News Headlines & Chapel Report - 11/20/25

The Pike County Board met Wednesday to confront a seven-figure budget shortfall ahead of next week’s final vote, and tensions rose during a debate over election funding. County Clerk Natalie Roseberry criticized board member Derek Ross for what she called “government by ambush,” after last-minute questions about changes to her election budget. Board Chair Reta Hoskin countered that the clerk’s office needs to be more transparent during the budgeting process. The board also approved a 10 percent property tax increase and agreed to redirect part of the ambulance service’s sales-tax revenue to the Pike County Sheriff’s Department. A final vote on the county budget is scheduled for November 24.

The Illinois Commerce Commission has cut Ameren Illinois’ proposed natural gas rate increase nearly in half, removing more than 55 million dollars from the company’s requested 128-million-dollar hike. Regulators say they approved only the projects they deemed necessary while striking what they called excess charges, and they also ordered Ameren to keep low-income customers’ energy burden at three percent by adjusting its discount program. Ameren, which serves about 800-thousand natural gas customers across central and southern Illinois, says it’s reviewing the ruling. The ICC says bill impacts will vary based on usage, and customers needing help can apply for LIHEAP or Ameren’s assistance programs.

The long-standing George W. Trimble Trust Fund continues to quietly strengthen the Louisiana, Missouri community, with Judge David Ash helping guide the charitable trust’s work as it provides annual support to Pike County Memorial Hospital and the Louisiana Elks Lodge #791—funding medical bill assistance, maintaining the Trimble House community center, and helping power food pantries and other local aid programs. That spirit of civic generosity mirrors the contributions of community leader John Sitton, recently honored by the City of Louisiana for a lifetime of service marked by humility, philanthropy, and decades of giving back. Sitton, who began his family’s local business in 1962, has supported countless community projects, most recently donating picnic tables to enhance Riverview and Henderson Parks. City leaders say his leadership, compassion, and integrity set an example for future generations—values that continue to shape Louisiana through both the Trimble Trust’s support and the work of residents committed to bettering their hometown.

Faster Amazon deliveries are coming to West Central Illinois as the new Amazon distribution center on Wisman Lane in Quincy is now officially up and running. Station manager Skyler Clark says the facility has been gradually ramping up for about a month, slowly expanding its delivery zones and increasing package volume as operations grow. The center is still hiring—adding roughly 40 more associates to reach a staff of 250–300 employees—and Clark says the site’s presence will significantly boost same-day and next-day delivery options for customers throughout the Quincy region. Designated as a Rural Super Rural (RSR) Plus facility, the center is designed specifically to improve service to rural communities, while employees spend their early weeks bonding through team-building activities to strengthen collaboration. Interested applicants can apply through Indeed or the Amazon Jobs website.

Today's Chapel Report:

Shane Johnson, 40, of Versailles, Missouri, and formerly of Pike County, Illinois, passed away Tuesday, November 11, 2025. Born April 29, 1985, in Pittsfield to Pamela Rae Lord and Tim R. Johnson, Shane attended Pikeland schools and worked various jobs over the years, including at County Market, Wendy’s, BJ’s Restaurant in Jacskonville. He is survived by his parents; his children, Aiden McDonald, Weston, Emma, and Cohen Johnson; siblings Kyle, Eric, and Beth Johnson; grandmother Linda Bennett; and numerous extended family members. Cremation rites have been accorded, with a Celebration of Life planned at a later date. Memorials may be made to the family in care of Niebur Funeral Home, which is handling arrangements.

Larry Keith Forrester, 76, of Roodhouse, passed away November 17, 2025. Born November 25, 1948, to Lyle Keith and Claudine (Starner) Forrester, Larry graduated from North Greene High School in 1966 and served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, and was on an Honor Flight to Washington, D.C. in 2018. Larry married Judy on April 15, 1978 who survives as well as children Stephanie, Tyler, Drew, and Brady; grandchildren Josie, Kamie, Skyler, Clayton, Abigail, and Mya; siblings Karen Nichols, Claudia Seely, and Randy Forrester; and numerous nieces and nephews. Larry retired from the railroad and devoted himself to raising cattle. He was a faithful member of Barrow Baptist Church, he served as deacon and trustee. Memorials may be made to Barrow Baptist Church, with services to be held at a later date.