Winners of the Summer Passport Days 2024 event were announced Wednesday, September 18th, at the Waldwick Chamber of Commerce at the Bristal in Waldwick.
The winners—Cathy Vervoort (Diamond prize basket), David and Francesca Tarabocchia (Platinum), and Mike Harmon (Gold)—picked up their prize baskets at the Waldwick Public Library on the following Monday.
Developed as a fun way to reach out to the community during the summer months, participation as a “destination box” on the Passport was open to all Chamber members in good standing; 38 members joined in and many reported an uptick in traffic, business and enjoyable interactions with Waldwick residents they may otherwise have never met.
Platinum winner David Tarabocchia, who initially thought the event was for children, was picking up an order at Bagel Bro’s 2 when he was encouraged to enter by owner Ernesto Enriquez: “He said, no, it’s for everybody—anybody can play.” Mr. Tarabocchia said he and his wife, Francesca, had a great time going through the Passport. Memorable stops included touring the Hermitage, chatting with owner Dragan Stojkovski at Graze Craze in Ramsey, and donating a canned good at Miano Family Chiropractic Center (“I had no idea there were even offices over the 7-Eleven!”)
MANY THANKS to the Waldwick Passport Team members Tracy Infield (AstoriaLTR.com), Dr. Jennifer Miano (Miano Family Chiropractic Center), Neha Garcia (Bombay Hut), Mary Beth Nappi (Terrie O’Connor Realtors/the Liberty Group) and Lori Quinn (Waldwick Public Library).
SPECIAL THANKS to Neha, for designing the gift baskets (they were gorgeous!), and to the entire staff of the library, which was so helpful and accommodating to the team in this venture.
HUGE THANKS to the Members who donated prizes and gift cards to the winners’ baskets. Without your generosity, this summer event would not have been possible!
Abe & Co Jewelers • AstoriaLTR.com • A2Z Eyecare • Bagel Bro’s II • Bombay Hut • Eastwick Foundation • Edward Jones Financial Advisors • Gearblock Brewing Company • Graze Craze • Ike’s Subs & Wings • LB Designs • Mangia Pizza • Matthew’s Colonial Diner • Plaza Jewelers • Prestige Lock & Home • Soma Café & Creperie • Silver & Gold Emporium • Supportive Financial • Tanner’s Canine Resort • TEEEM • The Hermitage • The Recovery Room • Waldwick CoC – 5K Run