Halloween Haunts, Porcupine Promotion: Good News, Illinois

This week, we celebrated good news stories across our Illinois Patch towns that included one zoo's mission to adopt a porcupine, a host of haunted houses and a gourd-geous pumpkin festival.

Phillips Park Zoo Launches Campaign To Bring Porcupine To Aurora

Aurora's zoo is hoping to adopt what is considered one of the largest porcupine species in the world.

Shorewood's Greatest Development Ever? Dr. Chow's 'The District' Will Break Ground Near Towne Center

Last December, animal physician Dr. Joe Chow opened his new Rusty Ridge Animal Center on Route 52 near Wynstone Drive. He has bigger plans.

Chicago Area Haunted House Guide For Halloween 2026

If you like scary thrills, the Chicago area has lots of places keep you busy.

Chicago Stars Acquire Zambia Forward Racheal Kundananji

The $700,000 deal brings Bay FC's all-time scoring leader to Chicago as the club builds toward its 2027 season.

Highwood Pumpkin Festival Draws More Than 120,000 Over 3 Days

The annual festival featured pumpkin carving, music, contests and sponsor-backed attractions, organizers said.

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.