Good News In Essex: Massive Mural + Fish Tales + Pen Pals + Football

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

Mural That Stretches Along Highway In Essex County Gets Big Facelift

PHOTOS: One of the "longest murals" in the United States recently got some love – and elbow grease – in New Jersey's largest city.

Nutley Native Shares Insight Into Her Journey As NFL Official (VIDEO)

Robin DeLorenzo, the third woman ever to be hired as a National Football League official, appeared on an episode of "Inside Nutley."

Pen Pals Meet In Essex County After Year Of Letter Writing

Fifth-graders from South Orange-Maplewood met for the first time after writing to each other for a year – without using computers.

Belleville American Legion Rallies For Kids Who Need Transplants

When two American Legion posts join forces, good things can happen.

Essex-Hudson Teens Raise Nearly $9K For Suicide Prevention

These North Jersey teens donated more than $8,900 to the WOSAC Foundation to support teen suicide awareness and prevention.

Debate Team From Livingston Finishes Tourney Season Strong

The Omega Speech and Debate Travel Team practiced every weekend this spring, honing their skills through drills and mock debate rounds.

Local Youth Come Out On Top At County Fishing Derbies

Several young anglers showed off their skills at a series of county-sponsored fishing derbies.