Good morning, Belleville.

Musicians from the US Air Force Band of Mid-America will perform free public concerts in May in and around St. Louis—family-friendly shows at the St. Louis Art Museum on May 16th at 12:00 p.m., at Kirkwood Performing Arts Center on May 17th at 7:00 p.m., at the Benedictine Living Community in Belleville on May 18th at 2:30 p.m., and at McKendree University on May 19th at 7:00 p.m.—to offer an intimate mix of chamber works and solo pieces.

Illinois lawmakers are considering two bills that will phase out single-use plastic bags and most foam food containers over the next four to five years.

The measures aim to protect waterways like the Great Lakes—while some manufacturers and unions warn the changes may lead to job losses.

USDA funding cuts have put local food banks and Illinois farmers in a tough spot—farmer Ben Stumpf near Columbia fears the loss of sales that once helped him build his farm over five years.

The Harvey Kornblum Jewish Food Pantry in St. Louis is preparing for a drop in food donations that could leave thousands of neighbors with less food for the rest of 2025.

The Illinois Department of Transportation will close lanes on westbound Interstate 270 between Illinois 3 and Riverview Drive from 9 a.m. Friday until 5 a.m. Monday as crews repair the road—weather permitting.

Senators Dick Durbin and Tammy Duckworth introduced a bill that will require the National Park Service to study Cahokia Mounds — a historic site between Fairmont City and Collinsville that was once part of a Native American city.

Trader Joe’s has voluntarily recalled 500 units of its Sesame Miso Salad with Salmon after a packaging error by Taylor Fresh Foods Illinois (which mistakenly included parmesan cheese crumbles instead of crispy onions) may put people with milk allergies at risk; consumers in Illinois and other states with Use By dates April 28th and April 29th should discard the product.

Strawberry Festival

9 a.m. - 7 p.m. — Downtown Belleville — Free entry — Enjoy a delightful day of strawberry-themed fun with shopping, eating, and drinking.

Laura's Run 4 Kids

7:30 a.m. – 11:59 p.m. — Tower Grove Park — Registration fees apply — Celebrate fitness and community with a fun 5K and family activities while supporting local students.

Art on the Square 2025

4-9 p.m. — Veterans Memorial — Free admission — Experience a vibrant celebration of art with over 100 artists, live music, and activities for kids.

Senior Day Celebration

10 a.m. - 1 p.m. — Programs and Services for Older Persons — Free entry — Shop, dine, and enjoy an after-party with fun and giveaways in Downtown Belleville.