b"BetterTogetherIntroducing the SOMA Chamber of CommerceBY ELLEN DONKERL-R: Ellen Donker, Kris Haas, Sheena Collum, Frank McGehee, Gary Jones and Paul GreeneT wolocalorganizationsPresidentSheenaCollum.Themood havemadehistory.Theat the event was upbeat and members MaplewoodChamberwere energized about the merger. ofCommerceandtheVicePresidentGaryJones,who SouthOrangeChamberchampioned the merger says, I look ofCommerceunani- forwardtomovingforwardasone mouslyagreedtomergeChamber. Since our towns often func-into one entity. The new name is thetionasonecommunity,Iseethis Maplewood/SouthOrangeChambermerger as a win for all.of Commerce, doing business as theBusinesses and organizations inter-SOMA Chamber of Commerce.ested in joining the SOMA ChamberCome Learn with Us As a longtime member of the Ma- can visit maplewoodchamber.org.plewoodChamberandasthepresi- NurturingtrustworthyInspiring dentoftheneworganization,Iamadventurousthoughtfulexcited for it to function as one group to better meet the needs of the Ma-plewood and South Orange business Academic and play-based learning and intentionalcommunities. Being able to appeal toteachinga larger and more diverse array of busi-High staff to child ratiosness owners for membership will en-Services for children 6 months - 6 years old able them to improve their ability to On-site RN network, learn from each other, and State-licensed partner on initiatives. Convenient location:1/2 mile from the South Orange The SOMA Chamber of Commerce kicked off its new program year on Sep-Train Station and downtown. On-site parking for picktember 22 with an outdoor breakfast up and drop off.event at St. Jamess Gate. Not only did7:00 am - 6:30 pm, Monday-Fridaymemberscelebratetheorganizations launch, but they heard an update on theThe SOMA Chamber leadership: I'm in towns from Maplewood Mayor Frankthe middle. To my left is Vice President Gary Jones and to my right Administrative401 Valley Street, South Orange | 973.378.5906 | info@villagebabies.comMcGeheeandSouthOrangeVillageDirector Kris Haas.feature story /57"