These Good News Stories In Essex County Inspired Smiles In 2022

ESSEX COUNTY, NJ — Need a reason to celebrate 2022? Take a look back at these stories that brightened up Essex County in 2022 (click the headline to read the article).

New Year, New Heart: NJ Man Remembers 'Miracle' Transplant

Everything changed for a New Jersey father and husband when he heard these words: "Mr. China – we have your heart."

19 Kids Adopted In Essex County In Time For The Holidays

More than a dozen families in Essex County had an extra special holiday this year.

'Daddy Did This For You': Newark Youth Earn High School Diplomas

The United Community Corporation's YouthBuild program saw its largest graduating class since it began enrollment in September 2020.

Holiday Lights Show Returns To Turtle Back Zoo For 2022

Every winter, thousands of people flock to the zoo for a free, family friendly event. The main attraction? A million glowing lights.

Popular Sign Language Classes At NJ Library Inspire Community

"My reward is seeing students learn how to communicate with each other – and especially with my deaf community."

Car Menorah Parade Will Bring Light Through Essex County For Hanukkah

A Car Menorah Parade will light up Route 10 and head through Livingston, West Orange, Morristown, and more.

9/11 Responder From Bloomfield Celebrates Life-Saving Transplant

Tony Moyet of Bloomfield had a special reason to celebrate Independence Day this year: the anniversary of his double lung transplant.

Nunchucks Master From The Oranges Invents New Martial Arts System

Eldridge Hawkins Jr. is the founder of Ken-Fu Nunchaku Jutsu. He's also a former New Jersey mayor – and a hall of fame martial artist.

NJ's Largest Summer Youth Job Program To Employ 3,000 In Newark

"Summer jobs are so much greater than just a paycheck," a supporter of the program said.

Cherry Blossoms Hit Full Stride At Essex County Park

It's here, Essex County: peak bloom at Branch Brook Park. Here's what to know before you go.

Ex-Prison Inmates In NJ Find Support, Camaraderie In New Jersey

A group founded by late actor Michael K. Williams is giving strength to former inmates trying to get their lives back on track.

Free 'Black Panther' Screening Puts Smiles On Faces Of Hundreds Of Students

Nearly 250 students, parents and mentors were treated to a private showing of Marvel's latest blockbuster, "Black Panther: Wakanda Forever."

Pure Gold: 150 Couples From North Jersey Celebrate 50 Years Of Marriage

Dozens of couples from Bergen, Essex, Hudson and Union counties celebrated an uplifting golden anniversary Mass.

Send local news tips and correction requests to eric.kiefer@patch.com. Learn more about advertising on Patch here. Find out how to post announcements or events to your local Patch site.