News Headlines & Chapel Report - 11/24/25

Pike County, IL officials are working through major financial questions after a tense budget hearing Wednesday led to a flood of follow-up inquiries for the County Clerk’s Office. Clerk Natalie Roseberry responded Thursday morning with detailed explanations on payroll totals, election expenses, reimbursements, and past journal entries. Treasurer Scott Syrcle questioned why a past $30,000 internal reimbursement was discontinued, while Board Chair Reta Hoskin requested full payroll figures, potential election-line reductions, and clarity on future raises. Roseberry said her office has always provided information when requested and reported her office’s gross payroll at about $224,000, calling it “remarkably low” for the workload. Board member Derek Ross later said he accepts the payroll totals but wants clearer breakdowns of election costs as the county works to confront a serious budget deficit and delayed audits.

The Pike County, IL Animal Shelter is preparing for its “Clear the Shelter” open-adoption event next Saturday offering pets for a donation of any amount or with a contribution of supplies in place of traditional fees. Shelter officials say the event comes at a critical time as recent Pike County budget cuts have tightened resources and increased the need for community support. The shelter is requesting items including Special Kitty 40-pound litter boxes, Purina Kitten Chow, Friskies Pate canned cat food, cat and dog treats, paper towels, and dryer sheets. Sweet Pablo’s Food Truck will also be on-site with warm food and hot chocolate during the event. More details can be found on the shelter’s Facebook page.

A movement called New Illinois is working to create a new state made up of the rural and small-town parts of Illinois, arguing that Chicago and Cook County have too much political power. The group says its mission is to bring fair representation, reduce corruption, and fix the state’s financial problems. Leaders of the movement say Chicago-style politics — especially under Governor J.B. Pritzker — are a major reason they believe downstate communities need a new direction.

The Village of Bluffs is gearing up for a festive kickoff to the holiday season with its “Santa in the Park” celebration, set for Saturday, Nov. 29, 2025, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Lewis Park. Families can enjoy roasting chestnuts over an open fire, children’s activities, early Christmas shopping opportunities, and a chance to meet Santa himself. Weather permitting, sleigh rides and the park’s well-known llamas will also be part of the evening’s attractions. Organizers invite the community to come out and share in the cheerful festivities.

Today's Chapel Report:

Edward A. “Ed” Benz, 92, of rural Nebo, passed away November 20, 2025 at home surrounded by family. Born in 1933 in rural Kampsville, he married Willean Howland in 1953, and together they raised five children and shared 72 years of marriage. Ed devoted decades to community service, including 25 years as an EMT with the Calhoun Volunteer Ambulance District, additional years as a driver, and longtime volunteer work with the North Calhoun Fire Department, St. Anselm’s dinners, and multiple county boards. A lifelong farmer and skilled bulldozer operator, he also served as Calhoun County Road Commissioner. Ed is survived by Willean, their five children, a large extended family including grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren, as well as siblings and many relatives. Funeral services will be held Tuesday at St. Anselm Catholic Church in Kampsville, with visitation Monday at First Baptist Church in Pleasant Hill. Lummis Funeral Home in Pleasant Hill is assisting the family.

Mary Catherine “Katie” Hubbard, 88, of Pittsfield Manor and formerly of Pleasant Hill, passed away on November 20, 2025. Born in 1936 in Belleview, she married Charles Wesley “Wes” Hubbard Jr. in 1952, and they shared many years together until his passing in 2013. A devoted homemaker, Katie also volunteered as an EMT with the Pleasant Hill Ambulance Service. Katie was a longtime member of the Nebo Church of Christ, she is survived by her four children, eight grandchildren, and twelve great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be held Wednesday at Lummis Funeral Home in Pleasant Hill, with burial at Crescent Heights Cemetery and visitation one hour prior. Memorials may be made to the Pleasant Hill Fire Department or Crescent Heights Cemetery Association.

Alice M. “Peach” Anderson, 79, of Ashburn, MO, passed away November 19, 2025, at Hannibal Regional Hospital. Born in 1946 in Bowling Green, MO, she married William Leonard “Olie” Anderson in 1964, who preceded her in death in 2016. Peach worked as a Certified Nurse Assistant at Smith-Barr Manor, Maple Grove Lodge, and Cerf Brothers. She is survived by her children Robert, Jimmy, and Melissa, step-daughter Cindy, 12 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren, five great-great-grandchildren, two sisters, and sisters-in-law. Funeral services will be held Tuesday, November 25, at Collier Funeral Home in Louisiana, MO, with burial at Mt. Pisgah Cemetery near Bowling Green. Visitation is Monday, November 24, at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to the donor’s choice.