Community Corner

Good News In Essex County: Sea Turtles + Town Pride + Oldest Priest

New Jersey is filled with humor, inspiration and kindness. Here are seven stories to make you smile from Essex County.

Sea Turtle Recovery has returned scores of injured animals to the ocean from their facility at the Turtle Back Zoo in Essex County, New Jersey.
Sea Turtle Recovery has returned scores of injured animals to the ocean from their facility at the Turtle Back Zoo in Essex County, New Jersey. (Sea Turtle Recovery)

ESSEX COUNTY, NJ — Essex County can be a stressful place to live. But it’s also filled with humor, inspiration and kindness. 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).

NJ Rescue's Quest To Rehab Sea Turtles Hits New Milestone

VIDEO: Sea Turtle Recovery has returned scores of injured animals to the ocean from their facility at the Turtle Back Zoo.

Find out what's happening in Newarkfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

NJ Lt. Gov., Rutgers Leader Honored At African American History Gala

Dale Caldwell, the state's new lieutenant governor, and Rutgers-Newark chancellor Tonya Smith-Jackson each earned awards from Essex County.

Find out what's happening in Newarkfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Huge St. Patrick's Day Parade Will Return: 'Faith, Family, Heritage And Tradition'

One of the most iconic Irish heritage celebrations in the region will return to New Jersey's largest city for 2026.

Historic Fountain Restored At Public Garden In Essex County

Greenwood Gardens: The century-old fountain tells a story not just of water and stone – but of "grandeur revived."

Essex County Town Honors Inspiring Jeopardy! Contestant, Master Bluesman

A town council in North Jersey honored two local luminaries with proclamations: Harvey Silikovitz and Robert Randolph.

North Jersey Town Seeks Inspiring Women For 2026 Awards

The annual award honors women who have made "outstanding contributions" to the borough.

Oldest Priest In NJ Archdiocese Celebrates 104th Birthday [VIDEO]

When asked about his longevity and success in life, James Turro pointed to one, simple guiding principle – here's what he said.

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