Dancin' Ditkas, Heroes Gift Boots: Stories That Made Us Smile In 2023

ILLINOIS — Most of the time, the news can be tough to take. It often feels like all bad headlines—mayhem, crime, tears—all the time. But then, sparkling amidst the darkness of it all, are the gems: the ones that make you smile.

Believe us, we feel that way, too. And we know just how big a difference the "good stuff" can make. We've rounded up some of our favorites from across Illinois this year, a fine collection to toast to as we send off 2023.

Thanks for sticking with us through the "bad" news, so we can continue to bring you plenty of the "good." We're always looking for those bright spots—we need 'em, too.

Cheers, readers. Enjoy.

— Your Illinois Patch team

For The Love Of Mike: Dancing Ditkas Crash Wedding Reception

Jake Mazanke, who went viral in a photo with his friends paying homage to former Bears coach Mike Ditka, stepped up his game on his wedding.

Manhattan Teen Gifted New Boots By Firefighters Who Saved Him In Crash

Brenden Wetzel was devastated when first responders had to cut off his favorite cowboy boots. New Lenox firefighters did something about it.

From P.R. To Personal Best: How A Cat Changed Marathon Runner's Course

Chicago Marathon participant Sarah Bohan had her sights set on a personal record before a kitten rescue changed her entire strategy.

104-Year-Old Skydiver Jumps Her Way Into Record Book

Dorothy Hoffner set a world record as the oldest person to skydive after she completed her second high-flying accomplishment in Ottawa.

4 People, 2 Minutes, 1 NL Man's Life Saved After Heart Attack At Gym

A New Lenox man collapsed after a heart attack at ReClaim Fitness. The people, the place and what came next, is quite a story.

1,342 Days Later, Longtime Rescue Dog Adopted In Time For Christmas

You know the face, and you remember the name. Cache Creek's "Ryker" has finally left the building. A New Lenox family has welcomed him home.

'A Godsend': 2 Women Forge Unforgettable Bond In Breast Cancer Battles

A New Lenox woman and Homer Glen woman share a school where they teach, and similar battles. They're "breasties," they say.

Frankfort Firefighters' Swift Actions Salvage Dress, Concert For Teen

Grace Farrell was among the thousands in attendance at Taylor Swift's final Chicago show less than 24 hours after a fire destroyed her home.

Naperville's 'Bunny' Finishes As A Runner-Up In Cadbury TV Contest

The Chihuahua owned by a local couple was one of 10 finalists to star as the Cadbury bunny in a television ad that will air this month.

90-Year-Old La Grange Park Woman Gets Hole-In-One

She suffers from blood cancer and often walks the nine-hole course. Her family was with her when she achieved the feat.

Here's The Story: Elmhurst Native Buys Brady House

She plans to keep the house "totally Brady" in celebration of the 1970s sitcom.

'Guardian Angel' Rushed To Help As Fire Consumed Home In Wheaton

Maria Locascio was shopping when she got a doorbell alert showing a stranger frantically banging on the door to the home of her family of 7.

BananaGate: Manhattan Man, Others Befuddled By Bananas On Train Tracks

For over a year, bananas have been appearing on train tracks in Elwood. It's a delightful mystery that's piqued the interest of many.

A Very Merry Proposal: Downtown Tinley Shines In Couple's Big Night

Josh Fonseca Jr. and Lauren Paprocki shared their sweet moment lit by the display in downtown Tinley Park's Zabrocki Plaza.

'Humbling, Breathtaking': Girl, 10, Pays Off School Lunch Debt In Days

Former New Lenox resident Aria Jandeska set out to help families in her new Wilmington school—and she did.

Manhattan Boy, 4, Treated To Lights Surprise, 'Magic' Before His Eyes

Firefighters volunteering with the Lights and Ladders Brigade decorated the home of Manhattan's Blevins family.

Mokena Dad In Fight For Life Treated To Lights, 'Magical' Night

Firefighters volunteering with the Lights and Ladders Brigade decorated the home of Mokena's Kevin and Katie Patras.