SPRINGFIELD AVENUE COMMEMORATES BLACK HISTORY MONTH IN MAPLEWOOD

The Springfield Avenue Partnership (SAP) announced a calendar of events presented by Maplewood businesses through the month of February, in honor of Black History Month. Events will include a tribute to African-American composers by singer Rhonda Denet at the Maplewood Memorial Library, an African-American Artists series at Express Yourself Studios, a West African Dance Workshop at Viva Z Club, and many more.

The Springfield Avenue Partnership invites community residents and visitors to celebrate Black History Month on the Avenue by participating in both fun and educational activities and events for children, families and adults. The Partnership provided a grant of $100 as a supporting sponsor to any district business or community institution in the special improvement district that scheduled an event as part of the Black History Month celebration.

"The partnership is proud to sponsor these events on Springfield Avenue,” said SAP District Manager Julie Doran. “We are pleased so many businesses and organizations are offering exhibits, discussions and other celebrations in honor of Black History Month.”

The month of celebrations is highlighted by a night of music, art and delicious food, celebrated with friends and neighbors on Saturday, February 22 at Astah’s Gallery, 1897 Springfield Avenue. The Springfield Avenue Partnership and Astah’s Gallery present the event, which is open to all and free of charge. Details will be announced in early February.

SAP board member and business owner Sheila Turner-Cartlidge expressed her excitement. "Astah's Fine Art Gallery and Our Gang Travel are happy to participate in Black History Month celebrations again this year. We try to bring something new to the celebrations every year, with a focus on art, music and travel."

A complete calendar of Black History Month events is posted online at SpringfieldAvenue.com.