Good morning, Belleville.

Robert Bonner, a Black former McDonald’s owner, is suing the fast-food chain for racist practices that forced him to sell his stores for 25% less than promised.

His lawsuit says unfair rules—like low offers and blocked growth—stopped him from building wealth and hurt many other Black franchisees.

U.S. Steel said it will stop processing steel slabs at its Granite City Works plant in November — and 800 workers will keep their jobs to maintain the plant until 2027.

The company will focus on processing raw steel at its facilities in Pennsylvania and Indiana following a national security agreement.

The Belleville DAR will ring bells on Sept.

17 at the courthouse to mark Constitution Day and honor American history—inviting community members to bring their own bells. Becky Juelfs said the event will start a new tradition and help teach local kids about the Constitution.

Bohdi Fisher, a 5-year-old from Columbia, is competing in the national Mullet Champ contest — his Swayze Special is his third entry and votes will help fund mortgage-free homes for wounded veterans.

At a meeting on Sept.

8 in Bethalto, residents reported brown water, a chemical smell, and health issues while Public Works Director Rod Cheatham said IEPA manganese tests are nearly complete—final results will follow soon. Local members of a Clean Water Committee plan to keep testing water and push for clearer updates—hoping for state or federal funds to improve the system.

Bulls & Barrels Rodeo

2-3 a.m. — Tri-Township Park — $15+ — Experience a thrilling rodeo with live music, food trucks, and fun activities for the whole family.

Belleville Main Street Marathon

7 a.m. — Downtown Belleville — Registration fee required — Experience America's longest Main Street in a Boston Marathon-qualifying race.

Seinfeld Trivia Night

5-8 p.m. — Shoehorn Brewing — $15/person — Compete in eight rounds of trivia dedicated to the beloved comedy series Seinfeld.

Quail Club Ladies Auxiliary Wurstmarkt

11 AM - 4 PM — Quail Restoration Association — Adults $15, kids $6, under 5 free — Enjoy a delicious Pork Sausage Dinner in a welcoming community setting.

Monthly Meetup at Impact Gaming Center

6-8 p.m. — Impact Gaming Center — Snacks and drinks provided — Connect with other neurodivergent young adults in a friendly environment.