Letter to the Editor: It’s about time Quincy leaders start promoting its biggest asset

We are excited to hear about the riverfront development.

My husband Norm and I, along with our 2-year-old daughter, moved to Quincy in 1980 from Rockford. We were excited to be close to the Mississippi River, the largest river in the country. 

Moving here from Rockford was like going back in time. We were disappointed Quincy did nothing to promote the river. It was no big deal to the Quincy people to have the largest river in the country. Every time we crossed the river, we would spell Mississippi — either the regular way or using crooked letter and humpback. It has always been a fun word to say and spell.

City leaders had tunnel vision and did not seem to be interested in the town growing or promoting the river. When the gambling boat wanted to come to town, what a perfect time to do something! As we know, nothing happened.

With the largest river right in your backyard, Quincy leaders do not realize others may enjoy your town’s asset.

So, over the last 43 years when our family and friends came to visit, it was off to Hannibal.

The reason I am writing is to find out if the public can help pay to have the electric wires buried. We are willing to donate $1,000 to help. If 499 more people would do the same, you would have the money.

Unfortunately, we will be dead by the time this project is completed. We do not want future residents to wait another 43 years before the leaders of Quincy decide to show off their biggest asset.

To the Quincy Riverfront Development Corporation: Please let us know if you are accepting donations. This is a small amount, compared to the price, but it could add up.

Mary Kallner
Quincy, Illinois