Swim Club Honors 30-Year Manager

Members of the gathered Saturday to remember Bill "Cliff" Clifford, the club's original manager who held the position for 30 years and died earlier this year.

Al Chestone, the original chairman of the club's board of trustees, hired Clifford in 1963. He remembered Clifford as a proud, dedicated manager who didn't hesitate to blow his whistle when he saw someone running or trying to sneak a sandwich by the pool.

"He was strict, and we appreciated that strictness," Chestone said.

A new memorial bench was dedicated Saturday in Clifford's name on the spot where he used to oversee the pool.

Chestone said Clifford also helped improve the club's grounds by making sure all the furniture was in order and by getting new playground equipment.

While Clifford was often strict, Chestone said he also remembered Clifford making jokes and chuckling with club members while grilling steaks for weekend cookouts.

"He conducted himself in a beautiful manner," Chestone said. "Everyone was impressed with him and they felt safe."

Clifford managed the club for 30 years, during which time he also taught at . Chestone said Clifford was "terribly missed" when he retired.

"I think we had a treasure in Bill Clifford," Chestone said.

The Pascack Valley Swim Club is this year.

Have a question or news tip? Contact editor Jim Leggate at Jim.Leggate@patch.com, or find us on Facebook and Twitter. For news straight to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter.