Apollo Poetry, celebrated for his intellect and roots in the South Orange-Maplewood community, has earned a coveted spot on Season 2 of MrBeast’s Beast Games from an applicant pool of more than 400,000.

 

This season, launched on Amazon Prime Video on January 7, 2026, features an unprecedented $5 million prize, drawing massive buzz and anticipation.

 

Tonight, January 14, locals can gather at The Ainsworth Midtown in New York City to cheer Apollo on, with doors opening at 6 p.m. and the show starting at 8 p.m.

 

Guests will enjoy appearances by contestants from Beast Games and fan-favorites from Survivor and Squid Game, making for a star-studded evening.

 

The event celebrates the exceptional talent blossoming in SOMA and encourages the community's unified support for a hometown contender reaching the national spotlight.

The Maplewood Township Committee has firmly opposed the presence of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in the community, declaring that ICE is not welcome in Maplewood.

 

This response follows the fatal shooting of Renee Nicole Good, a mother of three and U.S. citizen, by an ICE agent in Minneapolis—a tragic event that has fueled national debate on immigration enforcement.

 

Mayor Victor De Luca, Deputy Mayor Malia Herman, and the committee extended condolences to Good’s family, demanding a full and transparent investigation and emphasizing the need for accountability.

 

They criticized militarized raids under the Trump Administration, arguing such tactics destabilize neighborhoods and heighten fear, rather than improve safety.

 

Reaffirming Maplewood’s longstanding commitment to dignity and equality, officials referenced local policies preventing township staff from enforcing federal immigration laws unless required by courts or state orders.

 

The Maplewood Police Department upholds strict limits on questioning or arresting based on immigration status, following New Jersey’s Attorney General guidelines.

 

Officials vowed to defend constitutional rights and urged residents to choose compassion, truth, and dignity in the face of division.

Celebrate the holiday season in Maplewood, New Jersey with a host of free, family-friendly Christmas events that unite the community.

 

On December 14, The Woodland Great Hall transforms into the charming Handmade Holiday Market, showcasing 60 artisan vendors offering unique, handcrafted items — perfect for holiday shopping without the crowds or cost.

 

Enjoy the Winter Soundscapes Concert on December 11 at 7:30 PM, where Maplewood Community Music performs beloved seasonal classics. Donations are welcome at this festive gathering.

 

Dickens Village returns to Ricalton Square for the first three Saturdays in December, inviting visitors of all ages to wander among miniature houses inspired by “A Christmas Carol.”

 

On December 20 at 2:00 PM, catch the Annual Dickens Village Holiday Concert at The Burgdorff Center, where Swing Town’s big band brings high-energy jazz to lift everyone’s spirits.

 

Maplewood’s festive lineup offers memorable, cost-free fun for everyone this holiday season.

Every donation to JESPY House’s 2025 Year-End Campaign strengthens opportunities for adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) in South Orange.

 

For over 45 years, JESPY House has helped clients embrace independent living, build job skills, and foster meaningful friendships.

 

Our tailored programs empower adults 18 and older to explore their passions, join the workforce, and enrich local life.

 

Families gain peace of mind knowing loved ones are safe and thriving.

 

This annual campaign is essential to sustaining programs and services that benefit more than 400 clients.

 

With the June 2025 groundbreaking of The JESPY Center on the Cooperman Family Campus, we remain dedicated to providing affordable housing and vital resources, reinforcing our commitment to independence and inclusion.

 

Your support today directly impacts our clients and South Orange as a whole.

The South Orange-Maplewood Board of Education is entering a new chapter as it prepares to welcome incoming members and leadership.

 

Nubia DuVall Wilson, Board President, Second Vice President Regina Eckert, and Bill Gifford have completed their three-year terms, receiving community appreciation for their dedicated service and positive contributions.

 

The board now looks ahead to swearing in Malini Nayar, Meredith Higgins, and Paul Stephan on January 5, 2026, marking a period of new ideas and fresh energy for the district.

 

This transition comes at a pivotal time, as the district continues to address important educational challenges and opportunities.

 

The community is optimistic that the incoming members will strengthen the foundation built by their predecessors, ensuring continuity and progress for all students.

 

The board’s upcoming reorganization meeting will further set the tone for collaborative leadership in the year ahead.

The Seton Hall Pirates women’s basketball team will host the Xavier Musketeers on Sunday, December 28, 2025, at 1:00 PM inside Walsh Gymnasium in South Orange, New Jersey.

 

Tickets start at $35.49 and can be purchased through multiple outlets.

 

This highly anticipated BIG EAST matchup comes as Seton Hall looks to build on recent success against Xavier.

 

Back in March, the Pirates clinched a 48-40 victory over the Musketeers in the BIG EAST Tournament Quarterfinals, overcoming a slow start behind Kaydan Lawson’s 14 points, seven rebounds, and four assists.

 

Earlier in February, Savannah Catalon set a program record with 11 steals and added 17 points, teaming up with Faith Masonius’ 16-point performance in a 72-47 win.

 

The Pirates are eager to deliver another strong showing as fans rally to support their continued pursuit of BIG EAST excellence.

On December 3, 2025, Holliday, Texas, sparkled with joy as neighbors gathered for the beloved Christmas Parade and festive park celebration.

 

The park came alive at 6:30 p.m., with a lively procession of glittering floats, marching bands, and spirited local groups filling the evening with music and holiday cheer.

 

After the parade, families explored a bustling holiday marketplace, where vendors offered handcrafted gifts and tempting seasonal treats — a perfect way to shop local and greet familiar faces.

 

Young residents laughed and played amid bounce houses and face painting, while the community tree lighting cast a magical glow, drawing everyone together beneath twinkling lights.

 

This cherished event celebrated not just the season, but the togetherness that defines Holliday, creating warm memories and eager anticipation for next year’s gathering.

For over sixty years, Dickens Village has enchanted Maplewood with festive holiday scenes in Ricalton Square, inspired by A Christmas Carol.

 

Miniature houses, twinkling lights, and vintage holiday touches create an immersive setting where families gather for traditions, shopping, and live music.

 

The celebration begins Saturday, December 6, 2025, with Santa arriving at 1 PM, horse-drawn carriage rides, and a petting zoo, all leading to a community tree lighting at 4:30 PM.

 

Special dates on December 13 and 20 add concerts at the Burgdorff Center and more Santa visits.

 

A Breakfast with Santa at St. James’s Gate on December 13 offers a warm start to the festivities.

 

This free, family-friendly event—organized by local volunteers and business sponsors—celebrates Maplewood’s unique charm and holiday spirit.

The South Orange Symphony welcomes the community to a festive sing-along of Handel’s 'Messiah' on Tuesday, December 9, at 7:30 PM.

 

This beloved tradition will be held at the First Presbyterian & Trinity Church, 111 Irvington Avenue, South Orange.

 

Under Susan Haig and guest conductors, participants can join in Part I of the oratorio, including the ‘Hallelujah Chorus’.

 

Featured soloists are Caitlin Caulfield (soprano), Cornelia Lotito (contralto), Keaun Guy (tenor), and Sean Cooper (bass-baritone).

 

Guests are encouraged to bring their own scores, though extras will be available.

 

An optional chorus rehearsal begins at 6:45 PM.

 

Admission is free, with ample street parking.

 

South Orange also hosts its Hometown Holiday Celebration on December 6, offering Santa photos and a tree lighting, spotlighting the area’s vibrant holiday spirit.

South Orange and Maplewood (SOMA) are experiencing a dramatic rise in high-end home sales, signaling a notable transformation of the local real estate landscape.

 

In 2025, residential sales totaled 415, including 9 properties closing at $2 million or more—a sharp jump from prior years.

 

Fifty homes sold for $1.5 million or above, split evenly between the two towns, reflecting a shared upward trend.

 

Luxury buyers are drawn to a variety of neighborhoods: Maplewood’s Upper Wyoming and Roosevelt Estates for their impressive homes, and sought-after areas near Prospect Street for convenience.

 

In South Orange, Newstead and the Wyoming/Montrose neighborhoods are prized for their lot size, design, and charm.

 

Luxury demand spans several micro-markets and is no longer limited to isolated pockets.

 

Rising prices show both towns have matured into premier destinations for discerning buyers.

Over 250 players, alumni, and fans gathered at Maplewood’s Underhill Sports Complex for CHS Ultimate Founders Day, a spirited celebration marking the 1968 invention of Ultimate Frisbee by three Columbia High School students.

 

Legends like Paul Schindel, Jan Russak, and Geoff West returned, while World Champion and tech influencer Marques Brownlee and top coach Anthony Nuñez led a youth clinic inspiring over 50 young athletes alongside elite players and award winners.

 

Alumni faced off against current players in a lively, music-filled match, with the alumni team triumphing 21–9.

 

G.O.A.T. trophies honored standout performances, and official photographer Jennifer Voce-Nelson documented the camaraderie and sportsmanship.

 

The day continued with a hat tournament and a festive gathering at Pallet Brewery, bringing together players from across New Jersey and beyond.

 

CHS Ultimate, a vital local nonprofit, remains dedicated to youth development, inclusion, and the enduring spirit of the game.

The Columbia High School Cross Country team surged through the 2025 season under the direction of coaches Alex Simon and Michael Johnson, achieving new heights for the program.

 

In September, Keira Monagle finished second at the Roxbury Invitational, posting the second-fastest 5k in school history, while Leo Klint broke the boys’ 5k record with a standout performance.

 

Freshmen Cecily Taber-Kewene, Chloe Tarry, and Niko Reese set new freshman records, fueling a string of victories at the Super Essex Conference Championships.

 

Teams swept first in several divisions, with Leo Klint and Keira Monagle collecting individual wins and records.

 

The boys captured a rare sweep at the Essex County Championship, while both varsity and freshmen girls also shined.

 

Milestone qualifications followed for the NJSIAA Meet of Champions, including historic dual boys’ entries.

 

Awards capped the season as Keira Monagle and the boys were named SEC's finest, and Coach Alex Simon repeated as Coach of the Year, reflecting a remarkable year of dedication and triumph.

Four Maplewood teens from Troop 5 have earned the esteemed Eagle Scout Award, a distinction achieved by only 5% of scouts nationwide.

 

Samuel Mitchell Daley, John Graham “Jack” Ebert, Jesse Fryatt, and Alexander Lopos were honored at a ceremony at Morrow Memorial United Methodist Church, recognized for leadership, service, and character.

 

Each Eagle Scout completed a challenging service project: Samuel revitalized the Maplewood Community Pool’s teen area, Jack distributed $40,000 in medical equipment in his sister’s memory, Jesse refurbished local kiosks along Springfield Avenue, and Alexander upgraded music storage and instruments at Columbia High School.

 

The teens received accolades from Governor Phil Murphy and other dignitaries, celebrating their dedication and positive impact.

 

Troop 5, founded in 1920 and sponsored by the Maplewood Rotary Club, continues its tradition of building leadership and community spirit among local youth.

As winter nears, Essex County comes alive with festive energy, offering diverse holiday traditions and joyful gatherings.

 

West Orange dazzles with the Holiday Lights Spectacular at the Turtle Back Zoo through December, where families stroll under a canopy of over a million lights, helping neighbors in need with donations.

 

In Caldwell, the Holiday Play Village Toy Drive at the Blue Rose Venue invites children to explore themed play areas and participate in fun community activities, all while giving back with a toy donation.

 

Roseland celebrates creativity at the Essex County Environmental Center with a Holiday Wreath Making workshop and a family-friendly Hot Chocolate and S’mores Hike.

 

Culture shines in Newark at NJPAC’s jazz competition and A Christmas Carol performance, while Montclair offers seasonal beauty classes and literary galas.

 

These festivities truly make Essex County Jersey’s best community for the holidays.

The Maplewood Vintage Show returns for its sixth year on November 29 and 30, 2025, transforming the historic Woodland in Maplewood, NJ into a haven for vintage lovers.

 

Shoppers can browse over 35 curated vendors featuring unique clothing, accessories, jewelry, and home décor, all while supporting small businesses on Small Business Saturday.

 

Admission is free, inviting the entire community to explore these one-of-a-kind finds.

 

For early treasure hunters, ticketed Early Access Entry from 10 a.m. to noon offers first pick of the vintage selections.

 

Recent growth in Maplewood’s business community adds to the excitement, with AV Luxury Design, Maybelle NYC, and artist Sherry Sacks joining the Maplewood Village Alliance, enriching the town’s vibrant vibe.

 

Celebrate local creativity, find your next favorite piece, and enjoy the festive spirit in Maplewood.

Unemployed New Jersey residents can boost their job prospects through free training programs offering valuable certifications in high-demand fields.

 

SkillUp New Jersey gives access to over 5,000 online courses, covering careers in IT, business, customer service, and project management — perfect for newcomers and experienced professionals looking to level up.

 

The GAINS initiative helps fund apprenticeships in fast-growing industries, with a commitment to equal opportunity and economic equity.

 

For those targeting the green sector, the Green Workforce Training Grant Challenge offers significant grants, supporting training programs that prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusion.

 

Schedule a meeting with a One-Stop Career Center counselor to explore eligibility, get guidance, and find the right training program for your goals.

 

Enhance your future with free, in-demand certifications and take action toward a rewarding new career.

Maplewood gathered at Town Hall for its 22nd annual Veterans Day ceremony, centering on healing, grace, and community unity rather than formal traditions.

 

Veterans and families shared deeply personal stories, recalling loved ones who served and sacrifices made across generations.

 

Heartfelt testimonies included memories of a South Orange resident’s father lost in World War II, visited only at his overseas grave.

 

Speakers urged the community to thank veterans not just for their service, but for the freedom they preserve—and to honor the families who stand behind them.

 

Jamaine Cripe led prayers focused on compassion, while Commander B. John Kaufman called for unity and civic responsibility.

 

Mayor Nancy Adams emphasized that the democracy veterans fought for needs everyone’s vigilance and participation.

 

Residents were encouraged to embody those values, ensuring that liberty and gratitude endure locally for generations.

The South Orange Performing Arts Center unveils ‘Lost and Found (and Lost Again)’, an engaging exhibition spotlighting artists Jake Guttormsson and Rob Weiss, curated by Jeremy Moss.

 

The show runs from November 13, 2025, to January 18, 2026, at the Herb + Milly Iris Gallery, with a free opening reception on November 13.

 

Guttormsson’s sculptural creatures, crafted from reclaimed materials, channel forgotten memories and invented mythologies, while Weiss’s paintings blend surreal forms and vibrant abstraction, capturing the push and pull between chaos and clarity.

 

SOPAC shines as a local cultural hub, supporting artists, students, and the broader community with accessible programming and intimate venues.

 

This November, South Orange also hosts the ‘Hats Off to Downtown’ shopping crawl and a Fall Community Planting Day, amplifying the town’s creative and spirited atmosphere.

 

Residents and visitors alike are invited to embrace these dynamic arts and community events.

Divorce often brings legal, financial, and emotional challenges that can feel overwhelming.

 

Vesta's New York/New Jersey Hub invites the community to a free webinar, "Divorcing? What Keeps You Up At Night?" on November 12, 2025, at 8:00 PM.

 

This live event features a skilled panel of attorneys, mediators, financial advisors, and coaches ready to answer tough questions and ease worries about the divorce process.

 

Participants may submit their questions beforehand, allowing the session to focus on personal concerns and offer relevant advice.

 

The webinar is open to anyone considering divorce, already involved in proceedings, or dealing with post-divorce matters.

 

Registration is required for confidentiality, and Zoom links are sent upon sign-up.

 

Vesta also provides complimentary 30-minute calls with co-founder Deanna Coyle for personalized guidance and professional connections.

 

Support is available—empowering you to approach each step with reassurance and clarity.

The South Orange and Maplewood Studio Tour marked its 22nd year, giving art lovers an inside look at the creative processes of over 100 local artists.

 

Carol Cassel Baker stood out by inviting guests to her Maplewood studio, sharing her talent across oil paintings, pastels, charcoal, and unique greeting cards.

 

Baker is also known for her Giclée printing, a fine art reproduction technique using archival inks for vivid, lasting pieces.

 

Her recent exhibit, "Face to Face," captured striking emotional connections through portraiture, playing thoughtfully with color and light.

 

The Studio Tour remains a vital event, connecting SOMA’s artists with the community at venues like the Parlor at the Woodland and the Loft at SOPAC.

 

Many artists, including Baker, continue to welcome visitors for private studio visits, keeping the local art spirit alive all year.

The Columbia High School boys’ cross-country team claimed a strong fifth-place finish at the NJSIAA North Jersey, Section 2, Group 4 championships, held at Greystone–Central Park in Morris Plains on November 1.

 

Junior Levi Taber-Kewene led the way, finishing 14th with a time of 16:44.97.

 

Key teammates included Julius Marshall, Nathan Simonich, Thomas Walmsley, Leo Klint, Evan Waller, and Ethan Hart, all contributing to the team’s advance to the state championships.

 

The top five teams move on to the NJSIAA Group 4 state championships at Holmdel Park on November 8.

 

The girls’ team narrowly missed qualifying, finishing sixth, but senior Keira Monagle stood out with a fifth-place finish and a 19:09.52 time, earning her an individual spot at Group 4 states.

 

This marks the second straight year both the boys and Monagle will represent Columbia at the championships, reflecting the program’s ongoing strength.

The Co-Lab at South Orange is celebrating its grand re-opening on October 4, introducing an innovative retail model designed to uplift local artists and small businesses.

 

Located at 57 South Orange Avenue, this nonprofit marketplace launches its Collaborative Marketplace, letting vendors offer handmade items without needing to staff a full storefront.

 

Consulting manager Cat Fisher and in-store manager Alexandra Weiss are leading the transition, promising streamlined support for vendors and customers.

 

Expect a rotating mix of unique products, with anchor shops like The Charmery and The Art Boutique, plus featured artisans such as Birdsong Candles and GreeneWare Artistry.

 

The Co-Lab continues to host events and workshops that highlight South Orange’s creative energy, ensuring downtown remains a hub for entrepreneurship and community connection.

The Maplewood Foundation, founded in 2023 to boost the quality of life for Maplewood residents, has selected seven local nonprofits as its first-ever grant recipients, awarding a total of $50,000.

 

After raising $1,020,000 from the community, the Foundation is nearing its ambitious $1.1 million goal for its inaugural year.

 

Grants ranged from $5,000 to $10,000 and went to organizations including Beloved Bath, Family Connections, Maplewood Village Alliance, and others, supporting work in education, recreation, cultural awareness, and racial equity.

 

A celebratory event, “Celebrate Maplewood,” will be held at The Woodland on December 2, featuring dinner, a comedy show, and dancing.

 

With a focus on diversity, equity, environment, arts, and emergency support, the Foundation aims to award five percent of its holdings annually, ensuring long-term impact through both Program and Seed grants.

 

Maplewood Village is gearing up for its annual Art Walk and Music Fest on Sunday, October 19, 2025, from 11 AM to 5 PM.

 

The event transforms the neighborhood into a lively hub of art, music, and community energy.

 

Over 50 talented artists—ranging from painters to jewelers—will display their works in a juried show and sale, offering a unique chance to support local talent.

 

Families can enjoy live music on every corner, with the Live Music Island curated by Gregory Burrus set to entertain crowds with a blend of genres.

 

Kids’ activities like face painting and crafts make it a day for all ages.

 

Local businesses will join in, serving special meals and unique shopping experiences.

 

Artists can register to participate until September 1, with early bird prices available through July 31.

 

Don't miss this energetic celebration of art, music, and local spirit in Maplewood.

Get ready for an evening of delicious food and lively community fun as the Seton Village Food Truck & Craft Beer Festival makes its anticipated return to South Orange on Friday, October 17, 2025.

 

From 5:00 PM to 9:30 PM, Irvington Avenue will come alive with a diverse lineup of food trucks between Tichenor Avenue and Ward Place.

 

Guests can sample mouthwatering options, from gourmet pizzas and savory empanadas to irresistible sweet treats, promising something for every taste.

 

The festivities will also feature a Beer & Wine Garden sponsored by Gaslight Brewery, offering local brews and wines for the perfect pairing with festival eats.

 

Music from DJ Phillip Lee will set a festive tone as neighbors and friends gather for a memorable night.

 

Celebrate the spirit of South Orange and join in this beloved Seton Village tradition.

The Amaizing Hamilton Diner has opened at 1473 Springfield Avenue in Maplewood, NJ, taking over the location of the former Maplewood Diner.

 

Locals are already enthusiastic about the menu, especially the breakfast sandwiches and omelettes.

 

The diner welcomes guests every day from 6 a.m. to midnight, making it a convenient choice for both early birds and night owls.

 

Offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Amaizing Hamilton Diner is set on becoming a new favorite gathering spot for the community.