clifton merchant magazine - february 2015
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Clifton Merchant • February 2015 3
February 2015 • Clifton Merchant4
Editor & PublisherTom Hawrylko
© 2015 Tomahawk Promotions
Visit cliftonmerchant.comfor current & past issues
Six Decades of MarriageRita & Jim Haraka
Finally, After 20 Years Sadie & Tony Sanchez
211 Days of Longing Laura & Jim Louer
Errant Delivery Leads to ErosCemal & Jacqueline Turk
They Built Life & Love AnewLaura & Jim Nicosia
Their Greatest BlessingDebra & Anthony Gretina
Online Dating CoachClifton’s eFlirt Ashley Parsons
Table of Contents
What’s Inside?7
16
24
28
36
40
44
973-253-4400 • [email protected]
Art DirectorKen Peterson
Graphic DesignerAly Ibrahim
Business ManagerGabriella Marriello
Editorial InternMariel Vazquez
1288 Main Ave., Downtown Clifton, NJ 07011
Irene Jarosewich, Ron Haraka Michael Gabriele, Jack De Vries
Contributing Writers
16,000 Magazinesare distributed to hundreds of
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Clifton Merchant • February 2015 5
Online Love Affairs?Meet Your Match on the Web
Love is a MasqueradePC Historical Society’s Masked Ball
Paulison Avenue ShopriteOwned by Cuellar Family Markets
48
50
52
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Liberty Tax-Allwood 1344 Clifton Ave. Richfield Center
(Next to Boston Market) Clifton NJ 07012973-778-0700
Liberty Tax-Union City 4414 Park Ave Corner Fulton St at 45th St
(3 Blocks North of Pathmark) Weehawken/Union City201-295-1040
The Clifton landmark banquet centerMountainside Inn on Hazel St. marked a 50-year anniversary in June 2014. We
recapped that milestone in January’s Year inReview. Pictured are current owners LouBarbato Sr. and his son Lou. At right isthe late founder, Alfred Barbato, who we
misidentified in last month’s edition.
Theater League of Clifton Celebrating the First 10 Years
February 2015 • Clifton Merchant6
WeProudlyAnnounceourSeptemberAwardWinners...
WeProudlyAnnounceourOctoberAwardWinners...
WeProudlyAnnounceourNovemberAwardWinners...
WeProudlyAnnounceourDecemberAwardWinners...
Meghan Russo
Top SalesLesia Wirstiuk
Weichert PrideLesia Wirstiuk
Top Producer
Meghan Russo
Agent of the Month
Alma Billings
Top Lister
Angela
Dallesandro
Top Sales
Hilda Ferro
Weichert PrideAngela
Dallesandro
Top Producer
Gregorio “Greg”
Manalo
Agent of the Month
Alma Billings
Top Lister
Sirlene OliveiraTop Sales
Eduardo Rosas
Weichert PrideLesia WirstiukTop Producer
Lesia Wirstiuk Agent of the Month
Alma Billings
Top Lister
Patrick Moore
Top SalesCarlito Chi
Weichert PrideAlma Billings
Top ProducerLesia Wirstiuk
Agent of the Month
Kaitlyn Barbagallo
Top Lister
Clifton Merchant • February 2015 7
Substitute teaching by day and delivering pizza bynight, Jacqueline was a recent college graduate in
1999. Her dream was to become a teacher full-time. Her
hope was to teach high school English. Yet there were
no positions open in the Toms River area where she
lived. She was reaching out to towns in North Jersey
and waiting. In the meantime, delivering pizzas to the
wrong addresses helped make ends meet.
A few days after Jacqueline had shown up at his
home by mistake, Cemal, showed up at her pizzeria on
purpose. Attracted by the cheerful and pretty
Jacqueline, Cemal began to find a lot of reasons to eat a
lot of pizza.
Cemal, who had emigrated from Turkey in 1997,
worked at a nearby gas station owned by his cousin’s
family. After delivering pizza, whenever she needed a
fill up, Jacqueline’s car always found its way to the one
gas station in Toms River where Cemal worked.
By Irene Jarosewich
Love Stories Cemal and Jacqueline Turk
The man who greeted her at the door was adorable,
thought Jacqueline Salviano, as she tried to hand him
a box of pizza. Cemal Turk, who spoke only a few
words of English, smiled at the pretty girl and tried
to tell her that no one had ordered it.
Using laughter and hand signals, Cemal let
Jacqueline in to use the phone so she could
call her boss and get the right address. While
she was busy making the call, he made a
mental note of the pizzeria’s name.
Wrong Address...
Right Guy.
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February 2015 • Clifton Merchant8
Their romance blossomed
throughout the spring of 2000. “Our
first date,” recalls Jacqueline, or
Jacqui as she is known to most, “was
a winter drive to Seaside and a walk
on the boardwalk. Our first dinner
date was at Rivoli’s in Toms River.
His friend accompanied us to trans-
late. Many nights Cemal would keep
me company while I delivered pizza.
We went out dancing. We would
walk at Cattus Island Park, eat
frozen yogurt at Mrs. Walkers.”
Clifton in their futureWhen Jacqui was offered a
teaching position at CHS, she and
Cemal moved here in August 2000.
They found an apartment in Maple
Gardens, near the school. The cou-
ple began to sink their roots into
Clifton and build a life together.
“Christopher de Vinck hired me,”
said Jacqui, “he was my mentor.
When I first met him 15 years ago, he
was one of the nicest people I had
ever met. Now, 15 years later, he is
still one of the nicest people I know.”
Cemal was excited and proud for
Jacqui. After leaving his family’s
business in Toms River, he immedi-
ately found work at the Exxon at the
intersection of Allwood Rd. and
Passaic Ave. Soon after that, he
joined Clifton’s DPW. He now
works for the Clifton PD as a police
mechanic.
Early on, Cemal and Jacqui
understood they were meant for
each other. "Jacqui was special. She
made me feel safe and happy,” said
Cemal, “she didn’t think about what
she could get from me, or from any-
one else, but what she could give.
She is generous, always smiling.
Jacqui is smart, as well as kind,
patient, and beautiful. She loved
and cared for me despite our lan-
guage problem. She took the time to
teach me English and introduced
me to the real America."
“Cemal’s smile melted my
heart,” added Jacqui, “As he
learned English, his sense of humor
unfurled. He made me laugh. We
also shared a hard work ethic. We
both worked 14-hour days back
then and needed to relax at the end
of the night with a good meal and
some laughter and conversation. We
brought each other kindness, calm,
comfort, support.”
Melding culturesUniting all the threads of their
different backgrounds and their new
present, Cemalettin (Cemal) Turk
and Jacqueline Salviano had three
wedding ceremonies. Their first
ceremony, about a year after they
met, took place at the Ulu Cami
Mosque in Paterson on October 7,
2000. “The ceremony was in
Love Stories Cemal and Jacqueline Turk
Clifton Merchant • February 2015 9
Turkish and Arabic. All I know is that I said ‘yes’ three
times and that my husband still owes me some gold and
goats,” Jacqui said with a cheerful giggle.
Cemal shakes his head and sighs. “I’m not sure I’ve
ever even seen a live goat in my life.”
Several months later, on February 3, 2001, Mayor
James Anzaldi married Jacqui and Cemal in a civil cer-
emony at Clifton’s City Hall. A year after they moved to
Clifton, they gathered friends and family on August 4,
2001, for the third ceremony, a traditional American
wedding back down the shore.
They had planned for the ceremony to be held at the
gazebo in Beachwood, the town where Jacqui grew up,
but the rain forced the ceremony to be held inside along
with the reception at the Lamp Post Inn in Pine Beach.
“For me, it was exciting to experience many of his
firsts with Cemal. I threw him his first birthday party.
We celebrated Christmas - it was like baby’s first
Christmas - Valentine’s Day, Easter, Fourth of July, and
Thanksgiving. We traveled to Washington D.C., North
and South Carolina,” said Jacqui, “and both our families
were very supportive of us. My family wrapped their
arms around Cemal and have never let go. He is my
mother’s favorite child. And while there was a lot that
was new, there was some traditional. I’m half Italian,
half Lebanese, for example, so I’m familiar with the
type of food that Cemal grew up with – kabobs, stuffed
grape leaves, shepherd’s salad.”
One of the couple’s favorite restaurants for eat-in and
take-out is King of Shish Kabob on McBride Ave. in
Woodland Park. Besides Middle Eastern, another
favorite is Mexican food, which Cemal and Jacqui love
to order, as well as prepare at home with the help of their
daughter, Alyse, 10.
Alyse is quite clear about what her parents should do
to celebrate Valentine’s Day this year. “They should
have dinner at Chili’s, which is MY favorite restaurant,
and for desert, they should have the Molten Chocolate
Cake topped with vanilla ice cream under a hard choco-
late shell!” Her face lit up with a smile as she remem-
bered the delicious flavors.
“That’s one of the things we appreciate about this
area,” said Jacqui, “is the diversity. The diversity of
nationalities, therefore of possibilities. It’s one the
things we most appreciate about Clifton.”
“We’re grateful to Clifton,” continued Cemal, “it
allowed us to live stable lives, buy a house, have a
daughter, build our family, build lives in a wonderful
community. Really, Clifton gave us our life.”
“The people who took a risk on us, Dr. de Vinck on
me, Joe Devasconcellos at the DPW who hired Cemal,
who had faith in him,” added Jacqui, “because of
Clifton, our dreams came true.”
Giving backHowever, it has not all been a one-way street. The
Turks give back to this city in return. Besides their jobs,
as a family, they engage in numerous community serv-
ice activities, such as Clifton park clean-ups, serving at
the free meal program offered by the United Reformed
Church in the heart of downtown, helping with the
Sunshine Collection and Giggles Theater for St.
Joseph’s Children’s Hospital, as well as organizing col-
lections to support the animal shelter.
February 2015 • Clifton Merchant10
Love Stories Cemal and Jacqueline Turk
It was so right that Cemal and Jacqueline wed three times: in Christian, Muslim and civil ceremonies.
Clifton Merchant • February 2015 11
February 2015 • Clifton Merchant12
Love Stories Cemal and Jacqueline Turk
Some of these projects evolve from the Key Club,
one of the most popular extra-curricular activities at
CHS. Jacqueline Turk, who has been teaching 10th
grade English for 15 years at CHS, is also the faculty
advisor for the Key Club. With 266 members and a
strong program that develops on the philosophy of stu-
dent philanthropy, the CHS Key Club is active and
thriving.
Every year, Key Club International chooses a theme
and goal that all students work on, and the decisions
about which other philanthropic efforts to undertake are
left up to the local clubs. The CHS Key Club has had
some strong student leaders and wonderful members
through the years, many of whom were highlighted on
the pages of this magazine. However, all recognize that
the guidance, the stability and consistency that has
allowed the Key Club to flourish year after year has
been provided by Jacqui.
“I’m extremely proud of what our students do,” said
Jacqui, “they show a true commitment to the betterment
of their community. Some projects we do annually, such
as the Giggles Theater for the children at St. Joe’s, other
project we do occasionally, or maybe once.”
One of the more recent projects the students under-
took was making 600 handmade Christmas cards that
were distributed to wounded soldiers recuperating at
Walter Reed Medical Center in Washington DC, as well
as delivered to the families spending their holidays in
homeless shelters in Paterson, and in New York City.
Home is never far awayAlthough their lives are full and busy, whenever they
can fit it in, they love to travel – whether alone, or as a
couple, or a family.
Cemal and Jacqui have traveled to Las Vegas and the
Dominican Republic, and in recent years, Alyse has
traveled with her parents to Niagara Falls, to Florida and
this past summer, a trip on Norwegian Cruise Lines.
Cemal travels to visit his family in Turkey. Twice Alyse
and Jacqui have joined him there during summer break,
staying longer as he returned to work.
Traveling to Turkey also gives Alyse a chance to
practice her Turkish. Besides the basics of greetings and
counting, she knows how to say the most important
words in the world - “I love you very much” – in her
father’s native Turkish - “seni cok seviyorum.”
Clifton Merchant • February 2015 13
February 2015 • Clifton Merchant14
Good to know for Valentine’s Day!
From their recent trip to the Bahamas, the family has
some fun stories. “We swam with the dolphins while
there,” said Jacqui, “and if you can believe it, our dol-
phin’s name was ... wait for it ... CLIFTON!! Now what
are the chances of that?! We had a good time petting,
kissing, and dancing with Clifton in the water!” It’s a
great memory.
Huddy, huddy or Honey, honey?Sometimes being apart through travel allows a rela-
tionship to flourish.
“We are a practical couple,” smiles Jacqui, “We don’t
have a typical romantic relationship with flowers and
jewelry. Our idea of romance is, for example, when
Cemal was in Turkey, I surprised him by buying all new
furniture and two big screen televisions. To celebrate,
when he came home, he installed a new floor to match
the new furniture!”
There is one little romantic quirk that Cemal’s fami-
ly in Turkey has not quite figured out - the couples
favorite name for each other.
“When we first met and started going out 15 years
ago, Cemal would call upstairs to me and say, ‘Huddy!
Huddy!’ I didn’t say anything, I didn’t ask. I thought he
was just trying to call me ‘Honey.’ So, I started calling
him ‘Huddy’ right back. Sure enough, it turns out that in
Turkish ‘Huddy! Huddy!’ means ‘Hurry up! Hurry up!”
Jacqui laughs. “We have been calling each other Huddy
as a term of endearment ever since.”
Love Stories
Jacqueline, Alyse and Cemal.
Cemal and Jacqueline Turk
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February 2015 • Clifton Merchant16
July 1991 and Laura Smith is setting off fromClifton on a road trip to Morehead City, NC. Laura
was anxious, excited. Many thoughts skipped through
her mind as she drove south toward the port city
in the Tar Heel State.
She was looking forward to the arrival
of her boyfriend Jim Louer who was
serving in the US Merchant Marines.
Jim, who had been away for 211 days
transporting military cargo during
the Desert Storm conflict in the
Middle East, was coming home.
Laura did have a few, quiet, lin-
gering concerns regarding Jim.
Maybe he had been injured or was
ill. Because of the great distance, as
well as the limitations of communi-
cation, their long-distance phone
conversations were few and brief.
Maybe he had changed. Letters typi-
cally arrived many weeks after they
were written, adding frustration.
She tracked the vessel, the Cape
Domingo, through the shipping company’s
postings and learned that it was due to return to
the United States.
“Once I knew it was Moorhead City, I started doing
research and realized there was no easy way to get
there,” Laura said. So she studied road maps, estimated
the travel time and distance, and then told her mother:
“I’m going and I’m driving.” Knowing it would be an
adventure, she set off on a two-day, 600-mile trip to the
North Carolina port.
In the grand tradition of folk music, there
are numerous songs about young women
who await the return of ships bringing
home their men. Oftentimes, these are
sad tales of love lost due to tragic
events at sea. The ballad My BoyWillie tells the story of a maiden
who longs for her dear lover,
Willie, who had gone off to sea to
serve the king. One fateful day she
confronts the captain of a ship and
inquires: “Does my love Willie sailon board with you?”
She is asked to describe the
young man. “He wears a coat ofroyal blue, and you’ll surely knowhim, for his heart is true.” After hear-
ing her tender words, the captain’s heart
sinks and he gently says to her: “If that’syour Willie, then he is not here.” Her beloved
Willie had drowned days earlier, the captain told
the young maiden.
Fortunately, 24 years ago, Laura’s song was one of
joy, describing a happy reunion with Jim. Laura’s love
returned to her, sturdy and safe.
Love Stories Laura and Jim Louer
Laura and Jim Louer today. Below, the young Laura Smithwith date Jim, ready for the CHS Prom in 1984.
By Michael C. Gabriele
Clifton Merchant • February 2015 17
The ship arrived in port as sched-
uled. Laura stood waiting in the park-
ing lot. Jim came out on the deck,
spotted Laura, and flew down the
gangplank. The two embraced and
Jim took Laura on board to proudly
introduce her to his ship mates.
This moment of reunion is one of
the highlights in their relationship
reflects the Clifton couple. They
realized there was no room for lin-
gering doubt: their love was clear.
The Most Important QuestionThree months after their grand
reconnection, Jim decided it was time to propose. He
wanted the proposal to be a romantic surprise.
First, as an honorable gentleman, he asked Laura’s
parents for their permission and blessing to marry her.
Then he bought an engagement ring.
Laura was driving a new Oldsmobile Cutlass Calais.
Jim borrowed the car one day, had it cleaned and pol-
ished, and placed the ring inside the glove compart-
ment. Working on Wall Street, Laura
commuted by train into the city. One
October afternoon, Jim met Laura at
the Clifton Station, in her new car, all
bright and shiny. He had gone to the
car wash, he told her, and gushed that
even the glove compartment had been
cleaned!
Puzzled by why Jim was being so
enthusiastic about a clean glove
compartment, she skeptically popped
it open and immediately spotted the
ring. Jim proposed on the spot to a
stunned and happy Laura. They were
married on Nov. 7, 1992 at the US
Merchant Marine Academy in Great Neck, NY, on
Long Island’s Kings Point followed by a honeymoon
on St. John in the Virgin Islands.
The Majorette and the Trumpet PlayerThey met at CHS, as members of the Mustang
Marching Band. Their first encounter came during sum-
mer band camp in 1982. Laura was a junior and
Love Stories Laura and Jim Louer
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February 2015 • Clifton Merchant18
Clifton Merchant • February 2015 19
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February 2015 • Clifton Merchant20
Jim was a sophomore.“I spotted him from
a distance,” Laura said and admits, “It was
love at first sight.”
“She stalked me,” Jim said with a laugh
and then revealed that he had his eye on
her, as well.
Positioned close to each other during
band marching formations and parades.
Jim was an A Rank trumpet player; Laura
was a majorette, always marching in the
row right in front of Jim.
Their first date was in October of that
year at the Mustang Band’s formal student
dinner/dance held at Assumption of the
Holy Virgin Church in Athenia. After that,
they were an item throughout their high
school years. A favorite weekend date was
a late-night breakfast at the old Primrose Diner on east-
bound Route 46, which was located adjacent to the
Clove Rd. exit.
Laura, who graduated from CHS in 1984, went on to
Seton Hall University in South Orange.
Jim, who graduated the following year, attended the
U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. He traveled extensive-
ly for long stretches of time, which was difficult for the
young couple.
Jim said that, except for Antarctica and Australia,
he’s been everywhere around the world. The assign-
ments involved transporting containerized military
equipment, food, medical supplies, vehicles and other
gear. The days at sea were tedious and lonely. “It was
work, sleep, work, sleep, work, sleep,” he recalled.
When Laura became pregnant with their first child,
Jimmy in 1998, Jim left the Merchant Marines. They
still live in the home they bought a home on Pershing
Rd. After Jimmy came Jack, Christie and Kate. After
more than 12 years on Wall Street, Laura decided to stay
home and raise the kids. “I’m still at it,” she said, with
a grin about her ful-time job. Meanwhile, Jim trans-
ferred the skills he acquired while with the Merchant
Marines and pursued a career in the engineering field.
A Full-Circle MomentWhile digging through boxes of family pictures to
illustrate this article, Laura and Jim became nostalgic,
uncovering photos they had not seen in years. The
search allowed them to step back, count blessings and
savor the memories of school and community activities
with their children.
“The years have gone by in a heartbeat,” Laura con-
fessed. “The kids started coming and we went on a roll
from there. The journey continues. Life can be hectic.
Fortunately, we have a good support network of
friends,” citing their participation in mutual community
activities such as sports and school bands. “We’re also
lucky that all our kids have good friends.”
This year, a full-circle moment came when son
Jimmy, age 16, achieved A Rank as a trumpet player in
the Mustang Marching Band, just like Dad.
“We prepared him well for the band,” Jim declared.
Jim and Laura also relive their Mustang Band memories
when Jimmy takes part in social activities, such as
dances and fund-raisers like beefsteak dinners and the
annual May car wash campaign at CHS.
Twelve-year-old son Jack, a seventh grader at
Woodrow Wilson Middle School, another trumpet play-
er, is the next family prospect slated to join the Mustang
Marching Band.
Unlike their musician sons, Jim and Laura’s two
daughters have pursued athletics. Christine, 15, is a
member of the CHS volleyball team. Kate, 10, a student
at School 2, enjoys soccer. With four kids participating
in sports, music and related activities, the Louer
Love Stories Laura and Jim Louer
Laura and Jim with Jimmy, Jack, Christie, Kate.
Clifton Merchant • February 2015 21
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February 2015 • Clifton Merchant22
family racks up significant miles driving around town.
Aside from supporting the interests of their kids, Jim
and Laura remain active in Clifton. Every two years,
during halftime at Thanksgiving Day home football
games, they participate in the Mustang Marching
Band’s alumni performance.
Jim keeps his trumpet chops in shape, jamming with
his sons during home music sessions and occasionally
sitting in with the Clifton Community Band, while
reconnecting with his high school chums. Laura is
involved with various parent/teacher projects at School
2, and the entire family is active at First Lutheran
Church, on Van Houten Ave.
Uncharted Waters and LaughterBased on their 32 years of romance and friendship,
from their days as high school sweethearts to
Valentine’s Day 2015, Jim and Laura acknowledged the
“uncharted waters” of life are never easy to navigate.
Much like being on a Merchant Marine ship, currents
can shift and storms may appear on the horizon.
In addition to work, sleep, work, sleep, there are a
countless football games, volleyball tournaments, soc-
cer matches, school concerts and birthday parties to
attend. However, they note, they would not have it any
other way.
The rewards of family life make the journey worth-
while and the willingness to face unforeseen challenges
with courage and a sense of humor.
“You have to laugh a lot. You have to laugh at your-
self,” Jim said when asked to provide feedback on how
to maintain a healthy and happy marriage against the
backdrop of busy family schedules.
Laura said she appreciates the support and interac-
tion she gets from family, friends and neighbors to help
smooth over the bumpy patches along the road. “It also
helps to learn how to have patience with teenagers,”
she added while rolling her eyes.
Today, as the Louer family sails on and enjoys life in
the community, that romantic Morehead City ren-
dezvous 24 years ago—when the fair maiden from
Clifton traveled far and anxiously awaited the return of
her brave, seafaring man—remains close to their hearts.
And it also remains close to their family vacation
plans. These days, the beaches of the Outer Banks in
North Carolina is the preferred get-away destination for
the Louers.
“The kids love it,” Laura said.
No doubt, over the years, the kids will come to fully
appreciate their parent’s Morehead City reunion as a
significant moment in Louer family history. It’s a folk
song Jimmy, Jack, Christie and Kate can sing to their
children and grandchildren, along with an improvised
trumpet solo to create variations on a theme.
Surely, that’s a romantic ballad worth handing down,
generation to generation, to mark Valentine’s Day here
in Clifton. Who knows, this story may even make its
way to the Merchant Marine Academy.
Love Stories Laura and Jim Louer
Clifton Merchant • February 2015 23
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February 2015 • Clifton Merchant24
Love Stories Sadie and Tony Sanchez
They are so cute together. They look at each other andlaugh. They have all these inside jokes. They finish each
other’s sentences. When they met 20 years ago, it must
have been love at first sight.
Pause. Silence.
“It absolutely was not,” said Sadie Sanchez with a
determined look.
“Uh, uh, no way,” adds husband Tony, “was not, most
definitely not.”
“I thought he was, well, cocky, kind of a bit full of
himself,” she continues.
“Back then, the printing business was pretty much
only men,” he continues, “she was one of two women at
the place. She had all the guys waiting on her hand and
foot. Oh dear, I need a coffee. Could you be a sweetheart
bring me one? She was, how shall I say it, hmmm, a
princess, let’s leave it at that.”
Tony Sanchez had come in as the new boss at a print-
ing business in Jersey City. The decade was the 1990s.
The industry was changing—new technology, new pro-
cedures. Some people still did graphic design by hand,
layout the old way, with hot wax and negatives; some
people were doing it the new way—digital with comput-
ers. The printing industry was in an upheaval and man-
agers had to know the old ways and the new.
“The business, an established family business, had a
huge turnover in managers in the years before I came.
Ten-twelve had come and gone. Some lasted barely a
month,” Tony recalled.
“So, I started a pool,” said Sadie, “everybody had to
bet on how long the new guy would last. I gave him six
months, tops.” She smirks. He laughs. First and last time
she lost, he added.
Rethinking the first impressionShe began to change her mind. Maybe he was not so
cocky, after all. She began to admire his people skills, his
confidence and optimism, his can-do attitude.
He saw the pouty princess was kind of an act, began
to respect her deep work ethic, the fact that her co-work-
ers turned to her for advice and guidance, realized that
she was both fiercely independent and responsible.
Plus he was really good-looking. And she was really,
really cute.
A friend who knew them both from work said they
should go out together, that they were made for
By Irene Jarosewich
20 Years Later, Love at Each Sight
Joseph M. Shook, Sr., Founder
1924 - 2008
Nancy Shook Garretson, President
NJ Lic. No. 3657
Roy B. Garretson, Manager
NJ Lic. No. 3550
Thomas J. Garretson, Director
NJ Lic. No. 4988
Kevin V. White, Director
NJ Lic. No. 4964
Clifton Merchant • February 2015 25
February 2015 • Clifton Merchant26
each other. Nah, they both told her. Not going to happen.
Sadie, a single mom, had just ended a relationship and
Tony was still in the process of finalizing his divorce.
Cupid, however, does not accept “no” for an answer.
After a few months of going out after work with the
gang for a drink and to shoot some pool—“she knew
how to shoot pool,” said Tony, “that was a real bonus”—
Sadie and Tony agreed to go on a date.
“I told him I wasn’t interested in anything serious,
something light, only fun. I was getting out of a relation-
ship. I wanted to take it kind of slow.”
“I agreed, totally. My divorce wasn’t finished. And
Sadie and I were still working at the same place.”
Except that it did not go slow, it went really fast.
Within a year, they were living together and soon after,
their daughter Sabrina was born.
When Sadie told Tony that she was pregnant, he was
ecstatic. He did not have children, and at age 37, he was
going to be a first-time dad.
“I was driving an old beater,” grinned Sadie, “but had
a picture of the car I wanted clipped out of a magazine
and taped near my work space. I didn’t think he noticed,
but he did. The Christmas after I told him I was pregnant,
he told me that we needed to go to my mother’s house.
When we got there, parked in the driveway was a brand
new car, my car. With a big red bow on top.”
And the best gift Sadie has ever given him?
“My daughters,” said Tony, without a second thought.
“They changed my life.”
Gone in a flashAlthough 20 years sounds like a long time, Tony, 55
and Sadie, 50, feel that the decades have zipped by for
them and their daughters Alyssa, 22, and Sabrina, 18.
Both saw the writing on the wall regarding the decline
of the printing business. Sadie went back to school to get
her degree in accounting. Tony decided to make a career
change to real estate, got his license, and joined
Weichert, first in Wayne, now as manager of the Clifton
branch, home to 80 sales agents, located at the intersec-
tion of Allwood Rd. and Passaic Ave.
Sadie works nearby on Brighton Rd., at Preferred
Display, Inc. (PDI), which provides signage, displays,
and marketing assistance to cosmetics companies.
Love Stories Sadie and Tony Sanchez
While Tony’s family is still in Queens, where he grew
up, the couple and their daughters live in Hawthorne,
where Sadie grew up, and where her mother and sisters
still live. However, since both Tony and Sadie work in
Clifton, they go out often here for lunch and dinner.
Taste of Tuscany in Styretowne and DeFeos on Market
St. are among their go-to spots.
With the girls in school, and with both parents contin-
uing their education and then starting two new careers,
Sadie and Tony never found the time to get married.
“And she never wanted to get married,” added Tony.
Sadie shook her head in agreement and then
shrugged. “I just never saw the need. And we were very
focused on the girls. Then last spring we were sitting at
another wedding, and somebody asked us when we were
going to be married. Now, with the girls grown up and in
college, we have the time, we said, OK, why not?”
Their niece, a wedding planner was thrilled to hear
the news. For Sadie and Tony, she planned one grand
party. And this past September 20, after 20 years, the
couple tied the knot at the Portobello in Oakland to
begin their happy ever after.
Clifton Merchant • February 2015 27
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February 2015 • Clifton Merchant28
Love Stories Rita and Jim Haraka
60Years,
Still Waitingon Great Grandkids
After
They saw each other around Clifton High School. Each knew who the other was. But
the real start of Jim Haraka and Rita Pascrell’s romance began with a produce truck.
The year was 1947.
By Ron Haraka
“I worked on my brother George’s truck,” Jim said,the youngest of seven kids born to Syrian immi-grants. “He was the former owner of Market Basket
Produce,” having farmed the land of what is now Crane
Chevrolet on Rt. 46 East.
Rita Pascrell grew up on Maplewood Ave. in Albion,
where she and Jim, who was raised on Madeline Ave.
in Lakeview, got to know each other through his gro-
cery deliveries. Soon the pages of their romance began
to turn quickly.
“We went to the movies a lot. We would go to the
Saturday night dances at the Paterson YMCA,” said
Jim, the backup quarterback who played for legendary
coach Joe Greco’s Fighting Mustangs from 1946-1949.
“And I would go to all the games at Hinchliffe
Stadium,” added Rita. During a time when Clifton did
not yet have a stadium, Mustang home games were
played at the now historic Hinchliffe near the Great
Falls in Paterson, further illustrating how far go back
their love goes.
“Then we had five children,” one of them jokingly
mentioned.
Whoa. Not so fast.
While Jim and Rita’s courtship has all the makings
of a classic CHS sweetheart tale, their relationship did
reach a lull after both graduated in 1950.
“I went to college, we separated a little bit,” Jim
uttered casually, as if he had as much confidence then
as he does now that they would end up together.
Asked if she dated any other guys during that time,
Rita responded. “I had a boyfriend,” to which Jim
laughingly added, “a lot, she had a lot of boyfriends.”
The two giggled, engaging in typical teenage lovebird
drama—only now they’re in their early eighties.
A Minor Speed Bump
Not long after their time apart, Jim and Rita picked
right up where they left off, then tying the knot on July
24,1954. That year Jim graduated from the New Jersey
State Teacher’s College at Paterson, now William
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February 2015 • Clifton Merchant30
Paterson University in Wayne.
Along with marriage, they began
their careers.
“I taught at School 9 on Brighton
Rd. from 1954 to 1956,” said Jim,
as Rita finished his sentence, “and I
worked as a secretary at Wright
Aeronautical in Wood-Ridge.”
Rita, however, soon focused her
attention to raising her children.
After moving to their first home on
Nelson St. near Garrett Mountain,
first son Jimmy was born in 1956.
More Haraka children followed,
and like their parents, all were CHS
alumni: Jimmy (‘74), Ron (‘76),
Linda (‘79), John (‘83), and Robbie
(‘87), pictured above, now with children of their own.
Jim left the security of his teaching job to begin a
potentially more lucrative career. So as to provide for
his growing family, he began what
is now his 51 year tenure as repre-
sentative for MetLife Insurance.
Realizing that a larger family
needed a larger house, the couple
moved into their current home in
1964. The charming split-level sits
up the hill from Clifton Stadium
near Hazel St., and the happy pair
has remained there ever since.
“We’ve been in Clifton all our
lives...” they say with satisfaction.
Staying At It
In July, Rita and Jim celebrated
their 60th wedding anniversary.
After a liturgy at their longtime
parish, St. Ann Melkite Catholic Church in Woodland
Park, a party was held at the Paris Inn in Wayne. In
attendance were 80 of their family and friends.
Rita and Jim 1954
Love Stories Rita and Jim Haraka
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Clifton Merchant • February 2015 31
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The cycle of life continues as
their children have given the couple
grandchildren. Besides family, their
is another constant in the Harakas’
marriage: their friends.
Second only to their everlasting
love for each other is the conversa-
tion and connection they have with
pals at breakfast every morning at
the New Corral on Hazel St. where
they can be found in the same
booth acrosss from the register,
around 8:30 to 9:00, chatting with
their fellow mainstays and greeting
other customers.
“Most of our activities are in
Clifton,” Jim stated. Then right on
cue, finishing her husband’s
thought, Rita adds, “Because we’re
too old to go anywhere else!” Her
delivery was perfect, reflecting the
banter so typical between the two.
Taste of Tuscany in Styertowne
and the Allwood Diner are two
favorites for staying in touch with
Mustang friends.
Giving back to the community
that has sustained the family for
over half a century, Jim and Rita
contribute to the annual Super
Bowl party and other Boys & Girls
Club events. They also get together
with old and new friends on trips
with the Leisure Club of St. Paul’s
Roman Catholic Church.
Although Clifton is home base,
the couple often ventures south on
the Garden State Parkway, trying
their luck at the Atlantic City casi-
nos and keeping a family vacation
tradition alive.
“We took vacations every sum-
mer in Wildwood Crest with the
kids,” said Rita proudly of the four
decades of the same getaway. “And
we’re still carrying on the tradi-
tion...which reminds me, when we
go down this year, ask Patrick (the
owner of the Biscayne Motel) how
many years we’ve been coming,”
she ordered her husband. They’ve
been doing things together for so
long that it can be hard to keep
track of the numbers.
One of the numbers is the
amount of people who can be found
under the family name at the
Biscayne every August. About 17
Harakas arrive annually and settle
into a half dozen rooms of a motel
that looks the same today as it did
20 years ago.
As for what the future holds,
Rita and Jim hope to continue
doing what they love most: spend-
ing time with their six grandchil-
dren. Although they have never
asked for much, they do have one
larger than average request. “Now
we’re waiting on great grandchil-
dren,” said Rita. “Think anyone can
help us out with that?”
Love Stories Rita and Jim Haraka
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February 2015 • Clifton Merchant36
The two met in the early 1990s while
attending evening graduate school class-
es at Montclair State University.
They were both living in Clifton and
looking to earn master’s degrees in the
field of English. They both aspired to be
college professors. Drawn together by
their mutual interest in education, as well
as their compatible personalities, they
quickly “clicked.”
By the mid-1990s, their friendship and
mutual interest in education continued as
they enrolled in classes at NYU with the
goal of completing doctorate degrees.
They often rode the train together into
the Big Apple. Conversations during
these frequent commutes revealed that
they indeed were kindred spirits.
Laura told Joe of how, as a young girl,
she fell in love with the printed word—
poetry, novels, essays and short stories. Her dream was
to become a teacher and a scholar.
The turning point in their relationship came in 1994.
Laura, who lived on Martin Ave., was working late one
night in her home in early January when she smelled
burning wood. Initially, she though the odor was com-
ing from a neighbor’s fireplace.
Then she heard a smoke alarm. In a moment of ter-
ror, Laura realized that her home was on fire. She
crawled from her room and with daughter Jessica, had
a harrowing escape from the blaze.
As firemen arrived on the scene, Laura and Jessica,
shaken and terrified by the fire and ensuing chaos, were
welcomed into a neighbor’s home Not knowing what
else to do, Laura reached out to her friend Jim.
“I called Jim and said, ‘I need help!’” Laura recalled,
the pitch of her voice rising as she described the heart-
wrenching scene.
Jim quickly came to the rescue and offered his com-
passionate support, including helping them resettle.
Laura and daughter Jessica soon took up temporary res-
idence in their neighborhood while their house was
being repaired.
Soon after the fire, Jim decided to visit Laura’s
charred home. He wanted to lift Laura’s spirits in the
aftermath of the overwhelming incident.
Love Stories Laura and Jim Nicosia
Love ROSEFROM THE ASHES
Laura and Jim Nicosia were close friendsfor years before they became romanticallyinvolved. Today that strong friendship is anenduring bond that serves them well as thefoundation of their marriage. However, itwas a near-tragic house firethat profoundly changed thedynamics of their relationship.
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Jim not only proposed to Laura but also to her daughter Jessica.They are seen here on Aug. 4, 1996, their wedding day.
Clifton Merchant • February 2015 37
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Knowing how much she enjoyed her house plants,
Jim went into the damaged structure and gathered as
many as he could find. Surprisingly, despite the fire
and subsequent cold, most of the plants came away
from the fire relatively unscathed.
Among the ashes and wreckage, Jim found some-
thing else that would make both Laura and Jessica
smile: Jessica’s teddy bear, Francis Xavier. Jim
cleaned the plants and the little bear. In a most wel-
come surprise, he presented them to Laura and Jessica.
Mother and daughter were speechless.
“That was the moment,” Laura said, her eyes filling
with tears as she remembered when Jim gave them the
plants and the teddy bear. “I thought to myself: ‘this
man knows me and loves me.’”
From that point on, Laura and Jim were inseparable.
A year after the house fire, Jim proposed to Laura.
He presented her with a ring. Jim also had a ring for
Jessica, a symbol of his intention that all three would be
together. On Aug. 4, 1996, Laura and Jim were married
and the three became a family.
In 2004, both received their doctoral degrees. They
returned to the rebuilt home on Martin Ave., where they
became a family of four with the birth of son Jake, now
a CHS junior. They continue to live in the house that
brought them finally together.
Both Laura and Jim have also returned to Montclair
State University, however, this time as teachers, not
students.
Laura is an associate English professor and the
director of English education, overseeing teacher certi-
fication, while Jim works as an adjunct English profes-
sor and is responsible for observing and assisting stu-
dent teachers.
Love Stories Laura and Jim Nicosia
Laura, Jim and son Jake in their Martin Ave. home.
Clifton Merchant • February 2015 39
February 2015 • Clifton Merchant40
Debra and Anthony Gretina will cel-
ebrate their 35th wedding anniversary
this year. The couple was married on
June 21, 1980, at Hendrick’s Chapel on
the campus of their beloved alma mater,
Syracuse University, in upstate New
York.
Among the special blessings to mark
this marriage milestone, the birth of
their first grandchild tops the list.
Catalina, born on Dec. 3, 2014, is the
daughter of the Gretinas’ eldest daugh-
ter, Ashley.
Debra and Anthony first met when
both worked at Syracuse University’s
Office of Student Activities in 1977.
Anthony, who grew up in Clifton
and graduated CHS in 1974, was smit-
ten with Debra, who lived and grew up
near Syracuse.
Their first date was a “Greek Dance”
sponsored by one of the university’s
fraternities. Their romance unfolded
throughout 1978. Debra still has the
Valentine’s Day card Anthony gave her
that year.
Anthony graduated in 1978, one year
after Debra, who had stayed on at the
university to work. Anthony returned to
Clifton and Debra remained in her
hometown. The two, however,
remained in touch, which often meant
phone calls after 11pm, when long-dis-
tance rates were lower.
They alternated visits between their respective fami-
lies. Debra remembers being charmed by the abundant
love she received from Anthony’s Italian-American fam-
ily. Her own family’s British ancestry, culture, and tradi-
tions “are much more formal,” she said with a grin.
“Tony’s family was wonderful. I loved all those hugs and
kisses.” Debra was a guest with Anthony’s family on
Christmas Eve, 1979, when he proposed to her.
Love Stories Debra and Anthony Gretina
By Michael C. Gabriele
Deborah and Anthony Gretina on their wedding day in 1980 (inset) andeldest daughter Ashley and son-in-law Cristian with grandaughterCatalina Maurine Reyes on Dec. 3, when Catalina was 12 hours old.
A Blessing IN THE 34th Year
Clifton Merchant • February 2015 41
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Love Stories Debra and Anthony Gretina
The Gretinas are proud parents of Ashley,
Sara, Emma and Anthony. All four children
are CHS graduates, and all four were mem-
bers of the Mustang Marching Band. “We
worked hard to provide for our kids and raise
them right,” Debra said. “We think that hard
work paid off. Our kids are the only legacy
that matters to us.”
Last summer the Gretina clan enjoyed a
two-week Italian holiday. Debra said it was an
extra-special gathering, as everyone enjoyed
the vacation, indulging in the family’s her-
itage, most notably the beauty of Italy, the
delicious Italian food and abundant history
and culture.
After a long career with UPS, Anthony
retired two years ago. His new, special stay-at-
home assignment will be caring several days a
week for Catalina.
Debra, who works as the district curricu-
lum supervisor for mathematics at West
Milford High School, plans to sneak in plenty
of time with her new granddaughter, as well.
Anthony and Debra Gretina and their four children welcome thethird generation in their family.
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In a world that is solidly digital, morethan 40 million Americans use servicesof a business that even ten years ago was
still somewhat suspect: online dating sites.
Of these 40 million, more than a few could
benefit from the expertise of 2008 CHS
graduate Ashley Parsons.
Parsons never set out to be a dating pro-
file ghostwriter, but that’s the role into
which she has molded herself.
“I started with the company in August
2013, as an intern, moderating and writing
for the blog,” she said. “I figured it would
be a nice way to get a few bylines, and I
loved the idea of what the company did.”
The company is eFlirt, an online dating consulting
service. What started as a foot in the door has lead the
William Paterson University graduate to apply her
degree in English and Public Relations to building
online profiles that match each individual client’s per-
sonality. She seeks out matches for her clients and
interacts with them via messages. “Basically, I do
everything short of going on the date.”
The sense of fulfillment she gets from her work goes
beyond the satisfaction of cashing a paycheck.
“Being a dating coach is like being a life coach,” she
explained. “We truly do care about these people and their
relationships... if we were completely apathetic we
wouldn’t be effective.”
eFlirt isn’t designed to hold its customers’ hands
through the dating process. Instead, the goal is to teach
them how to feel confident as they make the foray into
online dating.
With no target number for how many people get
married due to her services, or how many dates a client
goes on, Ashley noted that her favorite part of the job is
“when the light bulb goes on” for the client. Bona fide
success is when clients no longer need her and have
learned how to date better for themselves.
Love Stories Ashley Parsons
By Ron Haraka
The Quirks of the JobSort of like Ann Landers for the
Millennials, Parsons offers a few
tidbits of instruction for the digital
dating scene. The majority of
Parsons’ clients are in their late 30s
to mid 40s, yet some are as young
as 26 and as old as 60.
Often they are very wealthy, and
generally lacking a grasp of how to
interact with others on the streets of
Internetville.
That’s where Parsons comes in.
After all, someone needs to advise
the middle-aged businessman that
the word “sexy” is not appealing in
an opening line. On most occa-
sions, first commenting on a per-
son’s looks will be a turn-off.
Like the true student of written
communication that she is, Parsons
dictated that there is no need to
state the obvious.
In fact, she put it quite simply,
“of course you want to be with
someone you’re attracted to…no
need for the ‘s’ word.”
Her advice: when initiating a
conversation was, “ask questions, it
immediately opens the door.” A
question shows interest in a person,
whereas making statements about
oneself comes off as nothing but
arrogant.
And of course, every so often,
she has to deal with the extremes.
One example was the borderline
stalker who suggested to a woman
doctor that she use a nickname on
her dating profile, rather than her
full name. An alias would have
been less easy to track via search
engine. An exchange such as this
may seem weird to the uninitiated,
but like most oddities she sees,
Parsons simply takes this in stride.
To Real RealityAs the perforation between the
digital and physical world
inevitably becomes fused, Parsons
has seen her past romances as hav-
ing a positive impact on how she
handles situations with her clients.
Love is love, whether it’s expressed
via flowers, or through a yel-
“Basically, I doeverything short ofgoing on the date.”
Clifton Merchant • February 2015 45
February 2015 • Clifton Merchant46
low smiley face blowing a kiss.
And in dealing with sensitive mat-
ters of the heart, what better asset
than experience?
Parsons has found that as more
people she knows get wind of her
new career, the more she is asked
for relationship guidance away
from her laptop. But she doesn’t
mind. In fact, she appreciates the
appeals for advice and sees them as
a form of respect and flattery.
Working a second job at a restau-
rant in Hoboken, she explained that
one-by-one, her female co-workers
have approached her with their
problems. Even her boss has recog-
nized how popular Parsons has
become, and not just with the girls
she works with, but customers too.
Enter the Hoboken single mom
with grey hair who is extremely fit
for her age. She sits at the bar and
begins to engage Parsons as her
weekly dating instructor. Once
again, our eFlirt expert doesn’t get
rattled, but instead gets into it. “I’ll
even get sassy with her, I’ll be like,
‘and so why did you text him
back?’ she said emphatically.
Where does that leave Parsons
and her love life? She elects to steer
clear of commenting on her own
dating. One would imagine with all
the skills she has acquired through
her job that she’d be a cyber-love
savant by now, but whether or not
she’s applying her knowledge to
find true love is unknown.
However, true to her advice-giv-
ing profession, Parsons does list her
ideal first date in her eFlirt bio. Her
fave spot is a karaoke bar. To her, it
doesn’t matter if either person can
sing, really. “I think that if some-
one’s willing to risk looking at least
a little bit foolish, they know how to
hang. (And if they do know how to
sing, instantly twice as appealing.)”
Love Stories Ashley Parsons
This is not the first Clifton magcover Ashley Parson made. Backin Jan., 2008, from left that is:
Lindsay Berberich, ChrisPapademetriou, Ritchie Movilla,Connor Steinfeldt, Ashley, RobertHarsaghy and Casey Hawrylko.
Clifton Merchant • February 2015 47
Love Stories Ashley Parsons
February 2015 • Clifton Merchant48
The vast world of online dating can be veryintimidating for its 40 million inhabitants. Like
hundreds of suits lined up for a single job opening,
every candidate must figure out a way to separate
themselves from the rest of the crowd. No longer
do categories such as “Man Seeking Woman” or
“Woman Seeking Friend” and obnoxious nick-
names like “Italian Stallion” or “Cute N Classy”
provide for enough of a pitch to sell a love interest.
The way one advertises him or herself has
become much more detailed and fine-tuned. Dating
sites get down to the specifics, helping its users find
anything to stand out. For example, OkCupid asks
questions such as “Which superpower would you
like to have?” or “Are you annoyed by people who
are super logical?” Questions like these keep things
playful, while providing users with the opportunity
to present themselves in a unique light.
That’s where it starts, but the realm of possibili-
ty is much bigger. Basic dating sites like OkCupid,
eHarmony, and Match dominate the market. Based
on the number of users on these sites, there is a high
chance of meeting someone.
On the other hand, there are plenty of forums
available to those of more particular tastes.
If faith is at the forefront, one could find fruitful
the services of a JDate, Christian Mingle, Big
Church, or Muslim Friends. Perhaps a certain phys-
ical attribute makes or breaks a deal.
If so, Tall Friends or Redhead-World might be
the medium of choice.
As one delves deeper into the different niches,
he or she will find sites based on specific lifestyles,
passions, or interests. There is the self-explanatory
Farmers Only. Busier singles can enjoy the non-
pressures of a Just Lunch, or Salad match, the one-
stop-shop for salad enthusiasts on the go.
The list goes on, and soon the millions of users
get reduced to thousands as they flock to the more
peculiar online platforms. Sci-fi lovers go to Trek
Passions. Ivy Leaguers can be found on Right Stuff
Dating. And those with a desire to light a flame
with the incarcerated put their hearts in the hands of
Meet-An-Inmate.
While the likes of a Geek 2 Geek or Veggie Date
seem to guarantee the right match, the niche sites
come with a greater risk. When asked how success-
ful the smaller, more distinct sites are, internet love
guru Ashley Parsons stated that the pool from
which to choose gets trimmed. “I don’t doubt peo-
ple have found someone using those sites,” she
explained. “But the chances are slim when the
search is that narrow. The gamble is much less in
their favor.”
In any case, there is no harm in trying. The key
is to put oneself out there. Perhaps the best strategy
is to diversify and try a mix of broad and special-
ized sites. On the contrary, choosing one of the
more peculiar sites and reaching out to as many
people as possible might prove effective.
With all the options on your computer, the right
person could be a few clicks away.
Dating Gone Digital
The Internetis the new place where people
of all ages can connect and
perhaps find love.
By Ron Haraka
Clifton Merchant • February 2015 49
February 2015 • Clifton Merchant50
Mystery, art, history andsculpture combine onFriday, February 13th at
Lambert Castle. The Passaic
County Historical Society
(PCHS) hosts a Valentine’s
Eve Masquerade Ball and
Fundraiser from 7 to 10 pm at
its Victorian castle on 3 Valley
Rd., Paterson.
Now home to PCHS’s
museum and library and dec-
orated with stained glass, life-
sized sculptures and a diverse
collection of art, the castle
was built in 1892 by
Catholina Lambert, the owner
of a Paterson silk mill.
Constructed in the Medieval
Revival architectural style,
Lambert’s dream was to build
a home reminiscent of the castles in Great Britain he
recalled from his youth.
He did just that and hosted parties there to showcase
his success. Among his guests in 1898 were President
William McKinley and Vice President Garret Hobart, as
well as hundreds of friends from New York’s elite. By
1913, the Paterson silk strikes began and Lambert’s for-
tunes changed. In 1916, he auctioned off 368 paintings,
32 sculptures and sold one of his silk factories before
declaring bankruptcy and
liquidating his company.
Catholina Lambert died in
his castle on Feb. 15, 1923
at the age of 89. He is
buried next to his wife,
Isabella in Paterson’s Cedar
Lawn Cemetery.
The Castle was sold to
the City of Paterson in
1925, transferred to Passaic
County in 1928, added to
the National Register of
Historic Places in 1976, and
is operated by the non-prof-
it PCHS.
But as far as this year’s
romanticly inspired
fundraiser, the attire is
semi-formal and a mask is a
must for those who wish to
explore three floors of art and historical artifacts in the
Castle on the eve of Valentine’s Day.
Come dance with your date, explore the nooks and
winding stairwells of this expansive and historic home.
A Venetian table of sweets will entice and a well-stocked
cash bar may help to summon the spirits. Tickets are
$25. Can you think of anything more romantic for
Valentine’s Eve than donning a mask and dancing the
night away? If not, call 973-247-0085 ext 201.
Good Neighbors,Great Rates
Thomas Tobin973-779-4248
Bill G. Eljouzi973-478-9500
Roofing • Siding • Gutters Ventilation • Chimneys
973-772-8451
Love Stories A Masquerade
Valentine’s Eve Masquerade
Come and see why over 145 students from Cliftonare making PC their high school of choice!
Members of the Class of 2014 earned about $66 million in scholarships and grants.Clifton graduates earned over $3 million of those scholarships and grants.
Scan theQR code for
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• New Tablet Program & Online Classes• 143 Courses, Including - 27 Honors Classes & 19 AP Classes• New Track & AstroTurf Stadium Field• Full Music Program & Marching Band• Stable, Strong, & Future Focused• Cost Effective Tuition• Large School Offerings, Small Class Size• Fully Wireless Facility
Clifton Merchant • February 2015 51
February 2015 • Clifton Merchant52
Business & Commerce
Rafael Cuellar could have been a retired US NavyCommander today. He could have been above 10
years into that retirement by now, collecting a tidy
pension with full health benefits. He could have been
selfish and fulfilled his dreams.
But his family needed him.
Cuellar was a lieutenant on active duty in the US
Navy when his father Evelio died unexpectedly in May
1996.
Evelio Cuellar was a Cuban immigrant who fled to
Madrid, Spain with his wife Daisy and son Evelio, Jr.
in the ‘60s. It was there that Rafael was born.
The family then came to the United States and
Evelio opened a bodega in Paterson in 1974. He ran the
494 Supermarket for a decade before selling his stake
to his partner. Evelio then formed ECO & Sons, Inc. as
the holding company for President Supermarket on the
corners of Washington, Jefferson and Hoover in
Passaic. The store was extremely successful because
Cuellar catered to the various demographics in the area.
Three years after his father bought President, Rafael
graduated Paul VI High School, which was then on
Valley Rd. in Clifton in 1987. He was just 17, but Cuellar
immediately enlisted in the Navy.
Shop Right on Paulison Ave.
Clifton Merchant • February 2015 53
“I wanted to pay for college on my own
and be my own man,” he said. Cuellar went
to Fordham University on an NROTC schol-
arship and earned a Bachelor of Arts in
Economics.
He then became an officer aboard the USS
Detroit and worked his way up to the rank of
Lieutenant. Rafael was responsible for 250 sailors and
a $14 million quarterly budget. He was getting set to
attend medical school to become a Navy surgeon when
his father passed away one Saturday. Rafael was then
faced with a difficult choice.
“It took me about three seconds,” Cuellar said of his
decision to sacrifice his lifelong goal in order to return
home and help his family. Rafael received a hardship
discharge, and just like that, his nearly decade-long
tenure in the military was over.
Cuellar returned home to grieve with his mother and
brother. He also had the responsibility of taking over
his father’s business.
Rafael’s structured military background and strong
work ethic formed from laboring at his dad’s store since
he was five made him a natural to follow in his father’s
entrepreneurial footsteps.
Cuellar boosted revenue by 25 percent during his first
year as CEO of ECO & Sons. He eliminated the practice
of micromanaging at President and allowed many
employees to be their own managers.
One of those employees who worked his way up the
employment ladder is store manager Guillermo Garcia,
45. He immigrated to the United States from Peru in
1988 and soon got a job as a cashier at President.
Garcia was eventually promoted to frozen foods man-
ager and then dairy manager.
He got married in 2002 and moved with his wife to
Georgia to work for Kroeger Supermarkets. Garcia
was there for a couple years before he received a phone
call from Cuellar.
“This is my neighborhood, these are my
neighbors,” said Rafael Cuellar. “They’re my customers, but they’re also my friends.”
February 2015 • Clifton Merchant54
Business & Commerce
“Raffy called me and told me he needed me back to
run the place,” said Garcia, who has now been with
Cuellar for 18 years.
“You can train anyone to do anything, but you can’t
train loyalty,” Cuellar said.
He eventually sold President in 2005 in order to pur-
sue a much larger business venture. Cuellar bought the
massive ShopRite on Paulison Ave. at the
Clifton/Passaic border. He and his form went from
owning a 13,500 sq. ft. store to a 65,000 sq. ft. fran-
chise.
“It’s difficult to run a store like this as an independent,”
said Cuellar, who’s the only Hispanic and the youngest
ShopRite owner among the 205 in the nation. “You’ve
got to be part of the community.”
He did this by stocking the shelves with a whole line
of Spanish, Arabic and Kosher products to
satisfy the demand of his diverse clientele. The
Rosemawr resident sees this diversity right in front of him
when he peers through the windows of his second floor
office.
“I come up here on a Sunday and I look down at my
customers,” he said. “I can see an Orthodox Jewish
lady shopping right next to a Muslim woman dressed in
a burqa.” A wide selection of ethnic food isn’t the only
unique part of Cuellar’s ShopRite.
He employs a chef who teaches cooking classes to
about ten customers on Tuesdays and Thursdays at the
“Presidential Cafe” (a tribute to his old store). The chef
also serves lunch from 11 am to 3 pm with a different
speciality everyday.
Cuellar walks the aisles of his ShopRite at least once
a day. He often runs into people he’s known since he
was a little boy and converses in English or Spanish.
“This is my neighborhood, these are my neighbors,”
Cuellar said on a recent tour of the store. “They’re my
customers, but they’re also my friends.”
Back upstairs in Cuellar’s office, several pictures
hang on the wall. There’s one of him with former
President George H.W. Bush at a National Republican
Gala. There’s another with him and former Secretary
of State Colin Powell at William Paterson University.
A third photo features Cuellar smiling alongside former
New Jersey Governor Christine Todd Whitman at her
farm. A fourth shows him with former Speaker of the
House Newt Gingrich at a US Hispanic Chamber of
Commerce event.
But all the way on the left side of the wall, closer to
Cuellar’s desk than any of the patriotic photographs, is
a picture of Rafael with his smiling brother and father
at a President Supermarket Mother’s Day event in the
mid ‘90s. It’s easy to see why he came back.
Rafael Cuellar, (at right) with his brother Evelio, Jr. and their father Evelio in the mid ‘90s at President Supermarket.Evelio, Sr. passed away in May 1996 and Rafael left a 10 year career as a US Navy officer to run the family business.
Clifton Merchant • February 2015 55
February 2015 • Clifton Merchant56
By Kim Renta
Waiting for Christmas cast in 2005 includedPriscila Bellia, Jeannie Kempa,Ashley Leeshock, Becca Pickett,Michael Press, Chris Robertson,
Sarah Robertson, Sandra Rudnitzky,Cara Ruggiero, Kate Sugarman,
Maren Sugarman, Marnie Sugarman,Paul Sugarman, Cassandra Trujillo,
Karen Yeamans andKarla Joelle Yeamans.
Waiting FOR
Christmas
Some 10 years ago, a hand-
ful of friends decided that
our city’s cultural landscape
needed another artistic out-
let. By then, the Clifton
Arts Center and Sculpture
Park on the municipal cam-
pus were in full bloom. The
Clifton Association of Artists
were already decades into
their exhibitions of fine arts.
It all began with...
But Theater League of Clifton (TLC) founder andcurrent President Mark Peterson and a group of other
Clifton thespians realized that their love of live per-
formance art always required them to venture beyond
Clifton for a stage.
In a city of more than 80,000 residents, there was no
community theater, no outlet for actors and actresses
beyond our schools.
That changed in July 2005 when Peterson, along
with the member of the TLC’s first board of directors,
John Traier, Kathleen Kellaigh and Barbara Novak,
became founders of The Theater League of Clifton.
They soon realized that ensuring the success of TLC
would be a major undertaking. But as Peterson
recalled, they were united in their belief that such an
undertaking was well worth the effort.
With an intimate kick-off fundraiser in Peterson’s
Rosemawr backyard in Sept. 2005, the seed was plant-
ed to introduce Clifton’s new community theater com-
pany. TLC’s inaugural show was an original production
written by Montclair resident Kirk Woodward entitled
Waiting for Christmas. More shows followed in leased
space at the architecturally beautiful but somewhat
cramped auditorium at School #3 on Washington Ave.
Clifton Merchant • February 2015 57
Sticking True to the MissionThe mission of TLC is to cultivate the arts and enter-
tainment by connecting residents through theater, by
entertaining, enlightening and uplifting those who
attend TLC productions.
The second mandate is
to nurture emerging talent
and TLC does that by
awarding annual scholar-
ships to CHS seniors pur-
suing an education in the
field of the arts. Just like
the theater productions, the
scholarship program has
received wide support from
the Clifton community.
Over the decade, 21
CHS grads have received
scholarships. Among the
first was Chris Robertson,
CHS 2007 who noted that
not only was it an honor to
be the first to receive the
TLC scholarship, but that encouraged his training in
NYC conservatory programs. In 2007, Mary and Frank
Mazzarisi commemorated the 10th anniversary of the
passing of their daughter JoAnna Martin, by donating
$500 to TLC’s scholarship fund in her name.
Cast of the Christmas cabaret in 2009 staged at the Clifton Arts Center.
Martin, a 1978 graduate of CHS, went on to pursue
her dream of acting and dancing with a promising
career in Hollywood, which included a recurring role in
the The Young and the Restless and roles in films such
as Nixon. With the help of additional donors, the
Mazzarisis have continued to honor JoAnna by present-
ing gifts in her name at the annual Scholarship Awards
Presentation at CHS. “She would love this,” said Mary
Mazzarisi, reflecting on her daughter’s wishes.
In the spring of 2012, TLC moved to its current
home at the Theresa Aprea Theater in The Learning
Center on Scoles Ave. The larger venue allows more
elaborate productions, larger sets, ensemble casts and
fabulous costumes, such as last year’s hugely popular
production of Fiddler on the Roof (pictured above).
TLC also offers murder mystery dinner theaters at
Mario’s Restaurant. The next is Once Upon A Mystery,written and directed by Kirk Woodward. Help solve
whodunit? on Feb 27, 28 and March 1, 6, 7, 8. Tickets
are $40, including dinner and show. That will be fol-
lowed by the Broadway classic, South Pacific. This
epic musical romance by James A. Michener centers
on a group of American sailors and Navy nurses sta-
tioned in the South Pacific during World War II. Dates
are May 8, 9, 10 and 15, 16 and 17 and it is staged at
the Theresa Aprea Theater at The Learning Center, 199
Scoles Ave., Clifton.
Reflecting on the proudest moments of the past
decade with TLC, Peterson emphasizes the cama-
raderie that is a part of theater life.
“Finding friends who love the same things, who love
the arts and who work together like a team to get things
done brings great satisfaction,” said Peterson. “TLC is
like family. Our people store props in their basements,
help us paint sets, anything that needs to be done, they
are always available.”
“The support that we have received from our com-
munity, audiences, actors and all the talented people
behind the scenes helped estab-
lished TLC as a highly regarded
and recognized community the-
ater,” he added. “As I reflect
back to when we started, I
thought then about the movie AField of Dreams. The message
of that movie was ‘build it and
they will come.’ Our audiences
have been coming back year
after year and making our July
2005 dream a reality.”
To volunteer, perform, help
out or to learn more, leave a
message at 973-928-7668 or go
to theaterleagueofclifton.com.
February 2015 • Clifton Merchant58
Top left, a Clifton Mustang Marching Band Majorette atthe 2014 Veterans Parade in Downtown Clifton. Next to heris the landmark Roche Pharmaceuticals building on Route 3.That building and others on the campus will be redevelopedby Hackensack University Medical Center and Seton HallUniversity into a private medical school.Top right, Dr. Thomas A. Graziano M.D., D.P.M.; Atlas
Chiropractic’s Christa D’Amato D.C., BCAO; Mt. ProspectAve. resident Gary Perino; Dr. Josephine V. Jasper M.D.; DavidOsorio who attends Berkeley College; Marika Pap of theHungarian Meat Market and Billy and Lisa Meltzer of the
sporting goods store which bears their family name and is nowin its 100th year. From the center left, that’s the GrandeSaloon on Van Houten Ave., the Country Club Towers onHepburn Rd. and an illustration of historic Botany Village.Bottom left is a senior CHS Mustang Soccer player with
his mother at Varsity Night; Adriana Blauvelt of DowntownClifton’s Ex-Terminator Pest Control; Tom Hawrylko Jr. ofTomahawk Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning; recently retiredDeputy Fire Chief Norm Tahan; Rovshan Kerimov who ownsand operates Kerimoff Shoe & Handbag Repairs on CliftonAve., with his tailor, Aneta Strekowska.
Clifton Merchant • February 2015 59
within this magazine or at our office.
Find the9thEDITION
February 2015 • Clifton Merchant60
Challenge AcceptedAnuja Brahmbhatt pushes herself to see
exactly where her limits are. To this point,
she seems to have very few.
“I am a firm believer in challenging
yourself...to see what you’re capable of.”
The CHS senior attended WWMS after
completing her primary education in Lodi.
When she considers her journey thus far,
she credits her parents and teachers for
instilling in her a drive to succeed and a
strong work ethic.
“Many teachers at CHS care deeply for
their students and I hope one day I fulfill
the expectations they have set for me.”
A person she mentions in particular is
Biology teacher Steven Meck, who taught
Brahmbhatt her favorite subject at the
freshman and AP level.
“It is fascinating to learn how some liv-
ing organisms adapt in order to survive
and to learn about the genetic makeup of
human beings. Having a teacher as pas-
sionate about Biology as Mr. Meck can
lead to everyone liking the subject.”
Brahmbhatt now aspires to parlay that
passion for living things into a major in
Biology, followed by a career in medicine.
“I would like to be an Oncologist. I want to be able
to remind cancer patients that there is hope.”
On top of her biological brilliance, Brahmbhatt is
also somewhat of an explorer. She has learned so much
about different students through different cultures, and
hopes to continue that trend.
“I like to travel and go on adventures...to explore
new things while you’re young and free from extreme
responsibilities such as having a family, job, house...”
She is a member of the Key Club, Knights of
Pythagoras, Asian Club, Relay for Life, and manager of
the cross country and indoor track team.
Building For The Future
Tiffany Richards is not only a
part of the Marine Corps JROTC
program at CHS, but she is also the
unit’s Commanding Officer.
In addition to JROTC, Richards
is the Vice President of the History
Club, and plays varsity lacrosse
and varsity basketball for the
Mustangs. Her favorite subject is
math, “because I’m really good
with numbers.”
Her numbers, dedication and
hard work have really paid off—
she just received up to $180,000
for college thanks to the NROTC-Marine Option
Scholarship program. She can attend the college of her
choice as a part of a military delayed-entry program.
The only stipulation is that after she completes her
degree at an approved NROTC program she’ll follow
that by serving a hitch with the Marines—as an officer.
This diverse lifetime Cliftonite went to School 8,
then attended the intimately sized Classical Academy
Charter School on Valley Rd. before making the transi-
tion to the 3,000+ student CHS campus.
Now with money in the bank, so to speak, and the
burden off herself or her parents, she revels in the vast
opportunities afforded to her by a bigger school.
Tiffany Richards Tiana Roland
Anuja Brahmbhatt
By Ron Haraka
Richards’ advice to the newcomers
to CHS: “Push and try different
things like team sports or one of our
many clubs.” Richards plans to com-
bine her military background with
her mathematical skills to make for a
promising career as a civil engineer.
Jazzing Things Up A BitSamantha Mei C. Dong has a flair
for the artistic and the creative.
“I am an enthusiastic pianist play-
ing for eight years and have qualified
in the Music Educator’s Association of New Jersey
audition when I was eleven,” she says proudly, as she
continues down the lines of her impressive performing
arts resume.
“I was pianist for the WWMS jazz band,” where
Dong explains she had her first improvised solo. “And
performed for talent show, SingSations, and musical.”
Although her creative side stands out, Dong main-
tains a left-brain right-brain balance in the classroom,
stating that English and History are her favorite sub-
jects.
“I enjoy telling and reading stories
and expressing emotions on paper.
English, in my opinion, is my imagi-
native side. History, through philoso-
phy, teaches me practical lessons that
are not fiction but fact, therefore,
expressing my logical side.”
Outside the classroom, she is a part
of the Student Council, Forensic
Science Club, Phoenix Art Magazine,
and musical.
Dong is grateful for the people with
whom she has come into contact over
her time at CHS. She recalls a special moment.
“I returned back to school after a long absence and
was greeted with much support and aid from my peers
and teachers.”
Three years away from graduation, Dong has an
evolving goal in mind. “I dream to help and inspire
people in the future such as teachers, spokespeople and
writers. As of now, teachers have always been monu-
mental figures in my life and I find importance in the
fact that these people are working to teach, care, and
influence young minds.”
Samantha Mei C. Dong
Clifton Merchant • February 2015 61
February 2015 • Clifton Merchant62
Outstanding Mustangs
Numbers Game
Tiana Roland began her academic
career at School 17, having fond
memories of now CHS principal Mr.
Anthony Orlando at the Annual Field
Days. She then attended Classical
Academy Charter School, before
becoming a freshman at the CHS
Annex. Roland is a numbers person
and loves how math “makes her think
and look at life differently.”
Beyond Algebra, Roland enjoys her
gym class with Mr. West, particularly
the competitive nature of basketball.
Hoping to try out for the Lady
Mustangs next year, she noted how she can translate
her math problem solving skills onto the basketball
court when positioning herself for the best shot.
Roland represents the Brighton Rd. Annex well, and
loves her school because it is small and everyone is
nice. “Even though there are many different back-
grounds, my classmates are friendly and willing to help
each other.”
Lending A HandSenior Kayla Ware likes to stay active and shares
that passion by helping others. “I have enjoyed playing
sports such as soccer and lacrosse. This year I did not
play, but volunteered as a Clifton Rec coach.” she says.
“I also enjoy coaching my little
brother and sister during the indoor
soccer season at the Clifton Boys &
Girls Club.”
When she’s not coaching, she’s
volunteering in other ways.
“I enjoy face painting with my
mom's friend Rachel Brown who face
paints with different children’s chari-
table organizations.”
Ware attended School 14 and 9.
There she fostered the friendships she
would maintain while attending
CCMS and high school. At CHS, her
favorite and best subject is English
because she enjoys reading.
Additionally, she greatly appreciates “meeting and
developing the friendships I have made throughout
high school.”
Ware has a message for incoming students, “There
are so many different clubs, sports, and activities in the
school that there is no reason not to get involved. There
is something for everyone. Make the best of it. High
school goes by fast.”
She is considering a stint in the Army after gradua-
tion, from which she hopes to enter the medical field.
“I am currently interning at Prostaff Physical
Therapy on Broad St. to help me decide if I would want
to go to college for nursing or physical therapy.”
Kayla Ware
Clifton Merchant • February 2015 63
The CHS Prom Fashion Show is March 29 at 2 pm. It
is presented with the support of CASA (Clifton Against
Substance Abuse) and again staged at the JFK
Auditorium. The event is a major fundraiser for the
Class of 2015 and the cost of admission ($10) helps
fund tickets for Project Graduation.
For the show, the models—seniors from the Class of
2015—will be styling tuxedos donated by Deluxe
Formal Wear of Clifton. Gowns will be donated by
BouBou, Sisters Bridal Boutique, Unique Designs by
Viki and VESA.
Money raised goes to underwrite the cost of Project
Graduation on June 26 right after Commencement,
which this year, will likely be on the new turf at Clifton
School’s Stadium. Project Graduation is an all night
party with a lock-in at an undisclosed resort, a place
where graduating seniors are safe from alcohol and
drugs. Class of 2015 seniors will meet at CHS and are
then taken by bus to the resort at 10 pm. They remain
there with plenty of food and time to frolic. Doors are
locked until 5 am and then they are bussed back to CHS.
Want to help out as a sponsor, contribute the styling
services of your salon or somehow get involved? Call
chair Nancy Delaney at 973-951-5024.
A CASA Project Graduation Pasta Buffet TrickyTray is on Feb. 27 at 6:30 pm at the Boys & Girls Club.
The $30 ticket includes dinner and entertainment.
Performing will be hypnotist Dan Rose, suitable for
those over age 18—sorry, no students. All proceeds fro
mthe event will go to Project Graduation so purchase
tickets in advance. To donate gifts and prizes for the
Tricky Tray, call Tom Whittles at 973-800-2938 or
Nancy Delaney at 973-951-5024.
Here are some of the Mustang models set to walk the runway for the March 29 CHS Prom Fashion show to benefit 2015Project Graduation: Jessenia Roldan, Shakira Kisijara, Breanna Calderon, Mansa Ale, Yasmine Oviedo, Steven Leal,Lenny Contreras 3. Above right are Alexandra Wohr, Nicole Rzekice, Gilan Saidian, Matthew Zybura, Nick Garruto.
February 2015 • Clifton Merchant64
Birthdays & Celebrations - February 2015
Alison Degen.......................2/1Robyn Feldman................... 2/1Jack Houston ...................... 2/1Kristin Reilly........................ 2/1Mary Jane Varga................ 2/1Emil Soltis, Jr ...................... 2/2Joseph Fierro ...................... 2/3Bob Naletko....................... 2/3Catherine Grace Burns ........ 2/4John Nittolo........................ 2/5
Courtney Carlson................ 2/6Joseph DeSomma ............... 2/6Robert D’Alessio ................. 2/7Nicole Tahan...................... 2/7Tara Fueshko ...................... 2/8Jamie Carr ......................... 2/9Craig Grieco...................... 2/9Steven Becker ................... 2/10Bryan Kelly....................... 2/10Matthew Seitz .................. 2/10
Valentine Le Ster ............... 2/11Sarah Mikolajczyk ............ 2/11Nick Zecchino .................. 2/11Joseph Hilla...................... 2/12Anthony Musleh................ 2/12Dolores Rando.................. 2/12John Hodorovych.............. 2/13Amin Zamlout................... 2/13Mark Gallo ...................... 2/14Jeanette Ann Saia............. 2/14Orest Luzniak ................... 2/14Christine Canavan ............ 2/15Chickie Curtis ................... 2/15Frank Klippel .................... 2/15M. Louis Poles .................. 2/15Ashley Brandecker ............ 2/17Leann Perez...................... 2/17Lorraine Rothe .................. 2/17Michael Del Re................. 2/18Richie Bandurski ............... 2/19Stephanie Peterson............ 2/19Michael Papa................... 2/20Robert Mosciszko.............. 2/21Taylor Jesch ...................... 2/22Diana Murphy .................. 2/22John T. Saccoman ............. 2/22Robert Adamo.................. 2/24Eileen Feldman ................. 2/24Kimberly Mistretta ............. 2/24
Happy Birthday to...Send dates & names... [email protected]
Ashley Rose Montague turns 9 on Feb. 6. Happy Birthday to Donna Hawrylko on Feb. 25. AlejandraP. Gonzales is also 9 on Feb. 28. Natalie Pych turns 14 on Feb. 8. Goofy Bob De Liberto celebrates51 on Feb. 11. Birthday Greetings Lux siblings—Eric turns 19 on Feb. 3 & Renee turns 13 on Feb. 14.
Clifton Merchant • February 2015 65
Luciano Vincent DeMayowill celebrate his first birthday onFeb. 8. He is pictured with hisdad Richie from Villa Roma
Pizzeria & Restaurant on CliftonAve. across from city hall.
Kimberly Gasior .............. 2/26Brittany Helwig................ 2/27Joyce Penaranda ............. 2/27Brittany Pinter .................. 2/27Lauren Ricca.................... 2/27Charlie Galluzzo ............. 2/28Mark Zecchino ................ 2/28
Don Knapp celebrates abirthday on Feb. 6.
Mary and Bob Henncelebrate their wedding anniversary on Feb. 3.
February 2015 • Clifton Merchant66
Events & Briefs
The Feast Day of St. Joseph—the
spouse of the Blessed Virgin
Mary—is on March 19. In Sicily,
where St. Joseph is a Patron, and
here in many Italian-American
communities, thanks are given on
that day to St. Joseph—San
Giuseppe—for preventing a famine
in Sicily during the Middle Ages.
Keeping that tradition alive, the
85th Geraci Citizens League St.
Joseph’s Dinner Dance is on March
7 at The Brownstone at 6:30 pm.
Tickets are $90. Coordinated by
Nina and Frank Corradino, those
who attend will enjoy traditional
pasta dishes, finocchi and zeppoli,
dancing and music. For tickets,
call the Corradino at 973-278-0356
or 973-470-8982.
The Main Event of Love is a
Valentine’s Cabaret of music pro-
duced by Joseph Schreck, Jr. of
Blue State Productions, which calls
St. Peter’s Episcopal Church on
Clifton Ave. its home. The cabaret
features the vocalists pictured
above performing songs from bal-
lads to Broadway tunes touching on
many aspects of eros and romance.
A Feb. 8 performance is at St.
Philip’s Marian Hall, 797 Valley
Rd. A pasta buffet begins a 2 pm
with the show at 3 and the cost is
$25. On Feb. 13 and 14, the 8 pm
shows are at St. Peter’s Episcopal,
380 Clifton Ave. Tickets are $20.
These benefit performances will
help raise funds for the American
Heart Association’s Go Red for
Women and Troop 21 Eagle Scout
Project benefiting the renovation of
St. Philip choir loft.
Reserve seats and more details
are at bluestateproductions.com,
email [email protected] or
call 973-607-1924. There is limited
cabaret style seating—order now.
Above left, Nina and Frank Corradino, organizers of the 85th annual St. Joseph’s dinner. At right, Eileen Hladky, MarkBigica, Nancy Bach, Mac McCormick (along with Luisa Fuentes, not pictured) perform in the Main Event of Love.
Tomahawk Promotions
1288 main avenue
Clifton, NJ 07011
PRSRT STDU.S. Postage
PAIDPhila Pa 191PeRmiT No. 7510