Top Stories
June 24, 2023 | By Megan Duncan Muddy River News Correspondent
HANNIBAL, Mo. – When Aiylinn Gower, 6, and her brother Kasen Hill, 4, held a lemonade stand and helped their mom with a garage sale, they had no idea the Hannibal Police Department would show up to issue them a citation. Aiylinn and Kasen were among the first kids to receive a “ticket” from the…
Read Full Article June 23, 2023 | By David Adam, MRN Editor
QUINCY — Quincy Mayor Mike Troup said Thursday a group of local investors recently bid on the vacant property where the Newcomb Hotel once stood, with plans to build eight three-story townhouses on the lot. A five-alarm fire gutted the historic five-story Newcomb Hotel on Sept. 6, 2013. The city demolished the building and later cleaned…
Read Full Article June 23, 2023 | By Megan Duncan Muddy River News Correspondent
HANNIBAL, Mo. – Hannibal Police Chief Jacob Nacke hopes to soon welcome new officers on board. The City of Hannibal budget was approved by the city council Tuesday night, which included 10 percent raises across the board for City of Hannibal employees. The raises were approved by council in a special meeting held on May…
Read Full Article June 22, 2023 | By David Adam, MRN Editor
QUINCY — Once Dwayne “D.D.” Fischer returned home from receiving a double lung transplant, he was determined to do things differently with his new life. “I was still in the hospital, and I said to (sons) Mike and Ryan and (wife) Janie that this was not going to be business as usual,” Fischer said. “I…
Read Full Article June 22, 2023 | By David Adam, MRN Editor
MACOMB, Ill. — A Bushnell woman pled not guilty to a felony charge of obstructing justice in connection with the June 2 first-degree murder of her husband during an arraignment in McDonough County Circuit Court on Wednesday afternoon. Patricia Purden, 37, of Bushnell appeared with her attorney, James Hoyle, before Associate Judge Nigel Graham for…
Read Full Article June 21, 2023 | By J. Robert Gough, Publisher
QUINCY — One familiar face is returning to the local airwaves while another is departing. Rajah Maples, a Northeast Missouri native and long-time reporter/anchor at KHQA-TV, is now reporting and anchoring Saturday night newscasts on WGEM-TV. Maples, a University of Missouri School of Journalism Master’s program graduate, left KHQA after seeing her role downsized as…
Read Full Article June 21, 2023 | By David Adam, MRN Editor
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. — A jury trial is scheduled for December for the former owner of the Golden Corral at 3908 Broadway in Quincy, Ill., who is accused of killing a classmate more than 30 years ago. William Christopher Niemet, 46, was arrested in February 2020 and charged with one count of first-degree murder in connection…
Read Full Article June 19, 2023 | By David Adam, MRN Editor
QUINCY — Two aldermen had sharp words for Mayor Mike Troup when an invoice from a Chicago law firm for collective bargaining negotiations was discussed at Monday’s Quincy City Council meeting. Before a vote by aldermen on a resolution to pay $8,412.15 to Ancel Glink, P.C., Richie Reis (D-6) asked for Troup to provide a…
Read Full Article June 19, 2023 | By David Adam, MRN Editor
Cleaning out a neglected cabinet, we came across an old unopened bottle of Bailey’s Irish Cream … best by 2004. It wouldn’t even pour out of the bottle. Do other alcoholic beverages get old? I know … better drink up early! What do your experts and mixologists have to say? It always helps when you…
Read Full Article June 18, 2023 | By Steve Eighinger
QUINCY — An exhausted Kalli Mullen pulled no punches when revealing her game plan after Saturday’s 19th annual Quincy Derby. “I was in it to win it,” the 14-year-old said. And she did. Almost twice. Mullen recovered from a late setback, roaring out of the Super Stock losers’ bracket to defeat 2022 champion Riley Delgado…
Read Full Article June 17, 2023 | By David Adam, MRN Editor
Dear MRN, What Quincy schools have summer school? What are the speed zone times? How long does summer school last? I just want to know where and when 20 mph speed zones are valid. Joni Goodwin, public information officer for the Quincy School District, says summer school is in session at Rooney Elementary, Quincy Junior…
Read Full Article June 17, 2023 | By J. Robert Gough, Publisher
The Chairman of the Adams County Board talks about the state’s attorney’s office, the presence of mold in the building and what projects the county has its eyes on for the future. MRN This Week is furnished by Harvey’s.
Read Full Article June 17, 2023 | By David Adam, MRN Editor
QUINCY — The seemingly never-ending saga of Bradley Yohn in Adams County Circuit Court may finally be close to a trial. At the end of a Friday morning motion hearing, Yohn informed Judge Roger Thomson he had four more motions he wanted to file. Thomson (who lives in Havana) agreed to have another motion hearing…
Read Full Article June 17, 2023 | By David Adam, MRN Editor
MRN Editor David Adam talks with Mike McCaughey about the local insurance agency’s recent conversion to join the national brand of Gallagher Insurance. Mercantile Bank sponsors the Business Spotlight.
Read Full Article June 16, 2023 | By Megan Duncan Muddy River News Correspondent
CENTER, Mo. — Veterans returning home from the Great River Honor Flight to Ralls County Elementary School Thursday evening received a warm welcome that might not have happened when they came home the first time. Thirty-three veterans were on board of the 65th Great River Honor Flight for their whirlwind trip to Washington DC on…
Read Full Article June 15, 2023 | By David Adam, MRN Editor
QUINCY — The Quincy Police Department recently learned Adams County is now eligible to begin receiving people deemed by the courts as low-risk sexually violent. Det. James Brown said the program has been available in Quincy for about two weeks, and the first person was released in Quincy last week. “We’re having more people who,…
Read Full Article June 15, 2023 | By David Adam, MRN Editor
QUINCY — Judge Roger Thomson denied a series of motions Wednesday afternoon by Bradley Yohn with less than a month remaining before his trial starts July 10. Near the end of the meeting in Adams County Circuit Court, Yohn handed Thomson 12 more motions. Exasperated, Thomson scheduled Friday morning for both sides to review Yohn’s…
Read Full Article June 14, 2023 | By David Adam, MRN Editor
CARTHAGE, Ill. — When the City of Carthage bought the Legacy Theater from Carl Sandburg College for $100 in 2016, the plan was for the theater eventually to operate on its own. That plan came to fruition last month. The Carthage City Council approved May 9 an agreement allowing the board of the Legacy Theater…
Read Full Article June 14, 2023 | By J. Robert Gough, Publisher
QUINCY — After several Adams County employees demanded to see a preliminary environmental report done on the courthouse for mold, Adams County officials turned over the report to the employees. About a dozen employees attended the Transportation, Building, and Technology that preceded the Adams County Board Tuesday night because they were told they would get…
Read Full Article June 13, 2023 | By Muddy River News
ST. LOUIS – On Tuesday, U.S. District Court Judge Audrey G. Fleissig sentenced a former longtime deputy Missouri juvenile officer to seven years in prison for engaging in illegal sex acts with a 15-year-oldwho was living in an Illinois group home. Judge Fleissig also ordered Scott F. Burow, 63, of Hannibal, to pay $7,500 in…
Read Full Article June 13, 2023 | By J. Robert Gough, Publisher
QUINCY — Niemann Foods, Inc. (NFI) is redeveloping its store at 48th and Broadway. The company announced the move on Tuesday, but is keeping the plans of what the final project will be under wraps for now. “Niemann’s is very excited to bring this concept to their home town of Quincy,” said Gerry Kettler, NFI Director…
Read Full Article June 13, 2023 | By David Adam, MRN Editor
QUINCY — Mayor Mike Troup opened Monday’s Quincy City Council meeting by telling aldermen a Seattle-based group has bought the former Eagle’s Nest hotel at 300 Gardner Expressway. The sale price was not immediately available, but Troup said the transaction was completed last week. The previous owner was Q ILL Development LLC, with Ted Siebers…
Read Full Article June 12, 2023 | By J. Robert Gough, Publisher
QUINCY – CBS News is in Quincy this week for production work on its “48 Hours” segment on the Tim Bliefnick murder case. On May 31, Bliefnick was found guilty of killing his estranged wife, Becky, on Feb. 23, shooting her 14 times as they couple fought over a bitter divorce for two years. While…
Read Full Article June 12, 2023 | By J. Robert Gough, Publisher
The incoming president of Culver-Stockton College is no stranger to The Hill. Lauren Schellenberger talks about her new role, her love and familiarity with the college and what knowledge she has taken from her predecessors. MRN This Week is furnished by Harvey’s.
Read Full Article June 11, 2023 | By Ron Kinscherf, Muddy River News Correspondent
Ron Kinscherf talks to the coordinator of graduate and professional studies at Quincy University about how the school is adapting to the needs of supporting today’s students and tomorrow’s workforce and educators. Mercantile Bank sponsors the Business Spotlight.
Read Full Article June 10, 2023 | By Nina Totenberg, NPR
WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Supreme Court on June 1 revived two whistleblower lawsuits that allege Safeway and SuperValu overcharged the government for prescription drugs to the tune of $200 million. The cases involved allegations that major retail pharmacies across the country knowingly overcharged Medicaid and Medicare by overstating what their “usual and customary prices”…
Read Full Article June 10, 2023 | By David Adam, MRN Editor
QUINCY — Legislation introduced by Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias aims to protect the privacy and safety of people seeking abortion care by restricting the use of license plate readers. House Bill 3326, which passed the Illinois General Assembly last month, awaits Gov. JB Pritzker’s consideration. Illinois would be the first state to prohibit…
Read Full Article June 9, 2023 | By David Adam, MRN Editor
QUINCY — A Camp Point woman was sentenced Friday morning to 48 months of probation and 180 days in the Adams County Jail for her involvement in a February 2022 criminal sexual assault case. Judge Tad Brenner said he had lost sleep while determining what to do with the case and made his ruling with…
Read Full Article June 9, 2023 | By Megan Duncan Muddy River News Correspondent
HANNIBAL, Mo. — Hannibal City Council members unanimously voted Tuesday not to retain Angel Zerbonia as city clerk. The vote was taken during a closed session meeting on Tuesday after the regularly scheduled City Council meeting. Zerbonia had been on paid administrative leave since November 2022 and under investigation by an independent third party since…
Read Full Article June 9, 2023 | By David Adam, MRN Editor
QUINCY — A Texas man who is the founder of Sanctuary Cities for the Unborn will speak Friday night in Father McGivney Hall at the Knights of Columbus, 700 S. 36th, about the process for achieving a city ordinance that would call for prohibiting abortions in Quincy, a move that would be in direct conflict with state…
Read Full Article June 8, 2023 | By David Adam, MRN Editor
QUINCY — After months of complaining of how he’s been beaten and mistreated in the Adams County Jail, Bradley Yohn may soon be getting a new home. Judge Frank McCartney first sentenced Yohn on Wednesday in Adams County Circuit Court to seven years in the Illinois Department of Corrections. An Adams County jury found him…
Read Full Article June 7, 2023 | By Muddy River News
BUSHNELL, Ill. — The Illinois State Police Division of Criminal Investigation has arrested Davin M. Purden, 18, and Nicholas C. Lafary, 17, both of Bushnell, for first-degree murder. ISP investigators were asked June 2 to conduct a death investigation in the 600 block of Osbourne Street in Bushnell. During the investigation, Travis Purden, 43, was…
Read Full Article June 7, 2023 | By Megan Duncan Muddy River News Correspondent
HANNIBAL, Mo. – James Hark submitted his resignation, effective immediately, as mayor of the City of Hannibal on Tuesday afternoon in a letter addressed and emailed to the Hannibal City Council, city manager and city clerk. Hark told Muddy River News that growing obligations and a coming expansion at his full-time job will take away…
Read Full Article June 7, 2023 | By Megan Duncan Muddy River News Correspondent
HANNIBAL, Mo. — An investigation into work done by City Clerk Angel Zerbonia is complete, but the public will not know the results for a few more days. After the Tuesday’s meetings, the Hannibal City Council reconvened for closed session to talk about retaining Zerbonia. Hannibal City Attorney James Lemon reported the council needed information…
Read Full Article June 6, 2023 | By J. Robert Gough, Publisher
HANNIBAL, Mo. — In a letter addressed to Hannibal’s city council, city clerk and city manager, Mayor Jim Hark has tendered his resignation. The Hannibal City Council has its regularly scheduled meeting tonight at 7 p.m. at Hannibal City Hall. Councilman and Mayor Pro Tem Mike Dobson will serve as the interim mayor until a…
Read Full Article June 6, 2023 | By Ashley Conrad, Daily Muddy Host
Muddy River Sports Editor Matt Schuckman’s Facebook brainchild has evolved into a real-life taste test. Muddy Buddies will spend the summer going around Q-Town to experience the best in local sandwiches. After you’ve had a chance to follow along, you can vote at the end of the summer to see which one is the city’s…
Read Full Article June 6, 2023 | By Megan Duncan Muddy River News Correspondent
HANNIBAL, Mo. — Marion County Associate Judge John J. Jackson granted on Friday a motion to dismiss impeachment charges against Stephan Franke, who represents the Third Ward on the Hannibal City Council. Jackson was appointed to preside over the impeachment proceedings after Hannibal Municipal Court Judge Donald M. Bastian recused himself in October 2022. Articles…
Read Full Article June 6, 2023 | By David Adam, MRN Editor
QUINCY — Before Monday’s Quincy City Council meeting started, Mayor Mike Troup thanked the Quincy Police Department for its work in the recently completed Tim Bliefnick case. A jury of six men and six women found Bliefnick guilty last Wednesday on two counts of first-degree murder and one count of home invasion in the Feb.…
Read Full Article June 5, 2023 | By David Adam, MRN Editor
QUINCY — A Quincy man facing two felony charges for his involvement in a May 30, 2022, crash at 12th and Locust that killed a Quincy woman on Memorial Day last year will spend three years in the Illinois Department of Corrections — and the victim’s husband wasn’t satisfied with the outcome. Breeden Wike, 21, appeared…
Read Full Article June 5, 2023 | By Mark McDonald and Randy Phillips
Mark McDonald and Randy Phillips take you to Hannibal and talk to Faye Dant about Jim’s Journey, which is The Huck Finn Freedom Center honoring Daniel Quarles, the prototype for Jim in Adventures of Huckleberry Finn and the man who lived and died in Hannibal. Dot Foods brings you Muddy River Gems.
Read Full Article June 4, 2023 | By J. Robert Gough, Publisher
Miss Quincy Shelby Rose heads to the Miss Illinois Pageant in Marion this week. She talks about pageant life, her platform “Fostering Hope” and college life as a student at the University of Alabama. She also discusses her participation in a documentary on sorority recruitment on campus called “Bama Rush”. Muddy River News is furnished…
Read Full Article June 3, 2023 | By J. Robert Gough, Publisher
The two Adams County prosecutors who tried the Tim Bliefnick murder case reflect on the case and what the ramifications could possibly be. We did have a slight audio issue with this so we apologize in advance. MRN This Week is furnished by Harvey’s.
Read Full Article June 3, 2023 | By Steve Eighinger
QUINCY — The 19th annual Quincy Derby is set for June 16-17 on the 18th Street hill bordering Bob Mays Park. Champions will be crowned in Super Stock, Stock, Masters Elite and and Super Kids divisions. Aiden McConnell, race director for the event once known as the Soap Box Derby, says the response has been…
Read Full Article June 2, 2023 | By J. Robert Gough, Publisher
MRN Publisher J. Robert Gough had a text conversation Friday morning with a juror who wished to remain anonymous as they didn’t know if any other jurors were or had been talking to the media. MRN: “Was there a first head count? Like 10 guilty, 2 not guilty? What was the feel of the room?…
Read Full Article June 2, 2023 | By David Adam, MRN Editor
GOLDEN, Ill. — The color of three park benches caused quite a stir last month in Golden, but a decision by the village’s mayor could help quiet the controversy. Mayor Jim McClintock told Muddy River News Thursday afternoon that rainbow-colored park benches in front of the public library and in City Park will be restored…
Read Full Article June 1, 2023 | By Muddy River News
QUINCY — Casey Schnack, defense attorney for Tim Bliefnick, released a statement Thursday regarding his Wednesday conviction on two counts of First Degree Murder and one count of Home Invasion: “On behalf of myself, Tim and the entire Bliefnick family, I would like to thank the jurors for their hard work and effort they put…
Read Full Article June 1, 2023 | By Megan Duncan Muddy River News Correspondent
HANNIBAL, Mo. — Hannibal City Council voted during a special meeting held Wednesday night to approve approximately 10 percent raises for Hannibal city employees, including policemen and firefighters. Councilman Stephan Franke explained the raises are described as “approximate 10 percent increases” because of pay scales per the union contracts of police officers and firefighters. Franke said…
Read Full Article May 31, 2023 | By J. Robert Gough, Publisher
QUINCY — A jury of six men and six women found Tim Bliefnick guilty Wednesday on two counts of First Degree Murder and one count of Home Invasion in the Feb. 23 shooting death of his estranged wife Rebecca Bliefnick. The Adams County jury took 4 hours and 15 minutes to decide Bliefnick’s fate. Bliefnick…
Read Full Article CourtTV experts call Jones' closing 'excellent,' say Tim Bliefnick had 'worst possible defense ever'
May 31, 2023 | By David Adam, MRN Editor
QUINCY — Commentators on CourtTV Wednesday afternoon were complimentary of Assistant State’s Attorney Josh Jones’ closing statement in the Tim Bliefnick trial while suggesting the defendant change his last name to “Disbelief-nick.” Tim Bliefnick is accused of shooting Becky Bliefnick multiple times at her Kentucky Road home on Feb. 23. Tim was arrested on March…
Read Full Article May 31, 2023 | By J. Robert Gough, Publisher
QUINCY — Judge Robert Adrian sent the jury in Tim Bliefnick’s first-degree murder trial out to deliberate at 12:45 p.m. Wednesday. Assistant State’s Attorney Josh Jones and defense attorney Casey Schnack presented their closing statements Wednesday morning. Jones began his closing with his basic case of Tim riding a bike to Becky’s house, climbing on…
Read Full Article May 31, 2023 | By David Adam, MRN Editor
QUINCY — A detective with the Quincy Police Department explained Tuesday afternoon to the six-man, six-woman jury in the Tim Bliefnick trial the evidence recovered from home surveillance systems, as well as multiple electronic devices, links Tim to the murder of his estranged wife. Tim Bliefnick is accused of shooting Becky Bliefnick multiple times at…
Read Full Article May 30, 2023 | By David Adam, MRN Editor
QUINCY — No evidence will be presented, and only one witness could be called Wednesday morning by defense attorney Casey Schnack in the Tim Bliefnick trial. The decision to have Tim testify in his own trial won’t be made public until both sides return to Adams County Circuit Court at 8:45 a.m. Tim Bliefnick is…
Read Full Article May 30, 2023 | By J. Robert Gough, Publisher
QUINCY — An Illinois State Police (ISP) ballistics expert with 26 years of experience testified that eight shell casings found by the slain body of Becky Bliefnick were fired by the same gun as 27 shell casings found in her estranged husband’s basement. Tim Bliefnick’s first-degree murder trial resumed Tuesday morning. He is accused of…
Read Full Article May 30, 2023 | By J. Robert Gough, Publisher
QUINCY — A former cross-fit partner of Becky Bliefnick’s testified Becky sent her Facebook messages in March 2022 saying she was nervous about how her divorce from Tim Bliefnick was going to turn out. Christine Mandel, who is from Quincy but now lives in California, worked with Becky Bliefnick at Q-Town CrossFit. Mandel was sobbing…
Read Full Article May 30, 2023 | By Muddy River News
CANTON, Mo. — The Culver-Stockton College Board of Trustee members recently unanimously approved Lauren B. Schellenberger, provost and vice president for academic affairs, to become the 28th president of Culver-Stockton College on July 1. “Culver-Stockton College is a place where students of promise experience transformational growth through a distinctive curriculum and outstanding opportunities for student…
Read Full Article May 30, 2023 | By Steve Eighinger
QUINCY — When Norman Haerr thinks back to the great flood of 1973, he will always believe it served as a reminder. “The Lord was letting us know that he’s in charge,” Haerr, a resident of Taylor Mo., said. This spring marks the 50th anniversary of the devastating event that saw the Mississippi River overflow…
Read Full Article May 29, 2023 | By Don Crim
QUINCY – The last day of school can be bittersweet. While students and teachers are eager for a leisurely summer break after a nine-month learning marathon, it also marks an end of a chapter. Educators will have a new crop of students, and kids will have a new teacher and set of classmates, when school resumes…
Read Full Article May 29, 2023 | By David Adam, MRN Editor
PITTSFIELD, Ill. — Christina Butler is thrilled the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund is recognizing her father, Gary Butler, next month. She says she’s equally excited others like her father also are being remembered. “We’re recognizing all people who serve our country,” she said. “It’s not just about my dad. It’s really important to continue to…
Read Full Article May 28, 2023 | By Muddy River News
HANNIBAL, Mo. — A Hannibal teenager was killed Saturday night in a crash three miles outside of Hannibal on Route M in Ralls County. The Missouri State Highway Patrol reports a 2014 Nissan Pathfinder was westbound on Route M at 8:26 p.m. and travelled off the right side of the road. The vehicle returned to the…
Read Full Article May 28, 2023 | By J. Robert Gough, Publisher
The director of Quincy/Adams County 9-1-1 talks about upgrades to the system and what it takes to be on the front line of response with someone is in danger. MRN This Week is furnished by Harvey’s.
Read Full Article May 28, 2023 | By David Adam, MRN Editor
Dear MRN, I recently read a story online that claimed the cheapest day of the week to buy gas is Monday. Is that true? GasBuddy released a study in February 2022 that determined Monday offered the lowest average gas prices in 2021 in most of the United States, including Illinois, Michigan and Virginia. Monday also was…
Read Full Article May 27, 2023 | By David Adam, MRN Editor
QUINCY —Becky Bliefnick was shot 14 times in the bathroom of her home on Feb. 23 but was still alive for several minutes as she bled to death, according to testimony given Friday morning during the Tim Bliefnick trial in Adams County Circuit Court. Tim Bliefnick is accused of shooting Becky Bliefnick multiple times at…
Read Full Article May 26, 2023 | By David Adam, MRN Editor
QUINCY — Google searches and website visits for identifying if shotgun shells are shot out of a specific gun, opening a window from the outside with a crowbar and cleaning gunpowder off your hands were among the many results discovered in extractions of Tim Bliefnick’s computer and cellphone. Those results dominated the second half of…
Read Full Article May 26, 2023 | By J. Robert Gough, Publisher
Video testimony from the Tim Bliefnick murder trial from May 25, 2023.
Read Full Article May 26, 2023 | By David Adam, MRN Editor
QUINCY — A Palmyra man facing charges of first-degree murder in September 2021 received a 25-year sentence after entering an Alford plea on Thursday morning to an amended charge of voluntary manslaughter. Raymond D. Gum, 36, appeared in Shelby County Circuit Court with public defender Austin Smith during a hearing before Judge Frederick Tucker. Gum…
Read Full Article May 25, 2023 | By Muddy River News
QUINCY — A Quincy teenager is wanted by the Quincy Police Department in connection to a shooting incident Wednesday night on Jefferson Street between 11th and 12th Streets. The Adams County State’s Attorney’s Office obtained an arrest warrant on Thursday for Victor A. Weems III, 19, for aggravated discharge of a firearm. Weems is considered armed and…
Read Full Article May 25, 2023 | By J. Robert Gough, Publisher
QUINCY — Three members of the Quincy Police Department explained the evidence-gathering process that led to the arrest of Tim Bliefnick, who is charged with the Feb. 23 murder of his estranged wife, Becky Bliefnick. The fourth day of the murder trial was conducted in Adams County Circuit Court. The trial is scheduled to resume…
Read Full Article May 25, 2023 | By Muddy River News
FROM THE QUINCY POLICE DEPARTMENT: QUINCY — Just after 10 p.m. Wednesday, Quincy Police Department officers were dispatched to a report of shots fired in the 1100 Block of Jefferson. Upon arrival, officers located female victim, 47, who was taken to Blessing Hospital before being life-flighted to Springfield for treatment of injuries. This does not…
Read Full Article May 25, 2023 | By David Adam, MRN Editor
QUINCY — The Quincy Police Department responded Wednesday night to a call of shots fired on Jefferson Street between 11th and 12th Street moments after an alleged altercation in the LaGondola Spaghetti House parking lot. Sgt. Nick Hiland said officers responded to a call around 10:15 p.m. Upon arrival, officers found a shooting victim at 1110 Jefferson.…
Read Full Article May 24, 2023 | By David Adam, MRN Editor
QUINCY — A Quincy Police Department detective said Tim Bliefnick cooperated with investigators on the night of Feb. 23, shortly after his wife was found dead in her home. Tim Bliefnick is on trial this week in Adams County Circuit Court. He is accused of shooting Becky Bliefnick multiple times at her Kentucky Road home…
Read Full Article May 24, 2023 | By David Adam, MRN Editor
QUINCY — Adams County Assistant State’s Attorneys Josh Jones and Laura Keck paraded a series of witnesses Wednesday afternoon before the jury in the Tim Bliefnick murder trial. Each of them said Bliefnick’s estranged wife, Becky, had reached out to talk and text about her fears and concerns as the couple went through a contentious…
Read Full Article May 24, 2023 | By J. Robert Gough, Publisher
QUINCY — Tim Bliefnick filed for divorce from Becky Bliefnick in Jan. 2021. For the next two years, according to testimony in Adams County Circuit Court Wednesday morning, the two didn’t agree on very much, but it appeared the divorce might finally be getting close to final in late Feb. 2023 But Becky Bliefnick didn’t…
Read Full Article May 24, 2023 | By J. Robert Gough, Publisher
QUINCY — MRN Publisher Bob Gough and Editor David Adam will provide real time updates via social media. You can follow via Twitter @MuddyNews or on the Muddy River News Facebook page. As the trial breaks for lunch, Muddy River News will prepare a brief report on the morning’s happenings in the afternoon. Also, we will replay the morning’s…
Read Full Article May 23, 2023 | By David Adam, MRN Editor
QUINCY — The sister of Becky Bliefnick testified on Tuesday afternoon that Becky sent her a text in 2021, telling her that “if something ever happens to me, make sure the No. 1 person of interest is Tim.” Tim Bliefnick, Becky’s estranged husband, is on trial this week in Adams County Circuit Court for the…
Read Full Article May 23, 2023 | By J. Robert Gough, Publisher
QUINCY — Adams County Assistant State’s Attorney Josh Jones painted a picture of the last moments of Becky Bliefnick’s life, describing fear, panic and death and accusing Tim Bliefnick of shooting her 14 times. Jones presented the prosecution’s opening statements before a jury of six men and six women Tuesday morning. Jones described the crime…
Read Full Article May 23, 2023 | By David Adam, MRN Editor
QUINCY — The Quincy City Council voted to execute a grant agreement with the Federal Aviation Administration and the Illinois Department of Transportation for $12,971,382 as part of fourth phase of Quincy Regional Airport’s runway reconstruction project. U.S. Senators Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and Dick Durbin (D-IL) announced last week that $14.2 million in federal funding…
Read Full Article May 22, 2023 | By J. Robert Gough, Publisher
QUINCY — A six-man and six-woman jury was selected Monday to hear testimony in Tim Bliefnick’s first-degree murder case beginning Tuesday. Bliefnick is charged with two counts of first-degree murder and one count of home invasion in connection with the Feb. 23 shooting death of his estranged wife, Rebecca Bliefnick. Jury selection lasted about 8…
Read Full Article May 22, 2023 | By Muddy River News
HANNIBAL, Mo. — A Hannibal man has been arrested and charged with first-degree assault and second-degree murder in connection with the Jan. 25 death of Taurean Snoddy. Robert J. O’Connell, 36, was arrested Friday, May 19 by detectives with the Hannibal Police Department on a warrant issued by the 10th Judicial District of Marion County. O’Connell…
Read Full Article May 22, 2023 | By Daniel Seiden, Bloomberg Law
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Two whistleblowers on April 18 asked the U.S. Supreme Court to revive their False Claims Act cases, contending a lower court applied an improper knowledge standard when it rejected their claims that a pair of supermarkets overcharged the government for prescription drugs. One of the whistleblowers is Tracy Schutte, a Payson, Ill.,…
Read Full Article May 21, 2023 | By Ron Kinscherf, Muddy River News Correspondent
The president of Dot Foods talks to MRN’s Ron Kinscherf about his long history with the food distribution giant and his role as the first person outside the Tracy family to hold this title at the company. Mercantile Bank sponsors the Business Spotlight.
Read Full Article May 20, 2023 | By David Adam, MRN Editor
The new president of the Quincy Park District Board of Commissioners talks to MRN Editor David Adam about being elected president at his first meeting and what his vision is for the future of the Park District.
Read Full Article May 20, 2023 | By David Adam, MRN Editor
QUINCY — Andrew Mays says Quincy Catholic Schools is looking for a strategic thinker who can guide the newly created organization of parochial schools. “Schools have done their thing, the way that they’ve done it in the parochial model, for the last whatever years,” he said. “That has some struggles in today’s world. We’re trying…
Read Full Article May 19, 2023 | By Steve Eighinger
QUINCY — Ruth Shireman was a bit upset — in a good-natured way, of course — when her age was revealed at Friday’s 57th annual Quincy Exchange Club’s Public Safety Appreciation luncheon. The 88-year-old Shireman was named the Citizen of the Year, a tribute that has been part of the Exchange Club program for five…
Read Full Article May 19, 2023 | By Muddy River News
QUINCY — A narcotics detail aimed at targeting the possession and distribution of narcotics in Quincy and Adams County led to the arrests of 13 people. In a coordinated effort with the Illinois State Police, Adams County Sheriff’s Department, United States Marshal Service, Davenport Police Department and West Central Illinois Task Force, the Quincy Police Department…
Read Full Article May 19, 2023 | By J. Robert Gough, Publisher
QUINCY — Jury selection begins Monday in the first-degree murder trial of Tim Bliefnick, who is accused of fatally shooting his estranged wife three months ago. Bliefnick and his attorney, Casey Schnack, appeared before Judge Robert Adrian along with Assistant State’s Attorneys Josh Jones and Laura Keck Friday morning. The attorneys confirmed no plea arrangements…
Read Full Article May 19, 2023 | By J. Robert Gough, Publisher
QUINCY — The Quincy Knights of Columbus Council 583 started their weekly lottery drawing 94 weeks ago with 100 numbers. You wouldn’t figure the number would be pulled early, but 94 weeks? So with six numbers remaining Thursday night, a couple thousand people filled two halls, a parking lot, a sand volleyball court and a…
Read Full Article May 18, 2023 | By Muddy River News
QUINCY — Maureen Kahn, President/CEO of Blessing Health, has elected move up her retirement date earlier than previously announced. Kahn. will now retire effective July 1. Last November, she had announced she was retiring in October 2023. She will now remain as an executive consultant until October 6. Brian Canfield was announced as Kahn’s successor…
Read Full Article May 18, 2023 | By Muddy River News
The Quincy Police Department hosted a public safety town hall meeting Wednesday evening at the Quincy Public Library. About 20 people attended as Chief Adam Yates and other QPD administrators discussed policy, procedures and working with the community. Video provided by Randy Industries.
Read Full Article May 17, 2023 | By Jodi Pospeschil
MACOMB, Ill. – When Tessie Morton of Keokuk, Iowa, crossed the commencement stage at Western Illinois University last weekend, she became the 17th member of her family to graduate from Western. As her name was called during one of two undergraduate ceremonies, Tessie was joined on stage by her mother, Sherry Morton, of Lucas, Texas,…
Read Full Article May 16, 2023 | By David Adam, MRN Editor
QUINCY — A spokesperson for Marx Commercial Properties and Development Company confirmed Tuesday that Planet Fitness will move into a building at 30th and Broadway, with a projected opening in the fourth quarter of 2023. Chuck Bevelheimer, director of planning and development, said in October that property owner Tom Marx planned to convert the former County…
Read Full Article May 16, 2023 | By Muddy River News
QUINCY — Area residents in need of magnetic resonance imaging and their healthcare providers will soon have a new option for body scanning technology that helps to diagnose illness and injury. Blessing Health recently received a new 3T MRI. The 16,500-pound unit was moved into its new home in the Blessing Health Center, 927 Broadway,…
Read Full Article May 16, 2023 | By David Adam, MRN Editor
QUINCY — Five people who have participated in the city’s downtown rental rehabilitation program thanked aldermen during Monday night’s Quincy City Council meeting. Funds from the city’s Tax Increment Finance program are set aside as a financial incentive to the owner(s) of existing buildings in the downtown TIF Districts for the renovation of market-rate residential…
Read Full Article May 15, 2023 | By David Adam, MRN Editor
QUINCY — Quincy Mayor Mike Troup has created an ad hoc committee that has been tasked with reducing the number of committees. The Quincy City Council approved Monday the appointments of five aldermen — Greg Fletcher (R-1), Dave Bauer (D-2), Kelly Mays (R-3), Mike Farha (R-4) and Ben Uzelac (D-7) — as well as Director…
Read Full Article May 15, 2023 | By David Adam, MRN Editor
QUINCY — The owner of IHOP Restaurant, 3311 Broadway is closing because of difficulty in hiring employees and new paid leave laws. Owner Larry McDonald posted a sign on the door at the restaurant after it closed for the last time Saturday night. It read, “Unfortunately, our local IHOP has closed its doors. We will…
Read Full Article May 15, 2023 | By Muddy River News
QUINCY — In 2022, 245 police officers gave the ultimate sacrifice for the greater good: their lives. On Monday morning, the Quincy Police Department honored all fallen police officers with a ceremony where the QPD Honor Guard lowered flags at half-staff. Video by MRN Publisher J. Robert Gough
Read Full Article May 15, 2023 | By David Adam, MRN Editor
QUINCY — A Quincy woman who survived a 2 ½-year medical nightmare has created a support group to help all women deal with life’s challenges. Kaleidoscope meets on the second Wednesday and fourth Monday of each month at 7 p.m. in Luther Memorial Church, 1210 Jersey. Group founder Kala Breder created the group in October…
Read Full Article May 14, 2023 | By J. Robert Gough, Publisher
Police Chief Adam Yates talks to MRN’s Bob Gough about this week’s QPD town hall meeting at the Quincy Public Library and other issues as he wraps up his first year of leading the department. MRN This Week is furnished by Harvey’s.
Read Full Article May 13, 2023 | By Steve Eighinger
Dear MRN, I was at a meeting when someone mentioned that the Popemobile was manufactured in West Quincy, Mo. Is that true? Terry Traeder remembers the time very well. The Quincy businessman was asked 25 years ago to provide a specially made vehicle for Pope John Paul II, who would be visiting St. Louis the…
Read Full Article May 12, 2023 | By J. Robert Gough, Publisher
QUINCY – Judge Robert Adrian has denied a petition sought by local media outlets to unseal all motions in the first-degree murder case of Tim Bliefnick. Adrian issued his ruling Friday. Rebecca Bliefnick was found shot to death in her home on Feb. 23. Her estranged husband, Tim, was arrested on March 13 and entered…
Read Full Article May 12, 2023 | By Ron Kinscherf, Muddy River News Correspondent
QUINCY — After spending many hours at The Red Dome Inn, his uncle’s establishment in Pittsfield, J.D. Goodwin always had in the back of his mind that he wanted to try running his own place. “I loved that place. What awesome memories,” he said. “But yeah, there was just an opportunity. It was on my bucket…
Read Full Article April 24, 2024
DAILY MUDDY: NURSES WEEK AND EFB'S COFFEE TALK
Current Weather
46°
TODAY
Partly cloudy this morning, then becoming cloudy during the afternoon. High 64F. Winds ESE at 10 to 15 mph.
FRI
69°
65°
SAT
84°
66°
SUN
75°
61°
MON
71°
53°
TUE
81°
59°
Trending Stories
-
Quincy man facing aggravated battery with deadly weapon charges after 77-year-old woman is stabbed
QUINCY — A Quincy man is in the Adams County Jail after he was arrested in Payson on Monday in... -
Quincy Family YMCA announces multiple changes in leadership positions
QUINCY — The Quincy Family YMCA recently announced several key leadership transitions within its organization. Kristen Lay, formerly director of... -
Eight apply for judge appointment in Eighth Judicial Circuit; seven named to screening committee
QUINCY — Justice Lisa Holder White of the Supreme Court of Illinois has announced the formation of a seven-member judicial... -
Adams County Sheriff’s Department receives several reports of vehicles stolen or broken into
QUINCY — The Adams County Sheriff's Department received several reports of vehicles stolen or broken into during this past weekend.... -
Memorial Hospital director of health promotion elected co-chair for lifestyle medicine group
CARTHAGE, Ill. — Kara Andrew, Memorial Hospital director of health promotion, has been elected to serve a three-year term as...