News Headlines & Chapel Report - 11/17/25

Hemp businesses in the bi-state region are facing growing uncertainty as federal and state regulators move toward tighter control of hemp-derived THC products. In Missouri, a new federal rule capping hemp products at just 0.4 milligrams of total THC per package has sparked fears of an industry collapse, with many businesses warning the limit would wipe out most of their current inventory and revenue. Lawmakers in Jefferson City are already considering adopting the same limits at the state level. Across the river in Illinois, intoxicating hemp products like delta-8 THC remain largely unregulated due to repeated legislative gridlock, even as Governor J.B. Pritzker continues pushing for stricter testing, age restrictions, and packaging requirements to bring hemp more in line with the state’s legal cannabis market. Together, these developments have left hemp operators on both sides of the Mississippi bracing for major changes that could reshape — or decimate — the industry.

Meredosia is searching for a new police chief following the resignation of Chief Rusty Richard, who had led the department since early 2022 after initially serving as ordinance enforcement officer and interim chief. Richard, known for increasing officer visibility and upgrading essential equipment, will remain on the department’s roster despite stepping down. Mayor Kenneth Scott III thanked him for his service. In other village business, the board approved selling property at 321 Montgomery St. to John Gercke for $2,500 plus half of the closing costs, and a committee is reviewing how CassComm can promote its services in the village under existing local restrictions.

The Pike County, Illinois Sheriff’s Department is reminding motorists of a road closure on County Highway 13 during this week. The affected stretch will run from 2.5 miles west of State Highway 106 at 325th Street to one mile east of El Dara at 305th Street. Drivers are urged to plan alternate routes and use caution in the area as crews work during the temporary shutdown.

North Greene continues to face one of the most serious homelessness challenges among school districts in west-central Illinois, with 15.5% of its students experiencing homelessness during the 2024-25 school year. Although the rate is slightly lower than the district’s highs of more than 16% in 2019 and 2020, it has still risen sharply from 11% in 2021 and remains far above the statewide average of 2.7%. Under state law, North Greene must ensure homeless students receive transportation, support services and help accessing education without barriers. Local agencies such as Midwest Youth Services also work with students in the district, offering emergency shelter, transitional housing and life-skills programs aimed at giving youth stability and a path forward.

Today's Chapel Report:

Barbara Ruth Cawthon, 76, of Pittsfield, passed away on November 15, 2025, at Liberty Village. Born December 24, 1948, in Beardstown, she married Otha “Bill” Cawthon in 1968, and he survives. Barbara was a devoted member of the Pittsfield Assembly of God . Over the years she worked various jobs, including at Liberty Village, Pike County Housing, and the Cardinal Inn. Survivors include her husband of 57 years; four children; twenty-five grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and other relatives. Funeral services will be held Thursday, November 20, at Niebur Funeral Home, with burial at Pleasant Grove Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to the Pike County Animal Shelter.

Nancy A. Lash, 74, of Pittsfield, passed away at her home on November 15, 2025. Born June 16, 1951, in Chicago, she married Ronald Lash in 1970, and he survives. A 1969 graduate of Pittsfield High School, Nancy worked as an EMT for both the North Pike Ambulance District and the City of Pittsfield before operating a home daycare for many years. She was active in her community as a Girl Scout leader, Sunday school teacher, and volunteer with the Perry Methodist Church. She is survived by her husband, Ron; two children; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be held Wednesday, November 19, at Niebur Funeral Home, with burial at Wilson Cemetery in Perry. Memorials may be made to the family.