SOMA Living January 2025

VOL.10-1 JANUARY 2025

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PUBLICATION TEAM

FACES IN THE CROWD

On a recent Sunday in December, restaurant, Luna Stella held breakfast with the Grinch. Chlidren were allowed to wear their pajamas, request a letter from the Grinch, and ate green eggs, pancakes and popovers.

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 (973) 232-6025 www.grandstanddesign.com Design by: GRANDSTAND DESIGN Jill Cohen, Juvens Exantus, Nancy Gagnier, Callie Exas, Greg Snitkin, Kosia Asiamah Contributors: Cathy Roma, Dr. Stephen Levine, Gary T. Jones, Dr. Daniel Roig, Victor Delapa, Natalie Farrell, Abiola Amusan, Douglas Huebner, Kate Dawson,

PET OF THE MONTH Sponsored by Jennifer McManus Real Estate

Meet Penny! This adorable 4-year-old Mini Poodle joined the Henkel-Lorenz family during the pandemic. Known for her creativity, she won a Pride Parade dress-up contest! We love to spoil Penny with Parmesan cheese on all her meals, and lots of cheese twists for treats. Her best friend is a much larger Burnedoodle named Ralph!

Family Photography by: LIVE LOVE LENS PHOTOGRAPHY

jamie@livelovelens.com www.livelovelens.com

Proud Pet of the Month Sponsor

The Realtor® your pets would choose.

Jennifer McManus of The McManus Team Realtor® Sales Associate

C: (917) 837-2192 O: 973-378-8300

Wondering what your home is worth?

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There’s getting to retirement. And then there’s getting through it. Making it to retirement these days is no small feat. And once you arrive, you’re not done, because now you’ve got an exciting new chapter on your hands where every day feels like Saturday. From optimizing savings and evaluating retirement income sources, to planning healthcare costs and helping maximize Social Security benefits, we can help chart the journey to come — and your really, really long weekend.

Contact us today so we can help you make the most of your next chapter. TrueEdge Wealth Management Group of Wells Fargo Advisors 190 River Road Summit, NJ 07901 Direct: 908-370-4916 Chad.Thomas@wellsfargo.com https://fa.wellsfargoadvisors.com/trueedge-wmg/index.htm

Investment and Insurance Products: • NOT FDIC Insured • NO Bank Guarantee • MAY Lose Value

Wells Fargo Advisors is a trade name used by Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC, Member SIPC, a registered broker-dealer and non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. ©2024 Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC. PM-03272026-7066182.1.9

JANUARY 2025 | SOMA LIVING 5

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MEET THE DANUSER FAMILY For Trenesa and Chris Danuser, life has been a tapestry of love, ambition, and creativity woven together over three decades of marriage. Their story began in college, where a casual summer fling—Trenesa’s words—grew into a lifelong partnership. While the Sunshine State was the backdrop for their early years, their journey was anything but stationary. After graduation, they “fled” Florida for Boston before settling in New York City, where they lived for 20 years. Their time there was a whirlwind of moves—from the Upper East Side to Harlem, Tribeca, Long Island City, and finally Clinton Hill, Brooklyn. Their Clinton Hill brownstone was a highlight. “It was textbook stunning,” Trenesa says, “but old houses come with quirks—by which I mean constant repairs.” Eventually, suburban life piqued their interest. The Danusers first explored Montclair but eventually found their dream home in Maplewood. Their 1920s arts-and-crafts-style house, adorned with stained glass and a green terracotta roof, captured their hearts. “Initially, I had real doubts,” Trenesa admits, unapologetic for her love for city life. “But Maplewood turned out to be the welcoming haven our family needed.” Trenesa’s career reflects her drive and accomplishments. As a leader in global marketing communications, she has worked her way up to the C-suite at iconic companies, including Estée Lauder and HBC, the parent company of Saks Fifth Avenue, and founded Trenesa Consulting. “Balancing work and family is a clumsy dance,” she says, “but the rewards are worth it.” Now, she is embarking on her next chapter. Chris is a creative spirit who juggles property management with filmmaking and screenwriting. His internationally recognized film Pap’s Manifesto, seen

Photography by Jamie Meier

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here (http://bit.ly/4gIk98), explores themes of grief and redemption inspired by Flannery O’Connor’s Southern Gothic tone. Chris pours his passion and heart into his stories,” Trenesa shares. Currently, he’s developing another project, rising at 5:00 a.m. to write before the household wakes. The couple’s creativity and drive have influenced their children, Dylan and Romon. Dylan, 23, a recent Montclair State University visual arts graduate, is a Coordinator for a public art consultancy. Her firm’s installations at major market Amtrak hubs reflect her blossoming talent and dedication. “Seeing your child’s work on such a grand scale is breathtaking,” Trenesa says with pride. Romon, 16, a senior at Columbia High School, has a passion for architecture and urban planning. His interest was sparked by a family trip to the Burj Khalifa in Dubai and has since grown through projects like Canada’s “truth and reconciliation” initiatives with First Nations. “His empathy and curiosity are boundless,” Trenesa notes. Adjusting to Maplewood wasn’t easy, especially for Trenesa, a city enthusiast. Yet the progressive SOMA community gradually won her over. Chris, a Georgia native, embraced the move with more ease, finding inspiration for gardening in the natural surroundings. Now happily settled, the Danusers enjoy the balance of suburban charm and urban access. “We moved north for a life in the city,” Trenesa reflects, “and Maplewood delightfully gives us the best of both worlds.”

s Scan to learn why we’re the right choice for you & your family. s e s

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JANUARY 2025 | SOMA LIVING 7

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

• Start small: Begin with manageable changes that easily fit into your daily routine. If you struggle with breakfast, start with a light snack.

• Prioritize sleep: Value sleep over late-night scrolling.

• Manage stress: Use stress-reducing techniques like one minute of box breathing before meals. • Eat a balanced diet: Balance your plate with a palm sized portion of protein and two fist-sized servings of colorful veggies. • Stay hydrated: Keep a glass of water by your bed and drink it before getting up. • Move your body: Incorporate regular physical activity into your routine. Focus on consistent workouts rather than intense sessions. • Seek support: Build resilience through your support network. Engage with people who uplift and motivate you.

Embracing the opportunity for positive change instead of focusing on the pitfalls of New Year’s resolutions energizes us. A new year brings a chance to cultivate healthier habits. By setting realistic and sustainable goals, we can make significant strides toward improved well-being and a better connection with our bodies. Sustainable goals remain realistic, attainable, and adaptable to life’s chaos. They promote gradual progress without sacrificing overall well-being. For example, instead of vowing to eat perfectly, aim to add more colorful fruits and vegetables to your meals. To improve sleep, establish a consistent bedtime routine and adjust habits that interfere with quality sleep Becoming the healthiest version of yourself varies through different seasons of life. Consider it a scenic journey rather than a destination. By taking small, consistent steps and celebrating progress over perfection, you can build

Photos by Megan Yates Photography

Callie is a licensed registered dietitian nutritionist specializing in women’s health and wellbeing, holds a masters of public health from NYU and is a certified personal trainer. She has served on the board of the Greater New York Dietetics Association and has been featured in Huffington Post, USNews, TheThirty, Insider, Healthline, Elite Daily and the Hormonally Yours Podcast. Follow Callie on Instagram, Linkedin and TikTok

positive habits that support long-term well-being Here are some strategies to achieve your goals:

JANUARY 2025 | SOMA LIVING 9

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BEAUTY SAY GOODBYE TO GREY: Unveiling The Color Bar at Lumie Salon! Kick off 2025 with a dazzling new service at Lumie Salon: The Color Bar! We understand that many women face the challenge of covering grey hair, and we’re here to enhance and simplify that experience like never before. Introducing The Color Bar—a revolutionary approach to hair coloring that combines

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

convenience, affordability, and luxury. With our exclusive membership and package options, you can effortlessly maintain your color while enjoying significant savings. No more stress over touch-ups; just beautiful, vibrant hair that turns heads! Each Color Bar membership also includes complimentary treatments designed to nourish and rejuvenate your hair, keeping it healthy and shiny. Plus, we offer personalized scalp health evaluations to ensure your scalp is in tip-top shape. Our expert stylists are dedicated to helping you find the perfect color and the best products to suit your unique hair needs. At Lumie Salon, we only use top-tier products that deliver exceptional results without compromising your hair’s health. Whether you want to embrace a bold new hue or subtly blend away those greys, our talented team is excited to make your hair dreams a reality. Ready to transform your hair care routine? Visit our website for more details about The Color Bar and let’s embark on a vibrant 2025 together! Lumie Salon 260 Valley St., South Orange 973-327-9555 www.lumiesalon.com

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 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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RECIPE OF THE MONTH

CHICKEN & HERB DUMPLINGS Prep Time: 40 mins Cook Time: 1 hr • Servings: 8

INSTRUCTIONS

CHICKEN STEW 1. Melt the butter and oil over med/high heat in a large, heavy bottomed pot or dutch oven. 2. Season the chicken well with salt and pepper and place in the pot. Cook on one side for 6-8 mins or until golden brown. Flip the chicken and cook another 6-8 mins or so until cooked through and golden brown. Reduce the temperature if the chicken begins to brown too quickly. 3. Remove the chicken to a plate to cool and add the diced onion to the pot. Cook, stirring frequently, until the onion is translucent, about 4 mins. 4. Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 more mins. 5. Stir in the chicken base and flour and cook 1-2 mins. Whisk in the wine and cook until fully reduced, 1-2 mins. 6. Whisk in the stock and the milk and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer over very low heat and stir in the carrots and celery. Cover. 7. Shred the chicken and add to the pot along with the salt and pepper. Simmer, covered, for about 30 mins.

Creamy, hearty chicken stew is topped with fluffy herbed dumplings…this is the kind of comfort food that makes you wish for snow. The stew is simple and homey, the dumplings pillowy with a little bite from cornmeal, and the combination a classic!

INGREDIENTS

CHICKEN STEW Chicken Stew

1/2 pieces 2 tsp kosher salt 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper 2 tsp fresh thyme minced 2 tsp fresh parsley minced 1 cup frozen peas

8. Stir in the herbs and the peas. DUMPLINGS

2 Tbsp unsalted butter 1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil 3 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (or a combo) kosher salt and pepper 1 large onion, diced 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 Tbsp chicken base (optional) 2 Tbsp AP flour 2/3 cup dry white wine 3 cups chicken stock 2 cups whole milk 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/2 inch rounds 3 stalks celery, sliced into

1. In a medium bowl whisk together the flour, cornmeal, baking powder, baking soda, salt and herbs. 2. Stir in the butter and the buttermilk. Stir until just combined, don’t over-mix. 3. Scoop heaping tablespoons of the dumpling mixture and place on top of the stew, leaving a little space between the dumplings (they will grow in size). You will get about 24 dumplings. 4. Cover and cook over low heat for about 15 mins. The dumplings will cook in the steam, so don’t lift the lid. 5. Ladle into bowls to serve and sprinkle with herbs if desired.

DUMPLINGS 2 cups AP flour 1/3 cup cornmeal

1 Tbsp baking powder 1/2 tsp baking soda 1 tsp kosher salt 2 Tbsp minced fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, and/or chives) 3 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly 1 cup buttermilk minced herbs for garnish (optional)

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

JANUARY 2025 | SOMA LIVING 11

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DRINK OF THE MONTH

LET’S MAKE THAT HAPPEN A FREE CHECKING ACCOUNT THAT PAYS YOU BACK?

PIMM’S NO 1 PUNCH

If you’re anything at all like me you’re over all this cold and day-dreaming about those warm summer days…and maybe a bathing suit or 2. I’m thinking lots of fresh fruit, cold vodka and good vibrations. Let’s smash up a good old-fashioned Punch, shan’t we?! Grab your favorite lemon

vodka and a bottle of Pimm’s, aaand some sunglasses and get ready to be transported somewhere with sunny skies. Cheers guys, see you at the beach!

1. Gather the ingredients 2. Muddle fruits and veggies in Mason Jar 3. Fill Mason Jar with Ice INGREDIENTS: 1.50 ounce Pimm’s No.1 1.00 ounce Lemon Vodka 2 cucumber slices

2 strawberries 2 lemon wedges Top with Ginger Beer

4. Pour Pimm’s & Lemon Vodka over ice 5. Top with Ginger Beer 6. Remove sunglasses

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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

GardenSavings.org | (973) 576-2000

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As the clock ticks toward 2025, why not indulge in something sweet and potent? The Zkittle Cake strain by Prolific Growhouse is the perfect companion for bringing in the New Year. This hybrid, a cross between Zkittlez and Wedding Cake, delivers a delightful combination of fruity, candy-like sweetness and creamy, rich undertones. Zkittle Cake provides a balanced high, offering both uplifting euphoria and soothing relaxation. It’s perfect for socializing with friends or winding down after the night’s festivities. Its captivating aroma and powerful effects ensure that your New Year’s Eve will be filled with vibrant flavors and a calming buzz—setting an uplifting tone for the year to come. Celebrate the arrival of 2025 with Zkittle Cake, and let its cheerful effects guide you into a fresh start. ZKITTLE CAKE BY PROLIFIC GROWHOUSE 29% THC HYBRID STRAIN OF THE MONTH

About the Dispensary: Elevated by the CannaBoss Lady Licensed 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.

About the Author: Written by Juvens Exantus, Lead Budtender at Elevated CannaBoss Lady Dispensary.

GREG’S CROSSWORD PUZZLE

ANSWERS ON PAGE 23

Greg Snitkin is a dad with 3 small kids and a resident of South Orange. His puzzles have appeared in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Andrews McMeel Universal, and various indie outlets.

JANUARY 2025 | SOMA LIVING 13

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ATHLETE OF THE MONTH SPONSORED BY BASS FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC RAMS FLAG FOOTBALL TEAM This month, we shine the spotlight on Coach Romeo Grousse and his inspiring journey with the Rams Flag Football team. Under his guidance, a group of boys, many of whom were new to flag football, transformed into a cohesive unit ready to tackle any challenge Reflecting on the season, Coach Grousse shared, “We had such a great group of boys this year. Most of them never played flag football, but the tal ent was there.” Despite starting strong, the team faced a significant loss to the Giants early in the season. Rather than letting it discourage them, Coach Grousse used it as a learning experience. “I kept reminding the boys that every team makes the playoffs, and things can change quickly once we get there,” he said. As the season progressed, the Rams finished with a 2-4 record, but Coach Grousse remained optimistic. “I knew we were in the perfect spot to make a run in the playoffs,” he noted. His consistent message to the boys emphasized teamwork and communication, “Stick by each other and communicate with your teammates on the field.”

• 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. 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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REAL ESTATE SOMA CHECKLIST FOR 2025

It’s easy to think about where all the time goes when a new year rolls around. For 2025, I have made a resolution checklist to prioritize my experiences in our community. I invite you to partake in these local activities and places in SOMA throughout the coming year. Take a scenic hike in the South Mountain Reservation or a walk in the historic Montrose District. Support local farmers by purchasing fresh produce from a SOMA Farmers Market. Enjoy a day in Memorial Park, Meadowlands Park, Grove Park or any of the other beautiful parks in our area. Meet people and acquire new skills by enrolling in classes at the new Baird Center which include: Creative Arts, Dance, STEM, Fitness, Games, Pickleball and much more. Become a member of one of SOMA’s many clubs by joining the South Mountain Conservancy, the Fox Running Club, the Maplewood Garden Club, or the SOMA Society of Musical Arts. Immerse yourself in the arts by attending a live performance at SOPAC. Give back to the community by volunteering or donating to The Achieve Foundation, MEND, Meadowland Park Conservancy or the Artist’s Studio Tour. May these experiences enrich your journey through 2025 and your connection to the community of South Orange and Maplewood. Dine at a restaurant you haven’t been to before.

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JANUARY 2025 | SOMA LIVING 15

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HOME DESIGN My real estate partner, Kim, and I were in a newly renovated house, and as we walked into the kitchen, I could see right away that the lighting wasn’t well thought out. I pointed to the ceiling. “See how this renovator put this nice symmetrical box of recessed lights all around the room?” I asked her. “Yeah, so what’s wrong with that?” “It’s all wrong. Well, to be fair, it’s okay; it’s just not the best functionality.” “I dunno, it looks fine to me,” she replied. “Oh sure, the place is all brightly lit like a furniture showroom or a dentist’s office. But these lights have a better function as task lights.” “How?” she inquired. “Come here,” I said as I walked to the edge of the counter. I looked up at the recessed light. “That light looks to be about 36 inches off the wall. So when I stand here

cooking…” I turned and stood at the counter as if working there. “Notice what I’m looking at?” I asked. “Imaginary onions,” she said snidely. “No… my shadow! That light is behind me, casting my shadow onto the countertop where I’d be working. The light should be placed 24 inches off the wall at the countertop’s edge, the depth of the base cabinets, which puts the light directly overhead so you can see what you’re doing and not cut yourself when you’re chopping real onions.” “Well, it’s too late for this kitchen,” she concluded. “True. I wish people would talk to me before renovating their house,” I added as we walked out.

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INTERIOR DESIGN It’s a new year! Here we are in 2025! New beginnings often come with the desire for a fresh start, but sprucing up your space doesn’t have to mean splurging. This January, consider these wallet-friendly ways to breathe new life into your home without the dread of your next credit card statement. Repurpose and Rearrange: Give old furniture a new look with some paint or switch up the layout of a room for a fresh perspective. Simple changes like these can have a big impact. Green Up: Introduce plants to your decor—both real and fake. While real plants offer freshness and a boost to air quality, fake plants can be more cost-effective and won’t ever wilt on you. Textile Transformation: Changing out things like throw pillows and curtains can give a room an entirely new feel without a hefty price tag. DIY Decor: Get creative with homemade wall art or upcycle items to create unique decor pieces that reflect your personality and flair. Brighten Up: Upgrade your lighting solutions or add mirrors to reflect light and create the illusion of more space. Focus on Focal Points: Create an accent wall with a splash of paint or some peel-and-stick wallpaper to draw the eye and dramatically change the vibe of a room. With these simple swaps and tweaks, you can make your home feel brand new for the new year. Here’s to a fresh, fabulous, and financially savvy 2025 in your beautifully refreshed space!

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JANUARY 2025 | SOMA LIVING 17

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As the temperature drops, staying in becomes more appealing. A custom home theater transforms your winter evenings into memorable experiences. Whether it’s a spacious basement or a cozy corner, no space is too big or small to enjoy the magic of movies. A great home theater combines the right elements. The screen is the centerpiece—projectors with motorized screens suit large spaces, while OLED TVs or The Frame by Samsung are perfect for smaller rooms. Surround sound systems like Dolby Atmos immerse you in the action, with in-ceiling or minimal-opening speakers as space-saving options. Lighting is key to setting the mood. Dimmable smart lights and blackout shades enhance comfort while reducing glare. Comfortable seating, from recliners to sectionals, completes the experience. THE ULTIMATE WINTER MOVIE NIGHT SETUP AUDIO AND VIDEO

A home theater is more than a luxury—it’s a space for family bonding, entertaining friends, or personal escape. It adds value to your home while offering a fully customized experience. Even small spaces can deliver a cinematic atmosphere with clever designs and hidden components. This winter, skip the cold and create your ultimate movie retreat. At AV Luxury Design, we specialize in custom home theaters tailored to any space and style. If you’re curious about learning more about home theaters, reach out—our information is below. Let us help you bring the big screen to your home.

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.

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MUSICIAN OF THE MONTH

SPONSORED BY IN TUNE

This month, we are excited to spotlight Gavin Vijayvergiya, a talented 12-year-old musician from Maplewood Middle School. Since picking up the acoustic and electric guitar at just 8 years old, Gavin has developed a strong passion for music. GAVIN VIJAYVERGIYA

Gavin Vijayvergiya

What he enjoys most about playing is the community that comes with it. “All the people that you meet that play the same instrument and learning from them,” he shares. Inspired by his father, who plays guitar, Gavin is cultivating his skills and is eager to explore new musical horizons. When asked about other instruments he would like to learn, Gavin expressed interest in the sitar and the piano. He is drawn to the sitar for its unique sound, stating enthusiastically, “It’s similar enough to the guitar, and it looks super cool.” The piano captivates him with its wide range of sounds, making it perfect for the songs he loves. Outside of music, Gavin enjoys spending time with friends and family, playing video games, and diving into books. A 6th grader, his favorite subject in school is science, showcasing his diverse interests. Musically, Gavin draws inspiration from the band Radiohead. He admires their sound and the emotions their music evokes, making them a significant influence on his journey. Keep an eye on this budding artist as he continues to develop his craft and share his love for music!

JANUARY 2025 | SOMA LIVING 19

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COALITION ON RACE

BLACK HISTORY MONTH CONVERSATION: BLACK WOMEN AND CIVIL RIGHTS Nancy Gagnier,

Join us for an inspiring and illuminating discussion on February 9th at 1 p.m. at The Woodland Parlor in Maplewood, NJ, as we celebrate Black History Month and delve into the crucial role Black women played in the fight for civil rights. This free event, co-sponsored by Durand-Hedden House and the Community Coalition on Race, will be led by Dr. Hettie Williams, a renowned scholar and author of “The Georgia of the North: Black Women and the Civil Rights Movement in New Jersey.” Dr. Williams, the new director of the William Monroe Trotter Institute for the Study of Black Culture at the University of Massachusetts Boston, will bring her expertise to uncover the often-overlooked contributions of Black women in the civil rights and women’s movements. From grassroots organizing to leadership roles, Black women have been central to the ongoing struggle for equality and justice. Dr. Williams will shed light on their activism before, during, and after the Civil Rights Era, with a particular focus on the women of New Jersey, revealing their untold stories and highlighting their unwavering spirit. Following Dr. Williams’ insightful presentation, we will engage in facilitated small group discussions and a reception, providing a platform for further conversation and reflection. communitycoalitiononrace.org/events

Executive Director of the South Orange/ Maplewood Community Coalition on Race, develops pro-integrative strategies to support racial equity and inclusion.

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FROM THE DOCTOR NECK PAIN AND WORKING AT A COMPUTER/DESK Sitting at a desk all day is a common culprit for neck and back pain. Luckily, many simple adjustments can prevent this discomfort. IMPROVE YOUR WORKSPACE ERGONOMICS: Monitor position: Adjust your chair or use a riser to ensure your chin is parallel to the floor when viewing the top 20% of the screen. Document placement: Hold documents in front of you or use an upright clipboard. Posture: Be mindful of your posture. Sit up straight with your nose aligned with your toes to avoid muscle imbalances. TAKE FREQUENT BREAKS: Stretch and move: Get up and stretch every hour. Focus on mobilizing your joints and increasing circulation. Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water keeps your muscles lubricated. By implementing these ergonomic principles and incorporating regular movement, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing neck pain caused by prolonged computer use. Additional information: For in-depth guidance on setting up an ergonomic workstation and staying fit while sitting, visit our website southorangechiropractic.com or contact us directly.

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

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

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JANUARY 2025 | SOMA LIVING 21

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FROM THE DOCTOR

INJURIES IN THE WORKPLACE

According to the National Safety Council, every seven seconds an employee experiences an injury on the job. Work injuries affect not only the employee but also colleagues and the employer. Many types of injuries can occur, and a specific process exists for individuals to receive treatment. However, people can take measures to prevent injuries Common injuries include slips and falls, strains, muscle tears, overuse injuries, and repetitive use injuries. Slips and falls can lead to bruises and fractures. In some cases, a fall causes a back or head injury. Employees should report injuries to their supervisors and seek care from the workplace doctor. Sometimes, a referral for physical therapy follows. To prevent these injuries, individuals can take simple actions, such as wearing proper footwear and braces, especially when lifting heavy objects. If an injury occurs, the rehabilitation process begins For all injuries, the treating physical therapist (PT) evaluates the patient and creates a treatment program that improves strength and flexibility while addressing pain levels. Therapists can use modalities like ultrasound, cold laser, electrical stimulation, and heat/ice for pain control. Depending on the therapy office, patients may also enter a work hardening program. Therapists tailor this program to replicate job duties, such as pushing, pulling, functional lifting, climbing, and carrying. The program typically starts once sufficient healing occurs At discharge, the therapist provides exercises to help maintain corrections. This stage also offers an opportunity for patients to strengthen themselves and begin exercises to prevent future injuries. Body mechanics serve as a common starting point for injury prevention, along with achieving adequate flexibility.

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.

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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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FINANCIAL FOCUS

YOU CAN CONTRIBUTE MORE TO YOUR 401(K) THIS YEAR!

Your 401(k) will likely be a crucial source of income after you retire. The good news is that you can contribute even more to your plan in 2025 than ever before. CONTRIBUTION LIMITS: • The contribution limit for traditional and Roth 401(k) s, as well as similar plans like 457(b)s and 403(b)s, has increased by $500 for 2025, to $23,500. • If you’re 50 or older, you can contribute an additional $7,500, for a total of $31,000. • Under the SECURE 2.0 legislation, if you are between 60 and 63, you have a higher catch-up contribution — $11,250, instead of $7,500, for a total of $34,750. CONTRIBUTION STRATEGIES: Max out your contributions: If you can afford it, consider contributing the full amount to your 401(k). Meet the employer match: At least contribute enough to earn your employer’s matching contribution, if one is offered. Create a diversified portfolio: Spread your contributions among a range of investments to minimize risk and maximize growth. Adjust your portfolio over time: Review your portfolio annually and adjust it as needed based on your risk tolerance and time horizon. MAXIMIZE YOUR RETIREMENT SAVINGS: By contributing what you can afford to your 401(k) and managing your investments wisely, you can build a strong nest egg for your retirement.

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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JANUARY 2025 | SOMA LIVING 23

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