Thursday, January 29th, 2026
Good morning, Joliet. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 29th of January.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ The Joliet Public Library is mourning Digital Media Studio manager Josh Phillips, who passed away this weekend as his innovative work transformed library programming and built a supportive team environment. Herald-News
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Downtown Joliet is set for a weekend of live music, comedy and a wedding expo at Rialto Square Theatre — today the Vitamin String Quartet performs while Brett Young and Drew Lynch follow, and a beer tasting in Crest Hill complements the festivities. Herald-News
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Dirksen Jr. High reopened Wednesday after a Friday fire in its music room caused smoke and water damage, prompting cleaning, air quality testing and the relocation of students and teachers. Three affected rooms remain closed while the building was inspected and cleared for occupancy by school officials. Herald-News
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ The Ruby Street bridge in downtown reopened Wednesday morning after an electrical failure closed it Sunday — IDOT said repair crews are still assessing the extent of needed repairs. Herald-News
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Advanced Family Dental in Crest Hill offers a patient-centered approach to ease dental anxiety by encouraging questions and using relaxation techniques so nervous patients feel comfortable during routine appointments. Herald-News
- ➤ Versiti Blood Center of Illinois is seeking blood donations, especially O-negative and O-positive blood, to restore hospital supplies after winter weather reduced donor turnout. Donors can visit local centers such as Joliet Blood Donation Center at 2625 W Jefferson St or schedule an appointment. Herald-News
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Peotone rallied from a double digit deficit to beat Beecher 64 to 52 on Wednesday, Jan. 28 as Ethan McNeil scored 21 points and Alex Chenoweth added 18, powering a strong second half that turned the game around. Herald-News
- ➤ Plainfield South’s young basketball team outscored Morris 57-29 on Wednesday night as first-year varsity players, led by Brayden Ablin’s 15 points, shined on defense + shot well in the first half. Coach Jeff Howard says the win highlights their continued growth this season. Herald-News
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Emo Night LIVE featuring All American Throwbacks
8 PM – 12 AM — The Forge — Ticket required — Relive the emo era with live performances and a vibrant atmosphere at The Forge.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Life isn't about finding yourself. Life is about creating yourself.
~ George Bernard Shaw
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