SOMA Living February 2022

VOL. 7-2 FEBRUARY 2022 MAGAZINE

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PUBLICATION TEAM

FACES IN THE CROWD

On Sunday, January 23, 2022, the Lunar Fest NJ planning com mittee (from left to right, Andrew Lee, Ommer Khaw, Allison Kim Lord, Ran Wei Baker, Emni Mar, and Jessica Cabato) was at The Woodland in Maplewood set ting up for Lunar Fest NJ, an annual Lunar New Year cele bration, this year co-hosted by SOMA Cross Cultural Works and Seton Hall University.

Founders & Co-Publishers: Michael E. Goldberg & Juliet Bowen

Editor: Brenda Langan Director of Human Resources: Fudge P. Goldberg

Advertising Sales Michael E. Goldberg I 973.271.4306 somalivingmagazine@gmail.com Contributors: Cathy Roma, Kate Elliott, Dr. Stephen Levine, Kim Kassnove, Elizabeth Kubany, Gary T. Jones, Dr. Daniel Roig, Dr. Alissa Gardenhire

PETS OF THE MONTH

Design by: GRANDSTAND DESIGN

(973) 232-6025 www.grandstanddesign.com

We are the Mackechnies and our loving, sweet cat is Luna. She is very funny, cute, fluffy and an extremely “influential” family member since adopt ed 3 years ago. She’s always hungry, nips at us and usually gets what she wants. She jumps, plays soccer with us in our basement, and is always in quisitive. Like her human dad, she goes bananas when a full moon is out. She’s the best, so we’re bananas for her.

Family Photography by: LIVE LOVE LENS PHOTOGRAPHY

jamie@livelovelens.com www.livelovelens.com

Kristine Foley

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THE LEADING BOUTIQUE BROKERAGE IN SOUTH ORANGE AND MAPLEWOOD

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MEET THE GODFREY FAMILY Like so many of our neighbors, Annie and Darryl Godfrey moved to South Orange for the promise of a diverse, inclusive community and were drawn to the Village. “Annie and I were high school sweethearts in Newark so we were familiar with the area and South Orange was a natural fit when we decided to move from Newark 24 years ago. I think the town dynamics and fabric of our community should be painted across the country as a model community,” Darryl shared. “We’ve met so many lifelong friends from the countless hours spent together on the baseball fields and basketball courts throughout our son Nile’s childhood as he played travel baseball and basketball. He moved away from baseball in high school to focus on basketball and I was devastated that I was losing my baseball family,” Annie reminisced.

Photography by Jamie Meier

The duo was entrenched in the sports community while leading demanding professions that required long hours. Darryl is currently the Chief Operating Officer of the New Jersey Redevelopment Agency (NJRA) working with municipalities, real estate developers and community organizations to provide financing to redevelopment projects in underserved neighborhoods. He was the Executive Vice President with Cory Booker’s Brick City Development team in Newark after pivoting from 15 years in the banking world at GE Capital and JP Morgan Chase. Annie also spent many years in corporate America with a long career leading Global Compensation at Johnson & Johnson along with positions in Human Resources at American Express and TIAA-CREF. “We really relied on our tight-knit group of friends and neighbors with our long hours in the city and Nile’s busy sports schedule. It really took a village because we were either working or having a blast with our friends and kids at their games. It was actually when Nile graduated college that I took the leap to become a full-time entrepreneur,” Annie shared. In 2007, the couple created

FEBRUARY 2022 | SOMA LIVING 7

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a “side hustle” when they opened their first business, Water Works Laundromat in Newark. “I learned about the laundromat business and saw it as an opportunity invest in Newark and create a legacy for my family that could sustain us after we retire. It took me about 6 years to talk Annie into it but launching Water Works was the perfect fit since she was essentially running a business within her department at Johnson & Johnson,” Darryl said. “Being an entrepreneur is not for the faint of heart. I realized when I became really hands on with the day-to-day operations that running a business isn’t a hobby or part-time job. I’m especially proud of the changes I’ve seen since I segued out of my corporate job. It was during this time that I came up with the idea to offer laundry pick up delivery service in SOMA since everyone’s lives are so busy. We hoped that our son Nile would join me when we opened a second location called Smart Sudz in Newark. He worked with me for a spell but has inherited our entrepreneurial spirit and wanted to launch his own business in the music industry,” Annie shared. Nile, who was on a county championship team in basketball at Seton Hall Prep followed by playing at Oberlin College, started a business during his sophomore year representing one of his musician friends from Seton Hall Prep. After graduating in 2019 as an Economics major, Nile expanded his company, Crossroads (CXR), a collection of artists and producers bringing that unique Jersey sound to the masses. Since taking the helm as Manager, Nile has seen quite a few careers take off and represents various genres of music. When the Godfreys are able to catch some downtime, they enjoy spending time outside and walking whether it’s into town, throughout the Reservation or the various parks. Darryl also tries to sneak in rounds of golf as much as possible. Annie concluded, “I especially love walking through Floods Hill on Wednesday nights in the Summer with the live music. The fields remind me of our many cherished years at sporting events and seeing the community gathering for an evening of music reminds me that we have a very special, tight-knit community.”

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RECIPE OF THE MONTH

MEXICAN BEEF STEW Prep Time: 20 min • Cook Time: 3 hr Servings: 6 This recipe for Mexican beef stew marries a couple of my favorites; deep, rich slow simmeredbeef stewwith spicy, toastyMexican flavors. It has smokiness from fire roasted poblanos, depth of flavor from simmering for hours, and creaminess when topped with a dollop of homemade lime crema.

6. Remove the charred skin from the poblano peppers lightly. Open the peppers and remove the seeds. Roughly chop the peppers. 7. Stir in chopped poblano peppers, salsa, beer, and stock. Bring to a boil and reduce to a simmer and add in the browned beef and any juices. Cover and simmer for 2 1/2 hours, stirring occasionally. 8. Uncover and simmer for 20-30 mins, season if needed. Stir in cilantro and hot sauce if desired. 9. While the stew cooks, combine the sour cream, lime zest, and salt for the lime crema. Stir well and store in the refrigerator until ready to serve. 10. Serve over rice with a dollop of lime crema and a sprinkle of cilantro. Recipe Notes • You want to get a deep, brown sear on the beef. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan, browning the beef in batches if necessary. If there are too many beef cubes in the pan it will steam, not sear. • Don’t have amber ale on hand? Use any lager instead. • If you can’t find poblano peppers, you can substitute two small cans of minced green chiles. • Allow enough time for the beef to cook until extremely tender. You should be able to cut the beef with a spoon. • Love extra heat? Stir in hot sauce until your heart’s content!

INGREDIENTS

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Place the poblano peppers over an open flame (on a gas stovetop or grill) and char on all sides, turning frequently. 2. Place the charred peppers in a bowl and cover tightly with plastic wrap. 3. Season the beef cubes generously with seasoned kosher salt and pepper. Heat the oil over med/high heat in a dutch oven or large heavy bottomed pot. Brown the beef in batches in the dutch oven, taking care not to overcrowd the pot. Set browned beef aside on a plate. 4. Add the onion and saute until softened, about 4 minutes. 5. Stir in the garlic powder, cumin and oregano and saute until fragrant, about a minute. Add the tomato paste and beef base. Stir well.

2 poblano peppers 2 Tbsp canola or vegetable oil 2 1/2 pounds beef chuck, in 2-inch cubes Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

2 cups chunky salsa (I like medium heat) 12 oz amber ale 2 cups beef stock 1/4 cup cilantro, minced hot sauce, to taste (optional) LIME CREMA 1 cup sour cream 2 tsp lime zest, grated pinch of salt *cooked rice for serving if desired

1 large onion, diced 1 Tbsp garlic powder 2 tsp cumin

2 tsp dried oregano 2 Tbsp tomato paste 1 tsp beef base (or 1 beef boullion cube)

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.

FEBRUARY 2022 | SOMA LIVING 9

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ATHLETE OF THE MONTH SPONSORED BY BASS FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC CASSIDY MOSKOWITZ (18) COLUMBIA HIGH SCHOOL SENIOR

How old were you when you started dancing? I was 3 years old. Where do you dance? I take dance classes and am on the com petition team at Michele’s Dance Studio plus I am a member of the Special Dance Company at Co lumbia High School. What do you love about dance? I love dance because it is like an escape from the rest of the world. When I am dancing, I am only thinking about the music, my movement, and my breath. It is really special when something has the ability to take your mind off of everything else. MADISON MOSKOWITZ (16) COLUMBIA HIGH SCHOOL JUNIOR

• 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

How old were you when you started dancing? I was 3 years old. Where do you dance? I take dance classes and am on the com petition team at Michele’s Dance Studio plus I am a member of the Special Dance Company at Co lumbia High School. What do you love about dance? I love dance because I find that it’s the best way for me to express myself, and it’s both an artwork and a sport. Therefore, it requires creativity, discipline, and strength. I love taking classes and learning new things, along with being on stage and performing for other people.

What is your favorite kind of dance? My favor ite kind of dance is lyrical. I love the movement and how it tells a story. Is there a famous dancer that inspires you? Misty Copeland is very inspirational to me. Not only does she dance because she loves it, but because she is trying to make the world of dance more inclu sive. As the first African American Female Principal Dancer, she has worked to make the dance commu nity more welcoming for persons of color. She also advocates for body positivity within the community and has opened up the conversation a lot.

What is your favorite kind of dance? My favor ite kind of dance is hip hop because it’s fun and allows me to fully immerse myself in the music. Is there a famous dancer that inspires you? Yes, Parris Goebel. She’s a Choreographer and dancer from New Zealand. Her creativity and vi sion are so amazing for every piece that she cho reographs.

ABOUT DR. BASS If one word were used to describe Dr.Wayne J. Bass, itwouldbe“community.” As one who has served on theMaplewood 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 patients.

(973) 378-2277 BASSFAMILYCHIRO.COM 491B VALLEY ST, MAPLEWOOD, NJ 07040

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REAL ESTATE According to the American Pet Products Association, pet ownership has risen to an all-time high of 70% since the start of the pandemic. We all know that most people consider their pets to be family, so how can we parlay all of the home improvement going on into positive updates for your pooch? Sure, everyone loves a heated floor and a mudroom but if you’ve committed to doing work, here are some creative and functional ideas to make your Calico comfier. PERFECT PARTITION Tired of using cumbersome and unsightly baby gates to contain pets while you’re out or having guests? Try putting in a knee-wall height pocket door! Tuck it away and avoid annoying paint touchups on your door frames and enjoy the sleek looking design while it’s in use! SHOWER POWER If you’re face-lifting your laundry or modernizing your mudroom, consider adding a space for a dedicated pet shower! Get your grooming done without leaning over the edge of a bathtub and keep the mess in a place that’s designed to take the dirt. BREAKFAST BAR Allocate one of your kitchen drawers to build in food and water bowls that tuck way when it’s not supper time! A pull-out garbage can to keep food in beside it makes mealtimes easy and keeps you from tripping over your Golden’s grub! DOGGIE DIGS This could really go anywhere but consider carving out a corner under your built-ins for a cozy space for a pet bed. Why not give them a doggie den instead of moving around beds, toys and crates? SLIM STORAGE Trade that pull out spice rack for a pegboard and moveable hanging hooks to customize a place to keep leashes, grooming supplies, medicines and treats. No more untangling before walk time or hunting for those clippers! RENOS FOR ROVER

973-632-0302

Sure, taking an extra step to incorporate creature comforts for your fur babies may seem extravagant to some, but these custom creations are sure to make your life easier as well. If you need recs for some contractors - we’ve got ‘em!

Kate Elliott is the leader of The Kate Elliott Team at Coldwell Banker 646-662-6655 Kate.elliott@cbmoves.com Insta: @KeyToNewJersey

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

FEBRUARY 2022 | SOMA LIVING 11

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VALENTINE’S DAY GREETINGS Valentine’s Day occurs every February 14. Did you know that in addition to the United States, Valentine’s Day is celebrated in Canada, Mexico, the United Kingdom, France and Australia. In Great Britain, Valentine’s Day began to be popularly celebrated around the 17th century. Candy, flowers and gifts are exchanged between loved ones, all in the name of St. Valentine. By the middle of the 18th, it was common for friends and lovers of all social classes to exchange small tokens of affection or handwritten notes, and by 1900 printed cards began to replace written letters due to improvements in printing technology. Ready-made cards were an easy way for people to express their emotions in a time when direct expression of one’s feelings was discouraged. Cheaper postage rates also contributed to an increase in the popularity of sending Valentine’s Day greetings. Americans probably began exchanging hand-made valentines in the early 1700s. In the 1840s, Esther A. Howland began selling the first mass-produced valentines in America. Howland, known as the “Mother of the Valentine,” made elaborate creations with real lace, ribbons and colorful pictures known as “scrap.” Today, according to the Greeting Card Association, an estimated 145 million Valentine’s Day cards are sent each year, making Valentine’s Day the second largest card-sending holiday of the year, behind Christmas.

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HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY!

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FEBRUARY 2022 | SOMA LIVING 13

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FROM THE DOCTOR Choose the Right Shovel A large metal shovel might appear to be the best tool for the job when your plan is to clear all of the snow in record time this winter, however, it will likely slow you down and may lead to a series of injuries. A plastic ergonomic shovel is worth its weight in gold. An ergonomic shovel has a small to medium bucket and its contoured design helps to keep you upright and avoid lifting with your back. Additional handles can be added to further decrease the strain on your low back by allowing you to stand up straight as your shovel. Use Proper Technique • Lift as little snow as possible. Pushing snow, rather than scooping snow will significantly reduce the level of stress on your body. • Use your legs. Because of the uneven terrain, bending at some point will likely be unavoidable. Rather than bending at your low back, bend slightly at your hips and squat down with your legs keeping your low back straight. This will take pressure off your low back and allow you to lift without straining a muscle or injuring a joint. Start Early in the Morning Shoveling the snow early, before it has had a chance to melt, re-freeze and glue itself to your walkway, will make your job much easier. Pushing two inches of dusty snow off your driveway three times is much easier than shoveling six inches of packed ice once. This will also help to avoid driving your car over the snow and packing the ice down further. Take Your Time If you are unable to get a head start on the snow as it is falling, be sure to section off your chore into small pieces that can be done in about 15-minute intervals. Shoveling non-stop for more than 30 minutes is a recipe for back pain. Taking frequent breaks will not only give you a chance to warm up, it will also help you to listen to your body and realize when you’ve over done it and it’s time to hand the shovel off to someone else. What You Need to Know Shoveling snow incorrectly is a great way to injure your low back. If searing low back pain is not something you are looking forward to, follow these simple guidelines: TIPS TO SHOVEL SNOW SAFELYWITHOUT INJURY • Purchase a medium size, plastic, ergonomic shovel • Make a plan so you only have to move snow once • Push snow rather than lifting it • Squat with your legs rather than bending your low back • Never “throw” snow, especially when it gets wet and heavy • Shovel early in the morning while the snow is still light • Take frequent breaks • If you already have a back problem, see us for a complimentary check-up with thermal imaging before it snows and get the appropriate exercises.

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

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Stephen Levine D.C. South Orange Chiropractic Center SouthOrangeChiropractic.com Phone: 973.761.0022 Email: Docdad230@aol.com

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FINANCIAL FOCUS

SHOULD INFLATIONAFFECT YOUR INVESTMENTMOVES?

As you know, inflation heated up in 2021, following years of pretty stable – and low – numbers. And now, early in 2022, we’re still seeing elevated prices. As a consumer, you may need to adjust your activities somewhat, but as an investor, how should you respond to inflation? First, it helps to know the causes of this recent inflationary spike. Essentially, it’s a case of basic economics – strong demand for goods meeting inadequate supply, caused by material and labor shortages, along with shipping and delivery logjams. In other words, too many dollars chasing too few goods. Once the supply chain issues begin to ease and consumer spending moves from goods to services as the COVID-19 pandemic wanes, it’s likely that inflation will moderate, but it may still stay above pre-pandemic levels throughout 2022. Given this outlook, you may want to review your investment portfolio. First, consider stocks. Generally speaking, stocks can do well in inflationary periods because companies’ revenues and earnings may increase along with inflation. But some sectors of the stock market typically do better than others during inflationary times. Companies that can pass along higher costs to consumers due to strong demand for their goods – such as firms that produce building materials or supply steel or other commodities to other businesses – can do well. Conversely, companies that sell nonessential goods and services, such as appliances, athletic apparel and entertainment, may struggle more when prices are rising. Of course, it’s still a good idea to own a variety of stocks from various industries because it can help reduce the impact of market volatility on any one sector. And to help counteract the effects of rising prices, you might also consider investing in companies that have a long track record of paying and raising stock dividends. (Keep in mind, though, that these companies are not obligated to pay dividends and can reduce or discontinue them at any time.) Apart from stocks, how can inflation affect other types of investments? Think about bonds. When you invest in a bond, you receive regular interest payments until the bond matures. But these payments stay the same, so, over time, rising inflation can eat into your bond’s future income, which may also cause the price of your bond to drop – a concern if you decide to sell the bond before it matures. The impact of inflation is especially sharp on the price of longer-term bonds because of the cumulative loss of purchasing power.

• New and pre-owned bikes for sale

• Repair services • Bike accessories • Skateboards

“ Locally Owned and Operated” WINTER HOURS: Thurs-Sun • 12–4 All other seasons: Tues-Sun • 12-5

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.

1673 Springfield Ave., Maplewood • 973-996-2080 www.maplewoodbikeshed.com

FEBRUARY 2022 | SOMA LIVING 15

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EDUCATION As the temperatures plummet below freezing here in our SOMA winter, summer is on the minds of many parents. Summer camps. Summer fun! Sleep away camps! Art camps! Sports camps! Oh boy! Oh no! Camps around here fill quickly! It’s survival of the fittest on camp rosters. Facebook is replete with laments of “this camp is full!” or “we’re #17 on the camp waiting list 30 minutes after registration began”. It’s rough! But we LOVE summer at Best in Class! Summer is a great time for enrichment—a real academic boost! Although all the seasons with our students are special, summer is our favorite season because we can really “dig in” with students to boost their readiness, in math and English, for their upcoming grades! We also get to have a lot of fun with our students in summer like sidewalk math, math is everywhere walks, UNO championships, spelling offs, and group story writing! Some of the best programs we’ve run over the years have been summer bootcamps aimed at grade or subject readiness ahead of fall, like our powerful 2nd, 3rd and 6th grade math and English summer camps, as well as middle school pre-Algebra, Algebra I, and Geometry intensive bootcamps. We have focused on these grades and subjects because they are often the biggest hurdle grades/subjects as kids progress through elementary and middle school. This summer we’ll be working with students rising into 1st to 8th grades in our half and quarter day summer and boot camps and our afternoon enrichment classes. These camps do a bit of review but focus mainly on exposing our students to the topics, concepts they’ll see in the upcoming school year. We have honed our summer curricular programs to hit the high points with our students to give them a tailored set of materials to have them powerfully armed for the new school year. We can do more in the summer because frankly we’re not competing with school. Kids have more mental space to learn with us, take a few hours in the morning or afternoon a few days a week and really get ahead. Getting ahead has a primary result. Confidence. And confidence is one of the most common things parents who reach out to us want for their children. Confidence backed up by rock solid skills and foundation in literacy and numeracy. We love, love, love getting to play and learn with our students in summer. Join us!

Dr. Alissa Gardenhire is the owner of Best in Class Education Center, named one of the three best tutoring centers in the region by 3 Best Rated dot com. Copyright 2021 © Dr. Alissa Gardenhire and Kids Win, Inc.

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DRINK OF THE MONTH

RAISE THE ROOF!

SKI LIFT

The simple compilation of ingredients makes the Ski Lift a most enlivening and tasty drink for a cold day or to add warmth to your evening. One wonderful drink.

INTRODUCTORY HOME EQUITY LOAN RATES AS LOW AS

INGREDIENTS

•1/2 fluid ounce Cocoribe

•1 pinch ground cinnamon

•5 fluid ounces hot cocoa

FOR THE FIRST SIX MONTHS

•1 fluid ounce DeKuyper Peachtree schnapps

•whipped cream for garnish

INSTRUCTIONS

15 Scotland Road in South Orange, NJ

1.Combine schnapps, coconut rum, and hot chocolate in a warm mug and stir. 2.Garnish with marshmallow or dollop of whipped cream and sprinkle cinnamon on top.

*All loans subject to approval. Rate determined by credit score. Garden Savings is an equal opportunity lender.

Sarah Maloney is a longtime Maplewood resident who is known to make a refreshing drink. She is the Vice President of Mortgage Lending at Guaranteed Rate and enjoys spending time with her four children in her downtime.

WWW.SCALORA.COM 973.313.3912

FEBRUARY 2022 | SOMA LIVING 17

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ADULT SCHOOL An Exciting Spring Semester Awaits at The South Orange-Maplewood Adult School! It may be cold and dreary now, but spring is just around the corner and The South Orange-Maplewood Adult School has just launched its Spring catalog! You can browse the over 100 courses at SOMADULTSCHOOL.ORG. Spark your creative juices with classes like Glassblowing, Soapmaking, Writing a Children’s Book, Pinot & Pottery, Pen and Ink Drawing, Needlepoint and Beginner Songwriting For Fun (and No profit Whatsoever). Interested in the Culinary Arts? Check out Knife Skills, The Art of Tasting Craft Chocolate, a Taproom Tour and Tasting at 4 City Brewing Company and Cake Decorating 101. Tap into your spiritual self with classes on Meditation, Hypnosis, Psychic Reading, Tarot for Beginners and Superpower Memory! If you’re longing for some fresh air, there’s a Birding class, Couch to 5k, Golf and Junior Golf and the super trendy Pickleball. But wait! There’s so much more…. The spring catalog features a trove of stimulating lectures and entertaining events, including:

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• Interrupting Bias and Microaggressions in Our Daily Lives

• School’s Out - A Broadway Cabaret fundraising event featuring local stars

• Stephen Whitty Presents: The World According to Coens

• 2 Fab Four lectures with Beatles scholar Vinnie Bruno.

• Three lectures from award-winning art history educator Janet Mandel featuring Meta Vaux Warrick Fuller, Sonia Delaunay and Marc Chagall.

• Re/Writing Sex & Gender with educator Roger Rosen.

There’s truly something for EVERYONE in this catalog and classes fill up quickly, so sign up today! See website for guidelines. More classes will be added throughout the semester so be sure to get on the mailing list — sign up at www.somadultschool.org. See website for COVID guidelines. The Adult School is a nonprofit organization and does not receive any taxpayer funding. We rely solely on the revenue from tuition and contributions from our vital community.

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LIFE COACHING

When I was a kid, we lived in an old farmhouse where the slats of the upstairs banister were just big enough to fit an eight year old’s head. Seeing that I was eight, and my brother was six we would periodically stick our skulls between the slats. Harder to pop ourselves out than it was to get in, however a shimmy here, a wiggle there, and our craniums would be freed. Once free, we’d be off to stick our fingers in ancient sockets

KIM KASSNOVE

and jump off the stone wall in the backyard. Typical, bored Gen-X kid stuff. One day, when I was nine, my brother and I were on our rotation doing “weird things in the house” and I stuck my head in the banister. This time, I got stuck. No shimmying or wiggling would release my thick skull from between those century old slats. My brother, almost seven, cried. I had grown, and the old fun, familiar activity that once filled idle time no longer worked for me. I needed help getting out, and I would need to find something else to do. Hearing my brother’s panicked cries, my mom came in with a stick of butter, greased up my head, and I was free. I soon Your head is stuck in a metaphorical banister. You’ve been sticking your head in it for a long time, and up until now, it fit. You’ve outgrown the banister, and not only do you need help getting out, you need to figure out what else you can do with that beautiful skull of yours. How long are you willing to stay there with your head stuck between the slats? It’s time for you to change your perspective and either free yourself from where you are stuck or find a new way to make it work for you. I work with individuals to get free, and make moves into what’s next. It’s a process of self-discovery and change. Think of me as mom with a stick of butter in hand. I’m ready to support you getting free. I am opening my books to a few new 1:1 clients in February. Schedule complimentary time with me on my website: http://kimkassnovecoaching.com. Let’s see if it’s a fit! Reach out to me @ kim@kimkassnovecoaching.com. discovered MTV, and my banister days were done. What does this have to do with life coaching?

CALL TODAY TO SCHEDULE A FREE ESTIMATE!

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

FEBRUARY 2022 | SOMA LIVING 19

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ARTIST OF THE MONTH Walking in to Raymond Saá’s Maplewood studio transports you to another place. The space is full of light and plants, there is a riot of color in the pieces that line the walls, and Cuban salsa music emanates from the speaker. The main floor is all paintings, with works on paper and his sewing machines on the lower level. He recalls, “As in many immigrant families, my mother always had a sewing machine on our kitchen table at home. She was constantly making clothes and household items.” He would never have imagined as a child how integral that skill his mother taught him would be to his artistic practice today. For his works on paper, Saá uses an X-Acto knife as a drawing implement to create pieces that are then sewn together into “postcards” – small, rectangular collages that could stand on their own but ultimately become part of the larger composition. Once he has about 60 “postcards,” he arranges and sews them to each other in a pattern of shingles, to create a whole piece that has color, pattern, dimension and depth. His paintings are extensions of the drawing and pattern-making process of the works on paper, but here Saá works in thick canvas that he adheres to thin pieces of wood for stability. He said, “All of my work comes from the discipline and process of drawing and pattern making.” The canvas is cut and edged, with the slightly raised edge

feeling like a drawn line on the painting. He builds and stacks the composition from the bottom up. He looks for the rhythm or tension between two different colors, or the unexpected consequences when you put two different shapes on top of each other creating something entirely new. Saá says that he is inspired by a variety of places, colors, fashion, nature and music. His images present a complex, multilayered environment for the viewer to decipher and find what they will in them.

Elizabeth Harrison Kubany is founder of KUBANY, LLC, a communications firm established on her lifelong belief in the power of architecture, design, and art to make the world a better, more beautiful, and more equitable place. She is also the co- founder, with her husband, of Winterhouse Projects, an online gallery platform that promotes the work of emerging artists. @ElizabethKubany

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FROM THE DOCTOR

SHOULDER INJURIES

Shoulder injuries include muscle strains, dislocations, rotator cuff tears, and ligament strains and commonly happen to people playing sports like golf, tennis, and baseball where you perform intensive, repetitive motion. They can happen also playing basketball though not as likely as the other sports that were listed. We will focus more on rotator cuff tears since that is the most common. A rotator cuff tear is a common cause of pain and disability among adults. Each year, approximately 2 million people in the United States will visit their doctors because of a rotator cuff problem. The good news is, since it is a common injury there are a fair amount of treatments for it anywhere from PT to surgery. PT treatment usually involves strengthening exercises and controlling the pain, however, if the patient does have a surgery most surgeons will provide your PT a rehab protocol. A patient who has a rotator cuff tear will usually present with pain and weakness in their affected shoulder. There is usually pain at rest and at night, particularly if lying on the affected shoulder, pain when lifting and lowering your arm or with specific movements, weakness when lifting or rotating your arm and crepitus or crackling sensation when moving your shoulder in certain positions. The tears that happen suddenly, such as from a fall, usually cause intense pain. There may be a snapping sensation and immediate weakness in your upper arm. Tears that develop slowly due to overuse also cause pain and arm weakness. You may have pain in the shoulder when you lift your arm, or pain that moves down your arm. At first, the pain may be mild and only present when lifting your arm over your head, such as reaching into a cupboard. Over time, the pain may become more noticeable at rest, and no longer goes away with medications. You may have pain when you lie on the painful side at night. The pain and weakness in the shoulder may make routine activities such as combing your hair or reaching behind your back more difficult. Some rotator cuff tears are not painful. These tears, however, may still result in arm weakness and other symptoms and may eventually require surgery. Since most rotator cuff tears are largely caused by the normal wear and tear that goes along with aging, people over 40 are at greater risk. People who do repetitive lifting or overhead activities are also at risk for rotator cuff tears. Athletes are especially vulnerable to overuse tears, particularly tennis players and baseball pitchers. Painters, carpenters, and others who do overhead work also have a greater chance for tears. Although overuse tears caused by sports activity or overhead work also occur in younger people, most tears in young adults are caused by a traumatic injury, like a fall. Have one of our experienced Doctors of Physical Therapy review your condition for what a successful outcome might look like.

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

FEBRUARY 2022 | SOMA LIVING 21

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LUNAR NEW YEAR Lunar New Year typically begins with the first new moon of the lunar calendar and is celebrated by many countries around the world. Since the lunar calendar is based on the cycles of the moon, the Lunar New Year dates vary slightly from year to year. This year, it is on February 1. 2022 also represents the Year of the Tiger, an animal that symbolizes strength, power and prosperity in the Chinese zodiac. In my home country of China, the celebration is called chun jie, which means Spring Festival. Approximately 10 days before the beginning of the lunar new year, people thoroughly clean their houses to remove any bad luck that might be lingering inside. Traditionally, chun jie is a time to return home, reunite with family, and honor ancestors. Children receive red envelopes (hong bao) containing small amounts of money, and everyone wears new clothes to symbolize new beginnings. The color red is also signifigant as it represents good luck and happiness. There are lots of dances and fireworks throughout the holidays, ending in the Lantern Festival, which is celebrated on the last day of the New Year’s celebrations. On this night, lanterns light up homes, and traditional foods such as yuan xiao (sticky rice balls symbolizing family unity) are served. While Lunar New Year is not celebrated by all, many members of SOMAsian, a Facebook group that connects the Asian community in South Orange and Maplewood (SOMA), are getting ready for the holiday. It has become a local device to bring people together in support of diversity. This year, many SOMAsian members participated in Lunar Fest NJ, a celebration in Maplewood, organized by a local non-profit SOMA Cross Cultural Works (SOMA CCW). This past Sunday on January 23, the community and friends gathered to celebrate Lunar New Year together at The Woodland in Maplewood. Lunar Fest NJ was filled with joy and good cheer as attendees enjoyed performances by local artists, kids crafts, local food vendors, and the popular lion dance. There was also an option to participate from home by picking up a kids crats kit with online instructions and watching the performances live online. Whether it be in-person or at home, it is wonderful for the community to come together and share our cultures through events like Lunar Fest NJ. For myself as a first time mother, it was a great way to introduce the magic of Lunar New Year to my daughter, and I look forward to taking part in many more events like this to come! Keep in touch with us on FB to stay updated on more community building events: https://www.facebook.com/crossculturalworks https://www.facebook.com/groups/somasian https://www.facebook.com/groups/314249758936442 (SOMA Masala) Wishing everyone health, happiness, and prosperity in the Lunar New Year of the Tiger!

John B. Houston Funeral Home, Inc. “When you want the best for your loved ones’’

• Professional Pallbearers On Demand • Honorary Casket Guards • White Glove Services • Superior Restorative Art

John B. Houston Executive Director

Ran Wei Baker is the founder of project: presence (www.projectpresence.me), where she coaches women on confidence and communication. She is a lifelong advocate of diversity and inclusion, and has co-founded several Employee Resource Groups supporting DE&I at companies throughout her career. Ran lives in Maplewood with her husband Austin and daughter Lily. She enjoys hiking and curling up to a great book with a warm cup of tea.

“Serving with Excellence”

Cushnie-Houston FUNERAL HOME 102 Sanford Street, East Orange, New Jersey 07018 Voice 973.678.1790 Fax 973.678.8023

JOHNB. HOUSTON FUNERAL HOME 236 Ellison Street, Paterson, New Jersey 07501 Voice 973.881.8200 Fax 973.881.8207

Triboro Funeral Home 2274 Adam Clayton Powell, Jr. Blvd., New York, New York 10030 Phone: 718-335-5613 Fax: 973.678.8023

WWW. JOHNBHOUSTONFUNERALHOME .COM

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BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT Now, nationally-recognized, professionally renowned esthetician, Danielle Gamble, is bringing her expertise home—literally. Opening her facial studio, Danielle Gamble Skin in her hometown of Maplewood, New Jersey after more than a decade of providing skincare analysis, procedures, and facials that were cited for their “intuitive touch” by skin care experts and called “heavenly” by Vanity Fair. Danielle built her reputation as Sisley-Paris’ Lead Esthetician for the U.S. as the Nation’s leading practitioner of touch-muscular massage and lymphatic drainage. “The Hands of An Angel.” That’s how one client described Danielle’s facial technique. Danielle began her career as a makeup artist two decades ago and has been sought after by many including celebrities and the affluent. This mother of three also works part time with a world-renowned Dermatologist on New York’s Upper Eastside, where she transitioned into a Medical Esthetician. There, she learned, and continues to stay informed with, the newest and most advanced facial treatments and technology. Rest assured as the industry develops, Danielle will continue to be your source for presenting your best skin. Maplewood’s Danielle Gamble Skin offers a variety of corrective facial treatments with a ‘spa touch’. During every facial treatment, using plant-based products alongside with medical grade - each client gets a specialized treatment plan to discover their best skin. Every customized 60-minute facial includes double cleanse, exfoliation, extractions (if needed), facial massage, lymphatic drainage, and the appropriate mask. Whether you need a onetime deep cleanse, a shot of hydration, an anti aging overhaul or just a relaxing 90 minutes – Danielle Gamble Skin has something for everyone - all genders welcome.

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.

(201) 704-7872 rhubsmith@thejgagency.com

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FEBRUARY 2022 | SOMA LIVING 23

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