SOMA Living December 2022

VOL. 7-12 DECEMBER 2022 MAGAZINE

2 somalivingmagazine @ gmail.com

@somalivingmagazine

DECEMBER 2022 | SOMA LIVING 3

@somalivingmagazine

PUBLICATION TEAM

FACES IN THE CROWD

On November 11th, the Village of South Orange honored veter an fallen heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Honored were the following: U.S. Army Major Dwayne M. Kelley and U.S. Marine Lance Corporal Edward “Augie” Schroeder II during a special Village of South Orange Veterans Day memorial obser vance. A new plaque for fallen heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom was dedicated on Memorial Rock at the South Orange Duck Pond.

Publisher: Michael E. Goldberg

Editor: Karen L. Driggs

Intern: Shardai Smith

Director of Human Resources: Fudge P. Goldberg

Advertising Sales Michael E. Goldberg I 973.271.4306 somalivingmagazine@gmail.com Yoni Kreger, Kerry Cordero, Julie Perlow- Greene, Norah Salazar, Lee Seidenberg, Stephen Beaudoin Contributors: Cathy Roma, Robert Hubsmith, Dr. Stephen Levine, Gary T. Jones, Dr. Daniel Roig, Victor Delapa, Natalie Farrell, Doug Huebner, Maureen Kritzer-Lange, Jill Cohen,

PET OF THE MONTH Sponsored by Jennifer McManus Real Estate

Design by: GRANDSTAND DESIGN

(973) 232-6025 www.grandstanddesign.com

Bob is a 5 year old mini poodle. He is affec tionate, friendly, loyal and loves all people and dogs - unconditionally! Everyone who meets him loves him instantly due to his adorable face and his happy, loving ,and extremely playful de meanor. He is extra attentive and expressive as he tilts his head to listen when you talk to him. SOMA is his “happy place”!

Family Photography by: LIVE LOVE LENS PHOTOGRAPHY

jamie@livelovelens.com www.livelovelens.com

Kristine Foley

GIVE THE GIFT OF LOCAL PHOTO ART!

LIVELOVELENS.COM | @LIVELOVEMAPLEWOOD | JAMIE@LIVELOVELENS.COM

4 somalivingmagazine @ gmail.com

@somalivingmagazine

ANATOMY OF THE BEST REPLACEMENT WINDOW

ULTREX FIBERGLASS FRAME IS 8X STRONGER THAN VINYL

UNLIMITED GRID PATTERN OPTIONS *SDL or GRIDS BETWEEN THE GLASS

ULTRE X ® F I B ERGL A S S

ONE-PIECE TILT-IN HARDWARE *AVAILABLE IN BRASS, BRONZE & NICKLE Color and Finish Options

SMOOTH CORNER KEY *NO UGLY CORNER SCARS

2 5/8” FRAME IS 15% THINNER THAN RENEWAL by ANDERSEN *COMPARED TO 3 1/16

NEW! EBONY + BRONZE I NTERIOR

FIBERGLASS’ LOW THERMAL EXPANSION RATE REDUCES THE RISK OF SEAL FAILURE AND AIR LEAKAGE THROUGH THE WINDOW

Infinity Windows from Marvin offer Style, Efficiency & a Limited Lifetime Warranty!

15% off INFINITY FIBERGLASS

WINDOWS FROM MARVIN Cannot be combined with other offers, existing orders or special financing. 15% off Marvin Windows is for Installed Only.

NJ 13VH01194900 PA008490

Call 888-234-2929 • FREE ESTIMATES • www.globalhomeinc.com

DECEMBER 2022 | SOMA LIVING 5

@somalivingmagazine

6 somalivingmagazine @ gmail.com

@somalivingmagazine

MEET THE QUILLIN FAMILY The Quillins are a family grounded by faith. Allison, Peter, and their children are members of The Life Christian Church in West Orange. Allison explains, “We’re really involved with other families there. Peter actually is one of the youth leaders. Our kids have grown up there. That’s been a really good experience for us and a big part of our social life as a family.” Allison attributes Pastor Terry A. Smith’s book “The Hospitable Leader” as a guide for the entire family. The Quillin family story starts nearly thirteen years ago in Brooklyn. Allison shared, “I met Peter at a boxing gym. A girlfriend of mine took me there. He has a big personality and will talk to anyone. We met and immediately started talking. At the time, you couldn’t just look someone up on social media. He had a couple of things on Youtube. So, I sort of assumed he was a trainer there. I wasn’t really sure. But then I found out he was a professional boxer and I was like, ‘oh, my goodness’.” Peter Quillin isn’t just a professional boxer. He held the World Boxing Organization’s Middleweight title from 2012 to 2014. His career boxing record is 34-2-1 and 23 knockouts. Quillin, known as “Kid Chocolate”, shares his nickname with the 1930’s Cuban boxer Eligio Sardinas Montalvo. Born in Chicago, but raised in Grand Rapids, Quillin moved to New York to turn pro. Allison and Peter married in 2013. Allison laughed, “We got married at a taqueria in Tribeca. We didn’t say we were getting married, but when

Photography by Jamie Meier

57 Academy Street,

DECEMBER 2022 | SOMA LIVING 7

@somalivingmagazine

people walked in, they figured it out quickly – we were wearing custom, matching, white leather! It was so much fun.” They two had their first child while still living in Brooklyn. She shared, “Once I got pregnant with our second, we realized it was time to move to the suburbs. Actually, Peter was the one who knew about SOMA. I grew up in South Jersey, and remembered it as being beautiful but the community was pretty homogenous. But when we looked at SOMA, it was so rich in culture, I knew right away it would work.” Fast forward to 2022, and the Quillins are thriving in Maplewood. Their three children, Joaquin (8), Valencia (5), and Lucia (3) are enjoying the schools and their friends. The kids love sports. Joaquin plays basketball at the Y with Coach Fred, and the girls love playing with his teammates’ siblings. In addition, all three enjoy professional modeling. Allison quickly explains, “It’s not about vanity. My kids are having fun while learning how to follow directions. It’s fun to see them do their own thing and having a chance to shine. They’ve done a few commercials, runway modeling, and print ads.” In the meantime, Allison is a producer for the TODAY with Hoda & Jenna on NBC . She adds, “I’m what we call an ‘NBC baby’. I started right out of college, and I’ve actually been at the same place for 17 years. The work is exciting and incredibly interesting.” She concluded, “I have no reason to look elsewhere. It’s a very, very special place.” The same can be said for SOMA and the life the Quillins share here.

CALL TODAY TO SCHEDULE A FREE ESTIMATE!

scalora.com 973.313.3912 @ scalorabros • Masonry • Paving • Retaining Walls • Fence • Drainage • Pavers

8 somalivingmagazine @ gmail.com

@somalivingmagazine

DREAM TEAM

MEET Oby Otti

Oby’s style words - alluring and unique- were perfectly visible at her photo shoot. She was alluring in a black biker jacket and elegant in a gray patterned dress. Oby loved

This month’s feature is Oby Otti. She and her husband own HLS Juice Bar and Grill (HLS) in Maplewood. In her rare free time, she loves to bake with her three children and make celebration cakes for family and

the functionality and professionalism visible in her vintage blazer and red blouse. - Kerry Cordero, Inspired Style (kerrycordero.com)

friends! Oby also works in Cancer Research. She merges these two passions by volunteering for Icing Smiles, as a “Sugar Angel” she bakes cakes for children and families affected by cancer. She loves the SOMA community and daily interactions at HLS.

I had the pleasure of working with Oby at my curated wardrobe studio. She is a very busy woman, looking for more polish and flair to her wardrobe. I loved that Oby

Oby is a true “boss lady” managing three kids, running her own business, and baking as a “Sugar Angel”. For a boost of energy, I recommended Bhumi chocolate raspberry

was open to trying on anything, even dresses and styles outside of her comfort zone. My favorite piece on her is a long blue, floral embroidered overcoat from Anthropology with tones of warm pink that really bring out her soft beautiful features and skin tone. - Julie Perlow- Greene, Retail Therapy (@retailtherapy_southorange) YK Salon’s stylist Robin, transformed Oby’s shoulder length, one-dimensional cut into a modern bob with the softness and warmth that reflects her personality. First,

bar with THCV & L’theanine. After reviewing my beauty products, Oby was curious if I had anything to improve the skin tone under her eyes. Potency no. 710 Gold Face Serum works well.- Jill Cohen, TheCannaBossLady. (thecannabosslady.com)

IT’S BOILER SERVICE SEASON!

•SERVICE & REPAIRS • STEAM HEAT SPECIALISTS • INSTALLATIONS & UPGRADES “FOR YOUR PLUMBING & HEATING NEEDS CALL TORO TO THE RESCUE!”

973-672-1000

DECEMBER 2022 | SOMA LIVING 9

@somalivingmagazine

my dear friend Oby. - Norah Salazar, Makeup Artist (NorahSalazarMakeup.com)

she applied a sea-kelp-based deep moisture steam conditioning treatment. Then, using Oby’s gorgeous cheekbones as the focal point of the haircut, Robin created the asymmetrical bob with side swept bangs and a soft curl. This required layering to remove any harsh, heavy lines to allow her hair to move softly.- Yoni Kreger, YK Salon (yonikregersalon.com)

My wife and kids love HLS! Not only does Oby make a killer chicken cheese-steak, but she makes an incredible model. We kept things simple with a one-light setup for most of the

For Oby’s makeup, she wanted a fresh natural look to complement her beautiful skin, hair blow out, and cool tone styling. I prepped Oby’s skin with a glossy moisturizer

shoot, with dark and blue backgrounds that created an excellent harmony with her new looks. - Lee Seidenberg Photography (seidenbergphoto.com)

and finished with eyeliner, a neutral lip, and then a deeper red gloss. It was so fun playing “makeup” with

Ifyou’dliketoworkwiththeDreamTeamandbefeatured in SOMA Living magazine, visit somadreamteam.com.

57 Academy Street,

10 somalivingmagazine @ gmail.com

@somalivingmagazine

RECIPE OF THE MONTH

INSTRUCTIONS

1 1/4 cups unsalted butter, softened (2 1/2 sticks) 1 3/4 cups light brown sugar, packed 2 eggs, bring to room temperature 1/2 cup molasses 4 cups AP flour 3 tsp ground ginger Planning a holiday cookie exchange? Add these soft molasses cookies to the list pronto! These classic molasses cookies are sure to be a family favorite. They have the warm, toasty flavor of ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom and a crackly, sugared crust thanks to a roll in a mix of granulated sugar and crunchy turbinado sugar. INGREDIENTS SOFT MOLASSES COOKIES Prep time: 30 mins • Cook time: 10 mins Yields: 48 cookies

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F and line to baking sheets with parchment paper. 2. Cream the butter and sugar with a paddle attachment of an electric mixer until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating after each addition. Mix in the molasses. 3. Whisk the flour, spices, baking soda, and salt, together in a small bowl. 4. Add the flour mixture to the butter mixture and beat on low until just combined. 5. Using a small ice cream scooper or spoon, and scoop out heaping tablespoons. Roll each portion into a ball and roll the ball in the sugar in a small bowl. 6. Place the balls on the parchment lined sheet trays about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10 mins, until the tops begin to crack. 7. Cool slightly on the sheet trays, then remove to a wire rack to finish cooling.

RECIPE NOTES The cookies will keep for 3-4 days in an airtight container at room temperature • Use unsulphured, robust molasses for these cookies. Blackstrap will be too intense! • I use a small scoop to portion out the dough so the cookies will be uniform in size. • Wet your hands as you roll out the dough to prevent it from sticking to your hands. • Bake these just until the tops begin to crack, but the cookies are still soft. They will set as they cool.

2 tsp ground cinnamon 1/2 tsp ground cloves 1/2 tsp ground cardamom 2 tsp baking soda 1 tsp kosher salt

1/3 cup sugar (I recommend equal parts granulated sugar and turbinado sugar)

www.WHATSHOULDIMAKEFOR.com

Cathy Roma’s food philosophy is simple: everything in moderation. She’s worked in restaurants, owned an online bakery, has a bordering-on-problematic cookbook obsession and is the writer, photographer and recipe developer for the blog whatshouldimakefor.com. She lives in South Orange with her well-fed family, overstocked pantry, and mildly excessive collection of cookie cutters.

DECEMBER 2022 | SOMA LIVING 11

@somalivingmagazine

Ingredients: 2.0-ounce Uncle Nearest Bourbon 1884 DRINK OF THE MONTH Andres is working hard by writing hundreds of recipes of concoctions & libations in his black marble notepad. Thumbing through it, this one really jumped out and made us all very, very thirsty! This funky spin on a whiskey sour will really send your taste buds into a frenzy in the best possible way! It also has us questioning some life choices like, “Why would you choose whiskey or wine when you can have both at the same time?!!” Andres Special #84 About Victor Delapa and MoonShine Supper Club: Victor is the owner, mixologist, and creator of Moonshine Supper Club, founded in 2011. Stop by the lounge or restaurant for a truly spectacular experience! 55 Main St., Millburn • www.moonshinesupperclub.com 973-218-6042 1. Gather the ingredients 2. Pour all ingredients except wine in Cocktail mixing Glass with no ice 3. Dry shake for 1 minute 4. Pour ice in Cocktail mixing Glass 5. Shake for 30 seconds 6. Strain over a large whiskey rock 7. Float 1.5 ounce malbec poured sow over the back of a spoon 0.5-ounce Fresh Lemon Juice 0.5-ounce Agave 1.5-ounce Egg Whites

WWW.SCALORA.COM 973.313.3912

email us at AtlanticConcepts@hotmail.com to schedule a free estimate www.atlantic-concepts.com (386) 344-3894 Atlantic Concepts is a family owned business that has been serving the SOMA community for over 10 years. Its founder, Eddie Cevallos and family are proud residents of Maplewood. Specializing in kitchens, bathrooms, additions, etc, Atlantic Concepts would love to hear your ideas for your projects. Please give us a call for a free estimate.

12 somalivingmagazine @ gmail.com

@somalivingmagazine

ATHLETE OF THE MONTH SPONSORED BY BASS FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC Jayvin Irby is a Junior at New Jersey City University who also plays guard for the basketball team. Better known by his friends as “Jay” or “Irb”, he performs well both on the court and in the classroom. In 2021, Jay and the Knights won the NJAC championships. At the same time, Jay was recognized as an Academic All NJAC player. Jay excels in mathematics and is interested in becoming an entrepreneur. Much like his favorite NBA player, Lebron James, Jay is also eager to leverage his success to get involved with good works in his community. Jay appreciates all of his coaches at Patrick School who saw his potential for being a great student athlete. He is particularly grateful for Mr. Kim, his 2nd grade teacher at South Mountain Elementary School. Jay reflected, “He wrote me a personal note saying how proficient I was in Math and that he believed in me.” JAYVIN IRBY

• Treatment and Rehabilitation for Headaches • Neck and Back Pain • Sports and Gym Related Activities • Disc Problems and Neck Problems • Auto Injuries • Pregnancy Related Aches BASS FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC

ABOUT DR. BASS If one word were used to describe Dr. Wayne J . Bas s , i t wou l d be “community.” As one who has served on the Maplewood Chamber of Commerce for a number of years, Dr. Bass understands the needs of the community and strives to achieve excellence with every appointment. In fact, his business was founded on the pr inciple of excellence in the community in 2006. While there are many chiropractors out there, Dr. Bass is one who truly cares about the well-being of his patients. (973) 378-2277 BASSFAMILYCHIRO.COM 491B VALLEY ST, MAPLEWOOD, NJ 07040

DECEMBER 2022 | SOMA LIVING 13

@somalivingmagazine

FROM THE DOCTOR CHIROPRACTIC OPTIONS FOR BACK AND NECK PAIN DURING PREGNANCY The most common complaints during pregnancy are back pain and related discomfort. Biomechanical changes, increased body weight, hormonal changes, and stress can all contribute to pain. But when is pregnancy-related back pain normal, and when does it warrant concern? Pregnancy-related back pain may be experienced as early as the first month of pregnancy and can be characterized as pain or discomfort in the lumbar or the low back of the spine or the pelvic region. Sometimes, even traveling down as far as the back of the thighs. Associated symptoms of pregnancy-related back pain may also include stiffness and limited range of motion in the lower back or legs. Symptoms may include deep pain in the inner thigh or a cold and icy feeling or buzzing and vibrations in the thigh. Symptoms may worsen at night. Though back pain during pregnancy is common, it’s best to seek professional medical care if your back pain and associated symptoms are affecting the quality of your life. If you have sudden worsening symptoms, fever, muscle weakness, dizziness, or experience uterine contractions, you should seek immediate professional medical care. These symptoms may be a sign of pre-term labor or infection. Learn more at: southorangechiropractic.com. How to treat pregnancy-related back pain complaints? Conservative treatments to manage pain and symptoms of your back pain during pregnancy include physical therapy, massage, and exercises. Safe natural Chiropractic adjustments also consistently work well. Not all chiropractic adjustments involve twisting, turning, and popping. Computerized instrument adjustments are a great way to treat back and neck pain without traditional manipulation. Supportive belts, postural pillows, cold treatment, and yoga can also help to provide much-needed relief from pain and discomfort from pregnancy-related back pain.

Meet the Natural Pain Relievers at South Orange Chiropractic Center Moving people from pain to wellness. Dr. Stephen Levine • Dr. Mark Roczey • Dr. Mark Sielski 60 First Street, South Orange, NJ 07079 973-761-0022 Go to SouthOrangeChiropractic.com to download our FREE E-book on Health and Wellness

Stephen Levine D.C. South Orange Chiropractic Center SouthOrangeChiropractic.com Phone: 973.761.0022

14 somalivingmagazine @ gmail.com

@somalivingmagazine

FROM THE DOCTOR Intermittent shoulder pain and discomfort may be the result of tendonitis of the rotator cuff. This happens when the muscles become irritated, or the bursa (fluid filled sac in the shoulder) becomes inflamed and swollen (bursitis), or when the tendons of the shoulder musculature become trapped between a narrowing space between the shoulder joints causing pain and irritation (impingement). If you have pain and stiffness when you lift your arm, this is a hall mark sign of shoulder impingement. There may also be pain when the arm is lowered from an elevated position. However, it is more common with lifting the arm. Rotator cuff pain is common in both young athletes and seniors. Athletes who use their arms overhead for swimming, baseball, and tennis are particularly vulnerable as well as those who do repetitive lifting or overhead activities using the arm. In the early stages of shoulder impingement/tendonitis, symptoms can be mild, so patients don’t always seek treatment. The pain eventually gets worse and the symptoms increase. Most common symptoms are pain at night, loss of strength and motion, difficulty doing activities that place the arm behind the back, such as buttoning or zipping clothing. In some cases, the pain comes on suddenly, as tenderness and painful, limited motion. Treatment is designed to reduce pain and restore function. Patients get a medical exam by either a primary care MD or a PT for the diagnosis. In most cases, non-surgical treatment is optimal. This can include rest with activity modification such as avoiding overhead activities. Non-steroidal anti inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is another route to limit the pain and swelling. Once the pain improves, your therapist can develop a strengthening program for the rotator cuff muscles. In some cases, injections can help as well - but they are a last resort. SHOULDER IMPINGEMENT/TENDONITIS

South Orange Rehabilitation & Wellness We provide professional, individualized and effective physical therapy. Our health and wellness interventions promote healthy living and enhanced quality of life for all athletes and patients.

Specializing in: • Post Surgical Knee & Shoulder • Spinal Decompression for Herniated and Bulging Discs • Cold Laser to Increase Healing

SouthOrangeRehab.com (973) 761-0077 177 Valley Street, South Orange, New Jersey 07079

Dr. Daniel Roig South Orange Rehab Wellness SouthOrangeRehab.com 973-761-0077

DECEMBER 2022 | SOMA LIVING 15

@somalivingmagazine

MEDICARE COVERAGE MEDICARE COVERAGE OPTIONS. Medicare Parts A and B comprise what is known as Original Medicare. If you would prefer to enroll in a plan managed by a private health insurance company, you can choose Medicare Part C, or Medicare Advantage. Medicare Advantage plans combine Part A and Part B benefits, and often include Part D (prescription drug) benefits. Some beneficiaries prefer to have all of their coverage managed under one comprehensive plan. You must enroll in both Medicare Part A and Part B to elect an Advantage plan (and continue to pay your Part B premiums). Medicare will pay the Advantage plan administrator a monthly fee to manage your care, while the Advantage plan will deliver your benefits. The Difference Between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage The difference between the two plans pertains to accessing your benefits. With Original Medicare, you are subject to deductibles and a 20 percent co-insurance on Part B. You can access care at any doctor’s office or hospital that accepts Medicare (which most do). Under a Medicare Advantage plan, you access care through a network of providers in your coverage area. You will owe co pays that vary for different services, depending upon how your plan is structured. Some plans will charge a per-day co-pay for hospital stays, while others charge a flat amount for the entire stay. Advantage plans provide a safety net for catastrophic expenses. The plans include an out-of-pocket spending cap. When beneficiaries reach that limit, the plan kicks in to cover medical expenses for the rest of the year (Plan D expenses are calculated and managed separately). Choosing A Medicare Advantage Plan With so many options, choosing aMedicare plan is overwhelming. Fortunately, insurance professionals (like me!) dedicate themselves to learning all of the options available and can guide you toward the best plan(s) for your needs.

ROBERT HUBSMITH, CLTC Financial Services Professional

I help my clients (at no cost to them) get the best Medicare insurance plan to fit their unique health care needs and at the best price. Navigating the Medicare system can be confus ing and overwhelming, whether you are currently enrolled in Medicare or are newly eligible, so let me answer your ques tions, create a knowledge-based foundation, analyze options and ultimately guide you to an informed decision.

www.RHMedicareFactor.com

(201) 704-7872 rhubsmith@thejgagency.com

973-632-0302

Robert Hubsmith, CLTC PINNACLE FINANCIAL SERVICES www.TheRHMedicareFactor.com

Rob Hubsmith is a 26-year resident of Maplewood. I am licensed and trained independent insurance agent with over 30 years in the financial services industry. I am certified with many top Medicare Advantage, Prescription Drug and Medicare Supplement insurance plan carriers. I represent most major companies with a Medicare contract and am qualified to answer any questions you may have.

Improving South Orange/Maplewood one house at a time We offer weekly maintenance plans, landscape design services and hardscape construction www.slevingroupnj.com

16 somalivingmagazine @ gmail.com

@somalivingmagazine

FINANCIAL FOCUS

DO YOU HAVE FINANCIAL SECURITY?

Financial security requires a comprehensive strategy. For this strategy to succeed, you must guard it from challenges – and build layers of protection. Consider the following: • Protect your ability to reach your goals – To achieve your long-term goals, such as a comfortable retirement, requires adequate financial resources. This includes an investment portfolio aligned to your objectives, risk tolerance, and time horizon. . • Protect your family – If something happens to you unexpectedly, how will your family cope? Their chances improve with adequate life insurance. Proper coverage may cover your mortgage, higher education, and protect the family lifestyle. • Protect your income should you become temporarily disabled – If you become ill or temporarily disabled and can’t work for a while, the income disruption could jeopardize your family’s needs or inhibit timely bill payments. To protect against this threat, you may want to consider adding disability insurance. Your employer may offer a short-term disability policy as an employee benefit, and/or access to a private policy to cover shortfalls. • Protect your long-term investments from short term needs – Life is full of unexpected expenses – major car and home repairs, medical expenses, etc. Taking money from an IRA or 401(k) early may incur taxes/penalties, and hinder your retirement. To prevent this, build an emergency fund with 3-6 months of living expenses, in cash or a liquid account. • Protect your financial independence – No one wants to be a burden to their grown children. If you need long-term care, such as a nursing home, it can be expensive. A financial professional can offer strategies to mitigate these costs.

Gary T. Jones 973.821.4900 • g.jones@EdwardJones.com

With over 25 years of experience, I work with individuals and businesses to help you achieve your financial goals. As a longtime resident of SOMA, I am proud to serve the local community. To learn more about the content of this article or schedule an appointment to talk about your goals, please contact me in my Maplewood office.

DECEMBER 2022 | SOMA LIVING 17

@somalivingmagazine

MEET THE MERCHANT

JILL BEHRMAN - LUXE 45

Name of Business - Luxe45 Lifestyle Boutique Jill Behrman is the founder and owner of Luxe45 Lifestyle Boutique. Raised in South Orange, New Jersey, she went to Parsons School of Design andCooper Union. After working for design firms in New York City, Jill moved to St. Thomas, Virgin Islands, and ultimately opened a design firm in Puerto Rico. For more than 20 years, she ran a successful 3,000-square foot lighting showroom in Miami, FL, that featured more than 300 global brands. After Jill sold the business, she set her entrepreneurial sights on returning to New Jersey to launch a new venture–Luxe45 Lifestyle Boutique. Luxe45 Lifestyle Boutique is a clothing and lifestyle store that offers elevated athleisure essentials and ready-to-wear fashion fromwomen-owned labels and eco-conscious companies. This includes brands both from the US and around the globe that are fresh to the marketplace. Founder Jill Behrman created a chill-yet-chic space that sells fashions along with specialty gifts like artisanal handmade soaps and statement jewelry. Luxe45 Lifestyle Boutique opened in December 2021 and is located at 163 Maplewood Avenue, Maplewood, NJ 07040. Learn more at luxe45.com. Follow on Instagram @Luxe45lifestyle.

18 somalivingmagazine @ gmail.com

@somalivingmagazine

HOME DESIGN DON’T BUY IN A VACUUM

a backsplash you could fall in love with these tiles. And then when you were shopping for the countertop, you loved that stone as well. Countertop gets put in place, backsplash goes up… you step back and then it’s like, “Um…I guess we’ll get used to it.” “It’s much easier to change your pants.” “Exactly.” The problem is most people buy or choose the design finishes in a vacuum. They do each element individually, not knowing if when installed all the elements will look good together. Sometimes that works, most times it doesn’t.” “You just have to know what look or design style you’re going for before you start. That’s the key. Knowing ALL the elements in a room BEFORE you commit to any of them. Don’t buy in a vacuum.” “But you know,” I say exiting the house, “I look damn good in plaid pants and a striped shirt.” “But you tried them on before you bought them, right?” “You learn quickly grasshopper,” I laughed. Blank, confused stares. “Never mind, let’s get to the next house.”

“Striped pants and a plaid shirt!” “What?” “It’s like striped pants andaplaid shirt!” “It’s a countertopandabacksplash,” said my Real Estate partner Kim, us standing in a kitchen at a Broker Open House. “Right, but the two together, looks like someone wearing plaid pants and a striped…” “Wait, I thought the pants were stripped,” she quipped snidely. “Whatever… You wouldn’t let your husband leave your house looking like that would you”. Her mischievous laugh. We both know that she would. “Okay, bad analogies aside, the two patterns of those stones don’t work together.” “Well, it’s not what I would pick.” “Ah! But you might. If you were in the tile shop looking for

Habitat ilist Group design studio renovation planning & interior design

“Life is very stressfull, your home shouldn’t be. Our designs are highly functional for ease of use and aesthetically beautiful to fulfill your soul. We believe your home is your sanctuary.”

Douglas Huebner

Call or write for a consultation (917) 676 - 2000 thehabitatilist@gmail.com

follow us on Instagram @h.g.designstudio

DECEMBER 2022 | SOMA LIVING 19

@somalivingmagazine

REAL ESTATE I am a proud sponsor of The Maplewood Dickens Village, a sixty-year old holiday tradition. Miniature houses set up in Ricalton Square depict detailed scenes from Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol . A Christmas Carol became a sensation when it was first published. Here are some fun facts: • Dickens could not find a publisher for his book because his previous one did not sell well. Instead, Dickens decided to self-publish A Christmas Carol . The first edition went on sale December 19, 1843 and was sold out by Christmas. Two more editions were printed before the end of the year.

• “Merry Christmas” and “Bah humbug” were unknown phrases before A Christmas Carol but have now become a part of the season’s vernacular. • The first staged version of the story appeared less than two months after the book was published. • Dickens’ book inspired people to donate to charity during Christmastime, especially the nouveau riche of the new Industrial Revolution. So, don’t be a Scrooge! Join the festivities, open each weekend until the end of December. Come see Santa, watch the tree lighting, ride in a horse drawn wagon, listen to a live holiday concert and, of course, sing a Christmas Carol.

20 somalivingmagazine @ gmail.com

@somalivingmagazine

SOPAC

SOPAC SOUTH ORANGE PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

don’t wait, buy tickets today!

A SEASON FOR CIVILITY

NEFESH MOUNTAIN The Hanukkah Show wed, deC 21 At 7:30PM

What does this December holiday season bring for you and your family? For some, this season is about gratitude. It’s about supporting causes aligned with the kind of positive impact we want to make in the world. For others, it’s a season of celebration with family and friends, faith holidays and traditions, or simply celebrating life with an exceptional meal together at one of our terrific SOMA restaurants. I encourage you to shop locally owned businesses and also include a night out with a transformational live cultural experience at SOPAC or the Burgdorff Cultural Center. This season is always one for reflection: reflection that leads to setting intentions for the new year to come. And this holiday season, I’m reflecting on a hope I find myself harboring more and more - The hope for a collective embrace of civility. I don’t recall exactly when civility began to leave the public square. But somewhere along the way, our collective ability to disagree respectfully and have healthy civic conversations declined. Social media hasn’t always been especially helpful, nor has national political debate. Twitter may flame out and our democracy may be imperiled; social media may provoke bad behaviors while simple disagreements escalate into rapid fire cancelling – but only if we allow it to do so. This holiday season, as we support SOMA small business and culture, come together, and celebrate, I hope we also take a moment to commit ourselves again to practicing civility. It’s up to each of us, as individuals, to practice a kind of civic engagement. One that centers respect, curiosity, kindness, and care, to build the kind of SOMA community and culture we want and need.

SONS OF SereNdiP Christmas: Beyond the Lights wed, deC 7 At 7:30PM A rOCkAPeLLA hOLidAy A Legendary tradition Fri, deC 9 At 8PM ANN hAMPtON CALLAwAy & Liz CALLAwAy Broadway the Calla-way! SAt, deC 10 At 8PM

CheriSh the LAdieS A Celtic Christmas SUN, deC 11 At 7:30PM Sweet hONey iN the rOCk holiday Show SAt, deC 17 At 8PM rUSSeLL thOMPkiNS Jr. & the New StyLiStiCS Fri, JAN 20 At 8PM

SOPACnow.org (973) 313-2787

Visit SOPACnow.org/Covid-19 for all Covid-19 Precautions & Policies

EARN MORE 4.25 % APY * 24-MONTH CD

GardenSavings.org | (973) 576-2000

*$500 minimum to open a share certificate of any term. Rates valid as of 11/8/22 and are subject to change daily, and subject to change without notice. For terms less than one year, interest is paid upon maturity(simple interest). For terms one year or greater, interest is paidmonthly(compound interest). Penalty for early withdrawal for terms eleven months or less – loss of 90 day dividends earned and 180 days of dividends earned on terms of 1 year or greater. All rate offers subject to change without notice. Garden Savings FCU reserves the right to discontinue promotional rates without notice. Fees could reduce earnings. All accounts insured by the NCUA, a US Government Agencyup to$250,000andanadditional $250,000byESI.

Stephen Beaudoin is Executive Director of SOPAC, the South Orange Performing Arts Center, and a proud Maplewood resident. His twenty-plus year career focuses on democratizing art and fostering revolutionary creativity. He can be reached at stephen@sopacnow.org.

DECEMBER 2022 | SOMA LIVING 21

@somalivingmagazine

COMMUNITY COALITION The Luminary Project Turns Ten: Bringing neighborhoods together to honor the work of Dr. King

Every year, the South Or ang e/Map l ewood Community Coalition on Race invites the community to light up the outside of their homes or businesses with luminaries as the sun sets on Dr. Martin Luther

King, Jr.’s birthday. The goal is for thousands of homes in SOMA to be lit up as a sign of hope, sanctuary, peace, and solidarity with Dr. King’s vision of the “Beloved Community”. The luminaries are white paper bags, with tea lights inside, that can be decorated with images of peace and community. To participate, you may purchase a pack of four luminaries from the Coalition, for a suggested donation of $10. The Luminary Project offers a moment to reflect on Dr. King’s legacy and share that moment with neighbors. Dr. King frequently spoke of forming a “Beloved Community” as an outcome of social justice. This ideal was a global vision in which, “poverty, hunger, and homelessness will not be tolerated because international standards of human decency will not allow it…prejudice, cruelty, and greed are replaced with an all-inclusive spirit of friendship and goodwill.” Each year of the program, over 2,000 luminaries are lit throughout SOMA neighborhoods, at Seton Hall University, all around the Meadowland Park Pond, and in front of buildings and businesses. South Orange resident Patricia Canning started the project and it continues to be led by a team of women from South Orange and Maplewood. The volunteers work with local youth groups to create the kits, oversee neighborhood luminary leaders, and recruit businesses to be luminary purchase sites. Interested in getting involved? Email MLKLuminaryProject@gmail.com to purchase kits and to learn how to be a neighborhood luminary leader. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day is January 16, 2023.

A HOLISTIC APPROACH TO PHYSICAL THERAPY Specializing in pelvic health and wellness

Pre-natal and Post-partum Care Pelvic Floor Dysfunction Pelvic Pain Urinary Symptoms Bowel Issues Orthopedic Issues related to Pelvic Health

318 Main Street, Suite 200A | Millburn, NJ 07041 973.671.5855 | Book Online: 5pointpt.com

22 somalivingmagazine @ gmail.com

@somalivingmagazine

DON’T TRUST THE MIRROR

Maureen Kritzer-Lange, MSW, LCSW

The holiday season can be a stressful time for many people with high emotional stakes. In my practice, patients talk about how celebrations at family gatherings and parties -with an emphasis on eating and drinking - adds overwhelming layers of stress, fear, and anxiety. It’s especially painful to those who struggle with self-esteem, weight, eating issues, and negative body image. There is always hope and the holidays can be joyful. With self-care strategies and careful planning, you can manage the abundance of food choices and holiday treats even while being overscheduled or feeling out of control. A few tips: 1)Practice mindfulness - or taking a “time out”- through meditation, journaling, taking a walk, or listening to music. 2)Focus on your breath. This can go a long way to help decrease stress and anxiety. 3)Take time for yourself. It can be challenging but well worth the effort. Try to schedule “me time” and make an appointment with yourself to help maintain emotional balance. 4)Plan your meals ahead of time and eat regularly. Don’t skip meals in anticipation of what you are going to eat at a holiday gathering. 5)Stay connected with positive friends, family, your therapist or a support group. 6)Remember to be flexible in your thinking, especially when setting expectations. 7)Be kind to yourself and try to calm those perfectionist ideals and critical thoughts. Above all else, find moments to savor, take some slow deep breaths, and treat yourself with the same kindness and compassion you give others throughout this holiday season.

Looking for a past issue of SOMA LIVING? Check out our library! SomaLivingMagazine.com 973-313-1691 maureen@donttrustthemirror.com www.donttrusthemirror.com

Maureen Kritzer-Lange, MSW, LCSW Long time Maplewood resident. Listen to her podcast at HTTPS://RB.GY/BLOOHZ

Jennifer.McManus@cbmoves.com @jennifermcmanus

DECEMBER 2022 | SOMA LIVING 23

@somalivingmagazine

PAPER MILL PLAYHOUSE The Sound of Music

Herr Zeller, Paul Slade Smith as Franz, and Mark Banik as Admiral von Schreiber. The von Trapp children will be played by Coleman Simmons (age 14, fromWest Orange, NJ) as Friedrich, Jacey Sink (age 12, from Summit, NJ) as Louisa, Cody Braverman (age 10, from Short Hills, NJ) as Kurt, Tara Rajan (age 9, from Sands Point, NY) as Brigitta, Austin Elle Fisher (age 9, from Tinton Falls, NJ) as Marta, Charlotte Sydney Harrington (age 7, from Shelton, CT) as Gretl, and standbys Charlotte Ewing (age 11, from Chatham, NJ) and Ethan Joseph (age 12, from Somerset, NJ). The show will begin performances at Paper Mill Playhouse on Friday, December 2 and play through Sunday, January 1, 2023. Opening night is set for Sunday, December 4. Tickets start at $35 may be purchased by calling 973.376.4343, at the Paper Mill Playhouse Box Office at 22 Brookside Drive in Millburn, or online at papermill.org.

Celebrate the holidays with the heart-soaring melodies of The Sound of Music, including such beloved gems as “My Favorite Things,” “Edelweiss,” and “Climb Ev’ry Mountain.” Directed by Paper Mill Producing Artistic Director Mark S. Hoebee, Rodgers and Hammerstein’s final musical conjures an Austria replete with rolling hills, singing nuns, and a tender love story, set in the shadow of World War II. Directed by Mark S. Hoebee. The production will feature cast members with experience on Broadway, with national touring companies, as well as Paper Mill Playhouse alums including; Ashley Blanchet as Maria Rainer, Graham Rowat as Captain Georg von Trapp, Cáitlín Burke as Mother Abbess, Emily Borromeo as Elsa Schraeder, Gavin Lee as Max Detweiler, Analise Scarpaci as Liesl von Trapp, Andrew Alstat as Rolf Gruber, Stacia Fernandez as Frau Schmidt, Christopher Gurr as

24 somalivingmagazine @ gmail.com

@somalivingmagazine

HOLIDAY GUIDE

T H E P E R F E C T S T O C K I N G S T U F F E R

T H E P E R F E C T S T O C K I N G S T U F F E R

G L E A M R HOLIDAY G I F T C A R D S

G L E A M R HOLIDAY G I F T C A R D S

call or vist us online to purchase in increments of

9 1 7 . 7 4 3 . 5 3 6 4 | G L E A M R . C O � � @ G E T G L E A M R $ 25 $ 50 $ 100

I N T E R I O R & E X T E R I O R D E T A I L I N G WE COME TO YOU! ! !

call or vist us online to purchase in increments of

M A K E Y O U R A P P O I N T M E N T T O D A Y !

9 1 7 . 7 4 3 . 5 3 6 4 | G L E A M R . C O � � @ G E T G L E A M R $ 25 $ 50 $ 100

I N T E R I O R & E X T E R I O R D E T A I L I N G WE COME TO YOU! ! !

M A K E Y O U R A P P O I N T M E N T T O D A Y !

T H E P E R F E C T S T O C K

G L E A M R HOLIDAY G I F T C A R D S

call or vist us online to purchase in increments of

9 1 7 . 7 4 3 . 5 3 6 4 | G L E A M R . C O � � @ G E T G L E A M R $ 25 $ 50 $ 100

I N T

A P P O

DECEMBER 2022 | SOMA LIVING 25

@somalivingmagazine

HOLIDAY GUIDE

I’m a professional illustrator and fine art portraitist. I paint dogs in miniature, down to the last little whisker! I also love to draw people. Lara Tomlin DOG SITE: ART-PAINTEDPUP.COM PEOPLE SITE: LTOMLIN.WIXSITE.COM/MYSITE LARATOMLIN.ART@GMAIL.COM 973-818-1101

26 somalivingmagazine @ gmail.com

@somalivingmagazine

HOLIDAY GUIDE

NOW OPEN! 1611 SPRINGFIELD AVE #B • 973-843-7127 325 VALLEY ST • 973-327-4977

$25 each EYEBROW THREADING EYEBROW TINTING EYELASH EXTENSIONS BRAZILLIAN WAX + $10 OFF FACIAL & BODY WAXING 30% OFF

Give yourself the gift of home this year! DESIGN/BUILD

www.studioenvie.com

LIVE THEATER

56 years in South Orange The freshest flowers, exotic orchids, and plants We Deliver! 128 S. Orange Ave. (Across from Walgreens) www.victorsflorist.com Stop in and say hello!

PAPERMILL.ORG

DECEMBER 2022 | SOMA LIVING 27

@somalivingmagazine

HOLIDAY GUIDE

Flexible Spending Account: Use it or lose it!

Large Seclection of Designer Frames Dawn Morano - Optician #D1627

28 somalivingmagazine @ gmail.com

@somalivingmagazine

HOLIDAY GUIDE

Bring in this ad for 10% off and treat yourself!

hello creativity. www.apaperhat.com | 862-250-3129 94 Baker St., Maplewood | @apaperhatart

Supplier of exclusive, quality menswear made in the U.S and abroad

LOCATED IN THE HEART OF MAPLEWOOD VILLAGE

104 Baker St. • 973-577-2013

Open Tues-Sat 12-5; Sun 12-4 Closed Monday • Open 24/7 Online

411 Ridgewood Road, Maplewood NJ 07040 HOURS: TUE-FRI 12 TO 5 • SAT 11-5 • HOLIDAYS SUN 11-5

Cityworkshopmsc.com @cityworkshopmsc

@insidehomemaplewood • insidehomenj.com

DECEMBER 2022 | SOMA LIVING 29

@somalivingmagazine

HOLIDAY GUIDE

WE MOVED! 51 Academy, South Orange We provide: • Made to Order • Cold Storage • Repairing • Cleaning & Glazing • Remoldeling

15 Valley St. 2nd Fl • S. Orange 07079 • 917-650-7895

Order online: gardenofedithfd.com 54 South Orange Ave South Orange, NJ 07079

(973)327-4241

A1 Handy Man Painting and Home Improvements

Call or email for an estimate • Owner: Lloyd Brown 973-477-3458 • A1Availablepainting@gmail.com

30 somalivingmagazine @ gmail.com

@somalivingmagazine

HOLIDAY GUIDE

FANTASY PARTY WORLD Everything for your Parties and More! 259 Irvington Ave., South Orange 973-327-4121 Open: Tue-Sat: 9AM-6PM; Sun: 11AM-4PM

Tuesday-Saturday 10-5 Closed Sunday and Monday

TM

DECEMBER 2022 | SOMA LIVING 31

@somalivingmagazine

Jennifer Greenberg Licensed Real Estate Salesperson jen.greenberg@compass.com

M 917.757.3287 O 973.310.6816

Your Home. My Mission.

Your Home. My Mission.

Selling your SOMA hom The agent you ch work with makes difference when i to a successful sa Working with life resident Jen Gree means you have tech, market exp and a personal h advisor on your s

Selling your SOMA home?

The agent you choose to work with makes a big difference when it comes to a successful sale. Working with life long resident Jen Greenberg means you have innovative tech, market expertise, and a personal home advisor on your side.

Reach out today

Scan here more info

Jennifer Greenberg is a real estate salesperson Compass is a licensed real estate broker and a

Reach out today!

Scan here for more info

Jennifer Greenberg is a real estate salespersons affiliated with Compass. Compass is a licensed real estate broker and abides by equal housing opportunity laws.

32 somalivingmagazine @ gmail.com

@somalivingmagazine