clifton merchant magazine - february 2015

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

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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

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56

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


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


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.

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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


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.



It was so right that Cemal and Jacqueline wed three times: in Christian, Muslim and civil ceremonies.



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.”


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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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

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


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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


Laura and Jim with Jimmy, Jack, Christie, Kate.


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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.



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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

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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.


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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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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


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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?”


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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

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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.


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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.


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


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.

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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.

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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.”



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.)”


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.



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


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.

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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.


“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.”


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.


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.


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.


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.


within this magazine or at our office.

Find the9thEDITION


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



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


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.


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.


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.


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

clifton merchant magazine - february 2015

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