Class ACT, Lucky Lotto, Buddy Bench: Good News, Illinois

Our roundup of Good News, Illinois, stories this week celebrates a local senior's stunning scores, a family's big win and a cafe that's making coffee lovers perk up their ears. As summer makes its (maybe) last hurrah, enjoy these heart-warming stories of smiles and sunshine!

Plainfield East Senior Gets Perfect ACT Score On First Try

Then, she did it again with the SAT, scoring 1570 out of a possible 1600, according to District 202 officials.

This IL Coffee Shop Is Among 100 Best In U.S., New List Says

Illinois has about 20 coffee shops per 100,000 residents, according to a 2024 analysis.

Preschoolers Collect Plastic For 'Buddy Bench'

Oak Lawn Park District preschoolers are aiming to collect 1,000 pieces of Level Two Recyclable Plastics for a buddy bench by Oct. 15.

Local Cold Spots And Paranormal Phenomena Unveiled On Chicagoland Ghost Tours

Patch has rounded up an array of paranormal ghost hunts and historical tours exploring the haunted past of Chicago and beyond.

Crystal Lake Father Wins Lottery Jackpot: 'This Is For Our Kids'

"First and foremost, this is for our kids — to give them every opportunity to thrive," the local dad said following the $550,000 win.

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