Summerfield
Summerfield, IL · Events
Belleville News-Democrat
Barking dogs cause feud between animal shelter and Belleville neighbors
The opening of an animal shelter in a former furniture store on Sherman Street in Belleville over the summer has sparked a neighborhood feud that seems to be escalating. Operators of the TNR and Rescue shelter argue that they’re performing an important community service by taking in stray and abandoned dogs and cats and adopting them out to good homes. Neighbors say they can’t sleep, work or live in peace with 25 dogs barking at all hours. “When I’m in bed, I can hear those dogs barking,” said Michelle Orlando, 46, a veterans service officer who lives across the street from the shelter in a small white frame home on Page Avenue. “It’s constant. I have a hot tub and a pool in my backyard, and I can’t even enjoy them.” Orlando said her 12-year-old son is dozing off at school because he isn’t getting enough rest, her 23-year-old daughter held pillows over her ears while home sick with the flu and Orlando had to get a prescription for sleep medication from her doctor. Other neighbors voiced similar concerns to a BND reporter who visited in the early evening on a recent weekday, when a chorus of dogs could be
Belleville News-Democrat
timestribunenews.com
Another Marine Trustee speaks to set story straight on sewers
Mayor Darren Apken and Trustee Harry “Bud” Kreutzberg talked to a reporter separately. While Apken did not wish to rebut the original article, the reporter wanted to offer village officials an opportunity to tell their side and answer questions. Apken requested that the original article not run in print and the Times-Tribune agreed; it is only online.
Collinsville Daily News
Progressive American Flat Track Series Debuts at Belle-Clair Fairgrounds Park Speedway in 2027
BELLEVILLE, Ill. (Nov. 12, 2026) – Belle-Clair Fairground Park Speedway and AMA Pro Racing officials announced today the Progressive American Flat Track motorcycle racing championship will make its debut at the Belleville facility on May 22, 2027, for the Belleville Bull Ring Bash. The event will mark the first time Progressive American Flat Track competition has been held at the historic Belle-Clair Speedway, bringing the sport’s top riders and manufacturers to one of the Midwest’s premier short-track venues. The Belleville facility reopened in 2026 following a complete rebuild, featuring a new racing surface and modern amenities. “We're excited to welcome Progressive American Flat Track to Belle-Clair Speedway for the first time," said Curtis Francois, operator of Belle-Clair Fairgrounds Park Speedway. "Belle-Clair has a long tradition of hosting outstanding short-track racing, and American Flat Track's combination of speed, talent and close competition makes it a perfect fit for our facility. We look forward to introducing our fans to this incredible form of motorsports and welcoming enthusiasts from across the region to Belleville next spring.” “Bringing Progressive American Flat Track to Belle-Clair Fairgrounds Park Speedway is an exciting opportunity to build on the St. Louis region’s rich racing heritage,” said Gene Crouch,
Belleville News-Democrat
timestribunenews.com
Silver Creek replaces Marine on the construction update list; THS, TMS remain
After site grading and earthmoving, lime stabilization happened, followed by site drainage during the week of Oct. 16 and concrete preparation during the week of Oct. 23. At Triad High School, the mezzanine took shape as structural steel has been installed; same with the lobby. Concrete slabs and steps have been poured in both areas and steel has formed the catwalk section within the theater.