Good News In Essex County: St. Patrick’s Pride + Hangin’ With Sloths

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

Irish Heritage Inspires Smiles In West Orange At St. Patrick's Parade

Another amazing parade hit the streets of West Orange for 2023. See some photos from this year's celebration.

Glen Ridge Cops Reunite With Baby They Helped To Deliver

Happy belated birthday, Teddy Speck.

Caldwell University Names Art Therapy Treatment Center For Alum Codey

A community art therapy center at Caldwell University was named Mary Jo Codey, a mental health advocate and wife of Sen. Richard Codey.

Nutley Teacher Earns 'Educator of the Year' Award For 2023

Jianine Gambaro has a long history of service in the town's schools. See what she's done for Nutley over her 35 years of work.

Newark Firefighters Read Books To 1,000 Kids Across City

Newark firefighters visited more than 20 schools for National Read Across America, Dr. Seuss Day and the Celebrity Reading program.

Montclair Urban Explorer Takes His 'Greenway' Tour On The Road

Want to know what it's like to explore a soon-to-disappear abandoned railway line in North Jersey? You're not the only one, apparently.

Want To 'Hang Out' With A Sloth? Turtle Back Zoo Can Hook You Up

The zoo offers behind-the-scenes encounters with several of its most popular animals, including the fascinating world of sloths.