Eagle Watching, Memorable Milestones, More: Good News, Illinois

ILLINOIS — It's time to kick off the new year with a series of smiles celebrating our cheeriest stories from the last week of 2024. In this Good News, Illinois, roundup, you'll learn where to observe bald eagles, marvel at a Marine's major career milestone and admire some of our favorite reader-submitted photos from the past year.

Bald Eagles In Will Co: Forest Preserve Event Lets You Watch Them

There will also be guided hikes, family crafts, an Eagle Eye Scavenger Hunt and food from Lil' Deb's Mobile Eats.

Plainfield East Alum Donates $3K To District 202 Families

The University of Michigan student-athlete's donation helped more than 40 families at his alma mater schools in District 202.

Capturing The Beauty Of The State: Best Of IL In Photos 2024

Patch looks back at some of the best reader photo submissions from the past year.

Downers Grove Native Takes Next Steps To Become Judge Advocate General

"The amount of sacrifice that has gone into chasing this endeavor has been unspeakable." Captain Ramarro Lamar told Patch.

5 Inspiring IL Lottery Wins From 2024

They won big and they plan to spend it wisely. Here is a look at some of the most inspiring lottery wins from this past year.

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.co