Good News In Essex County: Big Strange Cat + 3 Generations Of Scouts

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

NJ's Giant Weird Kitty: Essex County Urban Explorer Tells Its Story

Video: In 1970, a truck driver in North Jersey saved a Macy's Day Parade cat from being discarded in a landfill. Here's what happened next.

3 Generations Of Girl Scouts In Essex County Inspire With Volunteerism

The number speaks for itself: 162. That's how many years of combined Girl Scout experience these three New Jersey women have.

Inspiring Rutgers-Newark Alum Earns Prestigious Soros Fellowship

Mussab Ali immigrated to North Jersey from Pakistan as a child. He later made a huge impact on his new hometown.

Children's TV Series From Essex County Resident Premieres

Livingston resident and Maplewood native Barry Farber, an author and entrepreneur, has debuted the TV adaptation of his new children's book.

Ex-Mayor In The Oranges Earns Spot In Martial Arts Hall Of Fame

A former New Jersey mayor with deep connections to the Oranges continues to redefine himself as a master of the nunchaku.

Caldwell Area Wrestler Continues To Capture Tournament Victories

A student-athlete from the Caldwell area continues to make waves in the sport of wrestling.

West Orange Volunteers Beautify Yards Of Local Seniors

The volunteers – who were "paid in daffodils" – did work for local seniors that included free yard raking, leaf clearing and lawn mowing.