News Headlines & Chapel Report - 9/26/25

The Pikeland School District briefly went into Safe and Secure Mode late Tuesday morning after an unidentified man was spotted in the high school parking lot. Administrators questioned the individual, who quickly left the grounds, and school resource officers were contacted as safety protocols were put in place. Additional law enforcement responded, and after assessing the situation, officials determined there was no threat to students or staff. The lockdown, which began at 11:11 a.m., was lifted at 11:47 a.m. Out of caution, law enforcement was present during dismissal, Superintendent Dr. Russ Tepen said the district’s safety plan was carried out effectively.

The Bowling Green R-I School Board convened on September 16, 2025 and approved a $500,000 short-term loan to address immediate financial needs. The move, designed as a bridge financing measure, allows the district to maintain operations and cash flow while longer-term funding or revenue sources are secured. Board members emphasized that the loan is intended as a temporary solution, and the district will continue exploring sustainable fiscal strategies to avoid

repeating such measures.

The Pittsfield American Legion Post 152 will host a community bingo night on Friday, September 26. The evening begins at 5 p.m. with a meal prepared by the Ladies Auxiliary, featuring taco salad, nachos and brownies. Ticket sales open at 6 p.m., followed by bingo games starting promptly at 7 p.m. Organizers say the event offers a fun night out for all ages and encourages residents to come enjoy good food, fellowship and entertainment at the Legion hall.

A dangerous social media challenge encouraging teens to overdose on Benadryl has resurfaced, prompting warnings after videos show students ingesting large amounts of antihistamines to get high. A South Carolina student required emergency care with a heart rate of 200 bpm, and an Ohio teen reportedly died in April 2023 after a similar incident. Pharmacists cautionsthat over-the-counter antihistamines can slow breathing and cause cardiac problems, coma, hallucinations, seizures, and other serious symptoms, and urges parents to watch for drowsiness, slurred or confused speech, hallucinations, and seizures. Both TikTok and the Benadryl maker have condemned the challenge, and anyone who suspects an overdose should contact Poison Control immediately.

Today's Chapel Report

Ross E. Kelly, 85, of Mt. Sterling, Illinois, passed away September 24, 2025, at Blessing Hospital in Quincy. Born August 6, 1940, in Hannibal, Missouri, he was the son of Ross E. and Mabel E. Hardy Kelly and was raised by his mother and stepfather after his father’s death. He married Jan Mitchell in 1979, who survives. Ross owned and operated Kelly Carpet and Linoleum in Mt. Sterling for more than 30 years before retiring in 2008. A U.S. Army veteran, he was active in his community as a longtime volunteer fireman, youth baseball coach, American Legion member, and helped establish the Mt. Sterling Jaycees. Ross was an avid golfer, bowler, and loyal fan of the St. Louis Cardinals and Fighting Illini. Survivors include his wife, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and siblings. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, September 28, at Hendricker Funeral Home in Mt. Sterling with burial in Hersman Cemetery and military rites by the Mt. Sterling American Legion Post #374. Visitation will be held from noon until the time of service. Memorials are suggested to Rolling Greens Golf Course or a charity of the donor’s choice.