Bonnie Brae Boys Save the Day

Bustin’ Their B_tts at the Farm!

Here at Mane Steam, we have received some pretty generous donations over the years, and this one a few weeks ago was one of the best ever! Local farmer, Jeff Neary, stopped by to tell us he had a donation that would leave our herd nickering with joy, 500 bales of beautiful, lush hay! Our Barn Manager, Alex, and Equine Manager, Jen, were thrilled and quickly developed a plan to tackle this exciting but LARGE donation. 

First, Jen started the hunt for a hay elevator to transfer the hay into the hayloft, which longtime friend, Greg Tucker, was happy to lend. Meanwhile, Alex reached out to her contact at Bonnie Brae, a residential school and therapeutic community in Basking Ridge, to enlist some of the boys to assist with the massive task.

On July 1st, a group of 12 boys and several staff members from Bonnie Brae arrived to help clear out space in the hay loft. They also helped Alex finish her never-ending chores around the barn. After they departed, Alex and Jen hopped in the Mane Stream truck to pick up the hay elevator. Though it was large, the two successfully transported it to Mane Stream. The next morning, Alex arrived to see the first of THREE full hay carts. She gave the elevator a test run shortly before the Bonnie Brae Team (6 boys and staff members) arrived. In assembly line fashion, bales were tossed from the cart, loaded onto the elevator, and stacked in the loft. The Bonnie Brae boys and Mane Stream staff worked tirelessly as two more hay carts were dropped off. Never fear, everyone stopped at noon for a lunch break, and by 2pm, the hayloft was packed to the brim and the job was done!

Grateful for the valiant effort of the Bonnie Brae boys, Alex and Jen invited the group back for a third day to show their appreciation. The boys got to spend some quality time with the herd as they led Cody and Snappy in the indoor ring and then painted Minnie and Cody in a 4th of July theme for a holiday social media post. Afterward, everyone enjoyed ice cream bars to help cool off from a hot few days. 

We cannot thank the staff and boys from Bonnie Brae enough for their help with this monumental task and the great work they continue to do around the farm throughout the year. And we owe a huge thanks to Jeff Neary for the generous donation and to Greg Tucker for the use of his hay elevator. Running a horse farm truly takes a village and we appreciate all the help and generosity that we can get!

Written by: Alex Willard, Barn Manager

We're Jumping for Joy!

Barn Manager, Alex Willard is jumping for joy all thanks to the generosity of the Party in the Paddock attendees! Mane Stream now has a gleaming new Kubota Tractor and Utility Vehicle, a testament to the power of community support. The numerous and generous donations have put an end to the continuous breakdowns while the barn staff carries out their daily farm tasks. We also want to thank Powerco Equipment of Clinton, NJ who taught us how to use these beautiful new machines!

Kubota Tractor Corporation

Powerco Equipment

Volunteer Spotlight: Yarton Sisters

Emma & Julia Share More Than Just the Love of Horses

A pre-med college student who also volunteers with the Tewksbury First Aid and Rescue Squad, Emma Yarton has been a dedicated volunteer since April 2018 with almost 600 hours accumulated so far. Emma found out about Mane Stream from her aunt who volunteered at Mane Stream over 20 years ago. She also said as many do, “I have driven past the barn hundreds of times and I knew I wanted to volunteer at Mane Stream because it combines two of my favorite things: horses and helping people.”  After hearing how great volunteering was for her sister, in 2020 Julia turned 14 years old and quickly joined the team so that she could give back to the community too.

Not many teens continue to volunteer when they move on to college, which we totally understand. So, we are truly grateful that Emma continues to take on volunteer shifts when she has time. She loves coming and meeting many new friends and fabulous horses, while helping people enjoy horseback riding keeps her coming back. “I have lost count of the number of amazing volunteers and staff I have met at Mane Stream, they are all so passionate and excited to be there. I also love how many volunteer options are offered at Mane Stream, because I can personalize my volunteer experience.” 

Julia said that her favorite part of being a volunteer is watching the riders progress over the years. “It makes me smile knowing that I helped someone grow and learn. The riders learn so much from their lessons and being part of that is an honor.”

Both young women agree that summer camp and helping out with Girl Scouts are their favorite Mane Stream shifts. Julia enjoys spending a big part of the day at the barn helping with the riders and horses during summer camp. She feels like the Camp Staff do a good job switching everything up so there are always new activities for the campers to do. Emma echoes her sister’s sentiments saying, “There is always something new, whether it be games, activities, or horses, I always look forward to coming to camp. Getting to see how campers have grown as riders over the years and teaching new riders the basics of horseback riding is so much fun. I love Girl Scouts for similar reasons. I like meeting the different Girl Scout troops, some are local and others are farther away. When it comes to campers and Girl Scouts, some of the riders have never ridden before and some have, it is a nice mix.”

When it comes to the horses everyone has a favorite. Julia loves Buzz! He has been around since she started volunteering and she even rode him in the 2021 Horse Show. “He is such a great horse and is wonderful with all the riders and campers.” Emma loves Dorito and was sad to hear he retired, but happy he is now living the life he deserves! “Dorito was so versatile. He did camp, adaptive, and Girl Scouts. He was a saint, he never made a fuss and was well-mannered. He loved providing piggyback rides to tiny kids but also was superb for cantering with adults. When I rode as a camper one year he truly took care of me. He had no issue when it came to cantering and was so gentle. With the Girl Scouts, he liked to show off, he posed for pictures and stood like a puppy dog in the center of the arena, which really impressed people. He took care of every rider, he knew when to trot slow or be goofy! You could paint him, deck him out in sparkles, and tie bandanas to him and he just didn't care.” 

Finally, Emma and Julia expressed their strong bond through their shared love for horses. They have been riding together for eleven years and find joy in volunteering at Mane Stream. Julia highlighted the significance of sharing a passion with her sister, emphasizing how it strengthens their bond while allowing them to give back to their community collectively. 

Thank you Emma and Julia we truly appreciate your continued support.

Welcome 2024 Summer Camp Interns

Molly, Kass, Angelica

We are delighted to introduce our three Summer Camp Interns, Molly, Kass, and Angelica. They will be assisting throughout the 11 weeks of fun, learning, and excitement. One is a returning Summer Camp Volunteer who has embraced the challenge of becoming an intern. Another volunteered for a short time in 2022, and the third is a local equestrian, who is thrilled to join the team. These three individuals looking forward to sharing their expertise, perspectives, and horse knowledge with our campers. With their enthusiasm and extensive horse experience, we are confident they will motivate our campers to improve their riding skills, ensuring everyone leaves with a smile.

Please join us in giving them a warm welcome!

Molly McDonald

Molly is currently a senior at the University of Rhode Island majoring in Criminology and minoring in Psychology. Molly is excited to be graduating this coming fall! A very caring, loving, and adventurous person, she absolutely loves animals and wants to pursue a career involving and helping animals.

A fun fact about Molly is that she lives with her family and has 3 goats, 4 chickens, 2 cats, a dog, a bunny, hermit crabs, and koi fish! Molly is also a very creative person and has taken a variety of art classes like jewelry making, painting, and drawing throughout college.

Molly also has 9 years of horse experience riding at a stable in Basking Ridge. She’s competed in 2 shows and even learned how to play polo for a year which was an amazing and fun experience. Even though Molly is a full-time student, she also has a job working at a doggy daycare and boarding school.

Molly has also volunteered at multiple places with different animals including Mane Stream! Not only that but she enjoys working with children and adults. She has a lot of summer camp experience and went to summer camps and sleep-away camps all my childhood. Molly says, “I believe interning with Mane Stream this summer will be very beneficial and I am eager to learn more about animal-assisted programs utilizing horses.”

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Kassandra Guerard

We know  Kassandra as Kass! She is currently a Junior at Centenary University majoring in equine assisted services and minoring in psychology. After she completes her undergraduate studies, Kass plans to get her masters in speech-language pathology! She is a people person and truly enjoys being around individuals who share her love for horses. In her free time Kass can be found volunteering for TRAC, the therapeutic riding program at Centenary, and helping out with adaptive riding at Mane Stream where she has accumulated almost 200 service hours in the past year! Kass also loves to ride when she can. When she isn’t at a barn, she can be found at home spending time with family and 4 cats. 

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Angelica Fata

Angelica is a rising junior at Lafayette College majoring in psychology with a minor in art. She has a passion for working with children and animals and aims to combine these passions this summer to help make horseback riding more accessible to all. Her future goal is to become a clinical psychologist, and being a camp intern at Mane Stream this summer will contribute to her personal and professional growth. Additionally, Angelica has experience tutoring children in libraries and schools, as well as caring for dogs in animal shelters.

Angelica has been riding horses since she was four years old and has ridden at many local barns. She has also helped with groundwork, barn chores, and leased/owned horses. Currently, she is riding at A. Hope Equestrian in Readington, NJ. In her free time, Angelica enjoys being with her horse, Wesley, and her dog, Frankie. She is looking forward to collaborating with her fellow interns and having a blast with the campers this summer!

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Last Year’s Interns Become Camp Staff in 2024!

Ella Wagner: co-Camp Activity Specialist

In her own words: “I am thrilled to be back at Mane Stream again! After an amazing experience interning here last summer, I was honored when Mane Stream offered me this position. I’m excited for the new challenges and experiences this new position brings as well as getting to know all our campers. The new interns, Anna Squindo, and I, have been hard at work trying to make this the best camp yet, and I can’t believe it’s finally right around the corner!” Find out more about Ella.

Kathryn Blount: Camp Riding Instructor

Will Kathryn make a comeback with her dazzling fringe jacket? The anticipation is high! Last year, Kathryn seamlessly integrated with the Mane Stream team and even rivaled Miss Kelly in terms of camp spirit. This year, we will be counting on Kathryn's equestrian skills as she transitions into an instructor role. Find out more about Kathryn.

Additional Riding Instructors:

Kathy Dermody, Camp Director & PATH Intl. Instructor
Anna Squindo, Co-Camp Activity Specialist
Jen Dermody, PATH Intl. Advanced Instructor
Kelly Champion, PATH Intl. Instructor
Holland Kochanski, PATH Intl. Instructor
Kayla Thau, PATH Intl. Instructor
Alex Willard, Riding Instructor

What went on last summer?

Take a peek! 2023 Camp Wrapup Article

National Safety Month

We wanted to share a few safety tips for participants and volunteers alike. At Mane Stream, safety is always our top priority!

Tip #1: Helmet Safety

Mane Stream's top safety advice is to replace your helmet if it meets any of the following conditions:
1. More than 5 years old (check the date inside the helmet).
2. It has been in a fall and hit the ground.
3. There is noticeable damage.
4. The helmet no longer fits your head properly.

Tip #2: Heat Survival Tips

We’ve got some sizzling advice for our awesome volunteers & participants. As the sun cranks up the heat, remember to slather on sunscreen, keep hydrated with a trusty water bottle, fuel up before heading to Mane Stream (with a snack not gas!), and please, no crocs or sandals. Feeling the heat a bit too much? Don't hesitate to give us a shout for a breather! Your safety and happiness are our top priorities!

Tip #3: Cell Phone USage

We've got a BIG favor to ask all our fantastic volunteers. Please stash your cell phone in the tack room or your car while you're in the participating in a lesson or a therapy session. Let's keep those eyes on the horse and the participant to ensure safety reigns supreme. A chirping phone might spook a horse or throw off a participant's groove. You are the safety superheroes, looking out for our riders, instructors, and yourself.

Tip #4: Emergency dismounts & more

You are encouraged to watch our training videos. The fifth video demonstrates the Emergency Dismount, explaining its execution and purpose. Additionally, there are several other video clips offering essential tips & tricks to ensure the safety of our volunteers, participants, and horses. These are valuable resources for current volunteers to refresh their knowledge of Mane Stream policies and procedures.

Summer Spirit Wear Store - Only 1 Week!!

Shop NOW for our exclusive SUMMER APPAREL

Don’t forget to review the size charts!!!

This online store will only be available for just 1 week! So explore a variety of new colors for this season. We have even brought back “performance” material for those of you who really appreciate the wicking fabric.

Don't miss out on sporting our latest Mane Stream summer collection. Time is limited, so make sure to place your order as soon as possible!

Store closes June 2nd at midnight!

Party in the Paddock: A Triumph Despite the Drizzle

Spirits soared, despite the nip in the air

Despite the slightly chilly, breezy, and drizzly weather, dedicated partygoers gathered for Mane Stream's 2nd Annual Party in the Paddock Derby party. The fundraising event was a heartwarming display of community spirit and commitment to Mane Stream's mission. The atmosphere was alive with enthusiasm as guests embraced the Derby theme, immersing themselves in an evening of celebration and support for Mane Stream's programs. Against the backdrop of rolling pastures, attendees were treated to demonstrations by participants from Mane Stream's adaptive riding and therapy programs, showcasing the profound impact of equine-assisted activities.

thank you event sponsors!

WIN - $3,250

The Greifeld Family
Kathy & Hal Kamine
Red Tail Farm

PLACE - $1,750

Amy Gimbel & John Sepede
Sell with LAVELLE
Keller Williams LUXURY International
Jeanne & Roger Rogalin

SHOW - $850

The Durden Family
Karen and Steve Kaufhold
The Saladino Family
Sudler Family Foundation

Derby Jockey Sponsors

Advantage Pools
The Bezer Family
The Cavalero Family
The Coloff-Verge Family
Pine Woods Farm
Melissa and Mike Renfer
Jeanne and Roger Rogalin

The Food Architects delighted taste buds with a delectable array of warm dishes, perfectly complemented by handcrafted cocktails from Tito's Handmade Vodka, including the refreshing Oaks Lily and Strawberry Lemonade.

The evening was filled with Kentucky Derby-themed excitement, culminating in the exhilarating LIVE Kentucky Derby Race streaming, accompanied by spirited "betting" festivities.

Spirits soared, despite the nip in the air, buoyed by the warmth of camaraderie and a shared purpose: to raise funds for much-needed farm equipment. With our rusty 20+ year old equipment on its last legs, the sight of guest-turned-auctioneer, Mike Exton, perched in the tractor's bucket, rallying support for a paddle raise, underscored the urgency of the cause. Thanks to the generosity of attendees, Mane Stream will soon boast a gleaming new Kubota Tractor and Utility Vehicle, a testament to the power of community support.

The highlight, however, was the 2nd annual Mane Stream Stick Pony Derby. This year we opened it up to “jockeys” from the community as well as staff. “Jockeys” that raced included Riding Instructor Elke Phillips, Barn Manager Alex Willard, Occupational Therapist Emily Istvan, Board Member Madison Rezaei, event attendee Jennifer Chin, and a last-minute entry, Hadleigh Hendrickson, vied for victory in a thrilling display of equestrian skill 😉and determination. Quick out of the gate and fleet-footed over the jumps, Alex Willard blazed toward the finish line several lengths ahead of Elke making her the winner of the gorgeous sash of red roses.

The Hat contest added a dash of flair to the proceedings, with Laura Edelson's whimsical creation earning honors for its Mane Stream-inspired design, while Jill Dolan claimed the title for Best Overall and Kristin Halvey dazzled with her Most Creative entry.

The success of the 50/50 Raffle added to the jubilant atmosphere, with the lucky winner taking home an impressive $2,048. The grand prize winner for the Kentucky Derby was Michele Lawse, who went home with a bottle of Woodford Reserve Kentucky Derby 150th Edition Bourbon.

We hope everyone enjoyed the evening! All proceeds from the event go directly to support the children and adults with special needs who participate in Mane Stream’s adaptive riding, therapy services, summer camp, field trips, and Horses for Healing programs.

We are looking forward to seeing everyone again next year! Please mark your calendars for May 3, 2025...to celebrate Mane Stream and the 151st running of the Kentucky Derby!

Click here for all the Gif and Giggle pics! Party in the Paddock

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DEMONSTRATIONS: Viviana Henry-Wilson, David Santos, George Hoehn, Gemma Lawse, Daisy DeSimone, Madison Flanagan

EVENT VOLUNTEERS: Terri Andrechick, Avery Boarts, Tina Corcoran, Tess Coffey, Lola Dermody, Laura Edelson, Nancy Grossweiler, Grace Harvey, Leroy Hunninghake, Emma Iglesias, Elaine Milano, Janie Murphy, Kerry Scholz, Mary Ellen Yen

EVENT COMMITTEE MEMBERS: Tina Corcoran, Laura Edelson, Nancy Grossweiler, KJ Jiritano, Karen Kaufhold, Jesse and Kara McMahon, Kerry Scholz, Michele Stevens, Stacy Timko, Laurie Willard, Mary Ellen Yen

Special thanks to Wolfy Nicolaides who volunteered his photography services providing these great shots for your enjoyment.

Thanks a BUZZ-ilion!

Celebrating National Volunteer Appreciation Week

Remember Patty Illuzzi who worked in the office a few years ago? Well, when Patty retired from Mane Stream she put all her free time into her Bees. Now, her business Long Meadow Bee Works supplies several local businesses with honey, candles, hand soap, and beeswax holiday ornaments. Thanks Patty!!

Mane Stream celebrated National Volunteer Week from April 22-27, with 48 of our dedicated volunteers who filled 78 volunteer spots putting in 175 hrs over the course of the week! This is a 25% increase over last year, so no wonder we feel like 2024 is just BUZZing right along.

By now you’ve probably noticed the theme…BEEs! Volunteer Coordinator, Emily De Jong, and trusty Assistant, Renae Flanagan, pushed the Bee theme even further by connecting with local honey farmer and artist, Patty Illuzzi, for a sweet treat giveaway. The volunteers had the option of choosing the cute jar of honey and dipper or a small bottle of essential oils. Each day of the week the volunteer teams enjoyed an abundance of snacks both savory and sweet in between the riding lessons, therapy sessions, and field trip visits.

Working together, we have fostered a supportive and empowering atmosphere where individuals flourish. The hard work and generosity of our volunteers has been instrumental in Mane Stream's success, and we eagerly anticipate continuing this journey together for the rest of the year.

VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHTS

This year we turned the spotlight on 6 more volunteers with varying degrees of experience with Mane Stream’s programs. Please take a moment to read what they had to share.

Dana Roundsaville - My only regret is that I didn’t start sooner!
Debra & Bessie Huggins - We’re happy, chatty, and relaxed on the drive home!
Laura Edelson & Karen Ricciardi - Sister Duo says, “It’s an extra special experience!”
Wolfy Nicolaides - Interesting Backgrounds Make for Versatile Volunteers
Shannon Santoro - I Can See That I Make a Difference!
Avery Boarts - Allowing This Experience to Strengthen Myself!

Looking back on the whirlwind of the past year and celebrating Volunteer Appreciation Week, we can't help but beam with gratitude for the incredible contributions of each and every volunteer. Their unwavering commitment to Mane Stream and all our participants is the secret sauce that keeps our community buzzing with energy!

Thank you for bee-ing such fabulous volunteers!

Welcome Sunny!

We’re excited to introduce Sunny as the newest member of the herd! After a month on trial, we knew Sunny would be a great addition to the team. Director of Program Services, Jen Dermody was quick to say, “Sunny is the perfect height for leaders and sidewalkers alike. Sunny is also great for our independent riders and the Girl Scouts love his name!” Thank you Someday Stables for donating this super chill and versatile guy.

Birthday: 7/1/06
Breed: Quarter Horse
Color: Chestnut
Height: 14.3 hands

VOLUNTEER APPRECIATION WEEK

WE ARE CELEBRATING YOU from April 22-27!

Another buzzing year at Mane Stream has passed by.

As we reflect on the past year and celebrate Volunteer Appreciation Week, we are reminded of the incredible impact all our volunteers have had on our community. It is not without their dedication to us and our participants that makes this hive thrive!

Together, we have created a supportive and empowering environment where individuals can blossom and grow. Your hard work and generosity have helped us achieve great things and we look forward to continuing this journey together in the year ahead.

Thank you for bee-ing such fabulous volunteers!
Grab some snacks and a sweet gift during your shift!
If you’re not on the schedule, come by anytime! We’d love to see you!

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We’re Shining the Spotlight on Our Volunteers
Please get to know just a few of our fabulous and dedicated team of volunteers by reading their Volunteer Spotlight stories located on our Current Happenings section of the website!