SUMMIT CONNECTING YOUR COMMUNITY MARCH 2021

MARCH 2021 SUMMIT LOCAL 1

Meet the Nuñez Simon Family

SUMMITMARCH 2021CONNECTING YOUR COMMUNITY

LOCAL

MARCH 2021 SUMMIT LOCAL 3

Liz Miller [email protected]

908.568.2458 www.pfnavigation.com

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DISCLAIMER: Any articles included in this publication and/or opinions expressed therein do not necessarily reflect the views of Local Media NJ but remain solely those of the author(s). The paid adver-tisements contained within the Summit Local magazine are not endorsed or recommended by Local Media NJ or the publisher. Therefore, neither Local Media NJ nor the publisher may be held liable or responsible for business practices of these companies. NOTE: When community events take place, photographers may be present to take photos for that event and they may be used in this publication.

Carlee CarboneContributing Editor Social Media Director

Layout & DesignMarc L. Miller, PresidentAndrew Mazurek, Art Directorwww.grandstanddesign.com

Tanya DevContributing Editor

Mark De HanesPhotography

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Natalie PeraltaCopy EditorDirector of Social Media

SUMMIT LOCAL MARCH 20214 MARCH 2021 SUMMIT LOCAL 5

@theredballoonsummit

Where/why did you get your pets? Eight years ago, I tricked my wife into going to Shake-A-Paw on Route 22, by instead telling her that we were going out for a family dinner with our three kids. At Shake-A-Paw we spent several hours looking and meeting the right dog under her resentful eye. We eventually were introduced to a wonderful chocolate Cocker Spaniel, and she murmured, “He looks like Nutella.” Four pairs of eyes turned to her and the deal was sealed. Nutella came home with us that night after years of wanting a dog in our home! Baguette came from a Basset-Hound breeder in State College, Pennsylvania where my wife and I graduated from Penn State. There, in 1987, we acquired our first Basset-Hound– Happy. He lived with us for thirteen years, and about six of those years were spent in our home in Switzerland. We can safely say that Happy was indeed very happy!

Is there a story behind their names? Nutella’s name was sealed right then and there as a spur of the moment, while Baguette is a common choice for a long and narrow dog. Our Nutella and Baguette are inseparable, similar to how nutella and baguettes are delicious together!

Anything special or unusual about them (talents/quirks)? Nutella and Baguette are polar opposites. For as much as Nutella is well-mannered, elegant, obedient, sensitive, Baguette is dubious of any command which does not involve food. He is also uncouth, needy, and often loud– a real farm animal! Nevertheless, the two are best buddies. They play many games such as tug-of-war and enjoy scaring away any squirrels on our property.

What do you like best about your pets? Nutella and Baguette are both very protective of our family. Above anything else, their heart and soul are connected to the five of us.

Any funny stories? Seeing them play in our large, fenced yard is a reward and antidote to any stress in our lives. It is a constant source of joy and profound happiness to have these two in our lives.

How spoiled are your pets? The two dogs basically tolerate the rest of the family members in their Summit dwellings.

What else should we know about your pets and/or how your pet has enriched your home/family? Baguette and Nutella love to sleep side-by-side. Baguette seems to be in a coma as his sleep is so deep and sudden, while Nutella is a light sleeper, always scanning his surroundings for any unusual activity. Finally, this duo was part of a trio not long ago. Sadly, the third member of our hound family, a Bernese Mountain Dog named Raclette succumbed this summer to GDV or Gastric Dilatation Volvulus which is basically a twisted stomach unfortunately common in large breeds. Foodies will recognize that Raclette is a Swiss cheese dish very common and second to fondue in Switzerland.

Name: Ben Barlow

Age: 11 Grade: 6th

School: LCJSMS

Siblings: Sister, Hannah Barlow

Sports I play: Badminton and soccer

Musical instrument I play: Clarinet

Something unique about me: I make spray paint art!

When I grow up I’m going to be: A geologist or a marine biologist

Activities/Hobbies: Skiing, art, scootering, and skateboarding

Animal: Cat

Color: Purple

Food: Sushi and burgers

Movie: Mulan and

Ready Player One

Music: Pop and EDM

Place to play: My backyard or the TV room

Sports teams: Seattle Seahawks

School Subject: Art and math

Vacation: Utah or Hawaii

BY TANYA DEV contributing editor, Summit Local

Meet

Ben

Barlow

kid of the month

Future scientist is also a spray paint artist

Favorites

Spotlight

Meet

Nutella &

Baguette

BY TANYA DEV, contributing editor, Summit Local

FAMILY MEMBER NAMES

Jennifer, Sacha, Clara, Leon, and Alexis Sarkissian

PETS’NAMES

Nutella and Baguette

TYPE OFANIMAL/BREED

Cocker Spaniel and Basset Hound

MALE OR FEMALE

Both males

PETS’AGES

Nutella is 8 years old and Baguette is only 1½

Canine buddies prove that opposites do attract!

kid of the month

pet of the monthpet of the month


BY LARA COTA AND SOFIA KASBO, Verve Page Editors

The entrepreneurial world nowadays is becoming extremely popular among teenagers. All over the globe, they have become successful at starting their own businesses, going as far as writing books to featuring new inventions. In Summit, students follow that same pathway to success with their own unique and creative products.

April Cascante is a junior at Summit High School who created her own jewelry business called Terra Trinkets, where she sells hand-made necklaces and rings. To her, the business is an art form as well as a creative outlet, and she hopes for the business to continue in the future.

What started as a hobby where she would take wire and beads and use it to make jewelry soon became a new occupation. Once mastering the craft, she decided to sell it to save money for college as well as for the continuation and expansion of the business with the purchase of new materials. While the more intricate pieces can take up to an hour, smaller rings and necklaces take an average of ten minutes to create.

“At first, it can be very daunting and you’re going to get scared that you won’t make a lot of sales or that your work isn’t good enough, but it is important to trust the process. I really pride myself on the fact that it’s a small business and that everything is handmade by me. Each order I get makes me extremely happy,” said Cascante.

The main materials include multi-colored tarnish resistant copper wire, beads, stones with drilled holes in them, recyclable beads, used buttons and materials from broken jewelry.

“I’m dedicated to making my business as environmentally friendly as I can by using a lot of second-hand materials, like buttons found in thrift stores, pendants and different types of materials that a lot of people wouldn’t normally use,” said Cascante.

A part of her earnings also goes to organizations. The two main donations go to the NAACP, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, and ACLU, the American Civil Liberties Union. The NAACP was founded in 1909 in direct support of the advancement of black Americans while the ACLU is a nonprofit organization that supports minorities and works to endorse individual liberties and rights.

Yet another SHS student has carved her own path to selling jewelry. Senior Olivia Engman created her own Etsy store called O.N.E. Engman has always been a creative person with a special appreciation for art, and this inspired her to take her skills a step further.

“I opened my shop during the summer of 2020, due to boredom and simply wanting to do something creative...I make sure to add a personal touch to each package I ship so I include a handwritten note and some fun stickers,” said Engman.

Engman sells dangle earrings that she makes out of clay, plastic and other materials that may be needed depending on the order. Social media is a huge part of Engman’s business when it comes to putting her products out there in

order to make sales. She explains the first step to promoting her business.

“One time I reached out to an influencer I follow on Instagram and sent her some earrings free of charge. She posted my earrings on her story, which got me a bunch of orders,” said Engman.

Jaccob Perrone is a SHS senior who similarly uses social media to advertise his business. Perrone started his own business called Perrone Knives, where he creates custom kitchen cutlery while hoping to expand to jewelry. Ninety percent of his advertising is done through Instagram with the handle @Perroneknives.

After discovering blacksmithing at the age of 13 at Peters Valley forge, Perrone took a strong interest in the work. Finally getting the opportunity to continue his newfound passion at the start of quarantine, he took up a variety of odd jobs such as walking dogs, mowing lawns and watering flowers to be able to pay for the basic equipment. Over-exceeding his starting budget of $800, he bought his first anvil, forge, hammer and some tongs among many other tools, and got to work.

“I would wake up early to do my school work so that I could spend more time blacksmithing. From May till August, I probably spent nine to ten hours a day in my shop, learning and growing. I also love cooking and the chief tool in the kitchen is a good knife, so I tried to fuse two of my passions,” said Perrone.

His work continued to improve as he gained more experience, and now about 70 percent of his revenue comes from home cooks or professional chefs. It takes anywhere from a week to a few months to complete an order. After receiving instructions on the attributes they want in their blade, size, thickness and style among others, Perrone draws out between 10 to 20 different designs until both he and the customer are satisfied.

“It all really started when a family friend was impressed with a chef knife I made and offered $200 for it, which I couldn’t refuse. Soon after that, one of my dad’s coworkers saw the first knife I sold and wanted one of his own. Before I knew it, I was filling out paperwork for my business license and started my own website and Instagram page,” said Perrone.

All of his knives are either high carbon or damascus as most high-end kitchen knives are made out of either of the two. Depending on his customer’s preference of wood and construction techniques, he also customizes the knife handles and design. Overall, his work is beyond incredible and he hopes to continue in the future.

No matter the age, teenagers all over the world are encouraged to pursue their passions with their own startup businesses. Every step to success starts somewhere, and these three students knew exactly how to take action in order to do what they love.

Sixty layer random Damascus pattern petty knife sold at Perrone Knives, Photo credit: Jacob Perrone

Clay chocolate donut earrings sold at O.N.E, Photo Credit: Olivia Engman

summit high news

Teens Enter Small Business World

Green agate gem ring for sale at Terra Trinkets, Photo Credit: April Cascante


How long have you lived here and/or why did you move here? We moved to Summit three years ago from Brooklyn. Baylee grew up in nearby Millburn, so when it came time for us to escape the city for more space and a place to raise our family, we knew we wanted to be in the same general area. We were attracted to Summit because of the vibrant town, excellent schools, and convenient commute to NYC.

Tell us what you love about Summit? We lucked out by moving to a neighborhood in Summit with a strong sense of community. The neighbors truly care for each other and plan events like Ladies’ Nights and an annual Block Party (pre-Pandemic). Beyond our little enclave, we love how inclusive the Summit community is. It made us especially proud to attend the first annual ‘Summit Has Pride’ event, and to see the peaceful BLM gatherings last year.

How are you involved with the community? Jesús has donated artwork to many local fundraisers and non-profits, including Family Promise Union County. We also take part in neighborhood events, and love attending town events and activities with our kids.

How about your neighbors and the folks in this town? Tell us. Our neighbors are amazing! We want to give a special shout-out to the McKees, who are like a second-family to our dogs and have helped us many times with our kids. We have formed many close friendships since moving to Summit, and we look forward to growing our circle even more.

Kathy Kaye (Compass) and Matt Keane (Guaranteed Rate) are pleased to bring “Meet Your Neighbors” to you readers monthly so that we all get to know the smiling faces around us in this incredible town!

Making your Realty Dreams a Reality.

YEKATERINA “KATHY” KAYELic. Real Estate SalespersonM: 862.432.2810 O: [email protected] Morris Turnpike, Suite 3005Short Hills, NJ 07078kathykayehomes.com @mrsrealtornj

MATTHEW KEANESVP of Mortgage LendingM: 973.464.7571 O: [email protected] Main Street Suite 140,Madison, NJ 07940rate.com/MatthewKeane NMLS ID: 12966

KATHY KAYE IS A REAL ESTATE SALESPERSON AFFILIATED WITH COMPASS. COMPASS IS A LICENSED REAL ESTATE BROKER AND ABIDES BY EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY LAWS.

Guaranteed Rate Inc.; NMLS #2611; For licensing information visit nmlsconsumeraccess.org. Equal Housing Lender. Conditions may apply NJ - Licensed in NJ: Licensed Mortgage Banker - NJ Department of Banking & Insurance NJ - Licensed in NJ: Licensed Mortgage Banker - NJ Department of Banking & InsuranceSophie Morse, MD, MSc is the principal investigator for Atlantic Health System’s role in a nationwide phase 3 study on vitamin D’s

impact in treating patients with stage 4 colorectal cancer. A gastrointestinal oncologist at Atlantic Health System’s Overlook Medical Center, Dr. Morse is board certified in hematology, medical oncology, and internal medicine.

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The Nuñez Simon Family

FAMILY NAMES: Jesús, Baylee, Mateo, VivianNEIGHBORHOOD: Washington School District

PETS: Pug, named Gustavo; rescue mixed-breed, named Pachi

PROFESSION(S): Jesús - Artist / Chef / Photographer; Baylee - Management Consultant

Former Brooklynites have found a home in Summit with kids, pets and a strong sense of community

Exploring Role of Vitamin D in Treating Colorectal Cancer BY DR. SOPHIE MORSE

local health

Can vitamin D effectively treat colorectal cancer that has spread in the body? The answer is, we don’t know, but preliminary research has shown some promise.

Atlantic Health System is part of a nationwide phase 3 study on vitamin D’s impact in treating patients with stage 4 colorectal cancer. It will involve more than 1,000 patients enrolled through the spring of 2022. Partici-pants receive the chemotherapy combination FOLFOX, a standard treatment of care, with either a standard dose of vitamin D or a high dose of the vitamin. A small clinical trial demonstrated benefits for patients, leading to the phase 3 research.

The question of whether vitamin D can decrease growth of colon cancer cells is an intriguing one, but we also have to ask, is there any potential for harm? The study addresses that too.

Colorectal cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the

U.S. and the third most common cancer in men and in women (excluding skin cancers), according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The American Cancer Society estimates 149,500 new cases will be diagnosed in 2021.

Colonoscopy screenings have reduced the incidence of colorectal cancer in people age 50 and older since the mid-1980s, but rising cases among younger adults led the American Cancer Society in 2018 to recommend 45 as the age for people with average risk to begin getting screened — five years younger than prior guidelines recommended.

Colorectal cancer typically begins as small, benign polyps that form in the large intestines and mutate. Colonoscopies can locate polyps for removal before they become cancers.

Colonoscopy screenings have dipped during the COVID-19 pandemic, which is a significant concern. When caught

early, colon cancer has a 91% five-year survival rate. If it spreads to distant parts of the body, the survival rate drops to 14%, according to the American Cancer Society.

Studies have shown that low vitamin D levels are associated with an increased risk of colorectal cancer (as well as other cancers). Based on the data, I suggest people have their vitamin D level tested, in consultation with their doctor. If it is below normal, they can take supplements to get the level into the normal range. There is no evidence that doing so would cause harm when appropriately monitored.

Stay healthy, get annual checkups, and listen to your body. If you feel something is not right, get it checked out.

To learn more about the study, or other cancer care programs at Atlantic Health System, visit atlantichealth.org/cancerhides.

meet your neighbors

Jesús Núñez Rábano is an autodidact contemporary artist. You can find his custom, one-of-a-kind art at www.sirtreze.com.


What part of Summit do you live/how long lived there?Drawn by the excellent reputation of the Summit public school system and the walkable downtown, we came to Summit 17 years ago. We live in the Washington School district — mere blocks from Magic Fountain!

What do you like best about Summit? I love that Summit has been becoming more diverse. This applies to the population as well as to the many community offerings, from beautiful artwork around town, to music venues and family-friendly events on the Green, it’s great to see people enjoying things together.

Tell me about your business. My holistic healing business allows people to really focus on self-care. Restorative Reiki DD offers Reiki, Singing Bowls, Self-Compassion Reflection and other modalities. These subtle and effective methods ease the nervous system and bring relaxation and soothing to people seeking balance and restoration. By creating a healing environment from within, we are better able to navigate our daily lives. The well-being of every single client genuinely matters to me.

What advice would you give to parents of school aged children who are still struggling with home schooling and the family stresses of COVID? Check-in with your kids each day to find out how their day really was and to try to listen without solving. Let them talk. Kids need guidance, validation and unconditional love. We are the most important thing to them and even if they’re teenagers, we’re still their biggest role models.

Showing kids how to be reasonably self-reliant and also be able to ask for help is one of the greatest life skills we can teach them.

If you have a healthy self-care practice, they will see it. When they’re ready, they may want to learn more about it.

And don’t forget to have fun! It’s as important to us as it is to them.

How has B.I.G. impacted your life? I joined B.I.G. right before the pandemic hit. It’s a group of very smart women who are in all stages of professional and personal development. Through B.I.G. I’ve made some contacts and become friendly with people I’d not have met otherwise. It’s a safe, supportive environment dedicated to bringing ideas, information and personal growth to their members.

B.I.G. offers women the inspiration, community and tools they need to move their personal and professional lives forward. Summit area women can contact [email protected] and Chatham area women can contact [email protected] to attend a complimentary B.I.G. meeting.

Meet Dara Diamant

When you begin investing, you’ll generally assess your comfort with risk, as your investment choices will be guided at least partially by your risk tolerance. But once you actually experience the ups and downs of the market, this tolerance could be tested.

Risk tolerance may appear less bothersome in the abstract but seem quite different in reality. For example, you might initially think you wouldn’t be fazed by short-term market downturns, no matter how severe. However, when the financial markets really decline, as happened when the COVID-19 pandemic struck last March, you might find yourself being more concerned than you thought you would be.

Before you change your investment strategy, it’s important to understand the potential tradeoffs. By limiting your downside risk by investing less aggressively, you may also limit your upside potential. You might need to change your strategy in other ways, such as saving more or working longer. That said, the tradeoff involved in reducing your downside risk may be worth taking, if it helps you cope better with wild market swings, as the best strategy may be one you can stick with through the inevitable ups and downs of the markets.

Because market fluctuations are a normal part of investing, here are some additional suggestions that may help you focus on your long-term strategy.

• Look past the immediate event. While the market’s pandemic-driven fall was sudden, its recovery was also fairly quick. Eight months after its March meltdown, the market had regained all the lost ground and reached a new record high. During the midst of what appears to be a real threat to your investment portfolio, it can be difficult to anticipate a more favorable environment. Yet, while past performance can’t guarantee future results, every historical market decline has been followed by a recovery.

• Understand that the Dow isn’t your portfolio. When the Dow Jones Industrial Average and the other major market indexes such as the S&P 500 fall precipitously (or shoot up), it makes headlines. But the Dow and the S&P 500 only track the performance of large U.S. companies – and while their performance may be an indication of the U.S. economy, they aren’t going to track the results of your portfolio, which should ideally include a personalized mix of large-company stocks, small-company stocks, international stocks, bonds, government securities and other investments.

• Keep your emotions out of your investment moves. The market will fluctuate constantly – but you should always try keep your emotions in check. Excess exuberance when the market rises, or extreme despondency when the market falls, can lead you to make poor decisions. Specifically, we may buy when we feel good (when the markets are up) and sell when we feel badly (when markets are down). Your heart and your emotions may

drive your financial goals – creating a comfortable retirement, sending your kids to college or leaving a legacy for your family – but when you invest for these goals, you should use your head.

Your risk tolerance is a key part of your investment strategy. But by taking the steps described above, you can gain a broader understanding of how risk fits into your overall picture – and a better understanding of yourself as an investor.

www.edwardjones.comTwo Shunpike Road, Suite 22Madison, NJ 07940 Member SIPC

Why work with me?Investments should be tailored to the needs of the individual - based on your time frame, risk tolerance, and goals. We help you plan so that you are prepared to meet the challenges that life presents to you. We remain your partner throughout the entire process and are constantly monitoring changing situations. Having more than 30 years of industry experience, I joined Edward Jones in 2018 as a financial advisor. My wife, Shari and I are Summit residents since 2001. We are raising our three children here and are active in this great community.Give me a call or send me an email and let’s talk about how I can help you and your family achieve your financial goals.

Robert CompetielloFinancial Advisor(973) [email protected]

How to Respond When Risk Tolerance Is TestedBY ROBERT COMPETIELLO, Financial Advisor at Edward Jones

Dara Diamant is a certified Reiki master/teacher, Singing Bowl sound healer, meditation leader, self-compassion facilitator and general well-being enthusiast.

women who inspire

www.RestorativeReikiDD.com [email protected]: @DaraDiamantFacebook: @Restorative Reiki DD Dara Diamant(908) 376-9831

local finance

Holistic healer provides avenues for self-care to residents seeking balance and restoration

SUMMIT LOCAL MARCH 202112

Twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, the Summit Volunteer First Aid Squad provides emergency medical care and transportation for the residents of Summit. Each year, the Summit First Aid Squad responds to more than 2,100 emergency calls completely free of charge. The Squad is a non-profit, tax-exempt organization that relies solely on generous donations and continuing support from community members. There are no paid positions on the squad, all members are from the Summit community — your friends, neighbors, and even high school students!

The Junior Program was founded in 1970 with a mission to provide opportunities for high school students looking to volunteer in a dynamic and non-traditional environment. Michael D’Ecclessis, a member of the first junior class says, “Father John McGovern of St. Teresa’s Church came to the High School and posed the idea of teens doing something important for their community...My mother was a charter member of the squad that was formed in 1962 and I thought that it would be good to give back to the community and maybe I would join for a little bit and see what it was all about. That ‘little bit’ turned into more than 45 years of active duty to this day.”

The Squad responds to a range of medical emergencies and hence juniors need extensive on-the-job training. Juniors are expected to attend training sessions, participate in junior meetings and Squad activities, and serve at least three hours a week and complete one 12-hour weekend shift each month. Juniors also have the option to take a 20 credit EMT course at

Union County College to obtain Emergency Medical Technician credentials. Kerry Whitcher, a Personnel Lieutenant and Junior Liaison at the Squad says, “the Junior Program is rigorous and competitive.” Though the position requires hard work and commitment, every second spent on the Squad is filled with learning opportunities and exciting adventures, starting on day one! Whitcher says, “on the junior’s first day at the EMS, they will be riding on the ambulance and going on calls. As they progress with their training, their participation on calls increases.”

Most high school students join the Junior Program with hopes of experimenting with a career in the medical field. Many continue as successful doctors, nurses, paramedics, or EMS volunteers in Summit or other communities. Often, juniors have such a good time on the Squad, that they continue volunteering when they are home from college. In many cases, parents are motivated by children to join the Squad seeing how involved the kids are in the Summit community! D’Ecclessis says, “there will be no more rewarding thing that you will ever do in your life than becoming a member of the Squad. You will experience a new family that will help you grow in leaps and bounds and you will gain the confidence to tackle anything that comes your way.” D’Ecclessis met his wife on the Squad and both his sons served on the squad as well. D’Ecclessis says, “we are a family of Squad members that go from 1962 to present day.”

To apply to become a member of the Squad, high school students age 16 and older must fill out an application that can be found on the Squad’s website and attend an interview in April. Each year, the Squad takes approximately 12 juniors. All that is needed to join the Squad is a desire to serve! The SVFAS relies on individuals like you to help make a difference. “The Squad has given me more than I could ever repay over the time I have been a member,” says D’Ecclessis, “it gave me the confidence to become successful and appreciate the little things in life.”

BY TANYA DEV, contributing editor, Summit Local

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Don’t let the pandemic distract you from seeing your doctor. Cancer could take the lives of 10,000 people due to missed screenings. Book an appointment today.

atlantichealth.org/cancerhides

summit volunteersSummit First Aid Squad Junior Program


What changes have come about in real estate as a result of the pandemic? Almost immediately after the pandemic hit, we saw urban dwellers flocking to suburban areas, searching for homes with more space — both inside and outdoors. Buyers want homes with room for a home office, home gym, and a great kitchen since we’re all cooking a lot more these days! Low inventory, historically low interest rates, and pent-up buyer demand has resulted in a seller’s market. Homes are receiving multiple offers, often over asking. In response, there’s been a rise in new construction to meet the buyer demand.

What does the Spring Market look like in Summit and surrounding towns? In real estate, Spring has sprung! Summit is that quintessential suburb with an urban feel. We have a great community, thriving downtown, strong schools, and easy commuting options, so our area is in high demand! In Summit last year, closed sales were up 44.9%, and the median sales price was $1,102,500, up 12.8% from 2019. The 2021 market is set to outpace 2021.

When is the best time to list my home? Traditionally, it’s during the Spring Market, which is now! This past year has been atypical. With inventory remaining so low, sellers are advantaged no matter when they list. Still, there are typically more buyers looking to move in the summer, so that they can settle before the start of the school year. Therefore, we do expect the greatest demand in the next few months.

Switching to buyers, who are they and where are they moving from? The majority of my clients are coming from NYC, Jersey City, Hoboken, and Weehawken. Most are Millennials who have accelerated their timeline to buy their first home in the ‘burbs. Buyers are in a unique position to afford more. Additional savings from pandemic and historic low interest rates have resulted in greater buying power. Some of my clients are current Summit residents who are taking advantage of market conditions to upsize and move locally.

On that topic, what is predicted for the mortgage market this year? I’m going to have the expert, Matt Keane of Guaranteed Rate, take this one: “Rates are forecasted to stay historically low with expectation that we will experience general market fluctuation of slight increases as the world market starts to open for 2021.

The Federal Reserve will be watching for any signs of inflation which would put pressure on the low rates we have been seeing and force the cost of borrowing to increase slightly through higher rates.

With this being said, rates are so low that any upward movement in 2021 will still result in rates being

perceived as historically low. Regardless of any movement in rates, 2021 will be considered the year to buy or refinance your home due to the low cost of borrowing.

Tell us about your brand and Compass, a brokerage we have seen more and more in Summit and the surrounding areas? I am known for my dedication to my clients. I am personally invested in each of their journeys and make sure they actually enjoy the process. Buying and selling a home is a big life decision, and I want it to be a positive experience for them. I chose to join Compass — the largest independent real estate brokerage in the country — so that I can provide an even greater experience for my clients. Compass has an innovative approach to real estate, and they are changing how we navigate the process of buying or selling a home. I am honored to be affiliated with the strength and integrity of the Compass brand and culture.

INSPIRATION STARTS HERELargest Selection of Designer Carpets & FlooringShop at Home Services Available In Stock Carpets & Remnants Carpet One Exclusive Brands at Competitive PricingExtensive Commercial Projects Portfolio Area Rugs in Stock & Made to OrderLarge Selection of Luxury Vinyl & Hardwood

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335 Springfield Ave. Summit, NJ 07901• (908) 273-0220 • www.covecarpetonesummit.comCove Carpet One Floor & Home

A Conversation about the Real Estate Marketwith Kathy Kaye of Compass, MrsRealtorNJ; and Matt Keane of Guaranteed Rate

Kathy Kaye is a real estate agent with Compass in Short Hills and can be reached on her cell at 862.432.2810 or at the office at 908.273.2996. Connect with her on Instagram @MrsRealtorNJ

Matt Keane is SVP of Mortgage Lending with Guaranteed Rate in Madison. He can be reached on his cell at 973.464.7571 or at the office 973.295.6478.

market update

Interiors “after” Compass Concierge, an exclusive service designed to sell houses faster and for a higher price by showcasing them in the best light.


LOCAL

“PARKINSON’S TOOK AWAY MY FREEDOM.DBS GAVE IT BACK.”

Learn more about Christine’s story at AtlanticHealth.org/ChristineStory

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CHR IST INE ’ S STORY . There was no time off from my Parkinson’s. Medication no longer controlled my tremors and stiffness. I had trouble walking and I was afraid to lift my granddaughters. My neurologist at the Atlantic Neuroscience Institute at Overlook Medical Center gave me hope. She said that I was a great candidate for Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS), which involves placing electrodes in the brain to stimulate areas that control motor functions. A small implanted device – like a pacemaker – delivers the electrical currents. My tremors stopped,

I take less medication and I’m back to work, back to being a grandmother, back to being me.

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