Good News In Essex County: 2019 Year In Review | West Orange, NJ Patch – West Orange, NJ Patch

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 of the year’s most uplifting 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 a funny photo that’s just too good not to share? Send it to eric.kiefer@patch.com

Replica ‘Main Street’ In Livingston Empowers Special Needs Youth

People with special needs can master life skills at a bank, supermarket and volunteer-run stores in “LifeTown.” (VIDEOS)

Oprah Visits Newark School After Hearing About Bully-Fighting Laundromat

West Side High in Newark got a surprise visit from Oprah Winfrey after she heard about the school’s inspiring free laundromat.

Hundreds Of NJ Kids Get Adopted In Time For Thanksgiving

Children across New Jersey, including Essex County, are celebrating the holidays with their new families. See some of the smiling faces here.

World Cup Champs Return To USA, Get Cheers At Newark Airport

The soccer stars made a triumphant return to U.S. soil at Newark Airport after their victory in the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

Stephen Colbert Of Montclair Sings Duet With Oscar The Grouch: WATCH

“I overheard you were feeling down,” the beloved muppet tells Stephen Colbert. “So I came to enjoy it… heh heh heh!”

These Drones Replant Forests. Meet The Man Who Created Them

Chrystoff Camacho created his aerial reforestation device while he was a college student at NJIT. Now it’s winning awards.

1st Female West Orange High School Student Accepted To West Point

Vanessa Lettman of West Orange was accepted to the prestigious West Point military academy.

Newark’s HotDogLady Inspires ‘Ujamaa’ In Her Community

With the opening of her new truck, Newark’s HotDogLady is a living example of the spirit of “cooperative economics.”

You Had Me At Hello: Bloomfield Schools Teach Empathy, Win Award

Some of the best ways to teach compassion happen with a simple smile. Learn about Bloomfield’s award-winning “Start With Hello” program.

Newark Native Michael B. Jordan Brings Mom To Oscars

For Newark native Michael B. Jordan of “Black Panther” and “Creed” fame, choosing a date to this year’s Oscars was simple.

WATCH: Anne Hathaway Performs The Paper Mill Playhouse Song

Oscar winner and Millburn High graduate Anne Hathaway recreated a show-stopping moment from her NJ childhood. Complete with kickline.

1st Mrs. New Jersey With ‘Locs’ Fights To Change Beauty Standards

When TaNisha Fordham of Essex County found out she was the first Mrs. New Jersey with sisterlocks in her hair, she was shocked.

West Orange Man Beats Childhood Cancer, Enters Medical Field

After triumphing against cancer, a West Orange native has embarked on a new quest: dedicate his life to performing miracles for others.

Montclair Brewery Infuses Local Beer Scene With Diversity

Montclair’s 1st microbrewery is celebrating its anniversary with a weekend of entertainment and a special beer release.

Newark Taxi Drivers Give Rides To 72 Homeless In Frigid Cold

Aided by some caring local cab drivers, the warmth of the Newark community helped 72 homeless residents beat a brutal cold snap.

10-Year-Old Maplewood Boy Bowls Perfect Game

Kai Strothers is reportedly the youngest NJ bowler to bowl a perfect game.

Magic Johnson, Essex County Hospital Team Up To Fight Food Desert

NBA legend Earvin “Magic” Johnson gave a big assist to a Newark hospital’s efforts to promote healthy eating.

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