Synergy on Springfield Avenue

This fall, five Springfield Avenue businesses will unite to present a new children’s enrichment program combining music, art, imaginative play and physical activity.  

It’s a perfect example of the kind of business synergy that has become a signature of the Avenue since Maplewood Township launched an ambitious a decade ago.

“We didn't have to look far to get great enrichment programs within a block from our store,” said Susan Donlan, owner of . 

 The two-hour drop off program, for 2-5 year olds, will run daily from 9:15 a.m. - 11:15 a.m. “Judie from will teach toddler yoga and Senali from will teach toddler Zumba,” said Donlan. “ will provide music and will give your little artist a taste for creativity.”

Donlan noted that the program was scheduled so that parents can fit in a 9:30 a.m. class at Shakti or East Side Fitness “and still have time for a smoothie at  across the street,” Donlan said.

Speaking of Express Yourself, the studio . “There has been a wonderful response from the community,” said owner Simone Anthony-Brown. Register for fall classes now; a new option is “Pinot and Pottery,” a BYOB class modeled on the studio’s popular  “It’s really downtime for adults,” said Anthony-Brown. 

Other news on the Avenue: 

• Mark your calendars for HarvestFest on Saturday, October 13 (rain date Sun, Oct 14), from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Visitors can enjoy pony rides, hayrides, a petting zoo, classic car show and a DJ. 

• is moving up the street to 1835 Springfield Avenue.  

• may not have a storefront, but the business has had a regular presence at the farmers market all summer. 

• Pro Lite Nutrition is still new to the district and taking advantage of being close to the . 

• was recently voted Best Diner in Maplewood in Patch’s . 

“With anchors like the new and businesses like the , a neighborhood fixture since 1924, Maplewood’s Springfield Avenue business district continues to evolve,” said  (SAP) district manager Diana Vitrano. “Many of these new business and commercial property owners are also residents. All are part of a diverse community with intriguing restaurants, and a focus on arts and fashion, health and wellness, education.”

For a complete list of restaurants, shops and services on the Avenue, visit the SAP's website.