to the internet for online registration, you can complete the electronic portion at the Welcome Center.

In addition to the kindergarten through 12th grade program, Clifton Public Schools also operates a federallyfunded preschool program for eligible three-to-five year olds. The preschool program is for students with diagnosed physical or developmental disabilities.

Run independently from the Clifton City Council, the Board of Education consists of elected and unpaid community residents who attend the bi-monthly general meetings, as well as numerous committee meetings and planning sessions throughout each month.

The commissioners serve three-year terms, with three seats up for election on General Election Day each year. Call 973-470-2300 to contact a Board member.

Registering For School • clifton.k12.nj.us or Clifton Schools Welcome Center, 745 Clifton Ave. Bring: 3 proofs of residency, proof of birth (on or before Oct. 1), immunization records, current physical, school transfer records. Phone: 973-458-6709 • CliftoNotes: Fill out separate registration forms for each child who is enrolling for public school. All documents should be translated into English.

There are many ways to give back, and many times you can do it while staying healthy.

In honor of Fred Torres’ avid love for the sport of running, join your fellow city residents Oct. 8 at Garret Mountain, Woodland Park for the 9th Annual Fred Torres Memorial 5K.

Proceeds benefit the Fred Torres Memorial Fund, a 501(c)(3) public charity that provides scholarships to CHS seniors of the Cross Country and Track & Field teams. Register before Sept. 4 for discounted prices: $30 for 5K or 2-mile walk, $10 for Tot Trot, and $15 for 1/4 Mile Fun Run. Register: runsignup. com/fredtorresmemorial5k.

Stay fit and keep the John Samra Scholarship Fund active while also remembering the Clifton motorcycle officer who was killed in the line of duty on Nov. 21, 2003.

The annual John Samra Memorial 5K Run & 1 Mile Family Fun Run/Walk is Oct. 1 at City Hall. The event begins at 8:30 am and groups the runners by divisions: 14-Under, 15-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70-79, and 80 and over.

Awards to the top three male and female overall, and the top three male and female in each age group. Registration by Sept. 15 is $30 for the 5K and mile walk. Late registration for the 5K and walk is $35. Race day registration is at 7 am. Register by searching for the event at runsignup.com.

Above, on Nov. 21, 2020 friends hosted a motorcycle run in John’s memory. Inset is John Samra who died on Nov. 21, 2003. Fred and Ana Torres with kids Brian and Jessica before his passing at age 63 on Jan. 20, 2014. That’s Kim Castellano on our November 2017 cover.

You don’t need to be an athlete — or an aspiring one — to help make a difference. The Power of One, Coaching and Outreach Ministries, Inc. shows there are numerous ways to empower a healthy community.

The 501(c)(3) public charity, welcomes volunteers to help fulfill their mission. Volunteers can range from people seeking school and community service hours and college internships to senior citizens and families looking to serve together.

For more than a decade, Kim Castellano and her team of devoted volunteers have collected over 1,500 school essen-

tial kits and backpacks, served over 500 families, provided resources monthly for over 400 Clifton senior citizens, disabled individuals, and veterans; and organized over 5,000 food care packages. Stay aware of upcoming events and fundraisers: powerofoneccom.org.

The St. Peter’s Haven Bloomin’ 5K & 1 Mile Walk for Clifton’s Hungry and Homeless takes place in April with details at bloomin5k.org. Whether you run competitively or recreationally, or you are a seasoned or novice walker, the event is for you.

Getting in touch with nature is a year-round activity, but it’s particularly nice during these warmer months. Take a walk or drive to Main Memorial Park in Downtown Clifton, which saw quite a bit of foot traffic during those social distancing pandemic months.

The legendary Racy’s Pond at the center of the park is home to many fish, turtles, and it serves as an active landing strip for waterfowl. Walkers and joggers can enjoy the pathways around the park when they go for a stroll or to exercise.

Despite the high traffic, the park and pond remain clean thanks to the hard work by DPW crews and countless community volunteers.

Fresh air and focus are components to staying healthy. Get involved with City Green as a volunteer, or by donating to support its mission of growing healthy cities. The 501(c)(3) nonprofit farming and gardening organization, at 171 Grove St, supports sustainability and livable, green urban communities.

Landmarks

The Hamilton House, at 971 Valley Rd, dates back over 200 years and serves as a museum to the pioneer homesteaders that comprised our area, once known as Acquackanonk. The house represents the architecture of early Dutch colonists with its gambrel roof and red sandstone. Call 973-744-2608 for visiting hours and availability.

Holy Face Monastery is the perfect spot for peaceful contemplation or a bird’s eye view. On a small hill overlooking Route 3 is the Monastery of the Holy Face of Jesus. It’s home to a community of Sylvestrine Benedictine monks. Just 10 miles west of Manhattan, the sprawling grounds are often rented for seasonal festivals, parish picnics, and other events. Since 1970, the monastery has shared the well water with the public free of charge daily. Follow Grove St. to the turn for Holy Face.

Talk to the Animals

By Ariana Puzzo

Children of all ages are drawn to the furry tails and weepy eyes of our four-legged friends. From house pets to livestock, animals have a place in Clifton history.

In the not-so-distant past, residents could travel along Clifton Avenue and see all kinds of animals in the former U.S. Quarantine Station, now the Municipal Complex.

From 1900 to 1979, the station isolated nearly 95% of foreign animals that entered the country. Among them: antelope, giraffes, camels, zebras, birds, and champion horses for inspection prior to racing and shows.

Clifton hasn’t stopped caring about animals. The Clifton Animal Shelter, 900 Clifton Ave, is a haven for adoptable pets in need of a loving home. The shelter operates Monday–Friday, from 6:30–8 pm, by appointment on Saturdays, and Sundays from noon to 4 pm.

Earlier this year, the Friends of the Shelter, Inc. celebrated pets with the city through their Spring Tree of Love. Proceeds benefited the homeless animals for food, supplies, and vet bills. Support the shelter at cliftonanimalshelter.com or call 973-470-5936.

Foster-to-Adopt

Saving the lives of animals is a calling that Susan Janett answered in life’s darkest moments.

Janett, the co-founder of Rosemarie’s Rescue Ranch, cannot recall a time when she ever lived without an animal. Her day job since 1987 is as a Realtor — and today she also services Clifton, where she has lived since 2018.

Yet the past six years were spent building a “stellar reputation” in the animal rescue community.

“It’s just natural that I work with animals,” said Janett.

It started when she met the late Rosemarie Cafiero. It was a sad time in Janett’s life after two of her friends each lost a loved one suddenly — one’s child to leukemia and the other to a robbery shooting.

“Those two incidents happened close together, and I found myself grieving and lost. I ended up driving around and went to an adoption event just to pet animals,” said Janett. “I fell in love with a little dog and with the concept of an all-foster rescue.”

After returning to the rescue the next week to volunteer, Janett became friends with its owner — none other than Cafiero. Cafiero founded and operated Orphaned Pets for over 25 years before the two women co-founded Rosemarie’s Rescue Ranch in 2017. “Little did I know that she was grooming me to carry on for her,” said Janett. “She taught me everything that I know about rescue.”

Clifton resident and co-founder of Rosemarie’s Rescue Ranch, Susan Janett.

Cafiero rescued over 7,000 dogs in her lifetime, before she passed away from cancer, aged 80, on Feb. 18, 2018. Cafiero made one request beforehand that Janett intends to always honor. “She said, ‘No matter what you do, don’t stop. Even if you can only help a few,’” said Janett.

Never turning away

Rosemarie’s Rescue Ranch is a nonprofit 501(c) with about 85 volunteers. From 2017 to 2021, Janett saved over 800 lives through RRR. In 2022, RRR saved roughly 500 more lives.

RRR has a small brick-and-mortar in Verona, selling new and gently used items to support the organization. The nonprofit rescues animals from families who can no longer care for them and high-kill shelters down south.

Volunteers evaluate and identify family-friendly animals. After receiving their vaccinations, a transport company drives them to Janett’s home on Highview Drive. RRR brings the animals inside and puts them in a no-escape harness, a safety vest with their tag, and provides families with paperwork.

They provide all the supplies and a loaner crate. Then a volunteer helps put the dog into a car. “It’s quite an assembly line,” said Janett. “Many Clifton neighbors help us on transport days.”

RRR works closely with the Veterinary Emergency Group, 790 NJ-3. VEG cannot recommend rescues, but RRR utilizes their services for emergency medical care. “They’ve saved so many lives for us,” said Janett.

The foster-to-adopt model has roughly a 98% success rate. Pre-approved families spend two weeks with a dog to see if it’s a good fit. RRR is looking to take it a step further by purchasing a property for a kennel.

The facility will not change their model, but it will remove pressure from Janett when they

need a temporary holding location. RRR plans to create a GoFundMe page and apply for grants.

“We get calls from people that someone has moved and left a dog wandering in the halls,” said Janett. “We have to take these animals. How can we turn our backs?”

RRR’s six-person Board includes some of Janett’s experienced friends and her sons, Nicholas and Lucas Paige. RRR is supported 100% via fundraising and donations. Fill out an adoption or volunteer form at rosemariesrescueranch.com. Visit the website or use Venmo @SusanJanett (verification 1900) to contribute.

“[Rescuing is] a great antidote for anyone who may be suffering,” said Janett. “It takes the focus off [you] and puts it on helping animals.”

City of Clifton Dog Licenses

Have you registered your dog yet?

You may register your dogs online at: https://pets.munidex.info/clifton-nj-1602

Residents may also obtain their dog license by applying in person at: Clifton Health Department, 900 Clifton Ave., 2nd floor, Clifton, NJ 07013, Monday through Friday, 8:15am to 4:15pm or by mailing in the application.

All dogs, 6 months of age or older that live within the City of Clifton are REQUIRED to be licensed as per City Ordinance 203-2.

1-Year License 3-Year License

Spay/Neuter $17.00 $48.00 Non Spay/Neuter $21.00 $60.00

License Fees are based on if your dog is Spayed/Neutered and has valid proof of a rabies vaccination, per state guidelines.

Benefits of Licensing Your Dog!

• Licensing will ensure that dogs are vaccinated against rabies, which is a terrible disease that can be fatal.

• A dog’s license is a way to ensure your dog gets home safely if they get lost. The license tag is an easy way for authorities to identify and contact their owner.

• Licensing fees are significantly less than not having a license.

• Dog license money stays in your community to help rabies clinic funding and Animal Control Services.

• AND It’s the law!

City residents gathered on Aug. 9 to quietly reflect and recognize Purple Heart Day at the Killed In Action section of the Municipal Complex, at 900 Clifton Ave. The evening’s ceremony, which was previously rescheduled due to weather, featured the relocation of our city’s Purple Heart Monument. Long a part of the landscape at the Main Memorial Library, the monument is now in the Field of Honor, dedicated to Clifton’s casualties of war. The somber program included the presentation of the Colors by the Clifton Police Department and speeches, including Mayor Ray Grabowski thanking the veterans and their families for their sacrifices.

On Aug. 10, Clifton School 11 teacher Amanda Rhodes was named the Passaic County Teacher of the Year. The New Jersey Department of Education selected Rhodes among its 21 recipients for County Teachers of the Year based on her contributions to the Clifton Public School District and School 11. The district noted how Rhodes’ efforts have “significantly enhanced district and schoolwide teacher growth and development, student achievement, and social-emotional learning.” Among Rhodes’ listed accomplishments are assessing data to recognize and address specific needs within a school, piloting a school-wide online incentive reward program, building initiatives and funding for Positive Behavior Support in Schools (PBSIS), and more.

Clifton’s permit parking ordinance is changing. On Jan. 1, 2024, current stickers for streets and city lots will expire and require annual renewal going forward. Don’t wait until January to get a new sticker or visitor pass. Collect your new sticker or visitor pass at the Clifton Police Records window in City Hall, 900 Clifton Ave, next to the police desk on the first floor. To review FAQs, go to cliftonpolice.org and select the “How Do I …?” tab in the top right corner and click “Traffic” for a list of prompts. Email traffic@cliftonpolice.org with any questions.

Joseph Holzli and Marlene Holzli with daughters Amy Holzli and Kristy Andruch who are holding a photo and flag tribute to US Army infantryman Jerry T. Scrosia, (inset) who was wounded in combat.

Dalia Shalaby, Principal Clifton School 11; Amanda Rhodes; Christine Girtain, 2022-23 New Jersey State Teacher of the Year; Mark Gengaro, Assistant Superintendent of Schools.

POLONIA CLIFTON

Celebrate the history and culture of Polonia and Clifton on Oct. 1 as the annual Pulaski Day Parade makes its journey on Fifth Avenue in Manhattan. Since 1937, the parade has become one of the oldest ethnic parades in New York City.The parade starts on Fifth Avenue and 36th St. at 12:30 pm, featuring hundreds of Polish dancers, students of Polish supplementary schools, Polish soccer teams and their mascots, Polish Scouts, and many others. Among them is the Clifton and Passaic contingent, led this year by Mayor Ray Grabowski, who will serve as the Clifton-Passaic Grand Marshal. The Pulaski Day Parade, by tradition, is held on the first Sunday of October and is dedicated to Kazimierz Pulaski, a hero of the American Revolutionary War. The Parade closely coincides with the Oct. 11 General Pulaski Memorial Day, which is a national observance of his death at the Siege of Savannah.

The Clifton Cable TV invites residents to share pictures from Memorial Day to Sept. 15. Photos may include family parties, gardening, at the beach, summer camp or concerts. Share pics for the city’s on-air slideshows by emailing: Cliftoncable7740@cliftonnj.org or msolomon@cliftonnj. org. Deadline: Sept. 15.

Join School 13 for 100 years of education on Sept. 24 from 10 am to 2 pm. The Centennial Celebration, at 782 Van Houten Ave, offers fun for the entire community. Rain date: Oct. 1. To vend, email schoolpta13@gmail.com. Follow on Instagram: @school13clifton and @cliftonschool13pta.

The Mustang Marching Band will perform in New Orleans in February of 2024. Help them get there by dining in or picking up from SmashBurger on Route 3 from 5–9 pm on Sept. 20. SmashBurger will donate 20% for every ticket. To donate: send checks to “CHSMBPAI” c/o Bryan Stepneski, CHS, 333 Colfax Ave., Clifton, NJ 07013.

The Clifton Garden Club meets Sept.12, 6:30 pm at the Allwood Library. Marietta Bartlett of Bartlett’s Florist will demonstrate flower arranging. The volunteer Clifton Garden Club trys to keep Clifton cleaner and greener. Guests are welcome. Info: Donna Fantacone at 973-473-0577.

Emma Nysk (Miss Polonia), Olivia Nysk (Junior Miss Polonia), Nina Krasowski (Little Miss Polonia), Maximilian Iskra (Young Marshal), Filip Hlawacz (Junior Marshal).

Bob Calgano (third from left) of the Clifton Republican Club hosted an international BBQ at the Clifton Elks on Aug. 8. While dozens of party faithful attended, so did other community members, candidates and politicians from Clifton and beyond.

NEIGHBORS

The Uzzalino sisters took their shot put skills and went all the way this summer. Both Clifton girls traveled to Des Moines, Iowa, where they competed in Girls Shot Put at the AAU Junior Olympic Games. On July 31, Josephine, 8, competed among the 60 athletes registered in her group and finished seventh overall in the nation. The result earned her a spot on the podium, a Junior Olympic medal, and the coveted title of All-American.

During the 2023 Track and Field season, Josephine went undefeated in the state, earning AAU and USATF State Championship titles. In Des Moines, Josephine threw 18’6”. The Junior Olympic medalist is a member of the Bergen County Xpress (BCX) Track and Field Team in Teaneck and is a student at St. Philip the Apostle school.

The next day, older sister Anna, 10, competed against 53 registered athletes in her group. She finished 14th in the nation with a throw of 21’6.25”. Anna went undefeated in the state, earning the AAU and USATF State Championship titles. She is also a member of the BCX Track and Field Team and attends St. Philip’s.

On Aug. 8, Congressman Bill Pascrell visited the Clifton Senior Center, 900 Clifton Ave., to tout the capping of insulin at $35 for millions of Americans. The event included a room full of seniors, state health officials, and other interested parties. Visual aids were provided to explain how insulin prices were capped and why it’s important to many Americans, as well as their families.

On Aug. 4, Craig Casperino brought home a 28-in, 8-lb fluke aboard the Jamaica Two party boat out of Brielle using Berkley gulp. The 2007 CHS grad has more photos at catchingthecasp on Instagram. Some folks know this Mustang as Captain Craig Casperino of Monterey Beach in Lavallette, where he has led the Beach Patrol for nearly 20 summers.

Emily Kasa Peterson daughter of Joe Peterson (CHS ‘06) and Erin O’Neill Peterson turned 3 on Sept. 1. Her cousin Maxwell Yoda turns 6 on Sept. 30. John and Debbie Tauber, Clifton’s Animal Control couple, celebrate their 45th anniversary on Sept. 2nd. Deb’s birthday is Sept. 3rd. Fanny Chem & Joey Angello celebrate their anniversary on Sept. 2.

Nick Hawrylko who will be 28 on Sept. 12, is seen with his mom Cheryl Kastrava, who turns 65 on the same day. Elena Rose Latiano will be 19 on Sept. 7. Eddie Bivaletz will be 35 on Sept. 8. Wearing shades, Jarah Tamayo turned 14 on Sept. 1. And a special shoutout to Andrea Rozo who celebrates a birthday on Sept. 24.

New mom Lauren (Hrina) Meade, holding Anthony Michael, turns 31 on Sept. 30. Her husband Kevin, holding Barkley, and Lauren, both graduated CHS in 2010.

Greg & Margaret Nysk celebrate 23 years of marriage Sept. 17.

The Vanderhoef-Westervelt House – located within Weasel Brook Park in Clifton – is one of the oldest Passaic County Buildings. The Friends of Passaic County run the building and preserve its over 300year history. The original home of Gilbert Vanderhoef, who owned and operated a flour and gristmill, was built in 1720. It operated as a gristmill until the Westervelt family bought the property in 1897.

Landmarks

Explore Garret Mountain’s rich history – starting at Lambert Castle and taking the many hiking paths that offer terrific views of Clifton and the New York City skyline. Fly kites, throw around a ball, or visit the Butterfly Garden. There are many ways to occupy your time across over 300 acres of land – all you need to do is head up Valley Road for some relaxing solitude or with loved ones. Info at passaiccountynj.org.