This Black History Month, we proudly celebrate the African American entrepreneurs who help shape the culture, flavor, and creativity of Maplewood and South Orange.

Palmer’s Bakehouse is a beautiful example of passion meeting purpose — offering handcrafted sweets and savory treats made in small batches using seasonal ingredients. Their commitment to quality, community, and local connection makes them a true Maplewood treasure.

We invite our community to support, visit, and celebrate the Black-owned businesses that continue building opportunity, legacy, and inspiration for future generations.

Your support keeps local dreams alive. Visit us at: 1 Highland Place Maplewood, NJ 07040

SZA, Maplewood’s own, and Kendrick Lamar captured Record of the Year at the 2026 Grammy Awards for their collaborative hit “Luther.”

The track, sampling Luther Vandross and Cheryl Lynn’s classic, soared for 13 weeks atop the Billboard Hot 100, connecting with listeners nationwide.

During her moving acceptance speech, SZA thanked Kendrick for his unwavering support and reminded fans to hold onto hope in uncertain times.

Kendrick Lamar notched five awards that night, surpassing Jay-Z as the most-awarded hip-hop artist in Grammy history with a remarkable 27 wins.

The duo’s breakthrough was preceded by a powerhouse Super Bowl halftime show and a joint tour throughout 2025.

For Maplewood, SZA’s success is a point of local pride and a celebration of the town’s nurturing musical spirit.

South Orange, NJ — The Herb + Milly Iris Gallery at SOPAC will debut I AM YOU, an evocative new exhibition by rising local artist Tatum Sabin, starting February 5, 2026.

Showcasing vibrant paintings developed over two years, the exhibit reveals Sabin’s artistic growth through striking color, bold brushwork, and experimental materials.

A proud Columbia High School graduate now attending Howard University, Sabin draws inspiration from her Caribbean American background, highlighting the power of Black identity and women’s stories.

Her art combines expressive portraiture with abstract elements and recycled material, infusing each piece with a message of sustainability and hope.

The public is invited to the free opening reception on February 5, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at SOPAC, and is encouraged to RSVP.

Celebrate a powerful narrative of community, resilience, and vibrant cultural joy.

A fierce fire broke out on Gifford Court in Maplewood, New Jersey, in the early hours of February 2, 2026.

Despite a bitter 4-degree windchill, the South Essex Fire Department rapidly arrived and braved intense flames to save a trapped resident, who was found conscious and breathing.

Two beloved dogs were also rescued amid the chaos.

Captain Keith Scheper carried the victim to safety, sustaining minor injuries, while Fire Chief Joseph Alvarez praised the team for their swift, heroic response.

The American Red Cross is helping eight displaced neighbors from three families.

Authorities are still investigating the fire’s cause.

This event highlights the vital role of the recently merged fire department, which now boasts better resources and faster emergency response.

Residents are urged to maintain working smoke alarms and review fire safety plans.

Maplewood is also celebrating Black History Month and advancing affordable housing to strengthen community inclusion.

The Village of South Orange will host a vibrant Black History Month 2026 celebration, honoring the centennial of Carter G. Woodson’s founding of Negro History Week.

This year’s festivities, in partnership with the Recreation and Cultural Affairs department and local leaders, embrace the national theme, “A Century of Black History Commemorations.”

Signature events include children’s storytimes at the Baird Library, led by community figures and authors; a lively Paint & Sip spotlighting local creatives; and a fun-filled Trivia Night at the Baird Community Center celebrating Black heritage.

Each Saturday, residents can join Stephanie Lawson Muhammad for a Run/Walk series delving into South Orange’s unique history and cultural boundaries.

Seton Hall University hosts an innovative speaker series tying Black history to the future of work, while SOPAC’s gallery opening features artist Tatum Sabin, celebrating Black artistry.

Events are free, inclusive, and open to all, bringing the community together in meaningful reflection and celebration.