Community Corner

Good News In Essex County: SZA + Hawk Rescued + Pageant Winner

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

Solána Imani Rowe, an Essex County native known by her stage name of SZA, recently became one of the New Jersey Hall of Fame’s newest inductees.
Solána Imani Rowe, an Essex County native known by her stage name of SZA, recently became one of the New Jersey Hall of Fame’s newest inductees. (Photo courtesy of NJHOF)

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).

Essex County Native SZA Joins Elite Group With NJ Hall Of Fame Induction

The musician credited her upbringing in Essex County, where her community "participate in each other's lives and in raising each other."

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

Essex County Girl, 10, Will Represent NJ In National Pageant

This North Jersey resident plans to use her newfound fame to do some good deeds.

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

Fundraiser In Essex County Will Offer Tastes Of South, Central America: 2026 Fall Events

"Food has the power to bring people together and create a deeper sense of belonging."

NJ Town’s Iconic Well Is Well; Local Landmark Reopens For Public Use

The metal water trough has become a familiar and cherished landmark for generations of local families.

Free 'Art Crawl' In Essex County Will Include Exhibits Throughout Town

Stops along the route will include artists' studios, restaurants, cafés, community spaces, houses of worship and cultural institutions.

Essex County Resident Will Exhibit Photos At Gallery

"People have told me, 'Aw, there's nothing around here to photograph' – balderdash!" Anthony Buccino said.

Injured Hawk Rescued From Train Tracks In North Jersey

Here's what the Port Authority Police Department has nicknamed their new feathered friend.

Port Authority Police Department rescue an injured hawk that landed near the PATH train tracks on Sept. 23, 2026. (Photo courtesy of Port Authority of NY/NJ)

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