Good morning, Joliet.

Bishop Ronald Hicks, who served Joliet for over five years, told ABC7 that he will lead New York’s archdiocese after a Vatican call last Thursday.

He expressed heartfelt thanks for his local service and looks forward to serving New York (leaving behind cherished ties).

Stepping Stones Treatment Center in Joliet is set to open a new recovery home for mothers battling substance abuse in February.

The center, located near Plainfield Road and Theodore Street, features eight 750 sqft apartments developed with state and federal grants plus private donations (construction began in 2024).

Hospital chaplain Darla Fernandez Draus from Silver Cross Hospital (in New Lenox) shared advice at a recent Mourning Breakfast to help staff and community cope with grief during the holidays, suggesting ways like journaling memories or supporting a charity to honor loved ones.

Will County offers Pets of the Week featuring six adoptable animals available at local humane societies.

Profiles for Kane, Edward, Marlo, Macaroni, Blossom & Honey provide details on personalities and adoption requirements for interested families.

Madelyn Kiper of Minooka scored 27 points and grabbed a career-high 15 rebounds as they beat Montini 49+29 in the Montini Christmas Classic on Monday.

The team will face Marist in the quarterfinals on Tuesday at 7:30 p.m.

Lockport girls basketball beat DeKalb 41-36 at the Fox River Classic and advanced to the quarterfinals; they will face Geneva Tuesday.

Area high school boys basketball tournaments are scheduled during winter break (including the 16-team Seneca Shipyard Showdown, Pontiac Holiday Tournament, and Hinsdale Central Holiday Classic) with games running from Dec.

26 to Dec. 31.