Good morning, Joliet.

Stand-up comedian Zarna Garg — a New York Times bestselling author known for her sharp wit — will perform at the new Hollywood Casino Joliet event center on Dec.

27, promising a debut show that mixes humor with personal stories.

The government shutdown continues and nearly 2 million Illinois residents will lose SNAP benefits next month unless the federal government reopens; state officials warn that this may lead to a severe hunger crisis+ local agencies and food banks are urging residents to use nearby pantries to get help+.

Steve Soucie analyzed the first round of the 5A Playoffs and noted that last year's title teams moved up to Class 6A—opening a wider field for competition.

He offered game picks for key matchups like Prairie Ridge vs. Vernon Hills—providing guidance for teams and fans.

Friday Night Drive Podcast hosts Josh Welge and Steve Soucie preview the first round of the IHSA football playoffs—highlighting potential upsets in Episode 332.

Lincoln-Way Central beat Lincoln-Way East 3-0 on Wednesday in the Class 3A Joliet West Sectional semifinal, advancing to Saturday’s 11 a.m. title match against Lincoln-Way West—goals from Aidan Wojtczak, Connor Pate, and Derrick Rafasz secured the win.

Gardner-South Wilmington and Dwight advanced to the volleyball regional final after Gardner-South Wilmington defeated Grace Christian 28-26 and 25-21 while Dwight beat Morgan Park 25-12 in both sets and will face Gardner-South Wilmington on Thursday.

In boys soccer, Lemont lost 3-2 to Bremen in the sectional semifinal, a loss that ended head coach Rick Prangen's 34-year career.

Whose Live Anyway?

7:30-9 p.m. — Rialto Square Theatre — Ticketed event — Enjoy 90 minutes of hilarious improv from the cast of Whose Line Is It Anyway?.

Steve Hackett: The Lamb Lies Down On Broadway Celebration

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Rialto Square Theatre — Tickets from $32.50 — Celebrate 50 years of The Lamb Lies Down On Broadway with Steve Hackett's legendary guitar and great Genesis hits.

The Red Roses in Concert

7-10 p.m. — Joliet Area Historical Museum — $13-$15 — Experience the best of rock and indie hits performed live by The Red Roses band in a historic setting.

Elmo and Friends Say Hello

2-3:30 p.m. — Rialto Square Theatre — Tickets start at $32.50 — Experience an interactive adventure with Elmo, Abby Cadabby, and Cookie Monster featuring songs, dance, and family fun.

Clint Black Concert

7:30-9 p.m. — Rialto Square Theatre — Tickets start at $48 — Experience the hits of Clint Black, a country music legend with over 22 #1 singles.

Jools TV Live

1-2:30 p.m. — Rialto Square Theatre — Tickets start at $25 — Experience innovative children's media with colorful animation and positive storytelling for the whole family.

Swan Lake by International Ballet Stars

2:00 – 3:30 PM — Rialto Square Theatre — Tickets from $32.50 — Experience a breathtaking ballet performance featuring Tchaikovsky’s iconic score and a diverse cast of international dancers.

A Motown Christmas

7-8:30 p.m. — Rialto Square Theatre — Tickets starting at $54 — Celebrate the holiday season with the unforgettable Motown sound and festive classics.

Brad Williams Comedy Show

7-8:30 p.m. — Rialto Square Theatre — Tickets from $29.50 — Experience the hilarity of one of the funniest comedians in the country.

Chris Young: It Must Be Christmas

7:30-9 PM — Rialto Square Theatre — Tickets from $49 — Celebrate the holiday spirit with an acoustic evening featuring Christmas classics and special guest Marynn Taylor.