Good morning, Joliet.

Shaw Media marks 175 years by revisiting historic Sept.

27 front pages including a 1910 report on Joliet’s new city plan to fix water supply issues. The retrospective links local civic debates with national milestones, underscoring the city’s rich legacy.

The Joliet Park District Board approved a $6.6 million sale on Monday of the shuttered Splash Station Waterpark (closed since 2018) to industrial developer Prologis, saying the funds will expand water-related services and other projects.

Details on future plans will be shared soon.

Silver Cross Hospital in New Lenox completed an $8.5 million upgrade to its 11 operating rooms with advanced STERIS equipment, LED lighting, and 4K monitors to boost patient care and surgical efficiency.

The project supports innovative techniques for cardiovascular, thoracic, and general surgeries — a major investment in the hospital’s future.

Will County shelters have featured adoptable pets this week, highlighting Barney, Mint, Harry, Rapunzel, Winston and Layla.

Local residents can email or visit the shelters' websites for details (profiles include age, health and personality).

Architect Larry Packard, one of the top golf course designers of the 20th century, shaped local play by designing courses—such as Joliet’s Wedgewood Country Club in 1970—and influencing other regional layouts throughout his 40-year career.

Marquette quarterback Luke McCullough showcased his dual-threat skills in a 56-27 win, while Streator’s Makiel Green ended a 15-quarter scoreless streak with a blocked punt touchdown.

Meanwhile, Dwight, now 5-1, will host undefeated Heyworth Friday – and Ottawa’s conference losing streak reached 16 with a 76-0 loss.

Local high school golf teams begin their postseason run this week aiming for state qualification, with Lincoln-Way East girls hitting regional today at Inwood Golf Course and boys competing at Green Garden Country Club on Wednesday, while Lemont will open at Village Links in Glen Ellyn on Wednesday.

Suburban Life area high school football teams are gearing up for Week 7 of the IHSA playoffs as the bracket expands to 384 teams.

Top teams like Downers Grove North and IC Catholic Prep will face key matchups in upcoming weeks to secure playoff byes.

In Week 6 of high school football, local Joliet Catholic earned a gritty 14-7 win against DePaul Prep (scoring its first touchdown late) as teams in the Chicago Catholic League suffered surprising losses.

Statewide, 12 undefeated teams fell and close score margins gave playoff hopefuls more room to maneuver.

Friday night, Joliet Central beat Plainfield Central 12-7 to earn its first playoff berth since 1976 (marking a historic moment for the team).

Running back Tristan Sellers said the win sets the stage for more success in future games.