Issuu

AU G U S T 2 02 1

Kids & Pets

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JAN K. SEIGEL Partner

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

AUGUST 2021 PUBLISHER

Marc Schwartz | marc.schwartz@lifestylepubs.com

Tracking Down Summer Fun HOORAY! - It’s time for the Kids and Pets issue! What’s better for the soul than a little time on a farm? In the case of Pony Power Therapies, it’s providing therapeutic riding programs for children and adults with special needs or unique life challenges. In this issue, you will meet founder, Dana Spett, who developed the program from mane to tail, creating a beautiful retreat in Mahwah to help

EDITOR

Kris Pepper | kris.pepper@lifestylepubs.com STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS

Sarah Flannery, Barry Houldsworth, Michael Malandra, Little Nest Portraits – Ridgewood AD DESIGNER

Matthew Endersbe

individuals grow, learn, heal, and laugh in a healthy, outdoor environment.

L AYO UT DESIGNER

We’ll introduce you to Laura and David Rose, owners of Township Theatre in Washington

Kelsey Proctor

Township. When the storms roll in this summer, escape to this hometown gem of a theatre for a movie. This couple is doing their community service by providing us with a movie theatre

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Jaye Avery Photography

experience that doesn’t require highway travel or a trip to the mall. Bravo! Check out this family-friendly environment for indoor movies, outdoor screenings, and live events! How did your kids do with their virtual learning this year? Give them a fun lesson in local history with a visit to the Waldwick Railroad Museum. At the time of this writing, they were just getting back on "track" with their reopening, so check online to find out when you can visit this engaging time capsule of Bergen County and railroad history. Did you adopt a dog during the pandemic? Inviting a pet into the family is a rewarding experience that comes with a pack of responsibilities. Unfortunately, many dogs have been returned to shelters post-pandemic as owners decided they could not commit the time or energy to train them. Meet Kathy Santo, whose lifelong experience dog training can help to keep rowdy pets out of the shelters with the help of good advice, teachable moments, and willing owners. Kathy Santo Dog Training in Waldwick will make your puppy "Top Dog!"

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

Lastly, as the resident dog lover on staff, I have the pleasure of writing this month’s

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

letter and giving Marc the month off. Pictured above is my “granddog” Ronan, who

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

was adopted during the pandemic. He's "single-pawedly" trained my daughter and

AD MANAGER Chad Jensen

son-in-law to be happy, responsible pet owners. Ronan is pictured above in Rockport,

REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams

Massachusetts. He loves the beach.

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

Since I get the center stage this month, I’d like to thank all of our readers, supporters, and advertisers for the amazing and positive feedback they provide with each issue. As a true “Jersey Girl” who never lived elsewhere, it’s my pleasure to bring new businesses, wonderful organizations, and interesting individuals to your mailbox each month. Send me an email with your story suggestions. No guarantees for publication,

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

but I promise--you won’t be barking up the wrong tree! Happy Summer! Kris Pepper, Editor Our apologies: The photo of Sal and Ralph Lauretta on page 18 of the June issue

should have been credited to Jean Terman.

CityLifestyle.com/NorthwestBergen ON THE COVER Dana Spett, Owner of Pony Therapies, and Charm PHOTOGRAPHY BY LITTLE NEST PORTRAITS RIDGEWOOD 6

Northwest Bergen Lifestyle | August 2021

Proverbs 3:5-6 Northwest Bergen Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Northwest Bergen areas’ most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Northwest Bergen Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

Steven W. Tarta, Esq. Current Market Value of your assets (approximate) Total Value of all real estate: Total Value of any/all investments (stocks & bonds): Total Value of any/all profit sharing, IRA's & 401K's: Total Value of any/all businesses you own: Total Value of any/all bank accounts (checking, savings): Total amount of money owed to you: Total amount of life insurance payable upon your death: Total value of miscellaneous and other assets: Total Assets: Debts you owe (approximate) Current Market Value of your assets (approximate)

Before Estate Planning $1,125,000.00 $29,000.00 $1,400,000.00 $0.00 $88,000.00 $7,600.00 $444,000.00 $0.00 $3,093,600.00 After Estate Planning

Before Estate Planning

After Estate Planning

$1,125,000.00 $29,000.00 $1,400,000.00 $0.00 $88,000.00 $7,600.00 $444,000.00 $0.00

$0.00 $0.00 $1,400,000.00 $0.00 $0.00 $7,600.00 $0.00 $0.00

Total Value of all real estate: Total Value of any/all investments (stocks & bonds): Total Value of any/all profit sharing, IRA's & 401K's: Total Value of any/all businesses you own: Total Value of any/all bank accounts (checking, savings): Total amount of money owed to you: Total amount of life insurance payable upon your death: Total value of miscellaneous and other assets:

$1,125,000.00 $29,000.00 $1,400,000.00 $0.00 $88,000.00 $7,600.00 $444,000.00 $0.00

$0.00 $0.00 $1,400,000.00 $0.00 $0.00 $7,600.00 $0.00 $0.00

Total Assets:

$3,093,600.00

$1,407,600.00

$3,093,600.00

$1,407,600.00

Mortgages: Credit Cards: Other:

$50,000.00 $1,200.00 $0.00

Mortgages: Credit Cards: Other:

$50,000.00 $1,200.00 $0.00

Total Debts:

$51,200.00

Total Debts:

$51,200.00

$3,042,400.00

$1,356,400.00

$3,042,400.00

$1,356,400.00

$0.00 $0.00

Debts you owe (approximate)

Your Total Estate Value:

Your Federal Taxable Estate Value: Your Estimated Federal Estate Tax: Your State Taxable Estate Value: Your Estimated State Estate Tax:

Your Estimated Total Estate Tax: Your Estimated Probate Costs (3% of estate value)

Debts you owe (approximate)

Your Federal Taxable Estate Value: Your Estimated Federal Estate Tax: Your State Taxable Estate Value: Your Estimated State Estate Tax: Your Estimated Total Estate Tax: Your Estimated Probate Costs

Your Total Estate Value:

$0.00 $0.00

Your Federal Taxable Estate Value: Your Estimated Federal Estate Tax:

$1,042,400.00 $86,131.20

$0.00 $0.00

Your State Taxable Estate Value: Your Estimated State Estate Tax:

$86,131.20 $91,272.00

$0.00 $40,692.00

The NJ Estate Tax has been repealed on Jan. 1, 2018. This example will estimate the NJ Estate Tax for informational purposes only based on a NJ gross estate in excess of $2,000,000.00.

Mortgages: Credit Cards: Other: Total Debts: Your Total Estate Value:

Current Market Value of your assets (approximate)

After Estate Planning $0.00 $0.00 $1,400,000.00 $0.00 $0.00 $7,600.00 $0.00 $0.00 $1,407,600.00

Before Estate Planning

$1,042,400.00 $86,131.20

$0.00 $0.00

$86,131.20 $91,272.00

$0.00 $40,692.00

Your Estimated Total Estate Tax: Your Estimated Probate Costs (3% of estate value)

The NJ Estate Tax has been repealed on Jan. 1, 2018. This example will estimate the NJ Estate Tax for informational purposes only based on a NJ gross estate in excess of $2,000,000.00.

$50,000.00 $1,200.00 $0.00 $51,200.00 $3,042,400.00

$50,000.00 $1,200.00 $0.00 $51,200.00 $1,356,400.00

$0.00 $0.00 $1,042,400.00 $86,131.20 $86,131.20 $91,272.00

$0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $40,692.00

The NJ Estate Tax has been repealed on Jan. 1, 2018. This example will estimate the NJ Estate Tax for informational purposes only based on a NJ gross estate in excess of $2,000,000.00.

Estate Planning At Its Best

HONEST PHILOSOPHY • PERSONAL APPROACH • PROVEN SUCCESS

201.444.8448 | tartalaw.com 700 Godwin Avenue, Midland Park, NJ

INSIDE THE ISSUE AUGUST 2021

FEATURES 14 The Township Theatre A Small Town Cinema Reels in the Community

20 Kathy Santo Dog Training Good Training Makes These Dog Days of Summer Better for Everyone!

26 Pony Power Therapy with Four Legs

20 26

32 The Waldwick Railroad Museum Just the Ticket!

32 DEPARTMENTS 6

Lifestyle Letter

Around Town

Back Stage

20 Animal Kingdom 26 Local Limelight 32 Local’s Choice

AROUND TOWN

THE VISTA IS NOW OPEN IN WYCKOFF

A long-time resident of Bergen County, Teri brings

Christian Health’s all-new-construction, state-

her experience as a sole proprietor, a manager in

of-the-art continuing care retirement community,

the retail industry, real estate, event planner, and

The Vista, is now open. The 161-apartment home

stylist. She will oversee all of the affiliate's activities

community on the 78-acre Wyckoff/Hawthorne

as well as daily administration. "I am so excited to

campus overlooks the Ramapo Mountains and will

help Bergen County Habitat for Humanity continue

provide inspired living through an abundance of

to grow and look forward to making families' dreams

amenities and services.

come true through homeownership," she says.

Amenities at The Vista include three different dining venues from fine to casual dining, an

habitatbergen.org

indoor pool and spa, salon and day spa, fitness

"MOVE FOR MENTAL HEALTH" A SUCCESS

center, artist’s studio, indoor and outdoor gar-

West Bergen Mental Health raised $41,000

dening centers, performing arts center, golf-sim-

through their "Move for Mental Health" event.

ulator lounge, and dedicated spaces for life-long

Supporters ran, walked, took a yoga class, or

learning and programming opportunities. Richly

donated so that the facility can safely reopen in

landscaped grounds house an outdoor patio with

the fall to welcome back children and families who

a fire pit and walking paths.

need their services.

Some of the other services The Vista residents

Proceeds will be used to update and renovate

enjoy include concierge, around-the-clock security,

outpatient therapy rooms at the Center for Children

scheduled housekeeping, underground reserved

& Youth in Ramsey. The organization's clients, staff,

parking, maintenance, repairs, and landscaping.

and Board wish to convey their thanks as they con-

Plans are underway for numerous social, cultural,

tinue to provide the highest quality care for every

educational, and spiritual events, along with fit-

client each day.

ness and wellness programming. Award-winning assisted living, skilled nursing care, short-term rehab, and mental health services are all also located on Christian Health’s campus. For more information or to schedule a tour, visit their website or call 201.485.5354. thevista.org

PETAL DUST CAKERY OPENING IN GLEN ROCK Petal Dust Cakery is opening a new shop in Glen Rock. Owner, Cristina Vasquez, a Fair Lawn native, began baking as a teenager. She graduated from Johnson and Wales with a degree in Baking and Pastry Arts. Cristina has worked as a pastry chef in Ireland and Connecticut. She's also made a mark on TV, as a finalist on Food Network’s Spring Baking Championship, Halloween Cake-Off Championship, and Big Time Bake Winner. "Cakes are reflections of some of life’s most memorable moments," says Cristina. "My joy comes through creating beautiful cakes and seeing the faces of clients when they first see them! I specialize in floral sugar designs and love incorporating them into beautiful cakes. To me, cakes and pastries are creative works of art and I am now so excited to share my passion and set out on this venture called Petal Dust Cakery!" Petal Dust offers cakes, macarons, cupcakes,

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY APPOINTS NEW EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR The Board of Directors of Habitat for Humanity of Bergen County proudly announced the appointment of its new Executive Director, Teri Capparelli. 10

Northwest Bergen Lifestyle | August 2021

and elegant, edible treats for weddings, events, holidays, and more. petaldustcakery.com/

Make A Splash

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BACK STAGE

T h e To w n s h i p Theatre

Northwest Bergen Lifestyle | August 2021

ARTICLE KRIS PEPPER | PHOTOGRAPHY MICHAEL MALANDRA

E NJ OY 14

“THE WHOLE OF LIFE IS JUST LIKE WATCHING A FILM. Only it’s as though you always get in ten minutes after the big picture has started, and no one will tell you the plot, so you have to work it out all yourself from the clues.”― Terry Pratchett, “Moving Pictures” Laura Rose of Mahwah may very well have said

a viable decision, so we ran a Kickstarter campaign.

the same thing. Growing up, Laura was a student

We discovered that our community was passionate

of theater and voice and later majored in televi-

about having a local movie theater nearby for fami-

sion production in college. Throughout her vari-

lies—and willing to support it.”

ous careers, performance in the traditional sense

Upon reaching their fundraising goal, they

never transpired—but somehow, she always had

were able to revive and modernize the theater

a connection to the arts.

and make a down payment on new digital equip-

When the opportunity arose to operate the

ment. “We thanked our supporters with all kinds

Ramsey movie theater, Laura and her husband,

of rewards, from tickets and concession items to

Dave, jumped at the chance. “At the time, we owned

private viewings and on-screen advertising. We

the Planet Swirl frozen yogurt shop next door. The

fell in love with the movie industry, but we are

building owner approached Dave several times,

not movie buffs. We are entrepreneurs. We’re not

asking for his help to bring the cinema back to life in

afraid of a challenge, and Dave and I work well

2013. We were interested but wanted to see if it was

together,” says Laura. When the pandemic hit, the owner of the Ramsey building decided to put it up for sale, and the theater’s doors were closed. However, in Laura’s words, “God closed a door and opened a window.” The couple had an opportunity to revitalize the Township Theatre Cinema in Washington Township, Laura’s hometown. “We were limited with the Ramsey location because it was very small with only two theaters,” says Laura. “There’s a whole different feeling here.” Their new site has three theaters, one of which will be used for live events as well as movie showings. Stand-up comedy shows in Ramsey were just getting off the ground when COVID hit, and the theater had to be closed. “Now, we are getting more opportunities like that,” says Laura. The couple is being approached by local film festivals and theater groups interested in events and space to produce and perform.

TH E S H OW

A SMALL TOWN CINEMA REELS IN THE COMMUNITY

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/NorthwestBergen

BACK STAGE (CONTINUED)

Future events include professional dinner theater opportunities and murder mystery nights. “We are also hoping to bring in live music like tribute bands and acoustic artists, so we are working on perfecting the lighting and sound systems to make this a reality. We feel that people are ready for a night out, and we are positioned well to provide it. We are hoping to develop some open mic nights as well.” The Theater also accommodates children’s birthday parties, private viewings, customer appreciation events, and fundraising affairs. Non-profit organizations can raise dollars by hosting a private event. “Bring in food, a DJ--whatever! Because we are owner/operators, we can make your ideas happen,” says Laura. “You can even compile photos and videos to be shared on the big screen at your occasion. We’re ADA-compliant, so there’s wheelchair accessibility as well.” If you want to bring the fun home, Laura and her staff provide “Movies to Go,” which includes an HD projector and sound system, inflatable screen, and accompanying staff for large, outdoor events. They have events booked for several schools and organizations as well as home parties. In the same way, our restaurants have “taken it outside,” Laura hopes to do the same with her theater by projecting movies outside of the facility to help boost neighboring businesses with a “drive-in” type of atmosphere. The Township Theatre offers reasonably-priced on-screen advertising packages for local businesses and corporations. Playing out her life’s story and watching the plot unfold has demonstrated the circle of life for Laura. “My whole life growing up was about theater and voice lessons, says Laura. “It’s not ironic that I’m in the movie industry; It seems my life always comes back around to shows and events.” Being able to provide the local community an alternative to the mega-theatres on the highway has been rewarding, and it’s led her back to the town where she was raised. “It’s the connection that’s nice. I grew up in Washington Township, and I’m happy to be back.” townshiptheatre.com

Northwest Bergen Lifestyle | August 2021

NOW OPEN!

A community designed with you in mind The Vista, northern New Jersey’s brandnew independent living community for adults 62 and better is now open. Discover a new view on retirement living with exceptional services and amenities:

• • • • • •

Finely-crafted apartment homes; Multiple restaurant options; Fitness and aquatic centers; Access to a full continuum of care; Social and educational programs and events; Walking trails, gardens, and much more.

Our doors are open and so is your future. Call (201) 485-5354 to schedule a personal tour. Appointments are required.

Christian Health is a non-profit organization and is open to anyone regardless of race, sex, or religion.

299 Sicomac Avenue | Wyckoff, NJ 07481 (201) 485-5354 | TheVista.org

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Northwest Bergen Lifestyle | August 2021

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ANIMAL KINGDOM

KATHY SANTO DOG TRAInING GOOD TRAINING MAKES THESE DOG DAYS OF SUMMER BETTER FOR EVERYONE!

KATHY SANTO UNKNOWINGLY DISCOVERED HER DREAM OCCUPATION WHEN SHE WAS SEVEN YEARS OLD, THANKS TO A PACKAGE OF DELI MEAT IN HER FRIDGE. “We had a 100-pound Great Pyrenees growing up, and she was badly behaved,” says Kathy. “My parents took her to obedience school, and they came back frustrated. My father said that the trainer stated that the dog could not be trained.” Thinking she knew more than her mom and dad, Kathy decided to start training the dog on the sly. “I’d take deli meat out of the fridge and train her.” And so began her interest in dog training and obedience. “I thought it was fascinating. I learned to make the dog do something in turn for what it wanted.” While living in Atlanta in her early 20s, Kathy discovered competition training. She was mentored by a competitive instructor and began honing her skills. “In a few years, I became a top competitive instructor, and I began teaching camps all over the country to instruct owners how to show their dogs competitively.” During that time, Kathy learned an essential aspect of her job by understanding the importance of teaching her trainers to problem solve and understand that every dog is different. “The people who came before me in dog

ARTICLE KRIS PEPPER PHOTOGRAPHY SARAH FLANNERY 20

Northwest Bergen Lifestyle | August 2021

“You have to understand the dog and its owner and deliver instruction with compassion and firmness.”

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/NorthwestBergen

ANIMAL KINGDOM (CONTINUED)

training guided me,” she says. “They were generous with their time, and I appreciate it.” Kathy continues the legacy and sets herself apart from other trainers by encouraging her staff and owners to problem solve. She encourages them to figure out why the dog is exhibiting a particular behavior rather than ask the instructor for an answer. “You have to understand the dog and its owner and deliver instruction with compassion and firmness,” she says. Kathy’s facility in Waldwick offers in-person as well as virtual training sessions. Private lessons, boot camp, group classes, and an intensive board-and-train program are available to new and current students. Dogs enrolled in programs can also participate in PlayCare, Canine Gym, and Agility, among others. Kathy’s team even offers a transportation option for pick up and drop off of your pet. She caters to a worldwide audience with remote training offerings and even a “Text the Expert” program (for owners, not dogs!). The importance of a well-trained pet has been a hot topic throughout the pandemic. “People got dogs during COVID, and now they have to return to work,” says Kathy. “Families that adopted puppies during the pandemic may see the dog undergoing separation issues when they return to work. The dogs have never been left alone for long periods and didn’t learn to self-soothe.” She advises dog owners to observe their canine’s behavior and note if anything needs to be addressed. Many issues can be rectified with some patience and proper training. “The shelters are full now because people can no longer handle their dogs; more dogs will be able to stay in their homes if they are well-trained,” says Kathy.

Northwest Bergen Lifestyle | August 2021

If you’re in the market for a new puppy this summer, plan ahead and think it through. Kathy advises carefully considering your lifestyle to understand what type of dog will fit in with your family. Are you open and willing to address a dog’s grooming and veterinary needs? A small dog may go along if you like to travel, but a big dog may need to be boarded. Consider whether your home and family would be better suited to a particular size or breed. Kathy also advises visiting reputable breeders and rescue organizations interested in learning about your family life and willing to help determine which puppy would have the personality and temperament that fit your family’s style. Disposition is evident at five weeks of age, so ask a trainer to perform a temperament test on a puppy that interests you. New pet owners must keep in mind that, although little Susie or Johnny promises to take care of the dog, the buck stops with the parents to assume the costs and responsibilities. Kathy suggests that parents and kids attend training classes together with the dog. The whole family should be on board and understand the methodology and processes of training a new puppy. And, it’s fun, too! Making the ground rules for safe interactions will keep everyone happy. Your dog will thank you for it. “Dogs teach us all lessons about relationships, problem-solving, responsibility, and forgiveness,” says Kathy. “Every kid should have a dog!” kathysantodogtraining.com

Kathy’s Tips for Kids and Dogs: Wave, Don’t Touch

KNOW THE WAG

WALK AWAY

BE CONSIDERATE Dogs like downtime just like

Teach children to wave at

Encourage kids to understand

Asking “may I pet your dog”

dogs rather than reach out to

a dog’s body language. Ask

isn’t good enough. If the dog

we do. Sometimes your dog

pet them. Remind a child that

questions like, “Is that dog

is very still, staring, flicking its

wants to be left alone. If your

their face doesn’t belong near

happy?” Teach kids the

tongue, or moving away,

dog walks away, it may need a

Fido’s face, and never allow

importance of reading signals

leave it alone.

little space.

small children to play with

and that a wagging tail doesn’t

dogs unsupervised.

always mean “friendly.”

CityLifestyle.com/NorthwestBergen

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Northwest Bergen Lifestyle | August 2021

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ARTICLE KRIS PEPPER | PHOTOGRAPHY LITTLE NEST PHOTOGRAPHY RIDGEWOOD

LOCAL LIMELIGHT

Charm, Red Hot, and Rascal

PON Y POWER THER APIES 26

Northwest Bergen Lifestyle | August 2021

THERAPY WITH FOUR LEGS

A HORSE IS A HORSE, OF COURSE…UNLESS THE HORSE IS PART OF THE EQUINE THERAPY PROGRAM AT PONY POWER THERAPIES IN MAHWAH. Founder Dana Spett discovered therapeutic horseback riding while researching alternative therapies for her daughter with mild special needs. A social worker and lifelong equestrian, Dana saw the benefits of providing accessible equine and farm programs for individuals with special needs and people who simply require additional support. “Our program is not diagnosis or age-specific,” says Dana. The 501(c)(3) organization meets the needs of people on the autism spectrum as well as clients with cerebral palsy, chromosomal disorders, or any other medical fragility. Individuals who suffer from anxiety, depression, or addiction are welcome too. “Often we see people with a combination of these issues,” says Dana. “Sometimes people don’t get the services they need--especially if they don’t have a specific diagnosis. However, what we can do here supports all kinds of challenges.” Pony Power works with children aged two-and-a-half through adulthood. “Many of our clients started with us as children and returned to us as adults,” says Dana. “Being with the horses is

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/NorthwestBergen

LOCAL LIMELIGHT (CONTINUED)

meaningful and is a positive early intervention for the special needs population.” Traditional state-funded programs end when an individual reaches 21, and many are left without resources. In addition, as their parents age, they may not have the ability to provide adequate stimulation or educational activities. “The population may be left sitting home doing nothing,” says Dana. “In a small way, we can provide this model for the community. Being involved with animals and nature adds to the quality of life for the client as well as parents and caregivers,” says Dana. As a society that focuses on digital screens for a good part of the day, the experience of working with horses is life-changing. “Horses provide a non-verbal experience, says Dana. “We get a break from our heavy reliance on language as well as the use of screens. Kids on the spectrum are exceptionally engaged on the farm partly because language is not required.” Pony Power is home to 22 seasoned therapy horses and ponies. Many have been donated or rescued, and each has been vetted to ensure proper temperament. Programs include independent and therapeutic riding and grooming and stable management. There are also non-riding programs that focus on other aspects of the farm, like nature trails and gardening activities. The hands-on aspect of being out in nature offers the interventions of all five senses because the entire property is ADA-friendly and entirely accessible. Clients can ride, learn equine skills, and care for the horses. There are also goats, chickens, and a friendly pig named Ziggy! Pony Power’s expansive gardening program is designed for accessibility with raised garden beds so that clients

Northwest Bergen Lifestyle | August 2021

in wheelchairs can get some dirt under their nails.

clients so that they can enjoy time on the farm

The organization seeks “garden buddies” to work

alongside their sister or brother.

with clients in the upcoming season and has

Potential participants can inquire online and visit

developed a program of raising fresh produce to

the farm to learn more about the programs offered,

donate to underserved populations in Paterson

many of which may be customized. “Fees only cover

through Oasis, A Haven for Women and Children

65% of the actual costs,” says Kerry. “We fundraise

(see our May, 2021 issue).

for the balance. We’ve developed a great base of

Pony Power currently has ten staff members

community support, and many local organizations

who direct 150 volunteers. “The age requirement

and businesses help to cover costs for clients.

to volunteer is 14, and our oldest volunteer is

We’ve never turned anyone away.”

83,” says Kerry Barrett, Development Director.

Corporations can arrange to use the beautiful

Volunteers perform typical farm work, help

grounds for team meetings, staff development,

clean stalls and paddocks, and work with small

and social gatherings. Unique and refreshing vol-

animals. Some of Pony Power’s clients have also

unteer opportunities provide endless possibilities

joined the volunteer roster, representing a win-

for businesses to spark camaraderie and creativity

win for the organization.

among their employees.

The beautiful grounds and trails lend themselves

“Being of service to others, you can find a place

to providing a peaceful place of respite for caregiv-

for yourself here. That highlights what nature can

ers while their loved one participates in a program.

do,” says Dana.

Pony Power also offers riding time to siblings of

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LOCAL’S CHOICE

THE WA L DW IC K R A I L ROA D M USEU M Do you remember when? Post's Brass Band

JUST THE TICKET!

Northwest Bergen Lifestyle | August 2021

ARTICLE KRIS PEPPER

Inside the Museum

NORTHWEST BERGEN LIFESTYLE IS ON TRACK

Volunteer Rich Mennella first learned of the station

WITH A RAILROAD THEME THIS SUMMER! Last

when he was invited to a fundraiser to restore the project.

month, we introduced you to the Waldwick Whistle Stop,

“I never envisioned what we are looking at today,” says

and this month, we took a short walk down Hewson

Rich. It was falling apart.” Before the restoration in 2011,

Avenue to the Waldwick Railroad Museum, housed in a

the structure had fallen into disrepair over the years. The

restored railroad station.

foundations and sill plate were continuously exposed

Planned and built in 1887, the station’s Queen Anne

to groundwater which caused the building to sink. The

style is typical of railroad depots constructed through-

untreated façade and framework were exposed to the ele-

out the country toward the end of the 19th century.

ments, and this caused significant damage. Although the

The station was in existence before the Borough of

roof had gaping holes, many interior original features were

Waldwick was incorporated in 1919. Listed on the

still intact and in surprisingly good condition. By 1977, the

National and New Jersey Registries of Historic Places,

station was shuttered, locked, and all but forgotten. By

the Railroad station has come into its own as a beauti-

2005, it appeared the station would rot into the ground.

ful reflection of the history of the growth of farming and manufacturing in Bergen County.

However, this “little station that could” had something going for it…listings in the national and state registries of

At its peak around the turn of the century, approximately

historic places. New Jersey Transit could not demolish it

50% of Waldwick households had at least one family

because of that. After continuous pressuring of NJT, the

member working for the railroad, which was crucial in

Waldwick Community Alliance (WCA) was able to take

transporting freight and produce to markets in Paterson

over control of the station and revitalize it. This labor of

and Newark. It was the location where countless parades

love took almost five years and cost $600,000.

passed, people met, and business was transacted. The

“This building is restored, not renovated,” says Rich.

building even served as the borough’s post office and tele-

Tongue and groove wainscoting was painstakingly

graph office at a time. A nearby renovated railroad signal

taken down piece by piece, numbered, restored, and

tower is located approximately 1,000 feet north. Together,

put back. Only slats that were damaged beyond repair

these structures are important representations of the rail-

were replaced. The restoration team was amazed to

road and how it affected the suburban growth of the area.

see the colorful stained-glass panes hiding beneath

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/NorthwestBergen

LOCAL’S CHOICE (CONTINUED)

role the textile industry played in the growth of Waldwick and surrounding towns. Before the pandemic, the museum was open for visitors every other Sunday, and Rich hopes to get back on track with that schedule soon. “I get calls to open up the station for people who are layers of black paint. Original window sash lifts

interested, and you hear amazing stories from the

featured elaborate Victorian-era design and dec-

older folks,” he says. “For example, I learned that

orative woodwork framed six-over double-hung

in the 1930s, Waldwick teens went to high school

windows with divided light sashes. The station

in Ramsey. They got there by train.”

also houses original cast-iron pot-bellied stoves, which kept travelers warm in the winter.

guests and groups upon arrangement, espe-

Now, this hidden gem is ready and waiting

cially since they have not yet resumed their

for a whole new manifest of visitors. Cases

pre-Covid opening schedule. Keep checking the

displaying local history are curated to focus on

website, but in the meantime, Rich says, “Bring

Waldwick’s military heroes and original artifacts

the family, give me a call!”

from railroad history. Over the past few years, the museum’s exhibits have rotated to include aviation history, the Borough’s Centennial celebration, the history of immigration, and the

Rich is happy to open up the museum for

Northwest Bergen Lifestyle | August 2021

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