Good morning, Joliet.

Joliet officials announced a renewed search for a grocery store in District 5 (east side) as the city hired Mallon and Associates for a $24,000 contract.

State funds from the $26 million Illinois Grocery Initiative are available for new openings until Dec. 9.

Berlin Seeds is recalling 950 pounds of alfalfa sprouting seed sold across 42 states due to possible E. coli and Salmonella contamination.

Consumers in Illinois should stop using the seed immediately + follow the safety guidelines provided by the company.

Lincoln-Way West boys won the Schuman Cup at Frankfort with a team total of 148 while Lincoln-Way East girls claimed the title with a 143 — additional local schools posted scores in volleyball and soccer, rounding out a busy Thursday sports round-up.

Lincoln-Way East swept Lincoln-Way Central on Thursday, Sep.

24, with junior Kolby Ross leading the win by recording 14 kills, six digs, a block and an assist in two fast-paced sets.

Romeoville Spartans won 4-2 on PKs against Bolingbrook to lift their record to 10-3-1 with wins over Rich Township and Coal City.

Meanwhile, Joliet West Tigers, led by Alan Stewart, improved in close games despite a 5-5-1 record (1-2 in conference) and seek more consistent play ahead of playoffs.

The IHSA/I8FA football season kicks off tonight with Marquette — playing away at Seneca — and St. Bede hosting Dwight, while Ottawa faces Morris and Streator meets Herscher for key wins.

Local teams aim to build momentum after recent close contests.

The Herald-News released IHSA football previews for Week 6 with detailed analysis and FND picks for games like Joliet Central at Plainfield Central & Romeoville at Joliet West, noting key challenges and players as teams compete Friday night.

Illinois Media Poll released this week shows Loyola is top in Class 8A, IC Catholic Prep leads Class 3A and Joliet Catholic is ranked in Class 6A.

St. Ignatius also appears with a strong record among Chicago Catholic League football teams.