CHS principal on leave, acting principal named

MAPLEWOOD — Columbia High School Principal Frank Sanchez is on leave from his position and Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction Ann Bodnar is serving as acting principal of Columbia High School until further notice. A letter sent to parents from Kevin F. Gilbert, acting superintendent of schools for the School District of South Orange […]

Mayor cancels planned Palestinian flag raising at town hall despite objections from two on council

Mayor cancels planned Palestinian flag raising at town hall despite objections from two on council

WEST ORANGE — A Palestinian flag raising and cultural celebration scheduled to take place outside town hall on Friday was canceled by Mayor Susan McCartney, a decision that is being protested by the council president. “Unforeseen challenges have arisen, making it unfeasible to proceed with the Palestine Flag raising event as planned for Town Hall […]

Top ten stories in SOMA in 2024

Top ten stories in SOMA in 2024

CHS Principal Frank Sanchez returns to school Columbia High School Principal Frank Sanchez was reinstated to his position in June after a tumultuous six months that saw him arrested on assault and child endangerment charges only to have them dropped after a grand jury hearing. The South Orange and Maplewood School District Board of Education voted […]

West Orange African Heritage Organization celebrates Kwanzaa

West Orange African Heritage Organization celebrates Kwanzaa

More than 100 people turned up at Washington Elementary School to celebrate Kwanzaa with the West Orange African Heritage Organization (WOAHO). Dec. 27 was the second day – out of seven days – of Kwanzaa, which is held to celebrate history, community, and culture within the Black community. The Nguzo Saba – the seven principles […]

Our top Irvington stories in 2024

Our top Irvington stories in 2024

The following were some of the top stories in Irvington in 2024: $100 Million Sankofa Enclave project begins A groundbreaking ceremony was held in October for The Sankofa Enclave at Twenty First Street, a Black woman-led development that will offer homeownership, affordable housing, retail, and green space, representing a nearly $100 million investment in the […]

Essex County employee is honored

Essex County employee is honored

EAST ORANGE — A room in the Essex County Economic Development Center was named after a long-time employee who helped individuals find jobs and careers and worked to help small businesses be successful. Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo Jr. recognized the public service contributions of the late Samuel Okparaeke by naming the “Essex County […]