Maplewood Highlights

Coda Kitchen and Bar 

The South Orange-Maplewood School District (SOMSD) has earned the prestigious Best Communities for Music Education designation from the NAMM Foundation for the tenth straight year.

This achievement highlights the district’s ongoing dedication to delivering high-quality music education to every student.

Educators, families, and community supporters have all played a vital role in sustaining a strong tradition of arts education.

Beyond the schools, Maplewood thrives with a dynamic music culture.

Organizations like In Tune inspire residents with personal lessons and group classes, nurturing a passion for music at any age.

Signature events such as the Maplewood House Music Festival and Maplewoodstock Music and Arts Festival bring people together to celebrate creativity.

Maplewood’s vibrant music offerings ensure locals and visitors always have opportunities to connect through the arts.

The Maplewood Democratic primary on June 2 features Mayor Vic De Luca, Planning Board member John T. Sullivan, and Green Team advocate Martin Ceperley vying for two Township Committee seats.  

No Republican candidates have entered the race, focusing attention squarely on the Democratic contenders.  

The Maplewood Democratic Committee has worked to boost civic engagement, hosting a public info session in February to educate potential candidates and a forum in March for residents to meet and question those running.  

Candidates are reaching out directly: Ceperley’s campaign kickoff at Artie's invited locals to discuss township initiatives, while Sullivan emphasized transparency, local business support, and traffic safety during his event at Pallet Brewing Company.  

Residents are urged to stay informed as Maplewood’s future leadership will be shaped by the June primary—and active voter participation remains key.

Remember to show your appreciation for others by giving them a shout out on the Maplewood Shout Outs platform.

Kind words and recognition can go a long way in brightening someone's day!

Maplewood is coming together for the annual Run for Casey, a heartfelt event dedicated to raising awareness of Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood (SUDC).

Ellen Young created the race in memory of her daughter Casey, who tragically died at just 21 months old from SUDC.

Inspired by connections made in a local fitness group after moving to Maplewood, Young's determination has turned the 5K into a major tradition, drawing hundreds each year.

SUDC is a rare and mysterious condition — healthy children who die suddenly, with no known cause or prevention.

Through the race, Young finds both comfort and purpose, calling it a celebration of Casey’s life and a way to break the silence about loss.

Run for Casey unites Maplewood, spreading hope, support, and awareness around the profound impact of SUDC.

SOMA Weather This Week 🌤️

Cool spring days ahead with a mix of sunshine, clouds, and a few passing showers—perfect weather to enjoy Maplewood’s local spots! 

• 🌤️Mix of sun & clouds most of the week
• 🌡️ Temps staying cool to mild (50s–60s)
• 🌬️ A bit breezy at times
• 🌧️ Light showers possible midweek

The second annual SOMA Swish fundraiser brought over 2,500 people to Columbia High School’s gym on April 19, 2026.

This lively community event supports PTAs in the South Orange-Maplewood School District’s elementary schools.

What started in 2024 as a friendly rivalry between two schools now unites all six, growing into a beloved Maplewood tradition.

The 2026 triple-header drew parents, staff, students, alumni, and caregivers together for spirited two-hour basketball matches.

The near-capacity crowd highlighted deep community pride and commitment to student success.

Organizers thanked sponsors, student volunteers, and attendees for making the fundraiser a resounding success.

Funds raised will enhance programming and initiatives at each school, creating richer opportunities for every student.

SOMA Swish has become a powerful example of what happens when a community rallies around its schools.

🌟 Maplewood’s Own Akie Bermiss is Making National Waves 🎶

From local stages to Broadway—celebrating one of SOMA’s most inspiring talents.

Local Talent Making National Waves: Akie Bermiss 

Maplewood is full of talent, and one standout artist making waves far beyond our community is Akie Bermiss. A gifted musician, singer, and pianist, Akie proudly calls Maplewood home while performing on some of the biggest stages in the country—including Broadway.

Akie’s music is a unique blend of soul, jazz, and storytelling. His performances are known for their emotion and connection, bringing audiences together through powerful lyrics and unforgettable melodies. Whether he’s playing the piano or singing center stage, his passion for music shines through in every note.

What makes Akie especially inspiring is how he represents the creative spirit of the South Orange–Maplewood (SOMA) community. His journey shows that big dreams can grow right here in our local neighborhoods. From local roots to national recognition, Akie continues to prove that dedication, creativity, and hard work can open incredible doors.

For many in Maplewood, having a nationally recognized artist in our community is something to celebrate. Akie’s success reminds us of the importance of supporting the arts and encouraging young talent to pursue their passions. He is not just a performer—he’s a reflection of what makes our community so vibrant and special.

👏 Let’s show some love for local talent!
Have you seen Akie Bermiss perform? We’d love to hear about it. Share your favorite moment or experience and join us in celebrating one of Maplewood’s shining stars! 🎶

Rob Weiss of Maplewood has emerged as the winner of the prestigious 'Obey and Resist' live drawing competition in Charleston, South Carolina, hosted by celebrated artists Beeple and Shepard Fairey.

Renowned for his bold, imaginative work, Weiss impressed judges and fans alike with his unique mutant sea creature theme, staying composed even as Beeple himself emceed just steps away.

Amid the pressure, Weiss’s humor and creativity shone through, capturing a giant novelty check and sharing laughs about being named “COOL DRAWING PERSON.”

A devoted member of the SOMA art community, Weiss credits the region’s talent and solidarity with shaping his career.

Currently, his pieces are on display at Galactic Panther in the DC area, and he continues to create, recently completing a music video and planning new art projects for the summer.