SHOUT OUT: Despite the rain, the 30th Annual Special Olympics Torch Run made its way into New Jersey early this morning, with several stops on the route through Bergen County.

Stops in Ridgewood included the Willard and Ridge elementary Schools, where soggy but smiling law enforcement officers were cheered on by pupils, teachers and staff members.

Several runners got high fives.

More than 3,000 dedicated law enforcement officers were helping carry the “Flame of Hope” more than 750 miles across the state – stopping at Emerson, Fair Lawn, Hillsdale, Lodi, Lyndhurst, Northvale and Ramsey, among other area sites.

The destination: The College of New Jersey in Ewing, where the torch was to light the cauldron officially launching the Special Olympics New Jersey 2013 Summer Games.

One of the top grassroots fundraising organizations for Special Olympics, the Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) is part of an international campaign coordinated and managed by all divisions of law enforcement officers and officials from throughout the world.

Their mission: to raise money and awareness of Special Olympics.

Last year, the LETR for Special Olympics New Jersey raised more than $2.9 million.

INFO: www.njtorchrun.org

ShopRite customers and associates in several towns provided early-morning refreshments along the route, which was winding through more than 300 communities.

Participating law enforcement officers have been raising funds for months leading up to the event.

You can track the Torch Run in real-time on tomorrow by logging on to www.TrackTheTorchNJ.org.

Torch Run support vehicles are outfitted with GPS units that will display torch locations, enabling users to find photo opportunities along the route by showing approximate arrival times.

Special Olympics New Jersey provides free year-round sports training and athletic competition in 24 Olympic-type sports for more than 23,000 children and adults with intellectual disabilities, giving them continuing opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy and participate in a sharing of gifts, skills and friendship with their families, other Special Olympics athletes and the community.

STORY / PHOTOS: Boyd A. Loving

SHOUT OUT: One of Bergen County’s most popular events is set for this Friday when Sheriff Michael Saudino’s office joins 25 local and county law enforcement agencies and a host of excited children who get to be “Chief for a Day.”

The third annual celebration gives youngsters with chronic health conditions a behind-the-scenes look at law enforcement and a public showing of them in uniforms, with badges.

This year’s honorary chiefs, selected by their individual departments, range from 6 to 15 years old.

Now in its third year, “Chief for a Day” has been wildly successful — and with good reason — since Saudino launched it.

Consider:

Each child is picked up at home at 8 a.m. by a patrol car and driven to their local police department for breakfast with their chief (or the sheriff or prosecutor), followed by a swearing-in ceremony.

They are then given tours of the departments.

By 11:30, they all converge at the Bergen County Justice Center in Hackensack for a group photo.

Then comes a motorcade procession to the Landmark Restaurant on Route 17 in East Rutherford for a lunch ceremony, with speakers and entertainment.

The sponsoring agencies:

Bergen County Sheriff’s Office
Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office
Bergenfield Police Department
Elmwood Park Police Department
Emerson Police Department
Englewood Cliffs Police Department
Fairview Police Department
Fort Lee Police Department
Garfield Police Department
Hackensack Police Department
Hasbrouck Heights Police Department
Maywood Police Department
Montvale Police Department
North Arlington Police Department
Paramus Police Department
Park Ridge Police Department
Ridgewood Police Department
Rochelle Park Police Department
Rutherford Police Department
Saddle Brook Police Department
Teaneck Police Department
Tenafly Police Department
Upper Saddle River Police Department
Wallington Police Department
Washington Township Police Department
Westwood Police Department

CHECK BACK TOMORROW OR THURSDAY FOR THE NAMES OF THE PARTICIPATING CHILDREN

SHOUT OUT: Bergen County Sheriff Michael Saudino and Deputy Sheriff Walter Hutchinson will be among those honored by the National Police Defense Foundation at this year’s New Jersey State Troopers Coalition dinner at the Venetian in Garfield — an event that attracts major figures from local and state law enforcement each year.

Twenty-five percent of the proceeds of the $100-a-plate event will go to “Operation Kids,” a special NPDF program that runs mercy missions to help children in poor counties get life-saving surgeries.

NPDF State Troopers Coalition award

Saudino and Hutchinson will join a select group being recognized at the Oct. 10 dinner at the Venetian in Garfield “for outstanding public service and related accomplishments that support law enforcement,” said Joseph Occhipinti, the founder and president of the NPDF.

They also include Hackensack attorney Robert Galantucci, who has defended scores of police officers over the years — and is believed to be the odds-on favorite as a successor if Bergen County Prosecutor John L. Molinelli leaves office.

In addition, citations will be presented to State Police troopers for meritorious service, public service and valor.

2013 AWARD RECIPIENTS:

Man of the Year: Bergen County Sheriff Michael Saudino
Lifetime Achievement:  Robert L. Galantucci
Administrator’s Award: Dr. Ali “Dr. Maz” Mazandarani
Member of the Year: Deputy Sheriff Walter Hutchinson
Safe Cop Achievement: Dr. Ira Klemons

TICKETS: Call 877-325-KIDS or visit www.npdf.org

The NPDF – a congressionally-recognized and IRS-designated non-profit organization — boasts more than 170,000 members and supporters nationwide and in a dozen foreign countries. It provides free medical support services to all law enforcement personnel who experience a job related illness and disability (the toll-free number: 888-SAFE COP).

Defense attorney Robert “Bob” Galantucci

The NPDF has also earned a reputation defending law enforcement officers who’ve been wrongly charged with crimes. But it’s through the multi-faceted “Operations Kids” initiative that the organization arguably has its biggest impact.

Besides arranging life-saving operations, the program distributes free child fingerprint kits to parents; posts periodic rewards for missing & kidnapped children in the U.S. and provides financial assistance to young crime victims, among other programs.

It also funds “Project Pedophile,” a unique initiative that rewards any a $1,000 U.S. Savings Bond who provides information leading to the federal arrest and conviction of any pedophile soliciting victims on the Internet.

The State Troopers Coalition is an offshoot of the foundation.

“Since its inception, the State Troopers Coaltion has brought hope and strength to the lives of many,” Gov. Chris Christie once wrote in a letter to the group. “The coalition has provided medical and legal support services and has established funds for a number of public safety programs.”

(NOTE: CLIFFVIEW PILOT Publisher/Editor Jerry DeMarco was a 2012 NPDF State Troopers Coalition Awards recipient.)

A PUBLISHER WRITES: “This is the best day of my life!” exclaimed 15-year-old Jonah Gold of Tenafly, enjoying the attention heaped on him as “Chief for a Day.”

Jonah has what is known as Aicardi Guitierez Syndrome, a genetic disease that afflicts youngsters with spasms and seizures, among other severe disabilities.

Escorted by Tenafly’s actual top cop, Police Chief Robert Chamberlain, the teen yesterday joined two dozen other Bergen County kids with chronic disabilities — as well as their parents and scores of law enforcement officers — for what has become a very special annual event.

Looking for a few good men or women? Bergen has plenty.

Saudino w/Brian Tuch, Chamberlain w/Jonah Gold (COURTESY BCSO)

“I’ve been in law enforcement for more than 30 years,” Sheriff Michael Saudino told me yesterday. “I think I speak for all of the officers here today when I say that we live for days like today – days when we can have a positive impact on our communities and celebrate life.”

The sheriff created “Chief for a Day” beginning with a modest number of chiefs and other officers. In just three years, it has become one of the most popular outings in the county.

A tremendous amount of credit goes to Saudino, who’s shown a commitment to children since his early days as a patrolman — and on through the ranks to Emerson police chief before voters elected him sheriff in 2010.

But kudos, as well, go to the various chiefs who participated. They were smiling just as broadly as the youngsters they got to spend their day with.

(PHOTO, TOP: Washington Township Police Chief Randy Ciocco with honorary chief, Washington School student Jackie Baez)

“The experience was both humbling and rewarding,” Fairview Police Chief Frank DelVecchio told me. “In a world with so many problems these kids, who are battling illnesses and some life threatening, display something missing in today’s society: courage and bravery.

Maywood Police Chief David Pegg with Ava Borntrager

“Although we as chiefs were able to bring them happiness and a day hopefully they will never forget, the ‘little chiefs’ actually taught us something: that family, community, faith and hope are so important in each of our lives,” said DelVecchio, who thanked Saudino and his staff for assembling such an inspiring program.

“It’s equally important to our core mission of what we do as public safety administrators,” Saddle Brook Police Chief Robert Kugler said. “I consider it even more important because it energizes me to focus on what’s important in life.”

“It definitely reminds us all why we took this job,” added Washington Township Police Chief Randy Ciocco.

Kudos also to the various PBAs for their dedication to the cause, and to several businesses that donated goods, services and funds to make it all possible, beginning with The Landmark Restaurant in East Rutherford, where a gala luncheon for the honorary chiefs was held; Trophy King, Co-Ed Uniforms, and Harris Uniforms, which provided the garb, photos and awards that will surely remain lasting mementos; the Taylor Event Group, the New York International Auto Show, Kmart of Elmwood Park, the Woman’s Club of Garfield, Oak Ale House, Johnson Communications, A&P of Park Ridge, Dollar Store of Park Ridge, Saddle Brook VFW Post 3484, Joel Tobia of J&L Auto Glass and Toni Embroidery of Westwood.

• YOU SAW IT HERE FIRST: “He’s one of the night crew,” Hackensack Police Director Michael Mordaga said as he held a sleeping young Giovanni DiPersia in his arms on the steps of the Bergen County Courthouse as part of today’s annual “Chief for a Day” event coordinated by county Sheriff Michael Saudino. READ MORE….

  Jerry DeMarco
  Publisher/Editor

Each of the honorary chiefs received a uniform and was escorted by a patrol car to his or her local police headquarters for a swearing in yesterday morning, followed by a tour of the facilities. A squad-car ride to the courthouse for a group ceremony followed.

Then came a motorcade to The Landmark, where the new chiefs and their families had lunch, followed by special guest speakers and a variety of activities and entertainment.  Plaques were to awarded to each youngster.

Saudino got to mentor Brian Tuch, 15, of Teaneck, who had infant leukemia but has been in remission after a bone marrow transplant.

The sheriff called the event part of “our duty to bring care to those who need it the most.”

It is our honor to be served by him, the local chiefs and all of those who had a hand in a day to remember.

You may remember 6-year-old Marybeth Barrios (SEE: Epileptic Hasbrouck Heights girl getting service dog, thanks to ‘special angels’). Here she is with borough Police Chief Michael Colaneri.

PHOTOS (Courtesy Bergen County Sheriff’s Office):
TOP: Group shot on steps of Bergen County Courthouse in Hackensack
Saudino with Brian Tuch
LEFT: Tuck meets a K9 and his partner
RIGHT: Dylan Wallace w/Upper Saddle River Police Chief Patrick Rotella
BOTTOM: Chamberlain, Saudino, actor Danny Aiello, Jonah, NY Giant Jim Corkle

THE ROSTER:
Bergen County Sheriff’s Office – Brian Tuch
Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office – Justin Gerity
Bergenfield Police Department – Rivka Gitstein
Elmwood Park Police Department – Antonio Valenti
Emerson Police Department – Isabella & Brianna Romano
Englewood Cliffs Police Department – Michael Kontzamanis
Fairview Police Department – Sean Pelaez
Fort Lee Police Department – Albert Lopez
Garfield Police Department – Ahtziri E. Garcia
Hackensack Police Department – Rocco Malvasia & Giovanni DiPersia
Hasbrouck Heights Police Department – Marybeth Barrios
Maywood Police Department – Ava Borntrager
Montvale Police Department – Caitlin & Jacquelyn Sulzer
North Arlington Police Department – Jeffrey Kim
Paramus Police Department – Alexander T. Guerriero
Park Ridge Police Department – Joseph Mahoney
Ridgewood Police Department – Michael Feeney
Rutherford Police Department – Jarett Sartori
Saddle Brook Police Department – Nick Santolla
Teaneck Police Department – Thomas Caruso, Jr.
Tenafly Police Department – Jonah Gold
Upper Saddle River Police Department – Dylan Wallace
Wallington Police Department – Bilal Ebrahim
Washington Township Police Department – Jacqueline Baez
Westwood Police Department – Stefano Benevento

Helping to make “Chief for a Day” possible: PBA Local 134 of the Bergen County Sheriff’s Office; Elmwood Park PBA Local 185; PBA Local 46 of Garfield; Montvale PBA Local 303; Paramus PBA 186; Ridgewood PBA Local 20; Teaneck PBA Local 215; Wallington PBA Local 321; PBA Local 206 of Emerson, Haworth, Old Tappan, Oradell, Park Ridge, River Vale, Washington Township, Westwood and Woodcliff Lake, and the Maywood Police Officer’s Association.

BELOW (Photos: Mary K. Miraglia, CLIFFVIEW PILOT Courthouse Reporter):
Michael Kontzamanis w/Englewood Cliffs Police Chief Michael Cioffi
Giovanni DiPersia w/Hackensack Police Director Michael Mordaga
Nick Santolla w/Saddle Brook Police Chief Robert Kugler
Michael Feeney w/Ridgewood Police Chief John Ward
LEFT: Sean Pelaez w/Fairview Police Chief Frank DelVecchio
RIGHT: Thomas Caruso Jr. w/Teaneck Police Chief Robert Wilson
Brian Tuch w/Bergen County Sheriff Michael Saudino & NY Giants center Jim Cordle

SHOUT OUT: The popular Icebreaker gathering at Ross Dock along the Hudson River at the foot of the Palisades in Englewood Cliffs has been rescheduled for Aug. 16 after it was postponed earlier this month by a tropical storm.

Last year’s “Icebreaker” drew several hundred people as part of a weekend-long celebration of the Police Pipes and Drums of Bergen County’s 20th anniversary, capped by a massive concert at bergenPAC.

Pipe and drum bands came from Chicago, Boston and other cities, as did first responders from throughout the tri-state area and beyond.

The weather was outstanding.

That wasn’t the case the first weekend of June: Tropical storm cancels Bergen police band’s popular ‘Icebreaker’ event on Hudson

The Bergen pipe and drum band was created 21 years ago by current drum major Michael Conway and retired detective George Kellinger to honor Doug Connell, a founding member of the NYPD’s Emerald Society.

Over the year’s, Bergen’s unit has become one of the country’s most popular. It has been the lead band at many parades — leading “The Fighting 69th” up 5th Avenue for New York City’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade the past several years — and an integral part of 9/11 commemorations for more than a decade.

SHOUT OUT: Proving that some of the most effective forms of community outreach begin early, Ridgewood Police Chief John M. Ward met with a group of children and their parents at the village library for “Cookies with the Chief.”

“I want to give the community greater access to me,” said Ward, an outspoken proponent of community policing who is also an adjunct college instructor. “I also want to support the library’s efforts to encourage children to read and learn.”

Ward and the Ridgewood Public Library staff hatched the idea as part of the library’s popular “Drop-in Storytime” program.

They have three goals in mind:

• promote public access public access and engagement with the department “in a casual, non-offical setting”;

• meet with children and parents in a positive setting;

• encourage youngsters to read and learn.

Yesterday was the first of several planned visits to the library. It drew two dozen or so children and nearly 50 adults.

After a brief presentation, Ward stuck around the library to have coffee and cookies with visitors and discuss whatever was on their minds — from home security and pedestrian safety and beyond.

“Only had one cookie,” he said, jokingly.

Depending on his schedule, Ward intends to offer “Cookies with the Chief” at least two Thursdays a month beginning in August.

“I will be assisting with storytelling available to the public to discuss issues and concerns or just share a coffee or cookie,” he told CLIFFVIEW PILOT.

Storytelling with the chief?

“I will do it during lunch and have a book or text I am reviewing with me to demonstrate to the young people the benefits of reading,” Ward said.

“Learning,” he said, “is a life long process.

PHOTOS: Boyd A. Loving

Law school, college and graduate students are eligible for any of four scholarships being offered by the County Prosecutors Association of New Jersey, Inc.

The Oscar W. Rittenhouse, Andrew K. Ruotolo, Jr., Harris Y. Cotton and the John H. Stamler Memorial Scholarships are each $3,500 one-year grants awarded by the non-profit association.

To be eligible for the Oscar W. Rittenhouse Memorial Scholarship, an applicant must be a New Jersey resident accepted for admission to a law school. The applicant must have an interest in pursuing a career as a prosecutor. The applicant must also demonstrate financial need.

To be eligible for the Andrew K. Ruotolo, Jr., Memorial Scholarship, an applicant must be a New Jersey resident accepted for admission to a law school or graduate school. The applicant must exhibit an interest in, and commitment to, enhancing the rights and well-being of children through child advocacy programs. The applicant must also exhibit financial need.

To be eligible for the Harris Y. Cotton Memorial Scholarship, an applicant must be a New Jersey resident accepted for admission to a law school. The applicant must have an interest in pursuing a career as a prosecutor with an emphasis in Domestic Violence or Hate Crime prosecutions. The applicant must also demonstrate financial need.

To be eligible for the John H. Stamler Memorial Scholarship, an applicant must be a New Jersey resident and a sworn law enforcement officer seeking educational advancement on a college or graduate level to improve his or her effectiveness as a law enforcement officer. The applicant must also demonstrate financial need.

Applications must be postmarked by September 30, 2013. Personal interviews of finalists will be conducted.

Applicants will be notified of the Committee’s decision in November 2013.

Anyone interested in receiving an application can download one at: www.cpanj.info

(Scholarship recipients from previous years are ineligible.)

SHOUT OUT: Time is running out to make a donation of a new toy or money to the New Jersey Police Honor Legion’s “Christmas in July” program at the Joseph Sanzari Children’s Hospital at the Hackensack University Medical Center.

The program was launched by legion Vice-President Timothy Sullivan, who became ill with a cancer-related illness after being one of the first 9-11 responders.

Toys will be brought to the hospital on July 24 and distributed to children stricken with life-threatening illnesses.

“Some of them might not make it to the real Christmas,” Sullivan said.

You can send donations to:

New Jersey Police Honor Legion
P.O.Box #185
Wood-Ridge, New Jersey 07075

If you want to donate a toy, email: tascigar@aol.com

Or call: (201) 852-5921

The Northvale Fire Association’s annual car show is set for Aug. 3 at borough hall, with a variety of foreign, domestic and classic vehicles, among others.

It’s $30 to showcase your car or motorcycle, but walk-ins are free (The organizers ask that you register as early as possible, which will help in planning the event).

There will be food, refreshments, music and drawings with prizes.

All proceeds go to the all-volunteer Northvale Fire Association.

It runs from 1 – 4 p.m. (SEE FLIER BELOW)

INFO / REGISTRATION: NVFDcarshow@gmail.com

OR: Facebook.com/NVFDcarshow

HOW YOU CAN HELP: A special benefit dinner is being held for the family of an Oakland mother with an aggressive form of breast cancer that has spread to her brain.

Jocelyn Nissenbaum, a speech pathologist with the Elmwood Park public school district, has helped young children with disabilities — and has a 4-year-old son of her own. The disease has left her unable to work however.

The group BAD GIRLS GOOD DEEDS is having a fundraiser in New Milford the night of Frida, July 12, at Lieto Italia Ristorante in New Milford to help Nissenbaum and her family. SEE FLIER BELOW

Prizes include New York Yankees tickets, a $250 Visa card, a $25 Visa card, a customized Nintendo, two gift certificates — one for $150 and the other $75 — to Pigtails & Pals Entertainment LLC for a children’s birthday party, a year’s membership to regus.com ($350 value), four $25 gift certificates to Glen Rock’s Shades of Soho, a wine basket, coffee gift cards, and more. Also: Aral Design, a Colorado company, has donated a social media package valued at $300.

To purchase tickets: BadGirlsGoodDeeds.com

NOTE: Tickets won’t be available at the door.

SHOUT OUT: A Cliffside Park director whose music videos have been seen internationally has been nominated for a peoples choice award in Canada.

“I’m really honored and glad that the message of love that I crafted into the piece seems to be resonating,” Christopher Henze said of the 2013 Aboriginal People’s Choice Awards nomination for Winnipeg-based recording artist Sierra Noble’s “I Can See” as Video of the Year:

“The awards are fairly small scale — but not the honor or the idea that the small flame of possibility contained in the video can be fanned into a much hotter fire to warm us all a bit,” Henze told CLIFFVIEW PILOT.

Henze was only 15 when he began editing film commercially for a New York company. He also played in several rock bands and went on to produce jingles for, among others, Chips Ahoy, Tide, and Coca-Cola. He later became a sound engineer for singers Roger Daltrey, Robert Lamb of the band Chicago and the late Phoebe Snow.

Eventually, he formed Hatch Communication, producing commercials for Andrea Bocelli, handling photography for a documentary by Jeff “Fahrenheit 9/11″ Gibbs and mixing a documentary about the Manic Street Preachers.

Like Henze, Sierra Noble started young. A fiddle virtuoso, she released her first instrumental album when she was 14. She’s opened for Paul McCartney, Kid Rock and Bon Jovi and performed during the Opening Ceremonies of the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver and for the Queen of England. Her songs have been featured in several TV shows, including “Parenthood.”

Henze was the subject of a CLIFFVIEW PILOT story in October 2011 when he provided Occupy Wall Street with an identifiable symbol color by mixing the hues of the American flag to get one he named New Glory Purple.

He has three new music videos coming out in the next few weeks and is hoping to secure funding for his first feature-length documentary.

LINK: Aboriginal Peoples Choice Awards

SHOUT OUT: A 911 call that turned a 5-year-old Ridgewood girl whose mother was choking on a potato chip into a heroine wouldn’t have been possible without an educational video her father showed her.

Chloe Olson was playing nearby as her mom began choking while eating hummus and potato chips and talking on the phone with her dad Tuesday afternoon. Unable to speak, Kerry Olson told him she’d call back.

She hung up, then began having trouble dislodging the food.

“Chloe got worried and upset,” Ridgewood Police Chief John Ward told CLIFFVIEW PILOT this afternoon. “But her dad had just shown her a YouTube video on his iPad about dialing 911 in emergencies.”

Pete Harry with his daughter, Justice

The video was one of more than 230 produced by Peter M. Harry, aka: “Harry Kindergarten,” a kindergarten teacher in a Pennsylvania public school district who operates a YouTube channel popular with educators.

Putting the knowledge to use, young Chloe took the phone and dialed — thinking she was contacting her father.

Michael Shore answered the call at Northwest Bergen Central Dispatch in Ridgewood.

CLICK HERE to hear: CHLOE’S 911 CALL

“Daddy, mommy’s choking,” Chloe said.

Shore, a part-time dispatcher who also is an auxiliary police officer, immediately confirmed the address and kept Chloe calm while alerting police.

“Can you open the front door and I’ll get help over to you?” he said.

“OK,” Chloe responded.

“OK, open the front door and we’ll be right there,” Shore told her.

“Love you,” Chloe said. “Bye.”

Kerry Olson had dislodged the food as a squadron of police, firefighters and EMS workers arrived at her door, Ward said.

All thanks to a simple, 3½–minute video.

Harry began his online career by creating songs and videos for his class. From there, his DIY offerings expanded to include K-2 pupils, touching on a wide range of topics — from ABCs to counting to reading the temperature. His channel: Harry Kindergarten/YouTube

“911! (Fire Safety For Kids)” doesn’t have the catchiest of tunes for adults – it is a children’s song, after all – but it certainly resonates with youngsters Chloe’s age:

“I am so proud of her,” said Ward, who plans on giving the resourceful youngster a police commendation. “It’s very encouraging to see someone that young use her head and take action. She was scared, but she kept her wits about her.

“That’s the definition of courage — when you’re scared and you still do what needs to be done.”

No one in the Saddle Brook High School Class of 1995 wasn’t touched in some way by Erik Lemmer and Dino Colombo, two of four local young adults who died in three separate tragedies.

Next month, a labor of love by a trio of those friends will produce a benefit concert by the John Rango Band to fund two scholarships named for Lemmer and Colombo.

Bandleader John Rango is organizing and providing the entertainment for the Aug. 10 Saturday night show at VFW Post 3484 on Market Street.

“John knew both Erik and Dino very well,” said Todd Aiello, one of the co-founders – and co-funders — of the scholarships. “He has handled every detail of this concert and is doing his best to make sure we have a full house.”

“Of all the hundreds upon hundreds upon hundreds of shows I’ve played, I must say I’m extremely thrilled to be doing this one,” Rango said. “Erik Lemmer was the first person I ever played music with when I moved to Saddle Brook in High School and knew nobody.”

Aiello and Senior Class Council President Jennifer Bowen (Madia) came up with the scholarship idea while organizing their class’ 15-year reunion. They announced their idea the night of the reunion, and it was met with overwhelmingly responses.

Each year since then, Aiello and Bowen have awarded six $250 scholarships and two $200 scholarships in the names of their friends.

“It is a wonderful feeling to present these scholarships,” he told CLIFFVIEW PILOT. “Erik and Dino were two likable, passionate young men who in their very own ways had an impact on everyone they encountered at SBHS.”

With fewer than 100 students, the class was relatively small. As with most classes that size, many of the youngsters were close.

“Spending four years with the same people day in and day out, you mature and grow together,” Aiello said. “We helped each other to begin forming opinions that would shape the world around us.  It was a foundation many of us continued to build on after high school.”

That foundation was shaken when two star-crossed young adults battling drug addictions and their parents’ disapproval of their relationship died of carbon monoxide poisoning in 1997. Christopher Peterson (above, middle), a 24-year-old former Saddle Brook High School senior class president, and his 18-year-old girlfriend, Anne Marie Martinez, left suicide notes before leaving the motor running and cranking up the stereo in her 1991 Nissan 240 SX.

As expected, the suicide pact drew widespread media attention.

In a tragic irony, Lemmer (above, right) gave an interview to a local newspaper about his friends’ deaths before dying of a drug overdose himself.

Colombo’s story was somewhat different.

It was early February 2000.  He had recently been introduced to recreational drug use and was out with some friends when he ingested what he thought was cocaine. Whatever it was, it was lethal.

“He was not an abuser,” said Aiello, Colombo’s best friend. “He made a mistake and unfortunately paid for it with his life.

“It’s so important for kids to know that you don’t need to be an addict for drugs to destroy you.”

It’s one of the reasons why he and Bowen ask Saddle Brook High School students to write an essay, as part of a local package distributed by the guidance department, on the reasons for avoiding drugs.

“We read the essays and select two students to award the scholarships to,” Aiello explained. “We also use their academic resumes to choose two recipients who may most identify with Erik and Dino.”

Aiello, Bowen and Rango are hoping not only for a huge turnout at next month’s concert but also for donations from those looking to invest in our society’s future.

“Every nickel, for as long as we have money, will go to SBHS graduating seniors,” Aiello told CLIFFVIEW PILOT. “We would also like to increase the amount given.  It is tough to rely on the same sources few year after year.”

Rango said his band “is planning to cover an iconic contemporary album in its entirety” for the second set – although he cleverly won’t disclose which.

“I truly feel bringing everyone together through music in a social setting and not for a sad occasion is a celebration of their lives — and a cause that is important,” he said.

“What John is doing here is amazing,” Aiello said. “I know how gifted he is musically and have no doubts this will be an extremely successful evening.”

TICKETS: $50 tickets (includes admission and four-hour open bar)

1. Go to www.paypal.com
2. Click “Send Money”
3. Click to “Send to family or friends ($50)
4. Send to email address: sbhsclassof95@gmail.com
5. PRINT YOUR RECEIPT (that will be your ticket)

NOTE: Ticket sales end Aug. 1. No tickets will be sold at the door

INFO: Forever Friends of Anne Marie, Chris, Erik & Dino

MARK THE DATE: As it draws nearer to 10 years since Clifton Police Officer John Samra was struck and killed by a van driven by a fleeing parolee, those who knew him best are planning a special beefsteak dinner to raise money for a scholarship in his name.

Samra was a member of both groups sponsoring the Nov. 17 event — the North Jersey Chapter of the Renegade Pigs Motorcycle Club and Clifton PBA Local #36.

“John was an active member of our chapter and was extremely well-known in the community,” said motorcycle club member Brian Newman, a Bergen County Sheriff’s Officer. “He was also very active in the New Jersey Special Olympics.

“Ten years gone, but never forgotten,” Newman said, echoing the motto for the event.

Catered by the Brownstone Restaurant, the Sunday dinner will be held from 3-8 p.m. at the Wayne P.A.L. Entertainment will be provided by comedian/ventriloquist John Pizza.

TICKETS are $50 (Contact Newman: 551-265-5558).

Samra was on patrol in a residential neighborhood when he stopped the Plymouth Voyager around 10 o’clock the morning of Nov. 20, 2003. The driver took off, with Samra chasing him.

The officer positioned his cycle at the corner of Maple Place and Washington Avenue, but he was broadsided by the van.

The driver got out tried to run, but two civilians grabbed him.

Samra, 41, died of his injuries at what was then St. Joseph’s Hospital in Paterson. A U.S. Air Force veteran, he was the only Clifton police officer ever killed in the line of duty.

Luis Hernandez, who was driving while on the revoked list, was later sentenced to life plus 11 years.

Hernandez, 49, is eligible for parole in 20 years, New Jersey Department of Corrections records show. He would be only 69.

SHOUT OUT: The Mahwah Policeman’s Benevolent Association Local 143 is seeking golfers and donations of goods or services that can be used as raffle prizes and/or giveaways for a golf outing at Apple Ridge Country Club in Mahwah.

The PBA is also seeking hole sponsors for the Sept. 16 event (it’s on a Monday).

“There are  numerous sponsorship levels that we are trying to fill,” the union said.

Donations are appreciated.

“Your support will help our organization continue our scholarship program, assistance to injured or disabled members and their families, as well as continuing to aid other local charities,” Local 143 President Gerald Falotico said. “All contributors will be recognized for their donations at our event.”

For more information or to have donations picked up, Falotico asked that you contact Eric Larsen at (201) 519-2359, Kevin McCombs at (201) 741-5378 or the Mahwah PBA at (201) 529-1000.

Or visit: www.mahwahpba143.com

To email the local: mahwahpba143@yahoo.com

SHOUT OUT: A special Aug. 12 ceremony is set to honor Fair Lawn Law Enforcement Explorer Post 902, whose members just returned from a week-long academy at Monmouth University, where they won several prestigious awards.

Fair Lawn police officers joined others from throughout the state to provide “basic police recruit-styled instruction” to those interested in a career in law enforcement.

“It’s an incredible honor to work with these outstanding young men and women,” Officer Michael O’Brien, a veteran Explorers drill instructor who helps coordinate the program, told CLIFFVIEW PILOT. “Their drive, cohesiveness, and enthusiasm not only assist the law enforcement community. It also enhances their ability to someday become police officers.

“They also become role models for others.”

O’Brien himself began his career as a Demarest Explorer in 1983 and has been involved with the program ever since. He received the noteworthy William H. Spurgeon, III Award in 2005 — a national honor given annually to the person who contributes the most significant leadership to the Explorers program.

The 32-year academy is sponsored by the Police Athletic League of NJ and includes participants from throughout the state.

Now in its 10th year, Fair Lawn Law Enforcement Explorer Post 902 was dedicated in memory of Police Officer Mary Ann Collura, who was shot and killed in the line of duty on April 17, 2003.

The Explorers, ages 14 to 21, participated in a variety of exercises and challenges, complete with boot camp-styled drills at the West Long Branch university. State, county and municipal officers also gave them classroom instruction.

Drill instructors began the academy each morning at 5:15 a.m. Then came the daily regimen of marching and physical training.

Trophies were also given out to winners in various areas of competition.

To be graduated from the program, an Explorer must complete four phases — one per year.

Explorer Lt. Alexander Tredy was graduated from the academy after successfully completing all four years.

Five others who attended the Monmouth camp were: Brett Salle, Jeffrey Joseph, Matthew Belmonty, Alexandra Vanni and Justin Lefebvre.

All will be recognized for their accomplishments at the awards and promotional ceremony at 7 p.m., Monday, Aug. 1, at the Fair Lawn Ambulance Corps building, 1 Coopers Way.

INFO: Contact O’Brien, (201) 796-1400, ext. 242, or: mobrien@fairlawnpd.com

Now in its 10th year, The Fair Lawn Law Enforcement Explorer Post 902 was dedicated in memory of Police Officer Mary Ann Collura, who was shot and killed in the line of duty on April 17, 2003.

SHOUT OUT: Hackensack PBA Local 9 is hosting an all-day country festival — with music, rides, monster trucks and a live professional bull-riding competition — to help raise money to research and treat autism.

“Cowboy Up for Autism Speaks,” at Foschini Park on Saturday, Aug. 24, will also feature a car show, water rides, raffles, a chili cook-off and lots of other food, as well as an end-of-the-night fireworks show.

94.7 NASH FM’s “Street Team” will be there, as well.

The idea was generated by Detective Keith Marrano, an amateur bull rider, with support from the local.

“Autism is something that affects many officers’ families everyone,” Hackensack Detective John Mora told CLIFFVIEW PILOT. “Events like these help raise awareness as well as money.”

Donation: $10

Children 12 and under: free

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SHOUT OUT: A Port Authority police officer vacationing with his girlfriend in Boston chased and grabbed a purse snatcher who struck at a nearby restaurant.

“We were about to get on the T over there, and we passed the table, and I heard the girl scream that somebody took her purse, ‘Help, help!’” Officer Fred Corrubia told the Boston Herald. “I see another guy giving chase, and he’s yelling for the kid to stop. We chased the guy into the alley and pursued him. The girl said, ‘Call the police.’

“I said, ‘I am a police officer.’”

If the name is familiar, that’s because his father — also Fred — used to be the Paramus police chief.

The younger Corrubia, who lives in New Milford, had just left the Great Scott Restaurant on Commonwealth Avenue with his girlfriend Wednesday night when he heard the shouts from another patron.

Moments later, the 5-foot-11-inch, 210-pound suspect was turned over to city police.

The woman, who identified him, got back her black leather Coach bag intact, said Corrubia, 37, who ordinarily is assigned to the George Washington Bridige.

Joseph W. Mrozinski, 48 of Harrison Avenue in Boston is chaqrged with robbery and assault and battery — for kicking the woman in the leg.

“The Port Authority always stand ready to protect the public wherever they are,” the agency’s Joseph Pentangelo told CLIFFVIEW PILOT this morning.

“The Boston PD guys, they got there real quick,” Corrubia, an 11-year veteran of the PAPD, told the New York Daily News. “Very professional — great guys. They even let me cuff the guy. They’re a class act.”

“I’m glad the woman got her bag back. She gave me a hug and offered to buy my girlfriend and [me a] drink, but we said, ‘No thanks.’ We had to catch a train in the morning.”

PHOTO: Courtesy PORT AUTHORITY of NEW YORK and NEW JERSEY

SHOUT OUT: Celebrating its 100th anniversary, Wallington Engine Company 202 will be hosting a “beach party,” with the Flying Mueller Brothers performing, on Saturday, Sept. 7.

The Wallington department is 100% volunteer, and the money raised will go toward its building and equipment fund.

“All of our members have been putting in tremendous amounts of time to make this a successful event,” firefighter Michael Collins said.

“We expect it to be very special.”

SHOUT OUT: Women’s right to vote is celebrated in an art exhibit featuring works by students from the Bergen County Technical High School in Teterboro, David E. Owens Middle School in New Milford and Mahwah High School.

Eighteen students submitted works that contain their interpretations of the significance of Women’s Equality Day (Aug. 8).

The exhibit, sponsored by the Bergen County Commission on the Status of Women, is on display in the lobby of the Bergen County Administrative Building in Hackensack.

The observance of Women’s Equality Day commemorates the passage of the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution and calls attention to women’s continuing efforts toward full equality.

The exhibit runs through the end of the month (PHOTO ABOVE: Bergen County Kathleen Donovan at the opening of the exhibit).

The students exhibiting their art include the technical high school’s Ashlee Cruz, Bianca Fren, Jun Ko, Sylwia Kotowska, Stephanie Peralta, Nittany Sanchez and Amy Shantzis from Bergen County Technical High School; Shane George, Brianna Gould, Erein James Adiao Ruiz and Alexander Velasco from the David E. Owens Middle School; and Nicole Byrne, Sapna Gera, Dakota Griffin, Farkhod Khikmatov, Jennifer Li, Raeesa Mirza and Mary Rose Spinella from Mahwah High School.