The Hood Report: March Edition
We are cooking up things for this spring!
Calling all Newark residents!
We’re hosting our first Community Interview Day, and we want to hear from YOU. Whether you’ve lived in public housing, watched your block transform, or have a story about where you’ve called home in Newark, this is your chance to add your voice to our city’s living archive.
📅 Date: Saturday, April 12th
📍 Location: Express Newark, 54 Halsey Street
🕐 Time: 1 PM
What to expect:
🎤 Interactive interview and storytelling stations
📸 Bring photos, flyers, or keepsakes for the archive
🍽️ Refreshments and community vibes
🎁 First 10 to register receive a $25 gift card
👥 Space is limited to 25 participants!
👉 Register now: lu.ma/axwko1ty
Spotlight Event: Eco-Poetry Film Screening & Community Dialogue
Join us for a Transformative Evening at Express Newark
Prepare to be moved and inspired on April 22nd as we host an exclusive screening of an eco-poetry short film produced by our very own community media fellow, Brittany Barker of Creative Soul House. This event will be an immersive experience that combines poetry with pressing environmental issues, spotlighting how environmental racism affects our Newark community.
Event Details:
📅 Date: Tuesday, April 22nd
📍 Location: Express Newark, 54 Halsey Street
🕐 Time: 6 PM
What’s on the Agenda?
- Poetry Performances by Craig Bradley and Paul Latore: Kick off the evening with live poetry from talented local poets, setting the stage for the themes of the night.
- Film Screening: Experience the premiere of a thought-provoking eco-poetry short film that visually and emotionally explores environmental themes.
- Engaged Discussions: After the screening, participate in a facilitated conversation about the ongoing impacts of environmental racism and explore actionable steps our community can take towards environmental justice.
Why You Should Attend: This event is more than just a community gathering; it’s a call to action. It’s an opportunity to deepen your understanding of environmental challenges, connect with like-minded community members, and support local art that makes a difference. Whether you’re an environmental advocate, a lover of poetry, or someone looking to learn more about the intersection of art and activism, this evening is for you.
Reserve Your Spot: Don’t miss out! Seats are limited, so be sure to register early! Visit our registration event page to secure your spot and join us.
Community Highlights: Remembering Andrew & Empowering Voters
In this edition of our newsletter, we spotlight two powerful moments that reflect the spirit and resilience of our community.
Honoring the Life of Andrew Osei-Frimpong
This month, the North Star Academy community faced an unimaginable loss with the sudden passing of 15-year-old Andrew Osei-Frimpong. A beloved student and athlete, Andrew tragically collapsed while playing basketball at the downtown Newark YMCA. To honor his life and legacy, the community came together for a moving balloon release in his memory. Andrew’s vibrant energy, love for learning, and kindness will forever live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and teammates.
Watch the emotional recap video of the balloon release and join us in remembering Andrew by using the hashtag #LongLiveAndrew.
🔗 Watch the Balloon Release Recap
Empowering Newark Voters: NAACP School Board Candidate Forum
The upcoming school board elections are an opportunity for Newark residents to shape the future of education in our city. In partnership with the NAACP Newark, we hosted a School Board Candidate Forum, giving the community a chance to hear directly from candidates. This engaging event highlighted the importance of informed voting, especially with the recent passage of Vote16, allowing 16- and 17-year-olds to participate in school board elections.
Catch the highlights from the forum, including closing remarks from Newark NAACP President Deborah Smith Gregory, and learn how you can get involved in this critical election. The last day to register to vote for the upcoming school board election was on March 25th. However, you can still register to vote for other upcoming elections.
Our Newark School Board Resource Guide is LIVE! Spearheaded by Community Media Fellow, Laila Jones
Want to know how Newark’s school board works and how YOU can make an impact? We got you! Brick by Brick is a guide breaking down how the school board works, current school board members, more about #Vote16, how to sign up to speak at a board meeting, and more. Share via social media here or check out the guide below.
Spotlight on Newark Fan Fest: A Celebration of Local Culture and Small Businesses
As Newark welcomes March Madness, the City has launched Newark Fan Fest, a mobile passport experience designed to showcase the best of the city’s small businesses, cultural institutions, and vibrant arts scene. This initiative runs in conjunction with the NCAA Tournament at the Prudential Center on March 27, 28, and 29, and invites both visitors and residents to explore the Arts and Education District.
What is Newark Fan Fest?
Newark Fan Fest is a mobile passport accessible via QR code on a map/mini-guide available at hotels, businesses, and online. The mobile pass will guide participants to special events, watch parties, local attractions, and exclusive deals at more than two dozen businesses in Downtown Newark, many of which are owned by local entrepreneurs.
How It Works
- Mobile Passport: Access the Newark Fan Fest mobile pass here or via the Newark Arts & Education District website.
- Explore the City: Visit participating businesses, arts spaces, and cultural attractions.
- Punch Card Game: Attend events and businesses to earn punches and win exciting prizes.
Key Highlights of Newark Fan Fest
- Special Events and Watch Parties: Check out local venues for live game screenings and events.
- Newark Grounds: Explore a walkable cultural corridor with over 75 public artworks and arts spaces.
- Home Court Marketplace: A vendor and food truck market at Mulberry Commons.
- Guided Walking Tours: Join Have You Met Newark Tours for a deeper look at the city’s rich history and culture.
Get Involved!
To access the mobile passport, visit the Newark Fan Fest pass or check out the QR code available at various participating businesses and hotels in the downtown area. For more information and to see the full line-up of events and activities, visit Newark Events.
Community Resources, Events, and Opportunities
Newark Fan Fest: Home Court Marketplace
Celebrate the Newark Fan Fest with the Home Court Marketplace on March 28th from 4 PM - 8 PM at Mulberry Commons! Enjoy food trucks, vendors, games, and live music by DJ Wallah. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the excitement of March Madness and support local businesses.
📍 Location: Mulberry Commons, Newark
🎶 Music by DJ Wallah
In celebration of Ramadan, you are invited to join the Alaaka Association for an Iftar on Friday, March 28, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the Newark Central Masjid. This special event is an opportunity for the community to come together, break fast, and reflect during this holy month.
🔹 Location: Newark Central Masjid, 151 12th Ave, Newark, NJ 07107
🔹 Please bring your prayer rug
🔹 Hosted by Dupré L. Kelly, West Ward Councilman
Take Action Now: North Jersey Community Listening and Power Building Session
Join the We the People NJ Coalition for a Community Listening and Power Building Session to strengthen voter participation and civic engagement in our communities. This event is a great opportunity to connect with local and state organizations working to build a stronger democracy in New Jersey and strategize on how to make meaningful change.
🗓️ Date: Saturday, March 29, 2025
🕙 Time: 10 AM – 1 PM
📍 Location: Bethany Baptist Church – Fellowship Hall, 275 Market Street, Newark, NJ
🍽️ Lunch will be provided
👶 Childcare available upon request
RSVP to attend: Mobilize.us
Newark Youth One Stop Livestream
Stay connected and learn more about what Newark Youth One Stop has to offer for Summer 2025! Join the team for live Q&A sessions every Monday & Friday from 3 PM - 4 PM on Instagram. Special guests will join to answer your questions and share exciting updates on youth programs, job opportunities, and more.
🔗 Follow them on Instagram: @newarkyouthonestop , if you haven't filled out an application for SYEP this year, tap in. Click here to access the application.
Freelance Production Work in Newark
Are you a Freelance Production Assistant looking for work in film, TV, commercials, or live events? Get on the list for upcoming gigs in the City of Newark! Join the Production Assistant Database, get matched with gigs, build your network, and gain valuable experience.
Submit your resume: https://tinyurl.com/nwkpad25
Free Tax Preparation Services
New Jersey Citizen Action Fund is offering FREE Tax Preparation for households with income under $75,000. Drop-off and remote upload services are available. Eligible households could receive up to $7,830 in the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC).
🗓️ Mon-Fri: 8 AM – 3 PM, Sat: 8 AM – 1 PM
📍 Location: 165 Halsey Street, Newark
📞 Call: 1-888-829-3711
🔗 More info: www.NJCitizenAction.org
Makerhoods Basketball Tournament
Get ready for an exciting day of basketball at the Makerhoods Basketball Tournament on Saturday, March 29th (rain date: March 30th) at the Kruger Scott Mansion! Join the fun and enjoy food, music, and entertainment while cheering for local teams.
🕙 Time: 10 AM
📍 Location: 601 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Newark
For more info, contact Levar Scott at 973-801-4447.
Love Your Block - Grant Opportunity for Community Groups
Community groups in Newark, here’s your chance to revitalize and beautify your neighborhood! Apply for up to $5,000 in funding to support local beautification projects. The deadline to apply is March 31, 2025.
🔗 Register here: newarknj.gov/card/love-your-block
📧 Email for more info: loveyourblock@ci.newark.nj.us
Shani Baraka Women's Resource Center Grand Opening
Be part of history as the Shani Baraka Women’s Resource Center opens the first Domestic Violence Legal Clinic in Newark! Join the ribbon-cutting ceremony and enjoy light refreshments.
🗓️ Date: March 31, 2025, 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
📍 Location: 300 Clinton Ave, Newark
🔗 Legal Clinic (By appointment): 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Stay Connected
Your Story Matters Here
Are you a Newark resident with a story to tell? Maybe you know about an event or resource that can benefit others in our community? Get in touch! Your contributions are what make The Hood Report so valuable.
- Contact Us: publisher@fivewardsmedia.com | projectmanager@newarkstories.com
- Follow Us on Social Media: @newarkstories | @fivewardsmedia
Thank you for reading this edition of The Hood Report. Let's keep building an empowered and connected Newark.
We would love to hear from you if you have any questions, comments, or concerns:
publisher@fivewardsmedia.com | projectmanager@newarkstories.com