Black History Month Brings Jazz to Maplewood

Maplewood’s celebration of Black History Month continued with a performance by acclaimed saxophonist Bradford Hayes and his Quartet at Astah’s Fine Art Gallery (1897 Springfield Avenue) on Sunday, February 24.

The performance, in the gallery’s intimate salon style setting surrounded by a wide array of art and collectibles, was a highlight of the month-long series of events and activities presented by local businesses with the support of the Springfield Avenue Partnership. 

“We are presenting world class art and entertainment right here in Maplewood on Springfield Avenue,” noted Astah’s owner Sheila Turner-Cartlidge, a member of the Partnership’s Board of Trustees. “Events like these build a sense of community among the district’s business owners and the people who live, work, shop and dine on Springfield Avenue.”

A celebrated educator in Newark, New Jersey in addition to performing around the world, Bradford Hayes emphasized the importance of teaching the history of jazz and its cultural impact to young people to help keep the music alive.

The Springfield Avenue Partnership also wants people to remember there is still time to enter the online promotion at SpringfieldAvenue.com for a chance to win an iPad2 donated by Every L'il Thing Florist (1573 Springfield Avenue) and Inc Pics (1608 Springfield Avenue). The contest is free to enter and the winner will be drawn from all entrants received by February 28, 2013.

For a complete calendar of Black History Month events, to enter the iPad2 promotion or for more information about programs and services provided by Springfield Avenue Partnership, visit SpringfieldAvenue.com or follow the Partnership on Facebook.