18 Stories To Make You Smile In Essex County

The world can be a scary place. But it’s also filled with humor, inspiration and beauty. Let’s focus on that second part.

Take a look at some recent good news stories in Essex County below. (Click the headlines to read).

Got a local news tip about something that will make your neighbors smile? Have a funny photo that’s just too good not to share? Send it to eric.kiefer@patch.com

Beyond Blue And Red: What Happens When New Jersey Dems, GOP Agree?

NJ Science Center Gears Up To Build ‘Largest Planetarium In USA’

Newark High School Valedictorian's Words Of Wisdom Will Raise Your Spirit

Paper Mill Playhouse Praised For Autism-Friendly Mary Poppins Show (VIDEO)

Ex-Newark Cop And Wife Open Restaurant, Revive Closed Storefront

Essex County Truck Driver Logs 2 Million Accident-Free Miles

Rainy Day Errand Nets Essex County Landscaper $5 Million

Sea Turtle Saved By NJ Coast Guard Crew, Rescue Groups (WATCH)

Montclair State: Media Building Will Be ‘Most Technologically Advanced’ In Nation

Essex County Juvenile Detention Students Graduate: ‘Education Is Liberation’

NJ Food Bank Gets Huge Donation Of Non-GMO, Gluten-Free Pasta And Sauce

Essex County ‘Sisterhood’ Seeks To Strengthen Jewish, Muslim Relations

Caldwell Catholic Prep School Grads Earn $14.7M In Scholarships, Grants

West Orange Teachers' End-Of-Year Dance Video Going Viral

New Jersey Police Dept. Has First Female Detective In 109-Year History

90 Percent Of This Newark School's Seniors Are Going To College (PHOTOS)

Maplewood Teen Juggler Earns Coveted Spot With Traveling Circus (VIDEO)

Belleville Man Proposes To Fiancee At Nutley Library (PHOTOS)

Main Photo: U.S. Coast Guard