Boy Inspires Echoes of Kindness; Students Honored: Good News, Illinois

ACROSS ILLINOIS — Even when it's gloomy outside, you can find sunshine in someone else's smile. That becomes apparent in this week's Good News, Illinois Roundup. We'll follow the story of a boy with autism who inspired continued acts of kindness, a local business who is giving opportunities to people who were in prison and other inspirational articles that will make readers wonder what happened to the bad mood they thought they were in.

Illinois Boy, 9, Bangs Gong To Ring In Autism Awareness Month

Maddox Yates-Benter, 9, who is on the autism spectrum, rang the gong at BD's Mongolian Grill to herald the start of Autism Awareness Month.

Employees Find Purpose Post-Prison At I Have A Bean In Wheaton

Pete Leonard, who owns the Wheaton-based coffee-roasting company, hopes to redefine how people view others who have been in prison.

"Found My 'Why'": Mom's Suicide Pushes Orland Singer To Chase Dreams

Zach Crean's mother was 46 years old when she took her own life. He'll spend the rest of his chasing down the dream she believed deeply in.

5 Chicago Chefs, Restaurants Make The Cut As James Beard Finalists

Obelix in Chicago is up for Best New Restaurant while DaMarr Brown of Virtue in Hyde Park is a finalist for Best Emerging Chef.

Student Artists Recognized In OL Fire, Public Safety Coloring Contest

Student winners of the Oak Lawn Chamber's Fire and Public Safety Coloring Contest were announced at the village board meeting March 14.

Batavia High School Sophomore Wins Local Flag Design Competition

A fourth of the proceeds from sales of Rachel Agro's flag will be donated to the Fox Valley Patriotic Organization.

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