Good morning, Belleville.

On July 3, 2025, a shooting at a residence on the first block of North 42nd Street in Belleville led authorities to charge Tyron L.

Pembleton, 27, with unlawful possession of weapons by a felon, obstructing justice, and endangering a child's life—while the injured child is recovering at a local hospital and Pembleton remains in custody pending further court proceedings.

The state approved the new Direct Admissions Program to ease college entry by automatically accepting high school students who meet the requirements — the program will take effect in 2027 — and it will also allow community college students transferring to four-year schools to participate.

Illinois American Water raised the income threshold for its Income-Based Discount Program on July 1 to help more Belleville residents get monthly discounts on their water and wastewater bills.

The program now uses a four-tiered discount system—giving larger help to those who need it most.

U.S. Rep. Mike Bost praised federal plans to expand parking for over-the-road truckers with over $275 million in investments meant to cut fines and improve safety — he said the move will help drivers avoid illegal ramp parking.

The former truck driver representing Monroe and parts of St. Clair added that the changes respond to long-standing concerns from those on the road.

Representatives Budzinski and Bost and Senator Duckworth introduced a bipartisan bill to expand the buy American rule for military boots so that all footwear is fully made in the U.S.+ Belleville Shoe Co., which has produced over 1 million pairs of boots since 1904, may benefit from the measure that protects domestic jobs+

Outdoor summer sports offer a range of health benefits for local residents by improving physical fitness, mental clarity and social connections—activities like hiking and team games help build strength and mood.

Residents can use these outdoor activities to stay active and enjoy nature while strengthening community bonds.

At O’Fallon Park YMCA, the all-Black OFPY Makos Swim Team, led by Coach T, is defying racial barriers and high child drowning rates while earning a second-place finish at regional championships with standout wins by six year old Elliana McBride—who often races older competitors—and now plans fundraisers to attend major competitions. The team starts training children at an early age to build both skill and courage.

Medicare 101 Q&A Session

6-7 p.m. — Tavern On Main — Free entry — Get your Medicare questions answered at this informative and interactive session with experts.

Live Music: The Jorrells

5-8 p.m. — Eckert's Pick Your Own Belleville Farm — Free entry — Dance to the vibrant brass sounds of the Jorrells performing classic hits from the '60s and '70s.

DCI - Drum Corps International

6:30-8 p.m. — Belleville West High School — Tickets available — Experience the thrilling performances of top drum corps live in Belleville.

Open Mic Night at Eckert's Farm

5-8 p.m. — Eckert's Pick Your Own Belleville Farm — Family-friendly fun — Celebrate local talent at the inaugural Open Mic Night under the stars.