Good morning, Joliet.

Joliet hosts Kids Fest at City Square on Aug.

1 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Friday Night Music Series on July 31 from 5 to 7 p.m., and The Sixties Show at Hollywood Casino on Aug. 1 with live music — all offering family-friendly fun this summer.

Joliet Junior College received a $281,000 grant from the Illinois Community College Board to update its MakerLab and launch a certification program in additive manufacturing — a move expected to boost workforce training and local industry readiness.

At the Emma Hubbs Tennis Classic, young players competed Monday and Tuesday as Jalen Harts earned 119 points in the 6- to 8-year-old division (the top score) and Lola Smith led the 11-girls singles by winning eight games, while other divisions featured emerging talent.

CCL football teams held scrimmages this week as part of their summer preparation.

IC Catholic Prep scrimmaged with York on Thursday while St. Ignatius hosted a joint practice with Lane Tech on Tuesday (both teams are building depth ahead of the upcoming season).

Julie Nettles will begin her first year as varsity girls volleyball coach at Joliet Central, replacing Kevin O’Connell as she was promoted from the assistant role last season.

The 2017 graduate aims to mentor student-athletes and raise competitive standards (focusing on growth) this season.

Marquette's new head football coach Drake Davis (in his first season) praised the team's summer progress and relationships during recent workouts at Marquette High.

The team is scheduled to play Aurora Christian on Aug. 21 (season opener) and is expected to build on last year's success.

With the 2026 IHSA football season nearly here, standout defensive backs including Fenwick's Jake Thies, Mount Carmel's Tavares Harrington, and Nazareth's Henry Sakalas are set to compete in CCL games — drawing local attention to their skills.

Birding by Boat

8-10 a.m. — Rock Run Rookery — $20 per person — Explore local birds from the water's edge on this unique kayaking adventure.

Wish Upon a Star Fundraiser 2026

12:30 – 4:30 PM — St. Joseph Park — Ticket information available — Enjoy a live performance by Daisy & The Wild at this community fundraiser.