Art With Heart; Nearly A Century Of Scoops: Good News, Illinois

ACROSS ILLINOIS — Rays of sunshine, silver linings, big dreams, little things: joy can be abundant and infectious once you lean into it. This week's Good News, Illinois, stories embrace life's pleasures and celebrate its triumphs, from the way one woman is pouring her heart into her art, to how one local business has been serving heaping scoops of joy for nearly a century.

Walt's Ice Cream: Rainbow Cones, Superman, Turtle Sundaes And More

Walt's buys its ice cream from seven different dairies located in four different states: Illinois, Michigan, Wisconsin and Pennsylvania.

Lew Blond Memorial Run Raises Over $25K For ALS Research In Northbrook

The 23rd annual run/walk, in honor of a former teacher who died of ALS in 2000, was recently held at Maple School.

Vietnam Veterans Keep The Torch Lit At Oak Lawn VFW

Now the oldest members of Johnson-Phelps VFW Post 5220, the Vietnam veterans are ready to turn over the reins to the "desert guys."

Daughter's Type 1 Diabetes Journey Inspires Mom To Write Book For Kids

Jean Bellair couldn't find a relatable book for her diabetic daughter, Annie. Now, she's using Annie as inspiration to help others.

Bringing Abby Back: Art Pulls Mokena Woman, 28, From Depths Of Trauma

Abby Mathias has Down syndrome and lived a full life until 17, when life events set her back. Art has proven vital in restoring her peace.

Want to celebrate someone or something that made you smile? Have a Good News, Illinois, story of your own you'd like us to feature? Email lisa.farver@patch.com