SOMA Living January 2023

VOL.8-1 JANUARY 2023 MAGAZINE

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PUBLICATION TEAM

FACES IN THE CROWD

Congratulations to Rick Engler and Brad Caswell for the Grand Opening of their new pet supply store, “Baxter’s”, located on Springfield Ave. Joining them for the ribbon cutting is the Maplewood Mayor, Dean Dafis.

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 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, Yoni Kreger, Kerry Cordero, Julie Perlow- Greene, Norah Salazar, Lee Seidenberg,

PET OF THE MONTH Sponsored by Jennifer McManus Real Estate

Design by: GRANDSTAND DESIGN

(973) 232-6025 www.grandstanddesign.com

Meet Winnie who is the sweetest girl. She lives with the Hayes family in South Orange. We got her from Home for Good Dogs Rescue two years ago this September and she is almost 7. Winnie is a good sport and likes to be included in everything. She is for the most part very chill and loves interacting with the neighbors and their pups. She is a loved member of our family.

Family Photography by: LIVE LOVE LENS PHOTOGRAPHY

jamie@livelovelens.com www.livelovelens.com

Kristine Foley

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YEAR IN REVIEW

2022 was a great year to reconnect with friends and family in person. While we are all still standing a few feet apart in line at our favorite local stores, banks, and markets – it is a relief that things are finally returning to some semblance of ‘normal’. At SOMA Living, we are particularly grateful for all of the 2022 cover families. We especially appreciate our advertisers who support us through the years and continue to make our town magazine possible. SOMA Living is brought to life eachmonth by our talented photographer JamieMeier , known on Instagram as @livelovelens and @livelovemaplewood. “It’s really amazing to work with so many kind, cool, and fun families. What they all have in common is their inclusive values of our towns and drive to make SOMA even better since they first moved here. I hope this shines through in the images we make together,” Jamie warmly shared. Special thanks to the not-for-profit organizations, athletes, artists, merchants, educators, fashion experts, as well as the licensed professionals who contribute each month to make SOMA Living such a wonderful reflection of the diversity in our community. Editor Karen Driggs added, “As many of you know, SOMA Living is truly a family publication. Not only do we get to feature a family from the SOMA community each month, but the publisher is my brother!” We are excited for 2023 and currently working on our editorial calendar for our monthly celebration of all things SOMA. If you know a family, charity, athlete, or special business you would like to see featured here, please let us know. Reach out to us at somalivingmagazine@gmail. com and follow us on Twitter @somalivingmagazine.

Jennifer.McManus@cbmoves.com @jennifermcmanus

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

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This month’s feature is Maura Hargrave-Kerns. Maura grew up in Maplewood and, in March 2021, bought her first home with her partner, Anthony. She was a teacher in the district before making a career shift to open an Aerial Fitness studio in South Orange. AIR® will open in late DREAM TEAM

Maura’s Style Card Session revealed much about her style and how she wants to live and work. We brought that out with the high-contrast, black-and-white zebra print blazer. Maura took bold chances wearing the black dress with the gold chains and the red sequin dress. Both showed

off her incredible figure and her dreamy and beautiful tattoos - Kerry Cordero, Inspired Style (kerrycordero.com ) For Maura, I wanted pieces that echoed her fearlessness and allowed her beautiful skin, fit physique, and colorful tattoos to be seen and admired. The Bohemian suede fringe dress was right on target. The right style brought her more confidence which is reflected in the final images. - Julie Perlow- Greene, Retail Therapy (@retailtherapy_southorange)

winter 2023. She enjoys her free time by going out and socializing and values quiet nights at home with Anthony. In our CBD consultation, Maura expressed concerns about lack of sleep, needing help focusing, and dark circles under her eyes. I recommended CBD High Tea, “Good Night Irene,” with one square of Bhumi CBN Dark Belgium Chocolate. For clarity, I recommended NFZD Focus Mushroom powder in her favorite beverage in the morning and Potency no. 710 Gold Face Serum for dark circles. - Jill Cohen, TheCannaBossLady. (thecannabosslady.com)

I sought to create a hairstyle that would reflect Maura’s playfulness, edge, and grace and allow her the flexibility (no pun intended) to switch from glam to sport with ease. First, I shortened it just enough to lighten the weight yet retain enough length for the ponytail or bun she’ll need

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to soar in the air uninhibited. I also created some subtle layers, which add movement to her hair and reflect her acrobatic dynamism. - Yoni Kreger, YK Salon (yonikregersalon.com) I suggested a few products to soothe Maura’s dr y, sensitive skin. I used warm neutral shadows to bring out

Maura saw a sequin dress on our rack from another shoot and said, “I want to try that!”. So we did. That inspired a messy “backstage” scene with color gels, flares, and props. For the black dress, it was essential to show off the chain straps

and her tattoos. The Zebra print called for a B&W background. For the vintage-hippie dress, we kept the scene warm with natural light and brown paper. - Lee Seidenberg Photography (seidenbergphoto.com) If you’d like to work with the Dream Team and be featured in SOMA Living magazine, visit somadreamteam.com.

the green in her eyes and natural false lashes to bring dimension to her lashline. A metallic pinky-red lipstick was the finishing touch for her playful and polished wardrobe

and highlighted her infectious smile. - Lyn Lynch (lynyourface.com)

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RECIPE OF THE MONTH

INSTRUCTIONS

PEAR FRISÉE SALAD WITH CANDIED WALNUTS AND GOAT CHEESE Prep time: 15 mins • Cook time: 45 mins Servings: 6 This January delight is a gorgeous, sturdy pear frisée salad that works both for an elegant first course or a light dinner. I’m a huge fan of frisée, especially in the winter months. I love its slightly bitter bite when paired with a tangy vinaigrette and creamy cheese. I’ve topped it with cardamom-spiced, candied walnuts for the crunch and let me tell you…make extra because they’re equally great for snacking!

Frisée Salad • Toss the pears in the dressing and let sit for at least 10 mins and up to 40. Place the frisée in a large bowl, add the pears, and enough dressing to coat. Toss gently. • Sprinkle with crumbled goat cheese and the candied walnuts. Candied Walnuts • Preheat your oven to 250 degrees and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. • Whip the egg white and water with a whisk until frothy. Whisk in the sugar, cardamom, and salt. • Add the walnuts and toss well to coat. • Spread the walnuts in an even layer on the lined baking sheet, separating slightly. Bake for 45 minutes. • Remove the pan from the oven and let the nuts cool for a minute or two on the sheet. Then break apart the nuts and allow them to cool completely before

serving or store them in an airtight container. Sherry Vinaigrette • Whisk together the vinegar, dijon, sugar, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. • Whisk in the oil in a steady stream until emulsified. Recipe Notes • Can’t find frisée? Try watercress, arugula, or your favorite mixed greens. • The candied walnuts and dressing will keep for several days in an airtight containers • A mini prep is a great way to blend dressings so they stay emulsified.

INGREDIENTS

Frisée Salad 8 oz frisée, trimmed and torn into bite-size pieces 2 pears, peeled, cored, halved, and very thinly

1/2 cup sugar 1/2 tsp ground cardamom 1 tsp kosher salt

Sherry Vinaigrette 2 Tbsp sherry vinegar 1 Tbsp dijon mustard 1 1/2 tsp sugar 1/2 tsp kosher salt 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil

sliced (I like Anjou) 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled Candied Walnuts (recipe follows)

Candied Walnuts 8 oz walnut halves

1 egg white 2 tsp water

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.

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DRINK OF THE MONTH

Mo Aunt Judy

Aunt Judy adored gin. You’d absolutely adore Aunt Judy. It’s just as simple as that, really. Ingredients: 2.0-ounce Hendrick’s Gin 1.0-ounceMartini & Rossi Dry Vermouth 1.0-ounce Raspberry Puree

.75-ounce Lemon Juice 1.5-ounce Egg Whites

1. Gather the ingredients 2. Pour all ingredients in Boston Shaker with no ice 3.Dry shake for 1 minute 4. Pour ice in Cocktail mixing Glass 5. shake for 30 seconds 6. Strain straight up in a frozen martini glass 7. Garnish with a lemon peel

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

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

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ATHLETE OF THE MONTH SPONSORED BY BASS FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC Liam Ayers is an eighth grader and all around sports lover. He plays bas ketball, football, soccer, lacrosse and is on his school’s track team. Over the years, he’s played basketball for MapSo, Dragon Army, and King Street Kings taking awards for “most improved” and “sportsmanship”. One of the highlights for Liam, was playing point guard on the MapSo 5th grade boys team that went undefeated (11-0). In addition, Liam participated on the SOMA flag football team as well as playing soccer for SFL and Community First. Most recently, he started playing for Maplewood LAX. He explains, “This summer, coach Evan at Independent Lake Camp inspired me to be a better all-around basketball player.” He’s looking forward to high school sports try outs and the chance to participate at Columbia High School in the fall as a first year athlete. LIAM AYERS

• 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

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FROM THE DOCTOR Water is the most essential of all nutrients. As a Chiropractor dealing with the musculoskeletal system, the more hydrated and resilient the muscles, the faster the response time for patients. With approximately 660 muscles in the body, the water content of the muscles is about 80%. Proper hydration is critical! We all become less hydrated at night. Between fasting all night, possibly getting up to urinate, or overheating while sleeping, your body will likely be dehydrated. Waking up in the morning with a dry mouth, feeling parched, or having a dull headache may be signs of dehydration. Here are five reasons to drink morewater, starting in themorning: Improvemental performance. Clinical trials demonstrate the impact of water on mental function. In the elderly population, dehydration is a significant risk factor for delirium and it can even mimic dementia. Promote weight loss. Water can help you feel full and it has no calories. People tend to mistake thirst for hunger, leading them to eat more. A study in the Academy of Nutrition and dietetics found that drinking water before breakfast led to a 13% reduction in caloric intake when consuming the next meal. Elevate mood. A 2011 study in the Journal of Nutrition found that mild dehydration led to degraded mood, lower concentration, and headache symptoms. Increase gut function. Proper hydration is a good way to flush the bowels and avoid constipation as well break down foods and allow for better absorption of nutrients. Help prevent disease. Water helps flush toxins out of your body thus improving your immune system. How much is enough water? Experts agree that a good formula is to drink half your body weight in ounces with more for increased activity. So, a 150 lb woman would need 75oz of water per day or more. FIVE REASONS TO DRINK MORE WATER

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

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.

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

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FROM THE DOCTOR

CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME

As the weather gets a colder most patients prefer to be indoors and often spend more time on a computer. This puts patients at risk to develop carpal tunnel syndrome, a common condition that causes numbness, tingling, and pain in the hand and forearm. The condition occurs when one of the major nerves to the hand, the median nerve, is squeezed or compressed as it travels through the wrist. There can also be inflammation of some of the muscles in the wrist which can also compression the nerve causing the numbness and tingling. Nighttime carpal tunnel symptoms are very common. Because many people sleep with their wrists bent, symptoms may awaken you from sleep. During the day, symptoms often occur when holding something for a prolonged period of time with the wrist bent forward or backward, such as when using a phone, driving, or reading a book. In most patients, carpal tunnel syndrome gets worse over time. If untreated for too long, it can lead to permanent dysfunction of the hand, including loss of sensation in the fingers and weakness. For this reason, it is important to diagnose and treat carpal tunnel syndrome promptly. There are several treatment options available such as wearing a brace/splint, especially at night. This brace will help the patient avoid bending their wrist. Injections are another route to decrease the inflammation. The easiest choice is activity modification to avoid aggravating activities. Physical therapy can help as they can teach you exercises to glide the nerve as well as strengthen the wrist. Ice and cold laser/ultrasound modalities can also relieve pain and inflammation. Physical therapy is proven to be effective at reducing the patient’s symptoms and ultimately helping to avoid surgery. The final treatment option is surgery. However, in some cases, surgery is not effective. An MD or PT will perform an examination to determine the best treatment plan for your situation.

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

WWW.SCALORA.COM 973.313.3912

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GET TO KNOW STACY FUTTERMAN-TAURIELLO Owner of “5 Point Physical Therapy and Wellness LLC”

EARN MORE 4.25 % APY * 24-MONTH CD

STACY FUTTERMAN-TAURIELLO is the owner of “5 Point Physical Therapy and Wellness, LLC”. She started in NYC in 2011 and then opened in Millburn, NJ in 2018. Both practices are still open. Stacy is a physical therapist that graduated from Nova

Southeastern University (FL) with a Masters in PT. Jennifer Lynch (DPT) and Stephanie White (DPT) also work in the NJ office. Jennifer and Stephanie both have 10+ years of experience as PT’s and in pelvic health. First and foremost, 5 Point is a specialty practice in pelvic health and wellness. Specialists treat all aspects of pelvic health including pelvic pain, back pain, hip pain, SI joint pain, and related issues (ex., urinary, bowel, and/or sexual health). In addition, the team treats the pre-natal and post partum population with the care they need and deserve. Unlike other PT groups, 5 points treats all patients 1:1 for 45 – 60 minutes. Each client receives physical therapy that is patient specific for individualized care. 5 points offers both hands on and an exercise approach to treatment. 5 Points strives also to be a vivid part of the SOMA community. This year, they donated to NJPAC and the arts and raffled off packages of PT services. Stacy shared, “We aspire to do even more in the SOMA community.”

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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 Community Groups Cover Family

somalivingmagazine@gmail.com

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MEDICARE

MEDICARE ADVANTAGE OPEN ENROLLMENT PERIOD (OEP)

January 1st through March 31st is Medicare Advantage OEP. In the event that you change your mind about a Medicare Advantage Plan for any reason, the Medicare Advantage OEP gives you the opportunity to make changes. During this time you can: • Switch from one Medicare Advantage plan to another • Drop Medicare Advantage and return to Original Medicare (Parts A and B) Yes, you can drop a Medicare Advantage plan and return to Original Medicare, but don’t count on a Supplement aka Medigap plan if that is your intention. Remember that carriers will screen you and can choose not to enroll you. You may get a preferred rate, an adjustment to a higher rate or a declination. Reasons to consider a change in Medicare Advantage plans: • Doctor(s) no longer accepts your plan • More robust benefits, i.e. lower co-pays, Over-the-Counter card, transportation, higher dental, vision, hearing allowance, fitness programs • Prescriptions no longer in the formulary, better pricing • Better customer service Choosing a Medicare Advantage Plan With so many options, choosing a Medicare Advantage plan is overwhelming. Fortunately, there is a solution. Insurance professionals (like me) dedicate themselves to learning all the options available and can guide you toward the best plan(s) for your needs. As an independent broker, I work for you and not the health insurance provider, so I can give you an unbiased recommendation. • Add a Part D prescription plan • Drop a Part D prescription plan

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

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

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.

Offices in West Orange & Maplewood

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FINANCIAL FOCUS

TIME FOR NEW YEAR’S FINANCIAL RESOLUTIONS

It’s that time of year when many of us make New Year’s resolutions, why not also consider some financial ones? Here are a few to consider: • Don’t let inflation derail your investment strategy. As you know, inflation was the big financial story of 2022, hitting a 40-year high. According to an Allianz survey, more than half of American workers either reduced are stopped their contributions to 401(k)s and other savings. While focusing on cash flow is understandable, you can lower your spending and still find money for your retirement accounts. • Control your debts. Inflation contributes both to rising prices and variable credit card interest rate increases. Pay your bill in full each month. If you carry a balance, transfer it to a lower-rate card (if possible). If you’re carrying multiple credit cards, consider a fixed-rate debt consolidation loan. Regardless, the lower your debt payments, the more you can invest for your long-term goals. • Review your investment portfolio. At least once a year, review your investment portfolio to determine if it’s still appropriate for your goals, risk tolerance, and time horizon. When the markets are down, it’s tempting to cut and run. But be careful, it may be best to keep your investments for the long-term. • Prepare for the unexpected. You never want to dip into your long-term investments or retirement accounts for an unexpected emergency (ex., car, house, medical). To prevent this, build an emergency fund containing three to six months’ worth of living expenses — or a year’s worth, if you’re retired — with the money kept in a low-risk, liquid account. These resolutions can be useful so try to put them to work in 2023.

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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BOOK RELEASE Maplewood Compendium, by Dan Kaslow, is the first new book written specifically about Maplewood in almost 25 years. It is available for sale, exclusively, online or inside [words] Maplewood’s Bookstore ($15 USD). The publication date of the book coincides with the 100th Anniversary of the official incorporation of the Township of Maplewood in 1922. Kaslow is a long-time Maplewood resident

New Book on Maplewood, Highlights Residents’ Achievements.

of some of the oldest businesses, religious institutions, as well as over eighty civic, service, sports, arts, social, and business organizations. It also traces the town’s school system and individual schools, roads, parks and libraries, and meaningful events, celebrations and sites that are integral parts of its history. .Maplewood Compendium is also available in the Maplewood Memorial Library, the

Springfield Public Library, and is under consideration by the Newark Public Library and others with local history departments. Mr. Kaslow concluded, “I tried to create a book for Maplewood locals that is both fun and informative to read and enjoy. But I also hope that it becomes a valuable resource for the community.” He added, “Maplewood is a town that takes prides in its history through the active work of the Durand-Hedden House & Garden Association and Maplewood Historic Preservation Commission. I hope this book expands the scope and knowledge of our town’s history.”

who compiled this twelve chapter and 127 page book during COVID lock-down. Maplewood Compendium is the result of extensive, detailed, and original research both online and using resources from area public and historical libraries. It includes mini-biographies of hundreds of Maplewood residents, past and present, whose outstanding life accomplishments are considered notable, or sometimes, notorious! In addition to the chapters about residents, the book provides historic lists. These include: population statistics since 1880, Maplewood mayors, as well as fifty historic homes in the community. The book offers brief histories

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COMMUNITY COALITION This February, the Coalition’s Anti-Racism Committee (ARC) will present a series of workshops that bring all these issues together, so people can develop effective practices for combating racism, racial prejudice, and racial/ethnic discrimination. The ’Deconstructing Racism’ workshops explore how our society is infused with racist conditions and systems that impact us all behaviorally and psychologically, as well as what can be done to disrupt it. The training, presented and facilitated by members of the SOMA community, will look at four areas: ‘DECONSTRUCTING RACISM’ WORKSHOP SERIES BEGINS THIS FEBRUARY

• The culture of White Supremacy

• How structural/systemic racism is upheld and maintained

• The impact on people of color and the nation

• Ways we can disrupt racism

The series begins in mid-February. Register today on the events page at CommunityCoalitionOnRace.org/events.

SOPAC SOUTH ORANGE PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

Don’t wait, buy tickets today!

Russell Thompkins JR. & The new sTylisTics Fri, JAN 20 At 8PM

LuCky ChOPS New Day, New tour SAt, JAN 28 At 8PM CAbARET IN THE LOFT MArk evANS SuN, JAN 29 At 7PM

JAzz IN THE LOFT MArk GrOSS QuArtet SuN, FeB 5 At 7PM ON A WiNter’S NiGht 2023 reunion tour SAt, FeB 11 At 8PM

SOPACnow.org (973) 313-2787

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

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HOME DESIGN

MATCHY – MATCHY LOVE

saw his work in a magazine and replicated it” “You don’t think it’s old fashioned?” “I know it is to some people. But not me. And not to a lot of big-time designers. The trend is coming back, well here and there, as most classic trends seem to do over time. And that picture,” I say as I point to my phone, With some updated pieces in there, could be an ad I’d see in a high-end shelter magazine.” “You won’t see that in my house!”, she mutters snidely. “Not mine either, unfortunately. BUT! If I were to buy her house. I’d absolutely love to keep the matchy –matchy.”

“Here look at this”, I hand my partner Kim Kelly my phone with a picture up. “What’s this?” “This is the living room of that incredible older woman I’m doing some work for.” “The 98-year-old?” “Yeah.” “So, what about this?” “That’s her living room. She decorated it in 1968 and she hasn’t changed it since. It’s always been like that” “Oh my God...” “Right, but it’s pristine! Totally gorgeous, totally relevant, and totally classic.” “That would make it a ‘triple totally’, that’s a lot of totallys for you”, she says wryly. I ignore her and add, “The fabric is Brunschwig & Fils, a very old and distinguished French brand.” “The drapes match the chairs... and the couch!” “Matchy, matchy, baby!! It was big in ‘68 when the Prince of Chintz, Mario Buatta was out decorating New York’s high society. She told me she

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

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REAL ESTATE New Year’s Resolutions for Your Home in 2023

973-632-0302

CLEAR OUT THE CLUTTER: Broken toys, old clothes, odds and ends pile up fast. Declutter, one room at a time, and decide what to keep, donate or trash. Websites like Facebook Market Place, Amazon, Swappa and Poshmark allow you to sell your items online or you can stage a garage sale and see how one man’s trash is another man’s treasure. Declutter and destress. COOK MORE: Good cooking is fundamental to good health and it doesn’t need to be complicated. Cook a recipe you haven’t tried before, experiment. Cooking can be therapeutic; feed your body and your mind. EXPLORE SOMA: Discover new places you haven’t seen in SOMA. Hike a trail in the South Mountain Reservation and find Hemlock Falls and the Wildflower Sculpture Park. Stroll through the historic Montrose district and marvel at bygone architecture. Take in a show at SOPAC - there’s music, comedy, dance and performances for kids. TRY A DIFFERENT LOCAL RESTAURANT: Visit a SOMA restaurant you haven’t sampled yet: French, Thai, Middle Eastern, Japanese, Indian, Ethiopian. Give your taste buds a new bite. Resolutions can turn into solutions. Best Wishes and Happy New Year in 2023! A New Year brings new resolutions. Consider the following ideas for 2023.

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

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Overcoming Post-Holiday Depression

The holiday season is an exciting, frenetic, and festive time filled with family gatherings, parties, and activities. Even though these festivities can be fun, the holidays can bring on a roller coaster of emotions due to the overwhelming stress and pressure. The letdown after the season is over can lead to post holiday depression. The reality of everyday life returns and can bring on symptoms like increased irritability, mood swings, difficulty concentrating, and anxiety. Eating disordered thoughts and symptoms can increase due to the overabundance of holiday food and drink resulting in negative self-esteem and body image. Here are some ways to help relieve the post-holiday blues. 1. Check in with yourself to see what you need after the holidays. Is it some social activities to look forward to or some down time for yourself to relax and recharge? 2. Even during the cold weather and short days of daylight, try to get outside for a walk and some fresh air. Including movement in your day can help shift your mood. 3. Take a break from social media. It’s easy to get caught up in the on-line world leading to feelings of disconnection and negativity. 4. Be realistic and mindful about your intentions and goals. 5. Remember it is normal to over-indulge during the holidays. Be kind to yourself and focus on eating mindfully and intuitively rather than setting up unrealistic exercise and weight loss goals. 6. If your symptoms are getting worse and you are continuing to struggle, talk with someone. Reach out to a therapist and seek help.

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

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

JANUARY 2023 | SOMA LIVING 23

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

M 917.757.3287 O 973.310.6816

Happy New Year!

Thinking of selling your SOMA home in 2023? The agent you choose to work with makes a big difference when it comes to a successful sale. Working with the Jen Greenberg Group means you have innovative

tech, market expertise, and a personal home advisor on your side.

Reach out today!

The Jen Greenberg Group are real estate salespersons affiliated with Compass. Compass is a licensed real estate broker and abides by equal housing opportunity laws.

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