Good News In Essex County: Beer + Billboard + Butterfly Dreamz

ESSEX COUNTY, NJ — 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 an awesome photo you’d like to share? Send it to eric.kiefer@patch.com

Montclair Master Distiller Serves Up Black History With Each Beer

The latest victory for the Montclair Brewery shows that New Jersey is thirsty to learn about other cultures – literally.

Essex County Nonprofit Helps NJ Girls 'Dream Big, Fly High'

Joy Lindsay started her nonprofit, Butterfly Dreamz, after losing her younger sister to gun violence.

Deaf NJ Sports Fan Has High Praise For 2 Local Arenas: Op-Ed

"Red Bull Arena and the Prudential Center continue to make strides on inclusivity with closed captioning for deaf sports fans."

Girls' Basketball Team From Maplewood Plays Charity Hoops Game

The girls' basketball team at Columbia High School in Maplewood participated in Hoopfest, which raises scholarship money for local teens.

Artist Rents Billboard In Newark For A Year To Inspire 'Hope'

Charlie Hewitt said he expects to capture 11 million views with his billboard message: "Hopeful."

Celebrate Millburn's Founding With Refreshments And Activities

A date has been set for Founding Day, with live music, refreshments, a town-wide cleanup, and other events.

West Orange High School Hockey Team Headed To States

"The Bayonne win was a great effort from my team," Head Coach Eddie Scafidi said. "Everyone who hit the ice gave maximum effort."