SOMA Living April 2025

MAPLEWOOD VILLAGE

Get to know downtown Maplewood Village Alliance Merchants in this Q+A feature - this month, MASTER TOLEDO’S JAPANESE KARATE.

• What is your name and the name of your business? My name is Louis Toledo and the name of my business is Master Toledo’s Japanese Karate, aka Maplewood Dojo.

youths to participate in healthy activities away from crime. As an adult I was inspired to do the same for my community, and many years ago I decided to start by offering a free community karate program for my hometown, Maplewood. After the free community program ran its course, I was so inspired to continue teaching karate, I subsequently retired from the tech industry and opened a karate studio in Maplewood. I’ve been running the studio and teaching for 15 years now and I’m still loving it.

• What is your USP? What sets your business apart from others? Master Toledo’s Japanese Karate is a martial arts studio with a community history and vibe. We teach Traditional Japanese martial arts, the only studio in Maplewood Village that does this. We ensure our students learn the key fundamentals and foundational skills for mixed martial arts. We offer affordable martial arts classes for all ages, from the age of four to adult, with a variety of class times to fit easily into busy schedules. • What inspired you to get into this business? At the age of 15 in Brooklyn NY, I attended a free Karate class taught by a local police officer who encouraged

• Why Maplewood Village? Maplewood is my home and there was a gap in the market with no other karate classes on offer when I opened. The studio is conveniently located on Baker Street in Maplewood Village so customers can do their shopping while the children train in our fully padded facility.

• Where are you located? 97 Baker Street, Suite 1 Maplewood NJ 07040

ErinRose Baldry Executive Director • Maplewood Village Alliance maplewoodvillagenj@gmail.com

ErinRose is the Executive Director of the Maplewood Village Alliance (MVA), the nonprofit District Management Corporation of the Maplewood Village Special Improvement District. The MVA’s main mission is to create a welcoming, interesting, and engaging experience for visitors, provide a favorable environment for businesses in which to thrive, and preserve the character, charm and history of Maplewood Village.

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APRIL 2025 | SOMA LIVING 31

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