News Headlines & Chapel Report - 10/27/25

A rollover crash occurred around 6:18 p.m. Sunday, October 26, on County Road 11 near Pittsfield. According to emergency responders, the vehicle left the roadway and overturned, prompting a response from the Pike County Sheriff’s Department, fire, and EMS units. Details about the driver and any passengers have not yet been released, and the extent of injuries remains unclear. Authorities are investigating the cause of the crash, which may have involved factors such as speed or road conditions. The roadway was temporarily closed while crews worked at the scene.

Pike County Memorial Hospital will host a blood drive on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. in partnership with the American Red Cross. The mobile unit will be on site to collect donations, and community members are encouraged to schedule a time in advance at redcrossblood.org. Donating blood can help save up to three lives per pint, and the drive aims to support local patients who rely on transfusions. Attendees should bring a photo ID, eat a healthy meal beforehand, and allow about 45 minutes for the donation process. PCMH hopes for a strong turnout and encourages everyone to come out, give back, and help save lives.

Gas prices in the WBBA coverage area show a mix of trends between Illinois and Missouri. In Illinois, the average price for regular unleaded is around $3.24 per gallon, slightly higher than a month ago, with urban areas like Chicago reaching over $3.40. Missouri’s prices are lower, averaging about $2.69 per gallon, down modestly from last month, with cities like St. Louis and Springfield slightly below the state average. The divergence is largely due to factors such as state taxes and regional demand. Over the past few weeks, Illinois has seen a slight increase while Missouri has experienced a gradual decline. As winter approaches, prices are expected to remain relatively stable. Motorists can check GasBuddy.com to find the best gas prices in the area.

Daylight Saving Time comes to an end this weekend, marking the return to Standard Time. Clocks will “fall back” one hour at 2 a.m. on Sunday, November 3, giving everyone an extra hour of sleep. The time change means earlier sunsets and darker evenings, so drivers are urged to use extra caution during the evening commute as visibility decreases. Safety experts also recommend using the time change as a reminder to check smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, and replace batteries if needed. Daylight Saving Time will return in March 2026.

Emergency crews responded to a serious two-vehicle crash just north of the Pittsfield Airport Friday afternoon that left at least two people injured. Witnesses said the vehicles collided head-on, causing heavy damage and requiring extrication of one occupant. Multiple agencies, including the Pike County Sheriff’s Department, Illinois State Police, Pittsfield Fire, and EMS, were on scene, and at least one victim was airlifted from the site for treatment. The crash temporarily closed the roadway as investigators worked to determine what caused the collision. Authorities have not yet released names or conditions of those involved, and the Illinois State Police continue to investigate.

Residents gathered in Bowling Green Saturday morning for an event aimed at healing divisions and rebuilding trust. Hearts Together: Restoring Trust in Our Community brought dozens of people to Bowling Green City Park for a time of prayer, community conversation, and connection between residents and law enforcement. Organizer Kellie Lybarger said after a challenging year, she wanted to help the community move forward together. “We’re not here to point fingers,” she said, “we’re here to bring hearts together and start rebuilding trust.” Local agencies including AVENUES Domestic Violence Services and community outreach groups shared information and spoke with attendees.. Organizers say they hope to hold similar gatherings in the future to strengthen cooperation across Pike County and build lasting relationships between citizens and police.

A vehicle fire near the compost facility along U.S. Route 54 near Bowling Green Friday morning temporarily closed the eastbound lanes. Firefighters and MO State Highway Patrol responded after the driver pulled over, and the blaze, believed to have started in the engine compartment, was quickly extinguished. No serious injuries were reported, though the driver was evaluated at the scene. Authorities are investigating the cause of the fire.

NECAC is hosting a trivia night fundraiser on Friday, Nov. 21, at the Bowling Green Church of the Nazarene, with doors opening at 6 p.m. and the tournament starting at 6:30. Teams of one to eight can compete in 10 rounds of 10 questions each on various topics. The $20 per person fee will be split, with half going to the winning team and half supporting NECAC programs for the disadvantaged. Snacks and soft drinks will be available, and reservations are requested by Nov. 17 by calling Brent Engel at 1-800-748-7636, ext. 10119.

Today's Chapel Report:

George Graver, 66, of Bowling Green, longtime owner of George’s ATV, passed away Thursday, October 23, 2025, in Hannibal, Missouri. Visitation will be held Wednesday, October 29, from 1:00 until 4:30 p.m., with a prayer service beginning at 4:30, at Bibb-Veach Funeral Homes and Crematory in Bowling Green.