Good morning, Joliet.

Joliet Public Library’s Black Road branch reopened on Friday, Jan.

2 after closing on Dec. 15 (staff set up new shelves and updated spaces for children, teens and adults to browse) during ongoing renovations.

In 2025, the Joliet Region Chamber of Commerce & Industry hosted multiple events (including member luncheons, awards dinners, and scholarship announcements) that engaged local businesses and community leaders; the chamber plans to expand these efforts in 2026 and beyond.

Will County is set for a busy 2026 with several leadership changes and large projects.

Joliet will get a new bishop after Bishop Hicks leaves on Feb. 6, and improvements to I-80, City Square, and school leadership will roll out as county elections take place on Nov. 3.

On New Year's Day, Make-A-Wish Illinois arranged a rare skate for two teens with serious health conditions — including Joliet native Aubrey Meloy — on Blackhawks ice at the United Center during the team's closed morning skate.

The event let them enjoy a brief break from daily treatments.

Silver Cross Hospital in New Lenox welcomed 10 newborns on Jan.

1, with baby Aaron L. of Joliet born at 12:01 a.m. (the first New Year baby) as his family received a gift basket. The hospital expects this record day to be the first of many new arrivals in 2026.

Plainfield Central wrestling took third at the Sandwich Dual Team Invitational after falling to Oak Lawn in the semifinals but defeating Rockford East 48+24.

In girls basketball at the Grow the Game Invite, Notre Dame won 54+49 as the Callahan sisters led with strong stats.