News Headlines and Chapel Report — January 2, 2026

West-central Illinois has largely avoided a new strain of the flu that has driven hospitalizations in other parts of the state and nationwide, but health officials say respiratory illnesses are beginning to rise locally. According to the Illinois Department of Public Health, the Metro East health region — which includes Pike, Morgan, Greene, Scott, and surrounding counties — reported only two flu outbreaks as December ended, while the Peoria region reported none. Statewide, respiratory illness levels are considered moderate, with nearly 15 percent of hospital admissions linked to respiratory illness. Memorial Health hospitals, including Jacksonville Memorial Hospital, have implemented temporary visitor restrictions allowing only two adult visitors at a time who show no signs of illness. Health officials say flu shots can still help protect against severe illness, especially for children, older adults, pregnant women, and those with chronic health conditions.

In Pike County, Missouri, questions continue following charges filed against former Bowling Green Police Chief Ty Bounds in connection with the investigation into the death of Nathaniel Mueller of Hannibal. Bounds was charged on December 19 with interference in the investigation. Pike County Sheriff Stephen Korte says his office will not issue a statement on the matter, and instead a press conference involving the Missouri Attorney General is expected at a later date. Missouri State Highway Patrol officials say the investigation into Mueller’s death remains active and ongoing.

Missouri lawmakers are considering new steps to combat rising car thefts across the state. Missouri ranked sixth in the nation for car thefts per capita in 2025, according to the National Insurance Crime Bureau. State Representative Steve Butz is pushing for the creation of an Auto Theft Task Force that would combine state and local law enforcement resources. Supporters say the task force could help reduce thefts statewide and ease costs passed on to insurance customers. The proposal previously received unanimous committee support but stalled due to time constraints and is expected to be revisited this session.

Pike County residents are being invited to help plan how the community will celebrate America’s 250th birthday in 2026. The America 250 — Honoring Our Roots in Pike County, Illinois Committee is seeking ideas and volunteers to help shape the celebration. Organizers say the goal is to create events that reflect local history and community pride. Anyone interested is invited to attend the next planning meeting on January 12 at 9:00 a.m. at Ellie’s Cardinal Inn.

Residents in New Canton and surrounding areas are invited to receive free food items this week. A free distribution of perishables, including fresh produce, baked goods, and bread, will take place Friday, January 9, from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. at the United Methodist Church in New Canton. Those attending are asked to bring something to carry their groceries.

Chapel Report

Bonita Saxbury, age 84, of Center, Missouri, and formerly of Hull, Illinois, passed away on December 29 at Barry Healthcare and Senior Living in Barry, Illinois. Graveside services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, January 2, at Shearer Cemetery in New Canton, Illinois. Bonita was born October 1, 1941, in Barry, Illinois, the daughter of Ben W. and Alma (Blacketer) Saxbury. She is survived by her companion, Jim Couch, and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers Ben J. Saxbury, Tom Saxbury, and Richard Saxbury; and sisters Ruth Colvin and Phyllis Shatzer. Arrangements are being handled by Niebur Funeral Chapel in Barry.