QUINCY — The trial for a Quincy man facing three counts of first-degree murder has been set for the January jury docket. Devere S. Gholston, 27, made a brief appearance for a status hearing in Adams County Circuit Court Tuesday afternoon with public defender John Citro before Judge Debra Wellborn. Another status hearing was set […]
First-degree murder trial for Quincy man placed on December jury docket
QUINCY — The trial for a Quincy man facing attempted first-degree murder and aggravated discharge of a firearm charges has been set for the December jury docket. Donte M. Clausell, 34, is in federal custody on a separate firearms-related charge. However, he appeared in Adams County Circuit Court Tuesday morning with public defender Christopher Pratt […]
Rokusek pleads not guilty at arraignment; case placed on January jury docket
QUINCY — A Quincy man who allegedly recorded more than 200 videos of people in a locker room/restroom area without their permission while they were showering or changing clothes pled not guilty Tuesday morning. John Rokusek, 60, was arraigned in Adams County Circuit Court by Judge Amy Lannerd. He appeared with his attorney, Denny Woodward. […]
City planner says Planet Fitness going into former County Market; aldermen OK spending tax dollars on three-bay development at 30th, Broadway
QUINCY — The Quincy City Council approved a resolution during Monday night’s meeting to enter into a Mid-Town Business District redevelopment agreement with the Charles & Kathie Marx Trust to put $200,000 toward the construction of 6,000 square feet of retail space for three businesses on the northeast corner of 30th and Broadway. Chuck Bevelheimer, director of […]
Aldermen want another organization to spend $12,500 on hotel market feasibility study
QUINCY — The Quincy City Council rejected by an 11-2 vote Monday night a resolution to spend no more than $12,500 on a hotel market feasibility study. John Mast, R-5, voted against the resolution, but he isn’t against the idea. “It was not against hotels in any way,” he said. “But should the city be […]
‘We’re all pretty thick-skinned’: Substitute judge rules against Yohn in motion hearing asking for substitute judge
QUINCY — Judge Holly Henze on Monday denied Bradley Yohn’s request for a substitute judge in his jury trial scheduled to begin Nov. 7 in Adams County Circuit Court, telling him, “Just because a judge denies a motion or otherwise rules against a defendant doesn’t automatically mean the judge is prejudiced.” Henze was called in […]
Richard Niemann Sr., 1931-2022: Regional grocery chain prospered for more than 50 years under his guidance
QUINCY — Rich Niemann Jr. summarized his father’s life as a family man and as a businessman by calling him a “guardian of truth and honesty.” Richard Henry Niemann, Sr., who spent more than 50 years with the Niemann Foods regional grocery chain as president, chairman, CEO and chairman emeritus, died Sept. 25, 2022 in […]
Bond set at $750,000 for Quincy man found with package containing kilogram of cocaine during narcotics investigation
QUINCY — Bond has been set at $750,000 for a Quincy man who was arrested Wednesday with more than a kilogram (2.2 pounds) of cocaine that was discovered during a narcotics investigation. Sami J. Grullon, 25, of Quincy, made his first appearance in Adams County Circuit Court on Thursday afternoon before Judge Tad Brenner. He […]
‘A snapshot in time’: Sixty-six years after buying ’56 Chevy Bel Air, Quincy man surprised when son brings it back home
QUINCY — Bing Welper was sitting on the porch of his home on the morning of Father’s Day this spring when he looked outside and noticed a familiar car pulling up on the driveway. “That’s my car,” he said as a huge grin grew across his awe-struck face. “That’s my car right there.” “I fell […]
At least 32 people from Illinois charged in connection with breach of U.S. Capitol; trial for Quincy couple set for April 17
More than 860 people from nearly all 50 states have been arrested in connection with the breach of the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. The Chicago Sun-Times published a list on Wednesday of at least 32 known residents who face charges for their role in the incident and the status of their court date. A […]
Yohn claims judge has put him at ‘very unfair disadvantage’ and ‘blatantly lied,’ files motion for replacement
QUINCY — Bradley Yohn, a Springfield man charged with four Class X felonies in Adams County in connection with a Nov. 9, 2021 sexual assault, filed a motion last week requesting a substitution of judge in his case in Adams County Circuit Court. Yohn, 35, is defending himself against charges of home invasion, aggravated kidnapping, […]
Thought your tap water smelled? You weren’t wrong, but city says odor should be gone by end of week
QUINCY — Jeffrey Conte, director of public works for the city, says the earthy smell you might have recently noticed in your tap water should be gone by the end of the week. Conte addressed aldermen at the beginning of Monday night’s Quincy City Council meeting to provide an update on what the city has […]
City official admits new citywide cleanup format was ‘a little rough’ Monday but will improve this week
QUINCY — John Schafer, assistant director of Central Services, could only offer an apology to the people first to arrive at the citywide cleanup site in the Quincy Town Center parking lot Monday morning. “It’s a learning experience for us all,” Schafer said. “This is the first time we’ve done it this way, and there’s […]
Philpot first person to announce candidacy for spot on Quincy Park Board
QUINCY — Mark Philpot has a history of getting involved in his community, regardless of where he’s lived. He’s only lived in Quincy for three years, but he’s already the chairman of the Quincy Human Rights Commission, the public affairs officer for American Legion Post 37 and vice director for Together with Tri-State Veterans, a […]
MRN BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT: Brumbaugh Tree Services
MRN Editor David Adam talks trees with Larry Brumbaugh. Cason, Huff and Schlueter Insurance brings you the Muddy River News Business Spotlight.
Standby attorney appointed to assist Yohn as he prepares to defend himself in sexual assault case
QUINCY — Judge Roger Thomson appointed standby counsel for Bradley Yohn, a Springfield man charged with four Class X felonies in Adams County in connection with a Nov. 9, 2021 sexual assault case who is defending himself for a second time. Thomson selected public defender Todd Nelson, Yohn’s attorney from July 20 until Thomson dismissed […]
Issue about holiday pay creating stalemate in contract negotiations between city, police union
QUINCY — The Police Benevolent and Protective Association Labor Unit 12, which represents the officers and supervisors with the Quincy Police Department, filed a complaint Sept. 14 with the Illinois Labor Relations Board against the city of Quincy. The city responded two days later by filing a petition for a declaratory ruling from the ILRB. […]
Quincy woman receives five-year sentence for unlawful delivery of heroin, Xanax
QUINCY — A Quincy woman received a five-year sentence to the Illinois Department of Corrections on Wednesday afternoon in Adams County Circuit Court. Caitlin Dietiker, 32, pled guilty to two charges of unlawful delivery of a controlled substance on July 13 in exchange for a prison term of no longer than 10 years. Judge Roger […]
Construction date for $5.4 million library in Mount Sterling should be set soon
MOUNT STERLING, Ill. — All the money has been raised for a new library to be built in Mount Sterling, and a date to start construction should come soon. The Mount Sterling Public Library was formed in 1915, and it moved to a converted hardware store at 143 W. Main in Mount Sterling in 1967. […]
Bath & Body Works moving, Sidell’s Bakery plans to close and Pappo’s may reopen; property manager at Town Center optimistic about future
EDITOR’S NOTE: Jim May, franchise owner of Pappo’s Pizzeria and Pub, told Muddy River News Wednesday morning that he plans to reopen the restaurant at 4 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 29. QUINCY — A store that has been in the Quincy Town Center for nearly 25 years has closed. A restaurant that has been there since 2017 won’t […]
Well-traveled manager wants to improve reliability of air service at Quincy Regional Airport
QUINCY — Chuck Miller grew up in Ohio, spent 29 years in Alaska and has held positions all over the world. He’s spent the last six months as an airfield manager for a U.S. Army installation while living with his wife, his daughter and four granddaughters in Copperas Cove, Texas. He will start a new […]
Koetters ready to start family, won’t run for second term on Quincy Park Board
QUINCY — Nathan Koetters says he won’t run for re-election to the Quincy Park Board during the April 2023 election. Koetters, who is turning 40 this week, will serve just one term after he was elected to fill one of three open seats in April 2019. He thought one term was plenty, and he’s ready […]
MUDDY RIVER NEWS THIS WEEK: Brian McGee, Quincy University
David Adam talks to the president of Quincy University about this year’s big freshman class and updates us on other issues at the college.
Kvitle branches out to start his own optometry business while following his father’s legacy
QUINCY — Jason Kvitle remembers reading the phrase, “The currency of our world is not money. It’s time.” It has stuck with him forever. Kvitle, 35, is nervous and excited as he’s halfway through his first month as the owner of Kvitle Eye Care Associates at 1107 College Avenue, but he also appreciates the time […]
Durbin says he will ‘take advantage’ of friendship with Biden to get money secured for restoration of Quincy Bay
QUINCY — U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) says he’s going to lean on an old friend to help pay for the restoration of Quincy Bay, one of the largest natural bays of the Upper Mississippi River. “I happen to know this president, and I’m going to take advantage of it,” Durbin said Friday afternoon as […]
Tyler, Wiemelt tabbed as deputy chiefs for Quincy Police Department
QUINCY — Raymond “Mike” Tyler is the deputy chief of operations for the Quincy Police Department, and Travis Wiemelt is deputy chief of administration. Adam Yates, chief of the Quincy Police Department, announced the appointments Friday morning in an email sent to local media. Both deputy chiefs were appointed by Yates and approved Tuesday by […]
Quincy man gets five-year sentence in DOC after pleading guilty to sexual abuse charges with underage sisters
QUINCY — A Quincy man was sentenced to five years in the Illinois Department of Corrections on Friday morning following his guilty plea to two aggravated criminal sexual abuse charges. Camron Marold, 20, appeared with public defender Todd Nelson before Judge Amy Lannerd in Adams County Circuit Court. Nelson had asked Lannerd to sentence Marold […]
Local births for Sept. 11, 2022
Blessing Hospital A boy was born to Ben and Noelle Withers of Canton, Mo., at 9:24 a.m. on Sept. 11.A boy was born to Allen and Jeri Smith of Maywood, Mo., at 1:25 p.m. on Sept. 11.Two boys were born to Marshall and Shyann Steffen of Ursa at 4:08 p.m. and 4:09 p.m. on Sept. […]
Four Park Board commissioners show support for keeping marina open through 2025; vote could come in October
QUINCY — John Frankenhoff put his cards on the table, then challenged other Quincy Park Board commissioners to do the same. Some showed their hand. Others chose to keep their cards close to their chest. The future of Art Keller Marina, which has lost money in each of the past three years and is on […]
Park Board debates putting sale of small parcel of land in Parker Heights Park on ballot
QUINCY — Voters may get to weigh in on the sale of a small portion of Parker Heights Park on Quincy’s north end. Carla Gordon and John Gebhardt asked commissioners not to sell the 1.13-acre parcel of land to Knapheide Manufacturing during Wednesday night’s Quincy Park Board meeting. Both were concerned that if the property […]
After turning down 15-year sentence in plea deal, Quincy man now could get as many 25 years in prison for burglaries, weapons offenses
QUINCY — After refusing last week to accept a 15-year sentence in the Illinois Department of Corrections in exchange for guilty pleas to five burglary charges, Zachary Laffey reached a new plea deal and stunningly agreed Wednesday to guilty pleas on even more charges which could lead to a sentence of as many as 25 […]
Trial for former Quincy nightclub owner facing assault charges now on February docket
QUINCY — Judge Amy Lannerd put the trial for a former Quincy nightclub owner accused of assaulting a Quincy University student on the docket in February 2023. Steven W. Homan, 48, made an appearance before Lannerd in Adams County Circuit Court on Tuesday with Ben Song, an associate with the St. Louis firm of Rosenblum, Schwartz […]
Troup casts deciding vote as curbside recycling will be eliminated; Quincy man commits to transporting recyclables to city bins for elderly, disabled
QUINCY — After more than a year of study, review, concern and debate, an ordinance to eliminate the city’s curbside recycling program came down to one vote. After City Clerk Laura Oakman announced aldermen voted 7-7 on the issue during Monday night’s Quincy City Council meeting, Quincy Mayor Mike Troup quickly cast the deciding vote, […]
City to seek $12.5 million grant to add gutters, curbs, sidewalks to State Street from 24th to 36th
QUINCY — After they tabled the issue for one week, aldermen voted to support a resolution supporting the jurisdictional transfer of 36th Street (from State Street to Broadway) to the state and the acceptance of State Street by the city. Chuck Bevelheimer, director of planning and development, explained during Monday’s Quincy City Council meeting that […]
Former Jefferson School property to become site of indoor trampoline facility
QUINCY — A Quincy developer plans to turn property unused for nearly 40 years into the site for an indoor trampoline facility. Schuster Development LLC of Quincy bought a 2.19-acre vacant lot at 301 Spring from Riverside Community Church for $237,500 on Aug. 31, according to property tax documents filed in the Adams County Recorder’s […]
Monroe City woman pleads not guilty to charges of unlawful use of weapon, tampering with judicial officer
MONROE CITY, Mo. — A Monroe City woman pled not guilty on Wednesday to one count of unlawful use of a weapon and one count of tampering with a judicial officer. Stephanie L. O’Connor, 48, was arraigned in Monroe County Circuit Court by Judge Michael Wilson. She appeared by video without an attorney. However, James […]
Ordinance forces Hanafin out as interim airport director; mayor believes new director could be in place in October
QUINCY — Quincy Mayor Mike Troup says a city ordinance forced him to remove Gabriel Hanafin as the interim director of Quincy Regional Airport, but he believes a new director will be in place by the end of October. Hanafin is still employed at the airport as the assistant to the airport director. He took […]
Volunteer group raising money for ‘the extras’ to help beautify Illinois Veterans Home grounds
QUINCY — A simple Facebook post asking to fix rusty benches eventually led to the creation of a group of people dedicated to raising money to beautify the grounds at the Illinois Veterans Home. Teresa Pickle and Cathy Shanks, retired nurses at the home, have combined with Linda King to coordinate Cherish the Memories, which […]
Community forum crowd wants bi-weekly recycling pickup treated like essential city service; aldermen get first chance to vote on Monday
QUINCY — Two ideas about the future of recycling seemed to rise above all the rest during Wednesday’s community forum about the city of Quincy’s proposed recycling ordinance. About 100 people filled the City Council chambers, offering suggestions and questions about recycling. Quincy Mayor Mike Troup served as the moderator of the forum, and near […]
Quincy Riverfront Development Corporation learns about Quincy Riverfront Development Foundation
QUINCY — Now that the creation of the Quincy Riverfront Development Foundation is complete, the Quincy Riverfront Development Corporation wants to know how it’s going to function. Quincy Mayor Mike Troup announced the creation of the Quincy Riverfront Development Foundation on Tuesday afternoon. The first three members of the foundation are Hal Oakley, chairman of […]
Yohn dismisses second public defender, will defend himself again; says he’s ‘being treated like an animal, like an Afghan terrorist’
QUINCY — Bradley Yohn is defending himself for a second time. The Springfield man, charged with four Class X felonies in Adams County in connection with a Nov. 9, 2021 sexual assault, filed a motion on Aug. 24 to claim public defender Todd Nelson has been ineffective as his counsel and asked to represent himself […]
Quincy man facing burglary charges agrees to 15-year sentence as part of plea, then changes mind
QUINCY — A Quincy man scheduled to accept to a plea agreement Tuesday afternoon in Adams County Circuit Court changed his mind. Zachary Laffey, 28, appeared before Judge John Wooleyhan with public defender Vanessa Pratt. Todd Eyler, Adams County assistant state’s attorney, told Wooleyhan an agreement had been reached for Laffey to plead guilty to […]
Gholston first-degree murder trial removed from October jury docket
QUINCY — The first-degree murder trial of a Quincy man has been delayed. Devere S. Gholston, 27, appeared Tuesday in Adams County Circuit Court before Judge Debra Wellborn. His attorney, public defender Babette Brennan, was absent. Public defender John Citro, who is serving as Brennan’s co-counsel in the case, was in attendance. Gholston has been […]
Not-for-profit foundation for riverfront development gets approval by Internal Revenue Service
QUINCY — The formation of a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) foundation to help raise money for the Quincy Riverfront Development Corporation finally has received approval from the Internal Revenue Service. Quincy Mayor Mike Troup called a press conference for Tuesday afternoon to announce the creation of the Quincy Riverfront Development Foundation. The first three members of the […]
Request to increase Jason Priest’s bond to $100,000 denied, but judge places him on electronic surveillance
QUINCY — An Adams County judge denied a request from the Adams County State’s Attorney’s office to modify Jason Priest’s bond, but she ordered Priest to be placed on GPS electronic surveillance monitoring. Priest, 50, now has 12 separate cases pending against him, and the state’s attorney’s office expects to file additional charges later this […]
C&R Supermarkets bought by Nebraska grocery store chain, but customers shouldn’t see much change
MACON, Mo. — A chain of grocery stores in northeast and central Missouri now is under new management, but customers shouldn’t notice much of a change. Mark Nelson, a human resources executive with C&R Supermarkets, said an agreement to sell 10 grocery stores was made “about a month ago” with B&R Stores of Lincoln, Neb. […]
‘We are definitely moving in the right direction’: Boaters, Park District officials pleased with talks about marina
QUINCY — Chris Griggs called it “a dialogue like we’ve never had before, which is very much appreciated.” A group of local boaters and renters informally met for about 90 minutes with Quincy Park Board commissioners John Frankenhoff and Jeff VanCamp on Tuesday to talk about issues involving boating on the Mississippi River and finding […]
Yohn files another motion to represent himself; hearing set for Sept. 7
QUINCY — A Springfield man, charged with four Class X felonies in connection with a Nov. 9, 2021 sexual assault, is asking to represent himself — again. Bradley S. Yohn, 35, filed a motion Wednesday, Aug. 24, to represent himself in his case. A status hearing was held Wednesday in Adams County Circuit Court, and […]
Graff eligible for 1-3 years in DOC or up to 30 months probation after pleading guilty to lesser charge; sentencing set for Oct. 19
QUINCY — A youth basketball coach and athletic trainer pled guilty Wednesday afternoon in Adams County Circuit Court to one count of criminal sexual abuse. Jonathan Graff, 31, of Quincy entered an open plea with his attorney, Drew Schnack, in front of Judge Roger Thomson. He will sentence Graff at 11 a.m. Oct. 19. Criminal […]
Pappo’s Pizzeria and Pub owner says location, lack of kitchen staff led to closing of restaurant
QUINCY — Difficulty in finding employees to staff the kitchen helped lead to the decision to close a Quincy restaurant. Pappo’s Pizzeria and Pub in the Quincy Town Center announced it would be closed “until further notice” on its Facebook page last Wednesday. Franchise owner Jim May told Muddy River News in a text on Tuesday […]
Assistant state’s attorney says plea deal may be possible in Rokusek case; review set for Sept. 27
Judge Thomson noted it will have been almost a year since Rokusek’s arrest when the status hearing happens on Sept. 27.
“If it’s not resolved then, we’ll be picking a trial date,” Thomson said. “I’m just giving you fair warning.”
Pike County Sheriff’s Department blotter for Aug. 22-28, 2022
Citywide cleanup going from last Saturday in September to daytime drop-offs during last week in September
QUINCY — The popular citywide cleanup, typically scheduled for the last Saturday in September, now will become a five-day weekday event during the last week in September. Jeffrey Conte, director of public works, says Republic Services is having problems with drivers, and they typically would need 10 to 15 drivers for a single-day citywide cleanup. […]
‘If it’s not curbside, I’m going to throw it in the garbage’: Speakers express dissatisfaction with proposed drop-off recycling sites
QUINCY — Six people spoke to the Quincy City Council during the public forum portion of Monday night’s meeting to express their dissatisfaction about the possibility of the discontinuance of curbside recycling pickup in the city. Mary Ann Klein, president of the League of Women Voters, was one of the people who spoke. She hopes […]
Home at 314 N. Eighth destroyed by fire; firefighters find no one inside
QUINCY — Quincy firefighters responded Monday night to a fire in the second story of a home at 314 N. Eighth. Bernie Vahlkamp, chief of the Quincy Fire Department, said the call came into the Quincy Fire Department at 8 p.m. Firefighters with Engine 2 at Central Fire Station, 906 Vermont, were the first to […]
Reports of marina’s death may be greatly exaggerated as commissioners, boaters to meet Tuesday
QUINCY — When August started, the Art Keller Marina seemed destined to die a slow death during the next year. As August nears an end, boaters and members of the Quincy Park Board appear to be working toward extending the marina’s life for years to come. John Frankenhoff, president of the Quincy Park Board, and […]
Jason Priest faces more misdemeanor charges; allegedly threatens judge, who decides to recuse himself
QUINCY — Jason Priest appeared in Adams County Circuit Court on Friday morning after the Adams County State’s Attorney’s office filed a motion this week for bond to be modified or increased in cases against him. Priest also was making a first appearance on two other court cases. However, the hearing was continued to Monday […]
‘It feels like a one-time strike’: College presidents say Biden loan forgiveness plan will help some but increase in Pell Grants would help more
QUINCY — The presidents of two local colleges say helping reduce student debt always is one goal of any institution of higher education. Both also said many of their graduates are thrilled to be among the 43 million Americans who will see their student loan debt reduced (or even eliminated) after President Joe Biden announced […]
Retrial of Mendon man ends with guilty verdict in 2018 beating death of inmate; life in prison possible at January sentencing
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — A jury of six women and six men deliberated for about three hours on Tuesday afternoon before finding a former lieutenant at the Western Illinois Correctional Center in Mount Sterling guilty on five counts in connection with the 2018 death of a 65-year-old inmate. Todd Sheffler, 54, of Mendon was stoic as […]
End of curbside recycling pickup could be near with City Council vote on revamped program next week
City Engineer Jeffrey Conte told committee members collection locations for recycling bins will be placed at yet-to-be determined locations on the north, south and east sides of the city. As many as six bins could be at one site. The ordinance that aldermen will vote on next week will call for the bins to be available as early as March 1, 2023.
Open house for Ill. 57 improvements set for Sept. 1; upgrades city wants would cost $74.5 million
QUINCY — A summary of recommendations from the Illinois Department of Transportation for improvement on the Ill. 57 corridor south of Quincy shows three options for each of the three sections of the highway. However, when IDOT has an open house to discuss the options from 4 to 6 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 1 at […]
As Carter’s Coffee Bar opens Broadway location, co-owner already planning expansion into Palmyra
QUINCY — Carter’s Coffee Bar celebrated its grand opening of its second site at Seventh and Broadway on Monday, but co-owner Ciara Weese already is thinking about the future. Rather than build a third business from the ground up, Weese says a Carter’s franchise will be going in the former HNB Bank building at 203 […]
‘It is an honor to do this for our colleagues’: Local honor guards recognize nurses during funeral ceremonies
QUINCY — Lisa Surratt has been a nurse for 44 years, but she had never heard of a nurses honor guard before she attended a funeral last September for long-time friend Sharon Giles, a nurse at Blessing Hospital for 45½ years. A nurses honor guard pays tribute to nurses at the time of their death. […]
Klues: If we never struggle to obtain something or don’t allow our children to struggle, is the reward as rich and meaningful?
We took a vacation to Colorado this summer to visit family, packing in as much adventure as was humanly possible. We don’t have any little kids, so we were free to hit up excitement all day — no naps or strollers needed. Truly, this is a glorious phase to have left behind. I miss the […]
Ask MRN: What is that sign in West Quincy about the Hannibal Regional Port Authority all about?
Dear Muddy River News, There’s a new sign in West Quincy about a Port of Hannibal installation that will be built right near the old bridge. We wonder if you might do a story about what that is. The Missouri Department of Transportation approved funding in April for the Marion/Ralls Regional Port Authority, also doing […]
Blackledge writes that counsel was ‘less than efficient’ and asks for sentence to be vacated … then tells judge otherwise
QUINCY — Karen Blackledge sent a letter to the Adams County Circuit Clerk on July 27, saying her legal representation was “less than efficient and effective” and led her to agree May 5 to two 20-year sentences to the Illinois Department of Corrections. However, when Judge Amy Lannerd asked Friday during a motion hearing in […]
Ask MRN: Why was Amtrak’s Illinois Zephyr train cancelled the past two nights?
Dear Muddy River News, You may want to ask Amtrak why for the past two evenings (Wednesday, Aug. 17 and Thursday, Aug. 18), the 383 train from Chicago to Quincy (the Illinois Zephyr) was cancelled with no notification to passengers. On Thursday at 6:20 p.m., the station master told passengers to go track one in […]
Public defender given $2,500 budget to find psychiatrist in case against Quincy man charged in fatal Memorial Day crash
QUINCY — Judge Amy Lannerd approved for public defender Todd Nelson to spend as much as $2,500 for an expert witness in the case against a Quincy man charged in a fatal Memorial Day crash. Breeden Wike, 20, appeared Thursday afternoon for a motion hearing in Adams County Circuit Court. He faces felony charges of […]
Quincy School District ‘not mandating anything’ in regard to COVID, but Quincy doctor asks for public statement
QUINCY — Superintendent Todd Pettit and School Board President Shelley Arns both said Wednesday night the Quincy School District’s policies about COVID are … well, back to what they were before anyone had ever heard of COVID. “We’ve posted on our website our typical flu criteria and what we typically do,” Pettit said after Wednesday’s School Board […]
Charges of making contact with sheriff’s deputy, hitting babysitter with Jeep to be dropped in plea negotiation with Quincy man
QUINCY — A case against a Quincy man charged with two felonies in connection with a June 11 incident has been set for a plea on Aug. 31. Lenard M. Miller, 41, did not appear with attorney Drew Schnack on Wednesday morning in Adams County Circuit Court. However, Schnack told Judge Roger Thomson he recently […]
‘Everything is going to stay the same’: Miller takes over as owner of Vance Clinic of Chiropractic
QUINCY — For the first time since 1958, Vance Clinic of Chiropractic isn’t owned by someone with the last name of Vance. However, that’s the only change with the business at 1420 S. 14th. Miller Property Investments LLC, managed by Dr. Ryan Miller, recently bought the chiropractic office for $300,000 on Aug. 4, according to […]
Tribune report shows six of 10 Illinoisans drinking tap water with toxic chemicals; Conte says chemicals found in Quincy but don’t pose serious threat
QUINCY — A recent investigation by the Chicago Tribune says more than 8 million people in the state — 6 out of every 10 Illinoisans — are drinking tap water with toxic chemicals that build up in human blood, cause cancer and other diseases and take years to leave the body. Recent testing by the […]
‘Humiliating and embarrassing’: Adams County assistant state’s attorney fired after just four months on job
QUINCY — An assistant state’s attorney for Adams County was let go last week after working for just four months, and the verdicts in three parental rights cases he tried in juvenile court this summer were vacated because he was not licensed to practice law in Illinois. Pruitt Holcombe, who came to Quincy in April […]
HPD Blotter for Aug. 11, 2022
2022-014763, 08/11/2022 @ 06:23:17, 401 N 3Rd st , Hannibal Nature of Complaint Animal At Large Officer Assigned 074 Stout, R L Entered By C86 Yakes, S J Adult Involve Animal Impoundment 08/11/2022Adult Female Contact Animal Impoundment 08/11/2022Adult Compl. 08/11/2022 Public Narrative Animal at large at 401 N 3rd. 2022-014764, 08/11/2022 @ 07:23:32, US 61 James Rd, Hannibal Nature of Complaint Traffic Stop Officer Assigned 048 Grimes, S M Entered By C49 […]
Emergency protective order granted for Mayor Troup against Jason Priest after ’10 sticks of dynamite’ comment
QUINCY — Quincy Mayor Mike Troup was granted an emergency summons protective order on Monday against Jason Priest, who said “Jesus has 10 sticks of dynamite for you” to the mayor during the Aug. 1 Quincy City Council meeting.
Boaters offer help, Park Board offers feedback on what it wants to see to keep Art Keller Marina open
QUINCY — Some Quincy Park Board commissioners bristled after board president John Frankenhoff told local media outlets after the Aug. 1 planning session that keeping the Art Keller Marina open after 2023 wasn’t likely “unless something drastic happens.” However, Frankenhoff’s comment may have unintentionally lit a fire under the Quincy boating community. Two boaters offered […]
Minnesota man pleads not guilty to four sexual assault felonies with children under age 13
QUINCY — A gymnastics coach from West Virginia pled not guilty Tuesday morning to four charges of predatory criminal sexual assault of a child under the age of 13 in Adams County. Leonard Johnson, 63, of Rochester, Minn., was arraigned in Adams County Circuit Court by Judge Amy Lannerd. He appeared with his attorney, Drew […]
City to spend $4.43 million to elevate, repair barge dock wall; Mayor ‘doesn’t understand rationale’ for Park District’s intention to close the marina in 2024
QUINCY — The Quincy City Council voted Monday night to accept the low bid of $4.43 million from County Contractors of Quincy to elevate and repair the city’s barge dock wall and grade the land adjacent to the dock.
Rather than risk losing airline service, City Council opts for single-engine aircraft from Southern Airways Express
Troup was pleased to see aldermen vote to accept the recommendation of the Aeronautics Committee and interim airport director Gabriel Hanafin to recommend to the U.S. Department of Transportation that Southern Airways Express of Palm Beach, Fla., provide essential air service at Quincy Regional Airport. Troup hopes to get official confirmation from the Department of Transportation next month.
Wiley to be represented by public defender’s office; Barnard makes first appearance as special prosecutor
QUINCY — A Quincy man charged with first-degree murder in the death of an infant in 2018 made his first appearance in Adams County Circuit Court with a representative from the public defender’s on Monday morning. A former Adams County state’s attorney from 2004 to 2016 also made his first appearance as a special prosecutor […]
‘Everything’s going to stay status quo’: New owner of Hess Auto Agency has no plans for change
QUINCY — The new owner of Hess Auto Agency says he has no plans to change what’s going on at the car dealership at 1124 N. 24th. Cloyd Barden Properties LLC, owned by Cloyd Barden of Quincy, bought the property from Boland Properties LLC of Hannibal, Mo., on July 15 for $650,000, according to property […]
Quincy woman who pled guilty in drug case to be sentenced in September
QUINCY — Caitlin R. Dietiker of Quincy, who pled guilty July 13 to two charges of unlawful delivery of a controlled substance in exchange for a cap of 10 years on her sentence to the Illinois Department of Corrections, will be sentenced Sept. 21. Public defender Todd Nelson said during Dietiker’s last appearance before Judge Roger […]
Yohn apologizes for outburst during July court appearance; case now on November jury docket
QUINCY — The case against Bradley Yohn, who has been charged with four Class X felonies in connection with a Nov. 9, 2021 sexual assault, now is on the November jury docket. Yohn, 35, appeared in Adams County Circuit Court with public defender Todd Nelson on Wednesday morning before Judge Roger Thomson. The jury trial is […]
Ask MRN: Why were the Amtrak trains cancelled this week?
UPDATE (3 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 3): Marc Magliari, senior public relations manager, said Amtrak is providing chartered buses from Thursday, Aug. 4 through Sunday, Aug. 7 as a replacement for the Carl Sandburg train. Customers who already purchased Amtrak tickets have been notified of the change. Dear MRN: My morning Amtrak train from Chicago to […]
Daily Dirt: A tip o’ the hat to Tina, Whitney, Joan … and Enos Cabell?
Daily Dirt for Tuesday, Aug. 2, 2022 Tina Turner and Enos Cabell kind of share today’s spotlight … Welcome to today’s three thoughts that make up Vol. 357 of The Daily Dirt. 1. Today we close our look at the best female pop singers of that incredible era wrapped around the 1960s, 1970s and 1980s. […]
Westview irrigation, Klingner trail expansion in Park District plans, but marina’s future in question
QUINCY — The installation of an irrigation system at Westview Golf Course appears to be the next extensive project in the immediate future for the Quincy Park District. The development of Phase 5 of the Bill Klingner Trail from Parker Heights to Lincoln Park appears to be the next extensive project for a few years […]
Judge rules Marion County prosecuting attorney’s office must be recused in case against Hannibal attorney
HANNIBAL, Mo. — Marion County judge Holly Conger-Koenig ruled Monday afternoon that Luke Bryant, prosecuting attorney for Marion County, must be recused and Alex Ellison, prosecuting attorney in Pike County (Mo.), has been appointed as special prosecuting attorney in the case against Hannibal attorney Tyler White. Conger-Koenig listened to testimony provided Friday afternoon in Marion […]
‘The court did not appreciate the significance of the injuries’: Judge admits error, increases bond from $2,000 to $20,000 in battery case
QUINCY — Admitting “the court undoubtedly erred” Monday when setting bond in a battery case, Judge Tad Brenner increased Andrew Campbell’s bond to $20,000 during a motion hearing Thursday afternoon in Adams County Circuit Court. Campbell, who voluntarily appeared in court with public defender Christopher Pratt, was taken from the courtroom in handcuffs by four […]
YWCA Quincy to use $950,000 grant to develop housing options for ‘justice-involved individuals’
QUINCY – Maria Rench, executive director of YWCA Quincy, says the need for housing in Quincy is greater now than ever. “If you’ve read the United Way of Adams County community needs assessment, housing was the number one topic,” Rench said. “It’s hot, it’s needed, it’s the buzzword. There just isn’t enough housing for everyone.” Finding […]
Bella Ease using $425,000 DCEO grant to help people find jobs — and help employers find those people
QUINCY — Bella Ease, 707 Broadway, a family advocacy center since 2018, recently received a $425,000 grant from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity designed to help with workforce recovery for people struggling to gain meaningful employment. Forty-four organizations in Illinois are the recipients of a $20 million investment in Job Training and Economic Development Program […]
Quincy teen to be tried as adult in first-degree murder case; allegedly killed grandfather in February by striking him with handgun
QUINCY — A Quincy teen accused of murdering his grandfather will be tried as an adult. Hayden E. Schmidt, 16, made his first appearance in Adams County Circuit Court on Tuesday morning with public defender Christopher Pratt serving as counsel. “I’ve had no opportunity to talk with Mr. Schmidt outside of court today, and I […]
Former Adams County State’s Attorney appointed as special prosecutor in Wiley first-degree murder case
QUINCY — Former Adams County State’s Attorney Jon Barnard will be a special prosecutor in the case of Travis Wiley, who has been charged with first-degree murder in the death of an infant in 2018. Court records show Barnard, the state’s attorney from 2004 to 2016, entered his appearance on Tuesday, July 19 in Wiley’s case. […]
‘There’s no guarantee for tomorrow’: Yates paints picture for aldermen about what officers deal with
QUINCY — During a relatively short and uneventful meeting of the Quincy City Council, Jeff Bergman wanted to take a minute to acknowledge the lives of Quincy policemen. Bergman, a Republican alderman in Quincy’s 2nd Ward, asked Adam Yates, chief of the Quincy Police Department, to come forward near the end of Monday’s 20-minute meeting. He […]
Quincy/Adams County 911 director confident new 988 suicide prevention lifeline will be easily remembered in mental health crises
QUINCY — The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, which has existed since 2005, now is available nationwide by dialing a three-digit code – 988 – making it easier for those in crisis to get the help they need at any time. The 988 code became available nationally on July 16. “I’m willing to bet there are […]
Kirlin considering bringing World Free Fall Convention back to Quincy airport
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — The man who created and organized the World Free Fall Convention at Quincy Regional Airport from 1990 to 2001 says he’s thinking about bringing it back. Don Kirlin was one of four people inducted into the Illinois Aviation Hall of Fame during a June 16 banquet at the Holiday Inn in Champaign. […]
Letter to the Editor: Adrian should not be retained as judge
Robert Adrian’s announcement on Tuesday, July 12 that he was seeking retention as a judge was an unusual step. He targeted one specific case to mention in his retention campaign announcement: the Drew Clinton rape case. He purposefully exploited this controversy in our community in an attempt to further his professional career at the expense of […]
MRN THIS WEEK: Corey Mehaffy
MRN Editor David Adam talks with Corey Mehaffy of the Northeast Missouri Economic Development Council. As president of the NEMO EDC, Mehaffy is responsible for all economic development efforts including business retention and expansion, business attraction and entrepreneurship for Hannibal, Marion County and Ralls County.
Minnesota man coaching gymnastics in West Virginia charged in Adams County with four sexual assault felonies with children under age 13
QUINCY — A gymnastics coach from West Virginia facing four charges of predatory criminal sexual assault of a child under the age of 13 in Adams County made his first appearance Wednesday in Adams County Circuit Court with his attorney, Drew Schnack. Leonard Johnson, 63, of Rochester, Minn., was lodged in the Adams County Jail […]
Judge denies request for higher security level, restriction of public access in felony tampering case against Hannibal attorney
HANNIBAL, Mo. — A Marion County judge has denied a motion made Friday in Marion County Circuit Court to restrict access to a case against a Hannibal attorney running to become an associate judge in the 10th Judicial Circuit. Tyler White, 31, was charged in June with attempting to tamper with a victim in a […]
Woman who stole Quincy Police car pleads guilty to three felonies, gets 15-year prison sentence
Watch Mercedes Patterson drive a stolen Hyundai, then steal a Quincy Police car and drive at speeds topping 100 miles per hour on the streets of Quincy, Ill., on Dec. 22, 2021. (Video courtesy of Quincy Police Department and Adams Co. State’s Attorney’s office) QUINCY — A Quincy woman pled guilty Wednesday afternoon in Adams […]
