Good morning, Belleville.

Soulcial Kitchen owner John Michel, a retired Air Force officer, has been serving free meals to military families since the government shutdown began on Oct.

1 as many service members have not received pay. He said his restaurant will soon launch Plates with a Purpose to offer chef-prepared take-home meals—helping ensure these families have access to good food.

More than 1,200 students from 37 schools visited the 25th annual Metro Construction Career Expo at the Belle-Clair Fairgrounds Tuesday.

The three-day event introduced students to skilled trades like carpentry, sheet metal work, and electrical work—contractors warn that skilled labor is in short supply.

The Illinois Department of Transportation announced that intermittent daytime lane closures began Tuesday, Oct.21 on I-255 from Illinois 3 in Dupo to Illinois 3 in Columbia and will continue through Thursday, Oct.23—drivers are urged to slow down and obey work zone rules—as crews evaluate pavement conditions.

Madison County law enforcement + the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration will run a medication drop-off site in Edwardsville for Prescription Drug Take Back Day on Saturday.

The Illinois Department of Transportation announced that the Norfolk Southern crossing on Illinois 157 between Illinois 13 and Chase Lane in St. Clair County will be closed for rehabilitation work.

Officials said the project will improve safety and may affect local travel—residents are advised to allow extra commute time.

Chick-fil-A Dine to Donate

4-7 p.m. — Chick-fil-A — Order through the app — Enjoy a meal while supporting a local cause.

Eckert's Belleville Farm Wine Run Turkey Trot 5k

9 a.m. — Eckert's Pick Your Own Belleville Farm — Check website for fees — Celebrate Thanksgiving with a scenic 5k run, walk, or wine tasting at Eckert's Farm.

Be the Mentor You Needed

11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. — Tavern On Main — Free entry with meal purchase — Discover powerful mentorship stories and practical leadership insights from Ali Carson.

Superintendent's Revenge Golf Tournament

10 a.m. – 2 p.m. — Cardinal Creek Golf Course — $90 player, $70 AGF player — Test your skills against the superintendent's tricky course setup in this annual tournament.

Escape with Clusterpluck LIVE

7-10 p.m. — Lincoln Theatre — All ages welcome — Enjoy a night of dynamic bluegrass and progressive rock performances from two talented bands.