Good morning, Belleville.

Armon Simpson—accused in six burglaries between March and April and linked to more than 22 incidents across the region—was arrested Friday morning in Illinois by U.S. Marshals at 9:00 a.m. and faces charges of five counts of first-degree burglary, six counts of fraudulent use of a credit device and 21 counts of stealing $750 or more.

Belleville police said McDonald’s manager Kathy M.

Bledsoe and employee’s mother Tynika R. McKinzie face felony charges for a shooting and a beating at a local restaurant when McKinzie hit Bledsoe and Bledsoe shot her in the leg — authorities said the incident began on Wednesday after a young employee refused a work request.

A Chinese national named Zhigang Lian was indicted by a federal grand jury for faking a federal agent and defrauding a 76-year-old Belleville senior of over $70,000—text messages and calls convinced the victim to withdraw $25,000 on June 17 and $45,000 on July 1.

Racer Dylan Anderson—who placed third last year—competes in the Alton Midwest Nationals F1 Powerboat Championship on the Mississippi River from July 18 to July 20.

He shared tips for staying calm and said his family and team help him prepare for the fast pace of the race.

Practice sessions for the Midwest Nationals Formula 1 Powerboat races took place Friday on the Alton Riverfront with Formula 1 boats testing at 1 p.m. and later sessions for Formula Lights and Tri Hull boats.

Boats paraded downtown to Mac’s Downtown for a meet and greet — Flip the Frog played music — and the official races begin today along the river with food and drink vendors serving attendees.

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.