SOMA Living December 2023

VOL.8-12 DECEMBER 2023 MAGAZINE

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DECEMBER 2023 | SOMA LIVING 3

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PUBLICATION TEAM

FACES IN THE CROWD

Publisher: Michael E. Goldberg

Editor: Karen L. Driggs

Director of Human Resources: Fudge P. Goldberg

Advertising Sales Michael E. Goldberg I 973.271.4306 somalivingmagazine@gmail.com Contributors: Cathy Roma, Dr. Stephen Levine, Gary T. Jones, Dr. Daniel Roig, Victor Delapa, Natalie Farrell, Douglas Huebner, Kate Dawson, Jill Cohen, Yoni Kreger, Julie Perlow-Greene, Rebecca Kirkwood, Lee Seidenberg, Abiola Amusan, Juvens Exantus Rob Hubsmith, Nancy Gagnier

The CHS marching band recently competed in the US Bands State Championship. The band received an overall Bronze with a 3rd place in their class, 2nd place in percussion and 2nd place in color guard. Congratulations!

PET OF THE MONTH Sponsored by Jennifer McManus Real Estate

Design by: GRANDSTAND DESIGN

(973) 232-6025 www.grandstanddesign.com

Family Photography by: LIVE LOVE LENS PHOTOGRAPHY

TUCKER SINGER Tucker is a standard poodle who will be turning 13 in jan uary. He is one of the nicest dogs you will meet. He makes everyone feel like they are his favorite human. Tucker loves to walk, the dog park and socializing with people. His fa vorite treat is freeze dried beef liver.

jamie@livelovelens.com www.livelovelens.com

Kristine Foley

Give the gift of SOMA photo art!

livelovelens.com | @livelovemaplewood | jamie@livelovelens.com

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DECEMBER 2023 | SOMA LIVING 5

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Discover the DUO Difference

Our Provided Real Estate Services: Design Services - by Habitatilist Group. Defer fix-up costs until the closing. Staging - We’ll make your house atractive to today’s buyers at no cost to you. Professionally cleaned - our crew will make your house shine at no cost to you.

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MEET THE SPRINGER FAMILY

Photography by Jamie Meier

Meet the Springers, an active and close family who found a home in the picturesque town of Maplewood 18 years ago. Leslie, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) from Ithaca, NY, and Mario, a first- generation Panamanian attorney from Wheaton, Illinois, first met in New York City in 2002 on a blind date. Today, they build their lives filled with love and shared values, raising their three remarkable daughters: Nadia, Sadie, and Leila. Leslie works as a therapist, in private practice, providing compassionate care to her clients. Reflecting on her professional journey, she shares, “Helping others has always been so important to me. Making a positive impact on people’s lives is incredibly fulfilling.” Mario serves as SVP, General Counsel & Corp. Secretary at a tech start-up called Justworks, Inc., where he manages the legal team while overseeing the cybersecurity and people teams. He takes pride in being part of a company that promotes inclusion and supports small businesses. After getting married in 2005, Mario and Leslie decided to move to Maplewood. Having no ties to NJ, they were attracted by the town’s proximity to NYC, public school system, reputation for diversity, progressiveness, and close-knit community. They welcomed their twin daughters, Nadia and Sadie, six months after moving from the city. When the twins were 20 months old, the family tragically lost their daughter Talia to stillbirth. Despite the tragic loss, the family continued to grow and welcomed their youngest daughter, Leila, in 2010.

DECEMBER 2023 | SOMA LIVING 7

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The Springer girls have blossomed into strong students and exceptional individuals, each with their own talents and passions. The twins are active members of the National Honors Society and Leila is continually on the honor/high honor roll. Nadia and Sadie have demonstrated their leadership skills by serving as co-presidents of the Columbia High School student council during their four years. Nadia is a CHS Cross Country team captain and actively contributes to the community through her work at No.165. Sadie leads CHS’ Students for Social Justice and the Power Club, inspiring her peers to make a difference, while also participating in the CHS Special Dance Company. Leila has found a passion in musical theater. She has had 2 leading roles in a local theater production and is currently rehearsing for a principal role in the Maplewood Middle School production of Mean Girls. When asked what attracted them to Maplewood, Leslie explains, “Maplewood offers the best of both worlds—a small-town feel with an urban vibe.” As an active family, the Springers discovered some favorite local spots. Village Coffee is the go-to for Nadia and Mario for delicious Matcha Chai. Village Ice Cream Parlor, The Parkwood Diner, and Pickett’s Village Bar are also some of the family’s favorites. Asbury Park, NJ holds a special place in the Springers’ hearts. They spend a lot of time there, especially in the summer. It is a great escape where they like to spend time with friends and family, chill on the beach, and enjoy all the shops and restaurants. The Springer family exemplifies the power of community, diversity, and shared values. With Leslie and Mario’s unwavering support, Nadia, Sadie, and Leila embrace their passions and thrive in their pursuits. Together, they’ve made their home in Maplewood, a place where love and acceptance flourish.

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7 TH ANNUAL SOMA SUMMER CAMP FAIR

WHEN Sunday December 10, 2023 1PM-4PM

The Woodland 60 Woodland Road Maplewood, NJ WHERE

FREE ADMISSION

Reps from dozens of camps serving SOMA families! For a list of camps, more info, and to register, Please visit: www.somacampfair.com

Tandem REALTOR® Sales Associates Bonnie (c): 347.512.5669 Kelly (c): 917.359.8334

info@tandemnj.com tandemnj.com tandem.nj

Tandem Real Estate Group is a team of real estate salespersons af fi liated with Compass. Compass is a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws.

Compass RE is a licensed real estate

DECEMBER 2023 | SOMA LIVING 9

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SOMA DREAM TEAM MAKEOVER

This month’s feature is Amy Cohen. Amy is currently the Learning Specialist at The Peck School. She has dedicated her life to teaching, advocating for opportunities for females in sports, and raising her two boys, Joshua and

Julie Perlow- Retail Therapy - Amy and I worked together remotely to complete her styling for the photo shoot. She sent me photos of herself wearing some of her typical looks for both work and play. She also shared some of her struggles with finding the right pieces to flatter her shape. We were able to pull together two dresses that brought out her soft natural attributes and femininity. One dress is a beautiful black kimono-style dress with red flowers in the print. She was elegant in this piece and on-trend. She also looked fabulous in a flowy dress with gold stitching that had a festive holiday feel.

Ethan. She grew up in Maplewood and attended Columbia High School. After college, she taught at public schools in NYC, Baltimore, and Washington, DC, and spent the last 19 years teaching in Costa Rica. The Pandemic made her decide it was time to return to Maplewood. She is thrilled to be back and take advantage of all that SOMA has to offer, including the fabulous Dream Team! Jill Cohen, TheCannaBossLady - Get ready to transform with Dream Team Makeover - a complete beauty transformation that focuses on enhancing both inner and outer beauty of our heroes. Let’s meet Amy Cohen, who has been struggling with slight anxiety and symptoms of menopause. To brighten her skin, reduce dryness, increase hair growth, and aid digestion, I recommended NFZD

Norah Salzar, Makeup artist - Amy is a teacher and I wanted to glam her a little bit more than her usual self.

A deeper brown eye look and a beautiful rosy lip to accentuate the outfits. Also a bronzed cheek and glossy skin to match the rest of Amy’s look. Yoni Kreger, YK Salon - Immediately upon meeting Amy, the YK team knew that her one-length, collar

Beauty mushroom powder. To help reduce her anxiety, I recommended CBD Mints by Her Highness, which contains 2.5mg of CBD and gives a calm and happy feeling throughout the day.

bone haircut was wildly mismatched to her outgoing, vivacious personality. In the consultation, the team and client determined that a dramatic cut was in order. First, YK’s newest associate, Janet, formulated a natural,

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Lee Seidenberg Photography - Amy was shy in front of the camera at first but became more relaxed in no time. We experimented with a few different looks. For the black

warm brunette to enhance Amy’s eye color, and applied a single process with pockets of depth to add dimensions. For the cut, Yoni aimed for a shorter length in the back, aligned to her neck bone, and then stacked layers toward the front to create body and motion. With this haircut, Amy gets the dramatic, manageable look she desired, and we hope she loves it just as much as we do!

dress, we chose a pink background to highlight the flower pattern and her skin tone. We positioned the light on the side for the gold stitched dress to accentuate the gold threading. We also captured shots of her in her big, cozy sweater. For these, I backlit her, overex posed the image, and used a crystal in front of the lens to create a dreamy effect.

Interested in participating as the Dream Team feature? Apply at SomaDreamTeam.com

CALL TODAY TO SCHEDULE A FREE ESTIMATE!

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

DECEMBER 2023 | SOMA LIVING 11

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RECIPE OF THE MONTH

INSTRUCTIONS

SWEET AND SOUR BRISKET Prep Time: 20 mins Cook Time: 3 hr 30 mins + 15 mins resting time Servings: 8 Brisket is a tough cut of meat and there’s simply no way around that. A sloooow, braising method is ideal and that said, this recipe will take time (mostly hands off). But it’s worth it, promise. Tangy and melt in-your-mouth tender, this is the BEST sweet and sour brisket! Perfect for your holiday table or any day of the week.

1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Season the brisket generously on both sides with kosher salt and pepper. 2. Heat the oil in a dutch oven over med/high heat (or a roasting pan if your brisket is too large to fit the dutch oven). Brown the brisket on both sides, about 3-4 mins per side and remove to a plate. 3. Add the sliced onion directly to the pan (tossing well) and cook until it begins to soften and brown, about 4 mins. 4. Add the garlic, dark brown sugar, and cider vinegar. Season with kosher salt and pepper and cook until the onions are very soft and beginning to caramelize, about 5 mins more. 5. Stir in the tomato paste, mustard, soy sauce, and tomato sauce. Stir well. 6. Add the 2 cups of the beef stock, stir, and return the brisket and any accumulated juices back to the pan. Season with salt and pepper. Use a large spoon ot tongs to cover the brisket well with the onions and sauce. The brisket should be partially submerged. 7. Cover tightly and place the dutch oven into the oven. Reduce the heat to 350 and cook for 1 1/2 hours.

8. Uncover, add the remaining 1/2 cup stock to the pan, and nestle the potatoes and carrots under and around the brisket. Spoon more sauce over the top of the meat. Cover and continue to cook one more hour. 9. Remove the brisket from the oven, uncover, and flip the brisket over. Stir the potatoes and carrots around and spoon some sauce over the top of the meat. 10. Return to the oven, uncovered, and continue to cook until brisket is very tender, about one more hour (it should flake easily when prodded with a fork). Add more stock if the sauce becomes too thick or begins to dry out. 11. Remove from the oven and use tongs to place the brisket on a cutting board, fat-side up. Cover with foil and let it rest for 15 mins. 12. After the meat has rested, slice the brisket into thin slices against the grain.

INGREDIENTS

4 lbs beef brisket, fat cap no more than ¼ inch kosher salt and pepper 1 Tbsp canola or vegetable oil 2 large onions, sliced into half moons 5 cloves garlic, thinly sliced ½ cup dark brown sugar, packed ¼ cup apple cider vinegar

1 Tbsp tomato paste 1 Tbsp dijon mustard 2 Tbsp soy sauce 15 oz tomato sauce (1 can) 2 ½ cups beef stock (divided) 1 lb carrots, peeled and chopped (or fresh, young carrots peeled and left whole) 1 ½ lb baby potatoes 2 Tbsp parsley, minced (divided)

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.

Irish

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DRINK OF THE MONTH

ANDRES SPECIAL #84

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?!!”

Ingredients: 2.0-ounce Uncle Nearest Bourbon 1884

0.5-ounce Fresh Lemon Juice 0.5-ounce Agave 1.5-ounce Egg Whites

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

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

DECEMBER 2023 | SOMA LIVING 13

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STRAIN OF THE MONTH

THE DOUBLE SHOT FLOWER BY VERANO

Verano Essence Double shot 1g Pre-roll

18% THC hybrid - 1gram Pre-roll Essence A delicate strain with a decadent flavor you will surely enjoy! This Hybrid Flower is the ideal match for the holiday season, relaxing, both the mind and body. The 50/50 split of Indica and Sativa will definitely help you enjoy wrapping holiday gifts, cozying up by the fireplace, or planning your New Year shindig! Experience euphoria and creativity while maintaining mental clarity. Highly recommended for an enjoyable high to navigate the season of giving and new beginnings. This strain has a hint of cinnamon and cocoa with a gassy finish. The double shot strain has a combination of aromas that is hard to resist! It has a perfect mix of sweet and savory flavors that hits your taste buds and leaves a complimentary spice in the air. Its potency is undeniable, but its precise flavors ensure it does not overpower you. It is a great choice for the holidays, with a well-balanced taste. The double shot pre roll offers a versatile experience for all enthusiasts, whether looking for a social, energetic boost or a more tranquil introspective experience. Additionally, this strain can help with pain management and act as an antidepressant. You will find yourself wanting double!! For all the Santas out there, this preroll goes great with milk & cookies. Happy holidays! Written by: Juvens Exantus, Budtender, Elevated CannaBoss Lady Dispensary About: Elevated by the CannaBoss Lady Dispensary & CBD Boutique, located in Maplewood Village at 9 Highland Place and owned by Jill Cohen, a local SOMA resident. She is a cannabis enthusiast, educator, advocate, and philanthropist, who curated a luxury cannabis experience for those with refined tastes.

LANDSCAPE DESIGN • BUILD • MAINTENANCE

Michael Scalora PRESIDENT Erik Rowan LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT NJ License #AS001439

www.scalora.com

office@scalora.com

(973) 313-3912

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DECEMBER 2023 | SOMA LIVING 15

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ATHLETE OF THE MONTH SPONSORED BY BASS FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC OLIVIA DARLING

• 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

Meet Olivia Darling! She is a 9 year old in the 4th grade at Delia Bolden Elemen tary. For the past two years Olvia has been tumbling through gymnastics and five months ago she began participating in cheerleading. This January, Olivia will be participating in her first competition. When Olivia is not partiipating in cheer, you can find her volunteering at the East Orange Animal Alliance. Here you can find her assisitng in sheltering, transport ing, socializing and exercising the ani mals. Olivia enjoys helping the animals find a family to adopt them. When Olivia has down time she enjoys participating with the local Girl Scout Troop, hanging with family and friends, her kitten and two dogs.

At Delia Bolden Elementary, Olivia’s favorite class is music. She also enjoys playing sports in school. Her favorite teacher is Ms. Kwata. Olivia explains, “Ms. Kwata inspires me to continue to volunteer more at the East Orange An imal shelter.” She says with a smile!

ABOUT DR. BASS If one word were used to describe Dr. Wayne J. Bass, it would 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 principle 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

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FROM THE DOCTOR Why do we get headaches? There are 129 classifications, but the one that matters is yours. You know the symptoms: throbbing pain, blurred vision, and pressure behind the eyes. Whether it’s the creeping tightness above your temples or stiffness at the base of your skull, headaches can be debilitating. Did you know that 50 million Americans suffer from regular headaches? Twelve million experience daily headaches, and 28 million suffer from migraines. Even children aren’t spared, with 20% experiencing headaches. These conditions result in 157 million days of work missed, costing U.S. employers a staggering 25 billion dollars. Various lifestyle and environmental factors can trigger headaches, including muscle contractions in the neck, stress, certain foods, eyestrain, alcohol, dry eyes, fatigue, smoking, colds or flu, sinus infections, poor posture, emotional stress, and environmental stimuli like noise, lights, and scents. While over-the-counter (OTC) medications may provide temporary relief, they should be a last resort due to potential side effects, including Medication Overuse Headaches (MOH) with prolonged use. Chiropractors can offer effective relief for headaches. Studies have shown that cervicogenic headaches, originating from misalignments in the neck, are the most common and easily treated type. Subluxations, misalignments of vertebrae in the neck, can irritate nerves and contribute to headaches. Professional chiropractic adjustments addressing these subluxations can provide relief. At South Orange Chiropractic, our team utilizes traditional methods, clinical evaluations, imaging, and thermal imaging to detect misalignments and irritated nerves. Treatment options include traditional adjustments or computerized instrumentation for gentle adjustments without manipulation. If you’re seeking relief from headaches, consider consulting with our chiropractic team for personalized care. CAUSES AND CHIROPRACTIC RELIEF

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

We are excited to announce the merger of the CPA firms of Couto DeFranco, CPAs and Marco DeLuca, CPA.

Nelson Couto, CPA, CFP ® and Anthony DeFranco, CPA, CFP ® , MS (Taxation) — Partners; Couto DeFranco, P.A.

Marco DeLuca, CPA

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

Offices in West Orange & Maplewood

DECEMBER 2023 | SOMA LIVING 17

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FROM THE DOCTOR

LABRAL TEAR OF HIP

Patients often associate hip joint pain with arthritis and the need for a hip replacement. However, sometimes the pain is caused by a tear in the cartilage lining the hip joint, known as the hip labrum. This tear occurs when the cartilage separates from the bone. Labral tears usually develop gradually due to underlying hip joint issues that strain the labrum. They can also result from accidents or sports injuries, particularly in athletes involved in ice hockey, soccer, football, golf, and ballet. Structural problems of the hip can also lead to labral tears. Symptoms include hip or groin pain, limited range of motion, stiffness, and clicking in the hip joint. Additional symptoms may include limping, difficulty walking, sitting for extended periods, and pressure on the affected side. Symptom range and timing vary among patients. Treatment options include surgery, injections, and physical therapy. Diagnosis involves a comprehensive examination and MRI. Physical therapy is typically the initial approach to strengthen muscles and manage pain. Modalities like ice, heat, ultrasound, or cold laser treatment may aid healing. In some cases, injections can enhance physical therapy effectiveness. If these methods prove insufficient, surgery may be recommended to remove or repair the torn labrum. It is important to note that surgery does not always resolve the problem. Consulting with a physical therapist or physician is crucial to determine the best course of action. Together, they can help you achieve your goals and find the most suitable approach for your condition.

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

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.

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

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As winter approaches, so does the opportunity to transform your home into a haven from the cold and stark outdoors. Below are 7 tips to make your living spaces cozier by embracing the charm of the season. SNUGGLE ESSENTIALS 1. Invest in a quality throw blanket and plush pillows as they add a layer of warmth and beckon for some needed nestle time. STOVE TOP FRAGRANCE 2. Simmer a homemade potpourri using cinnamon, citrus peels, cloves, or whatever you have on hand. The aroma will infuse your house with the nostalgic fragrance of the season. DECK YOUR DECK 3. Decorate your home’s exterior with lights and winter greenery, beautifying it into the place that welcomes you after a long day. FLOOR CHARM 4. Adding an area rug is a good idea for both insulation purposes and to cozy up cold floors. LET IT GLOW 5. Creating pleasant ambiance with candles and warm lights will make your home a retreat from the shorter and darker days. WINTER GREENS 6. Winter foliage like spruce, fir, pine, cedar, and cypress, will greenify and bring life back into your space. ENJOY THE SIMPLE THINGS 7. Finally, use your home for what a home fosters best– intimate moments amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life. Whether it’s time spent with those you love or by yourself, make your home into a place to enjoy winter’s quieter pleasures. REAL ESTATE WELCOME THE WINTER, LEAVE THE COLD OUTSIDE

973-632-0302

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

DECEMBER 2023 | SOMA LIVING 19

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HOME DESIGN “Wait, you mean the whole wall? Ceiling to the floor? Not just to the chair rail?” she inquired. “Yup,” I replied. “And all the walls?” she asked. “Yup.” “Oh, Doog...” she sighed. “Doog” is the way my name is affectionately pronounced by my good friend and investor partner, Madeline. We were standing in the dining room at our latest venture, “The Chloe Project” (#ChloeProject). I was holding up a sample of wallpaper. “Do you really think that people are going to like that? Not the wallpaper, that’s beautiful, but having this much of it. I mean, I love chocolate, but too much of it makes my head spin,” she expressed her concern. “We’ve used wallpaper before,” I argued. “We’ve done a powder room or two, that’s it,” she countered. “True. And I do have a great wallpaper picked out for the powder room. It’s going over the garden trellis,” I explained.

“Wait! Over the what?” she looked at me wide-eyed, then let it drop. “Never mind,” she continued, “I don’t want to know. You and your powder rooms... But this is the dining room. People are going to think they’re stuck with this.” “Ahhh...but they’re not,” I reassured her. “These days when you buy a good quality paper, removal is a cinch. Wallpaper with a non-woven backing can be peeled off dry, and the only clean up is perhaps some paste on the wall that can be cleaned with soapy water. And the peel and stick wallpaper, that’s super easy to remove,” I explained confidently. “So don’t be afraid of wallpaper because if it makes your head spin, you can always remove it!” Madeline happily concluded. “Exactly!” I replied.

Habitatilist Group Design Studio renovation planning & interior design

Chloe (in progress)

Looking to create your dream space or just update your home? From light remodeling to full gut renovations, we get you from concept to completion with a design tailored to achieving your goals and a crew that can get it done!

Call or write for a consultation Douglas Huebner (917) 676 - 2000 thehabitatilist@gmail.com follow us on Instagram @habitatilistgroup

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INTERIOR DESIGN It’s time! The holidays are here! And I will never grow tired of Xmas music! Why, you ask? Because all those tunes take me back to my childhood. See, when I was growing up in Champaign, Illinois, the day after Thanksgiving was always the day we went out and got a tree and then turned our house into a Christmas Wonderland! My mom was a decorator too! She never did it professionally, although she could have, but this woman had - and has - exquisite taste. I watched her decorate our home and all our friends’ homes too, and while I didn’t realize it at the time, she was training me for my future. Not only were her creations beautiful, but when I grew up, I realized that they were also quite cost-effective (Go, Mom!). She could make anything look fancy – whether she added glitter, lights, unexpected colors, or bows, she always sprinkled her magic throughout our home without giving my dad a financial panic attack. So, since it’s the holiday season, I thought I’d pass on some of her fun (and inexpensive) tips. These are tips you can quite easily do on your own. Check out the pictures below, but before you look, keep these 3 things in mind: 1) Everything can be decorated. LITERALLY EVERYTHING. (ex., Chandeliers) 2) Glitter, Tinsel, and Garland are always good (in decor, and also just in general), and 3) Never underestimate the power of the bow. Seriously, she would buy spools and spools of colorful, beautiful velvet, metallic, and plaid ribbons, mix them all together, and create the most luscious bows that she would tuck in here and there for an extra little pop. And 4) Most importantly, MORE IS MORE!

For more pics and tips… check out my IG: @KateTheDecorWhore

Kate@decorwhore.com www.decorwhore.com

DECEMBER 2023 | SOMA LIVING 21

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INTELLIGENT HOMES: A SYMPHONY OF SORTS LIGHTING AND AUDIO As the founder of AV Luxury Design and a proud resident of South Orange and Maplewood (SOMA), I offer a vision for homes that transcend the ordinary. For over two decades, I have been committed to integrating technology that not only serves but also intuitively complements your lifestyle. Consider this: you’re settling into bed and with a single press of the ‘Goodnight’ button on your nightstand, a symphony of activity unfolds—your home responds like a well-conducted orchestra. The thermostat dials down to a cool 67 degrees—my personal favorite for restful sleep—the shades draw closed, securing your privacy, the garage ensures your vehicles are safely enclosed, the fireplace dims to a gentle halt, all doors lock, bolstering your security, and the lights throughout your home soften to darkness. Meanwhile, a gentle lullaby begins to play, serenading the little ones in the next room into dreamland.

A client once asked me, “Can the temperature and music be customized for different family members?” My response: Absolutely. The only limit is the imagination. This is the reality of modern smart homes, and it’s exactly what we bring to life at AV Luxury Design. Our technology is not just about convenience; it’s about creating moments, enhancing safety, and personalizing your living space to respond to your unique lifestyle. As smart homes continue to evolve, we stay ahead, ensuring that your home is equipped with the latest innovations that speak to both your needs and desires.

Abiola Amusan, AV Luxury Design Abiola Amusan, is the Principal at AV Luxury Design. A tech savvy Maplewood resident with over two decades of experience in both tech and customer service. His passion lies in creating Intelligent homes that are as interconnected as the strong community ties he cherishes in SOMA. CREATE YOUR INTELLIGENT HOME...

•LIGHTING •AUTOMATED SHADES •THEATER ROOMS •LANDSCAPE LIGHTING 646-201-3841 • abiola@AVluxurydesign.com avluxurydesign.com avluxurydesign AV Luxury Design •DISTRIBUTED AUDIO •WHOLE HOME WIFI •OUTDOOR AUDIO

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MEDICARE 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 a Medicare 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.

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

Rob Hubsmith is a 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.

DECEMBER 2023 | SOMA LIVING 23

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As the weather starts to get colder, it’s time to start to think about SUMMER! Looking for information on Summer Camps, but don’t know where to start? Good news! The 7th Annual SOMA Summer Camp Fair is here and happening earlier in the planning cycle! The Camp Fair, sponsored by Tandem Real Estate Group, will be held on December 10, 2023 from 1pm - 4pm at The Woodland (60 Woodland Road, Maplewood). This event is free to all and children are welcome to attend. Over 23 day and overnight camps are expected to participate and will provide materials and answer questions regarding their unique programing. All of the camps serve SOMA families and beyond and are looking forward to welcoming new campers. For more information and to register, please visit: https://www.somacampfair.com SUMMER CAMP 7TH ANNUAL SOMA SUMMER CAMP FAIR

A HOLISTIC APPROACH TO PHYSICAL THERAPY Specializing in Pelvic Health, Oncology, Lymphedema, and Wellness.

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

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Neighborhood House Nursery School 100 Years & Growing!

R Handyman Services a Cut Above

Serving Ages 2 ½ to 5 Years Old Play-Based Philosophy

Community Exploration Through Field Trips Backyard Garden Integrated into Curriculum Diverse and Inclusive Community Flexible Scheduling Available

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COALITION ON RACE SOMA HONORS DR. KING WITH OBSERVANCE, VOLUNTEER FAIR, & LUMINARY LIGHTING

The South Orange/Maplewood Community Coalition on Race will once again gather the community to recommit to Dr. Martin Luther

Schedule a tour to visit us!

OPEN HOUSE WEEK DECEMBER 11TH-15TH.

King, Jr.’s vision of the Beloved Community at its annual celebration on Monday, January 15, 2024. The event begins with a special Observance at Columbia High School (CHS) at 2 p.m. in the auditorium. The Coalition is pleased to bring back the Volunteer Fair in the CHS cafeteria at 4 p.m., immediately following the Observance. Dozens of local organizations will be on hand to provide information on opportunities for residents to get involved with community service. All local organizations are welcome to register to host a table at the Volunteer Fair by emailing Audrey.Rowe@communitycoalitiononrace.org. As the sun sets on Dr. King’s birthday, the community is invited to participate in the Luminary Project—an uplifting and inspirational close to this important celebration. Hundreds of households, businesses, township sites, and Seton Hall University display decorated candle-lit bags as a sign of solidarity with his vision. Luminary kits will be available for a donation in the weeks leading up to MLK Day at local businesses, plus there will be a decorating party for kids where they get to share their ideas about Dr. King’s message of peace. Visit the Coalition on Race’s website for details: communitycoalitiononrace.org. — by Nancy Gagnier, Executive Director

RSVP Suggested chicks@morrowpreschol.org our exciting new class offerings for the 24-25 school year. Please join us for an evening meet and greet. Tuesday, Dec 12th 7 -9 pm. Come take a peek at our classrooms, meet our teachers and hear about

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DECEMBER 2023 | SOMA LIVING 25

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FINANCIAL FOCUS As another year comes to a close, let’s reflect on the role of time and its impact on our financial goals. Time is a crucial factor for investors, and it can be their greatest ally. Holding investments for the long term allows for impressive cumulative growth in value. By consistently adding shares to these investments, possibly through a dividend reinvestment plan, you can benefit from compounding growth. Although equity investments may experience market fluctuations, the longer you hold them, the better you can mitigate the effects of volatility. However, it’s essential to consider time in the following contexts: 1. Checking progress towards goals: When aiming for goals like saving for education or retirement, regularly assess your progress. If you’re falling behind, adjust your investment mix accordingly. 2. Choosing an appropriate strategy: Your investment strategy should align with the time needed to achieve each goal. For long-term goals, such as retirement, investing for growth with a reasonable percentage of equities is ideal. Short-term goals, like vacations or weddings, require investments with stable principal values, such as CDs and bonds. Remember, you can use different strategies simultaneously, combining growth vehicles for retirement savings while also investing in shorter-term instruments. Additionally, your risk tolerance may change over time, prompting adjustments to a more conservative approach as retirement approaches. However, maintaining some growth potential in your portfolio remains necessary to combat inflation. When investing, time is a crucial consideration, so use it wisely. TIME: A KEY ELEMENT OF INVESTING

We want to hear from you! Cover Family Meet the Artist Charitable Acts Athlete of the Month Events Meet the Merchant Community Groups School Activities Meet the Merchant Cover Family Meet the Artist Cover Family Charitable Acts Athlete of the Month Events School Activities Commu nity Groups Cover Family Meet the Artist Charitable Acts Athlete of the Month Events Meet the Merchant Community Groups School Activities somalivingmagazine@gmail.com

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.

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HOLIDAY GUIDE

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DECEMBER 2023 | SOMA LIVING 27

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HOLIDAY GUIDE

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HOLIDAY GUIDE

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DECEMBER 2023 | SOMA LIVING 29

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HOLIDAY GUIDE

Open Tuesday-Saturday for Dinner Book Your Holiday Party Today! WWW. RESTAURANTLUNASTELLA.COM 5 HIGHLAND PLACE, MAPLEWOOD - 973.761.7600

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We’ve Launched! Thrive Church exists to Worship God, Build His Kingdom, and Thrive on purpose as one Kingdom community.

Worship. Build. Thrive.

Thrive Nation Rising! Est. 9.18.2023 Thrive Live @ the SOPAC on Sundays @ 11:15AM

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10:00AM Prayer & Bible Study 11:00AM Celebration Service

DECEMBER 2023 | SOMA LIVING 31

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