News Headlines & Chapel Report - 11/10/25

The Pike County, IL court system is reportedly carrying more than $4 million in unpaid fees, fines, and other receivables, according to a recent reports. Officials say the figure reflects years of accumulated obligations owed to the Circuit Clerk’s office. The county has also been working to clear a backlog of financial audits dating back to 2020, after hiring an outside firm last year to help reconcile its records. Local leaders say resolving the outstanding balances and completing audits will be key to improving cash flow and ensuring county operations remain on stable financial footing.

The Town of New Canton in Pike County, Illinois, is considering a significant increase in its property tax levy for 2025. A public hearing on the proposed levy will be held on November 13, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. at New Canton Town Hall, located at 200 S. Main Street. The proposed corporate and special purpose property taxes for 2025 are $12,503, representing a 217.78% increase over the 2024 amount of $5,741.24. No taxes for debt service or public building leases are planned for either year. Residents wishing to provide testimony at the hearing can contact Town Clerk Cathy Smith at (217) 426-2209.

Authorities in Scott Count are searching for Robert R. Davis, 41, of 1195 Old Route 36, Winchester, on a warrant accusing him of theft, driving while his license is suspended, and operating an uninsured motor vehicle. Davis is described as a white male, 5 ft 11 in, weighing approximately 185 lbs, with red hair and blue eyes. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Scott County Sheriff’s Office at (217) 742-3141. Tips can also be sent anonymously at tipsubmit.com

The Buffalo Township United Fund is inviting everyone to a Holly Jolly Night of Trivia and Fun with its “All Things Christmas” Trivia Night on Saturday, November 22 at the Keely Center in Louisiana. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., and the games begin at 6. Teams of up to eight players can reserve a table for $200, or individuals can join for $25 per person. The evening will feature trivia, a silent auction, 50/50 drawing, food, a cash bar, and even dancing after the rounds. Proceeds benefit 12 local agencies supporting Pike County youth and seniors. To register or sponsor a table, contact Karen Schuckenbrock at 573-795-4533 or Sally Logan at 573-754-0465.

Today's Chapel Report:

Helen Virginia “Ginger” Kottwitz, 86, of Louisiana, Missouri, passed away peacefully Friday, November 7, 2025, at Lynn’s Heritage House. She was born November 28, 1938, to Floyd and Edna Taylor and was married to the late Walter Kottwitz. Ginger is survived by her children, Kathie Hilton, Romana Otterson, and Steven Presley; her brother Richard Taylor; sisters Mona Bly, Mitzi Dougherty, and Peggy Mitchell; as well as numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband and two sons, Ralph and Tony Presley. A longtime resident of Clarksville and later Louisiana, Ginger was an active member of the Elkettes, Clarksville Boat Club, Chautauqua Club, quilting clubs, and Dover Baptist Church. She loved quilting, playing cards, and assembling puzzles with friends. Cremation was under the direction of Collier Funeral Home, and a memorial service will be held at a later date.