Good morning, Belleville.

This weekend, community events will take place across the area—an F1 Powerboat race kicks off in Alton on July 18 and a raffle with cash prizes will be held in Godfrey, while additional events include a summer camp for kids, a women’s obstacle race in Granite City, and local markets on July 19 and 20. Residents are invited to join these events for family fun and local culture.

Two women were shot at a McDonald’s in Belleville shortly before 5 p.m. Wednesday — one suffered minor injuries and was treated at a local hospital while the other, with an unknown condition, was taken to a hospital in St Louis as a female employee was arrested.

Anz Edmundson, a rising junior at Belleville East High School, had her art piece accepted into the 2025 Annual High School Ceramics Exhibition hosted by the American Museum of Ceramic Art (AMOCA) in May; her work was selected among 53 pieces from nearly 500 applications across 15 states.

Eleanor Schmitz from Belleville received a $5,000 Girl Scout Gold Award Scholarship for her project 'Read On!' that boosted childhood literacy by launching a summer reading program, organizing a monthly book club, and securing funds for a book vending machine—she is honored for her leadership as a Trifecta Girl Scout.

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.

Dueling Piano & Comedy Night

5-8 p.m. — Eckert's Pick Your Own Belleville Farm — Food & drink available for purchase — Enjoy an unforgettable evening of laughter and musical entertainment with dueling pianos and comedy.