News Headlines & Chapel Report - 9/12/25

Residents in west-central Illinois can expect a milder season ahead, according to the Old Farmer’s Almanac’s newly released winter forecast. The region, which falls into the Heartland zone alongside cities such as St. Louis, Des Moines, and Kansas City, is projected to see warmer-than-normal temperatures with only brief cold spells. The coldest weather is likely to hit in mid-December and return in early and late January. Snowfall is forecast to be lighter than usual in northern portions of the area, with near-normal totals farther south. The snowiest periods are expected in mid-November, late January, and early February. Overall, the Almanac suggests west-central Illinois residents should prepare for a winter that is warmer and drier than average.

West Central Illinois is facing an intensifying drought that experts warn could have serious consequences if conditions don’t improve soon.

After an extremely dry August and a hot start to September, much of central and southern Illinois, including parts of the western reaches, are now experiencing moderate to severe drought. Soil moisture is depleted, water tables have dropped significantly, and river levels in many areas are near or below low‐flow thresholds. Crops and pastures are being stressed by the dryness, fire risk is elevated, and there are growing concerns over yield losses, low livestock pond levels, and possible restrictions on water use. Unless more rain falls soon, the drought is expected to persist through September across large portions of central Illinois.

Gas prices continue to show a split between Missouri and Illinois, according to AAA’s latest report. As of Thursday, Missouri drivers are paying an average of $2.88 per gallon, with Adair County slightly higher at $2.96. In Illinois, however, prices remain above $3, with the statewide average at $3.47 and Adams County somewhat lower at $3.30. The national average sits at $3.19, while diesel fuel is averaging $3.71 per gallon.

Bowling Green’s downtown square will transform into a hub of activity on Saturday, as the community gathers for the annual Champ Clark Heritage Festival. The free, family-friendly event runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and will feature local food and craft vendors, a car and tractor show sponsored by the Bowling Green Lions Club, kids’ activities, museum tours, and more. The parade begins at 10 a.m. with 2024 Citizen of the Year Don Hamilton serving as Grand Marshall. Highlights also include a pancake breakfast, quilt show, bubble parties, and the Straw Bale Showdown rodeo challenge, making it a day full of tradition and fun for all ages. Come see B97.5 WBBA and our electric "Buzzmobile" in the parade. We've got plenty of candy for the kids.

Today's Twin Pikes and Two Rivers Chapel Report

Jimmy L. Martin, 81, of Fishhook, Illinois, died Wednesday, Sept. 10, 2025, at Golden Good Shepherd Home in Golden. Born Sept. 13, 1943, in Quincy to Lozelle and Alice Stinson Martin, he married Marilyn Smith in 1965, and she survives. A 1961 Perry High School graduate, Martin was a lifelong farmer in the Fishhook area and a U.S. Army veteran who served in the National Guard during Vietnam. He was active in his community as a board member for Perry Schools, Soil and Water Conservation, Woodland Cemetery, and Fairmount Township. Survivors include his wife; daughters Brenda Barton and Linda Kirby; three grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and two siblings. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 16, at Airsman-Hires Chapel in Griggsville, with burial in Woodland Cemetery and military honors by the Griggsville American Legion. Visitation is 5 to 7 p.m. Monday at the chapel. Memorials may be made to Woodland Cemetery or Woodland Church.

Ronald John Wildgrube, 78, of Elsberry, Missouri, died Monday, Sept. 8, 2025, at his home. Born May 4, 1947, in St. Louis to John and Henrietta Doering Wildgrube, he graduated from McCluer High School and went on to work as a machinist for Barry-Wehmiller and later as a corrections officer for the City of Pine Lawn. He was a member of Machinist Union District #9 in St. Louis. Wildgrube was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Norma Jean Asato. Survivors include his daughters Donna Vogt, Christina Dennis, Barbara “Boo” Wildgrube, and Lauren Wildgrube; five grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. No services are scheduled. Memorials may be made to the charity of the donor’s choice in care of Carter-Ricks Funer