News Headlines & Chapel Report - 11/4/25

State Representative C.D. Davidsmeyer and several law enforcement leaders are voicing growing concerns over Illinois’ SAFE-T Act, which was enacted in 2021 and fully implemented in 2023. While the law aims to keep low-level offenders out of jail and prevent them from becoming lost in the system, Davidsmeyer argues it has gone too far and is negatively impacting police morale and recruitment. He believes the act makes it easier for drug dealers — particularly those coming from Missouri — to avoid jail time, and says the resulting frustration among officers could push potential recruits to seek careers elsewhere. Supporters of the act emphasize its core principle: that a person’s detention should not depend on their financial status.

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department has announced temporary road closures for maintenance on Wednesday, November 5, 2025. From 8 a.m. to 10 a.m., 250th Avenue will be closed between 370th Street and 360th Street, and 365th Street will also be closed about a half-mile south of 250th Avenue during the same timeframe. Drivers are encouraged to plan alternate routes.

A section of County Highway 11 North in Brown County was closed Monday afternoon following an accident near County Road 450 N, about one mile north of Versailles, according to the Brown County Sheriff’s Department. The roadway was shut down around 2 p.m. on November 3, 2025, and officials say it may remain closed into Tuesday. No additional details about the accident have been released at this time.

The Pike County Chamber & Economic Development Corp. is hosting its 15th annual Girls Night Out in downtown Pittsfield this Thursday from 4 to 8 p.m. More than 20 local businesses, along with guest vendors, will participate in the event, which encourages women to shop local and enjoy a fun evening with friends and neighbors. As a highlight, Heartland Lodge in Nebo will offer a two-night stay in a luxury suite as the grand prize giveaway. Executive Director Gina Sheurman says the event is designed to showcase the charm, variety, and unique offerings of Pittsfield’s businesses and inspire shoppers to support them year-round.

Today's Chapel Report:

Roger Allen Quincy, 77, of Mt. Sterling, Illinois, passed away on November 1, 2025, at SSM Health St. Joseph Hospital in St. Charles, Missouri. Born on October 18, 1948, in Quincy, he spent 40 years working at Jefferson Smurfitt in Beardstown before retiring in 2010. A Brown County High School graduate and longtime member of the First United Methodist Church, Roger is survived by his wife Pat, daughter Kelli, grandson Quinn, and extended family. Cremation rites have been accorded, and a memorial service will be held at a later date. Memorials may be made to Brown County Little League.

Karla Jean Ormond, 75, of Timewell, passed away on November 2, 2025, at her home. Born in Pittsfield, she dedicated her life to caring for others, working as a registered nurse in Brown County schools, public health, Blessing Hospital, and pediatrics at Quincy Medical Group before retiring. A devoted member of Holy Family Catholic Church, she also volunteered with Cass-Schuyler Area Hospice and was active in numerous community groups. She is survived by her three children, grandson, brother, and extended family. A Funeral Mass will be held Friday, November 7 in Mt. Sterling, with burial to follow. Memorials are suggested to Cass-Schuyler Area Hospice.