Community Corner

Good News In Essex County: Group Wedding + Beer + Mentors + Lottery Win

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

A church community in Essex County, New Jersey came together to help eight couples exchange vows during a group wedding ceremony on Valentine’s Day.
A church community in Essex County, New Jersey came together to help eight couples exchange vows during a group wedding ceremony on Valentine’s Day. (Photo by Archdiocese of Newark/Shania Mosquera)

ESSEX COUNTY, NJ — Essex County can be a stressful place to live. 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).

NJ Church Helps 8 Immigrant Couples Exchange Vows In Group Wedding

The heartwarming wedding took place on Valentine's Day. Nearly 500 people attended.

Find out what's happening in Livingstonfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Inspiring Essex County Teen Mentors Other Youth With Learning Differences

A New Jersey teen hasn't forgotten her early challenges with dyslexia and ADHD. Now, she's helping other youth who are walking in her shoes.

Find out what's happening in Livingstonfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

10 ‘Extraordinary’ NJ Teachers Picked For Prestigious Certification

The teachers were selected to pursue one of the highest honors in the teaching profession, district administrators said.

Essex County Store Sells $764K Winning Lottery Ticket: See The Lucky Numbers

The jackpot was the game's seventh-top prize in 2026, officials said.

Autism Awareness: Police Will Hold Community Breakfast For Families

"We are proud to host this event and provide a welcoming space for our community to come together and celebrate Autism Awareness Month."

Local Open Mic Night Will Celebrate Women’s History Month

Musicians, singers, poets, comedians and storytellers will get a chance to show off their talents at a Women's Open Mic Night.

Teaching Black History With Beer: NJ Brewery Launches Latest Tribute

A family-owned microbrewery and tasting room in North Jersey has created its latest tribute to Black History Month.

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