Community Corner

Good News In Essex: Family Graduates Together + Fire And Glass

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

Latonya Johnson and her daughter Laila Birchett are graduating together in May from the School of Social Work at Rutgers University.
Latonya Johnson and her daughter Laila Birchett are graduating together in May from the School of Social Work at Rutgers University. (Photo: Nick Romanenko/Rutgers University)

ESSEX COUNTY, NJ — The world can be a scary place. 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).

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 Mother, Daughter Will Graduate Side-By-Side From Rutgers

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They live together. They attend school together. And this May, they'll graduate together.

Women Business Leaders Gather In Essex County To Empower Each Other

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The conference included some inspiring words from immigrant success story Adenah Bayoh, a restaurateur and businesswoman in Essex County.

Livingston Teen Earns Prestigious Civil Air Patrol Award

Michael Shayevich, a bilingual honor student and musician, was previously named "Cadet of the Year."

Sorority Is Building A ‘Little Library’ In West Orange

You can uplift an entire community with a good book, this sorority says.

Nutley Restaurant Enters Biscuit Recipe Contest, Makes It To Finals

Queen Margherita Trattoria earned its way into this year's Biskies Recipe Contest. Here's how you can vote for them in the finals.

Huge Lineup Of Authors Will Appear At Montclair Literary Festival

The 2024 Montclair Literary Festival will include book talks, panel discussions and children's events.

Essex County Nonprofit Forges Bright Futures For Youth With Fire And Glass

GlassRoots, a nonprofit based in Essex County, has been empowering local teens by teaching them a unique skill: the art of blowing glass.

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