Class ACTs, Festival Philanthropy, More: Good News, Illinois

ILLINOIS — Kids are heading back to school, the weather has a pleasant autumnal chill and we're still basking in uplifting good news stories throughout Illinois Patch. This week, we meet two students who aced the ACT, learn about a festival that brings a whole lot of heart and spotlight a photographer who's immortalizing memories in her community.

These West Aurora Seniors Got Perfect ACT Scores

Less than one quarter of 1 percent of test takers nationwide score a 36 on the ACT, District 129 officials said.

Clancy's Sallyfest Helps Local Families Hit By Hard Times

Sallyfest kicks off Saturday, Sept. 13, benefiting Patrick Juarez and Juli Radz, at Clancy's on 95th, featuring bands, food and raffles.

Flo Rida, Sam Hunt Among Musicians Coming To McHenry Music Festival

The McHenry Music Festival will take place from Sept. 12 to 14 at Petersen Park in McHenry.

'The Best Of Lemont': Local Photog Captures Memories, Community Events

Brigid Presecky, owner of Hilltop Photo Co., is the woman behind the lens at most of Lemont's community events.

Joliet Central Teacher Lauren Kline: Research Experience Inspires Innovative Lesson Plans

The program guides teachers in translating those skills into novel instructional materials that enrich learning experiences for students.

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.