Category: Uncategorized
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KARA GRAINGER TO PERFORM AT 2026 BLUES IN THE DISTRICT CONCERT ON JULY 10
More Info: KARA GRAINGER TO PERFORM AT 2026 BLUES IN THE DISTRICT CONCERT ON JULY 10Hours Today: By appointment only
Blues In The District, a beloved tradition in Quincy, IL, draws music lovers together to celebrate the soulful, emotional, and electrifying sounds of the Blues. Kara Grainger will take the stage at 5:30pm on Friday, July 10 in Washington Park. Kara, a talented songwriter and ace guitarist, is an Australian and Nashville-based artist that was deeply influenced by the sounds that flowed out of Memphis, Tennessee in the 1960s and 70s.
“This third concert in the Blues In The District series brings the sounds of Tennessee from a unique artist that is sure to entertain,” stated Executive Director Brianna Rivera. “Kara is a crowd-pleaser with her voice and guitar skills.” In addition to Blessing Health System in partnership with Quincy Children’s Museum children’s activities families will enjoy food from two local establishments—Platt Daddy BBQ & Big Bro’s BBQ. TCBY will be in the park with frozen yogurt treats as well.
“Started in 1998, 2026 marks the 29th series of Blues In The District,” stated Executive Director Brianna Rivera. “This year’s line up is once again top notch. We look forward to seeing everyone enjoy this beloved tradition. We invite everyone to bring food and drinks, lawn chairs and friends for a great time in Washington Park.” The District reminds attendees that tents and glass containers are not allowed.
Blues In The District takes place the second and fourth Friday of June, July, and August. Additional performers in the 2026 Blues In The District lineup include Matt Roberts Blues Band – July 25, Brandon Santini – August 14, & Ray Long & the Highway 61 Band – August 28. For more information about food vendors, and entertainment for children visit thedistrictquincy.com.
“We couldn’t host these concerts without our sponsors,” stated Rivera. “The sponsors for this concert include: Treader TnT, Be Dry Roofing, and Quincy Recycle.” A very special thanks goes out to our merch sponsor, Expressions by Christine; our stay sponsor, The Atrium; and our media sponsor, Townsquare Media.” Blues In The District, along with band merchandise, will be available in The District’s red tent near the stage.
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Light The District
More Info: Light The DistrictHours Today: By appointment only
Years ago, during the holiday season, Washington Park was aglow with lights strung from the trees and along the gazebo making The District a holiday destination for visitors. That hasn’t been the case in the past few years, but The District Board is trying to bring back the festive cheer.
The City of Quincy decorates every other light pole with garland and lights down Maine Street and several months ago a committee was formed to explore additional possibilities. We surveyed our members and business owners to gain more insight on what our community would like to see this season and the nostalgia of years past is top of the list.
Our first priority is to bring back a picturesque holiday atmosphere in the park, followed by adding decorations to the bare light poles along Maine. The list continues and depending on the generosity of the community, much more could be in store. Awerkamp Machine Company has already agreed to build a stunning centerpiece for the park, but are still in need of funds. We have an estimate of $15,000 to complete the decoration project.
We are reaching out to you today for support of this project. It always amazes us how Quincyians come together when asked to improve our city. Any donation would be greatly appreciated by The District Board and our community as a whole. All donations are tax deductible.As always, thank you for your continued support. If there is anything that we can do to assist you, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Sincerely,
Bruce Guthrie -
LIL’ ED & THE BLUES IMPERIALS TO WRAP UP THE 2025 BLUES IN THE DISTRICT CONCERTS AUGUST 22
More Info: LIL’ ED & THE BLUES IMPERIALS TO WRAP UP THE 2025 BLUES IN THE DISTRICT CONCERTS AUGUST 22Hours Today: By appointment only
Blues In The District, a beloved tradition in Quincy, IL, draws music lovers together to celebrate the soulful, emotional, and electrifying sounds of the Blues. Lil’ Ed & The Blues Imperials will take the stage at 5:30pm on Friday, August 22 in Washington Park—the final concert in the 2025 Blues In The District series. Lil’ Ed and The Blues Imperials have headlined major festivals across the U.S.—including Chicago Blues Festival, New Orleans Jazz & Heritage, and Portland’s Waterfront Blues—and toured internationally in Canada, Europe, Asia, Australia, and beyond.
“It is truly hard to believe that this is our final concert in the Blues In The District series,” stated Executive Director Brianna Rivera. “We chose Lil’ Ed and The Blues Imperials to wrap-up the series because we know everyone will enjoy this fantastic group.” In addition to Blessing Health System in partnership with Quincy Children’s Museum children’s activities, families will enjoy food from two local establishments—JKW BBQ and Big Bro’s BBQ. TCBY will be in the park with frozen yogurt treats as well.
“Started in 1998, 2025 marks the 28th series of Blues In The District,” stated Executive Director Brianna Rivera. “This year’s line up has once again been top notch. We look forward to seeing everyone enjoy this final concert of this beloved tradition. We invite everyone to bring food and drinks, lawn chairs, and friends for a great time in Washington Park.” The District reminds attendees that tents and glass containers are not allowed.
Blues In The District takes place the second and fourth Friday of June, July, and August. “The lineup for 2026 is already being worked out,” stated Rivera. “We look forward to announcing next year’s performers during the 2026 Dogwood parade.” For more information about Blues In The District visit thedistrictquincy.com.
“We couldn’t host these concerts without our sponsors,” stated Rivera. “The sponsors for this concert include: the Lindsay Family, Full Service Roofing & Remodeling, Inc., Poage Auto Plaza, and Hollister-Whitney. A very special thanks goes out to our merch sponsor, Expressions by Christine; our stay sponsor, The Atrium; and our media sponsor, Townsquare Media.” Blues In The District, along with band merchandise, will be available in The District’s red tent near the stage.
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LOOK SALON
More Info: LOOK SALONHours Today: By appointment only
A Holistic Haven for Hair, Skin, and Soul
Located in The Heart of Quincy, Look Hair and Skin Wellness is more than just a salon and place for beauty treatments—it’s a sanctuary where education, wellness, and self-care come together. Owned and passionately operated by Heather Byrd, Look stands out not only for its comprehensive hair and skin services, but also for its commitment to empowering clients with holistic knowledge and practices they can take home.
Where Beauty Meets Education
At Look, every service is rooted in education. Heather and her dedicated team specialize in guiding clients toward a deeper understanding of how to care for their hair and skin—not as isolated parts, but as interconnected elements of overall health. From full hair care to esthetics and full-body waxing, every experience at Look is designed to enhance both outer beauty and inner well-being.
“We educate clients on how to care for their hair and skin as a whole body function,” Heather explains. “We want you to get great results not only while you’re in the salon, but also when you’re at home.”
This philosophy is supported by the salon’s use of clean, science-based products, hand-selected for their effectiveness and safety. The focus is on sustainable beauty that works with your body, not against it.
“Soak in everything you can, always be open to learning and fresh ideas.”
—Heather Byrd, LOOK OwnerA Vision Inspired by Love
Heather’s journey to build Look into what it is today was deeply inspired by her husband, Jason. His unwavering belief in her mission and his encouragement helped her take the leap to expand her vision.
“Jason saw how much I cared about educating clients in ways people haven’t been shown before,” Heather shares. “He led me physically and spiritually, encouraging me to walk proudly into this next chapter.”
That deep-rooted support, paired with Heather’s passion, has shaped Look into a space where people don’t just feel pampered—they feel seen, respected, and understood.
Core Values that Shine Through
At the center of everything Look Hair and Skin Wellness does is a single, powerful value: respect. Respect for clients, past and present. Respect for coworkers and their unique gifts. Respect for self, the business, and the surrounding community.
Kindness, love, and honesty are the heartbeat of the salon. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a loyal regular, you’ll feel the warmth and intention that goes into every interaction.
Their motto? “Where there is a will, there is a way.” It’s a philosophy that resonates in every corner of the salon, where teamwork and positivity make anything possible.
Growth, Recognition, and a Bright Future
2024 was a big year for Look—and 2025 is already off to an incredible start. The salon was recently named a “Highly Recommended 2025 Winner”, an award recognizing exceptional reviews and outstanding performance. This honor solidifies what clients already know: Look Salon is in a league of its own.
In addition, Heather and her team recently expanded the salon, adding two more rooms to enhance the guest experience. These new spaces offer even more room for relaxation, one-on-one education, and the calm, rejuvenating atmosphere that Look is known for.
Heather’s Advice to Fellow Dreamers
When asked what advice she would give to aspiring entrepreneurs or beauty professionals, Heather shares a powerful message:
“Soak in everything you can, always be open to learning and fresh ideas. The light will show you the way if you listen and look for it.”
With this mindset, it’s no surprise Look Hair and Skin Wellness continues to evolve and inspire.
A Community Cornerstone
Being part of the vibrant downtown district is something Heather doesn’t take for granted. She’s excited to be a part of its continued growth and believes strongly in supporting and uplifting the surrounding community.
Look, Hair and Skin Wellness
Heather Byrd, Owner
634 Maine Street
lookhairandskinwellness.com217-440-9825
Mon-Thurs 9-7
Sat 9-3Instagram, Facebook, TIC TOC
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Mane Therapie Salon & Spa
More Info: Mane Therapie Salon & SpaHours Today: By appointment only
In this Heart of Quincy Business Spotlight we highlight Mane Therapie Salon & Spa. Owned and operated by Kris Mason, Mane Therapie Salon & Spa is a green circle salon that provides full haircare, skincare, facial waxing, brow tinting and lamination, lash lift and tints services using the cleanest and safest products and methods.
“I always wanted to do hair, but ended up in the nursing field for seven years first. I loved it but wanted to do hair and take care of people. 29 years later, here I am,” stated Mason. Kris first started with a friend’s salon for a year and then went into a suite with several stylists. “It was all a learning curve,” she stated. First, I had to learn what being an independent stylist on my own was like.” Kris worked part-time at a restaurant for nine years to supplement her income while she was building clientele. She bought her building, 838 Hampshire Street, in 2009. Two stylists and a nail tech rented booth spaces from her.
Kris has seen her share of ups and downs. In 2012, she purchased the building at 834 Hampshire and did major renovations. “Once completed, I had 9 booth renters–until the storm of 2015.” That storm leveled her spa (834) and damaged her salon (838). The 834 building was demolished and 838 was remodeled into the salon/spa/small boutique-style business it is today.
Kris attributes her success to having hired a business coach. “I wanted to build something that I could be proud of, help others, myself, and my business.” Growing a culture that was healthy in all aspects was important. She switched to an employee commission/hourly salon and spa and has never looked back.
Above/far right photo: Emily Goellner, stylist & Kris Mason, Mane Therapie Salon & Spa Owner
838 Hampshire Street • 217-221-8988 • manetherapiesalonandspa.com
HOURS
Monday, Tuesday, & Thursday 9am-7pm, Wednesday Noon-8pm, Friday 9am-5pm, Saturday 9am-3pmCORE VALUES
Integrity, Health Conscious, EducationIf you would like your District business featured in our Heart of Quincy series, please fill out the form. Be sure to send 4-5 photos of your business, your logo, etc.
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New District Partnerships Available!
More Info: New District Partnerships Available!Hours Today: By appointment only
Partnerships throughout the year now available.
Highlight your business and establish an ongoing community pretense throughout the year by partnering with The District. With over 40 ongoing programs, partnerships are flexible and may be tailored to fit the needs of your organization.
Please Click the Link below or call the office for more information: (217) 228-8696
2016 District PartnershipsBecome a partner. Be Right On Q With The District
Partnerships Include
Visionary Partner – Presence at all 40+ events throughout the year – NEW
Annual Dinner
St. Patrick’s Pub Crawl
Unique Spaces Tour – NEW
Ecumenical Easter Egg Hunt
Dogwood Concert
All Faiths Concert – NEW
Broker Tour – NEW
Concerts in the Plaza – 4 concerts in the series
Farmers’ Market – 20 markets in the season
Blues In The District – 6 concerts in the series
Progressive Dinner
Great River Grape Escape – NEW
Community Farm-To-Table Dinner – NEW
Loft Tour – NEW
Light the Square & The District – NEW
Christkind Market – New LocationIt always makes a difference when someone foes the extra mile for you. It’s the difference between a routine customer experience and one the builds fierce loyalty. Between an obstacle and an opportunity. Extra effort, rather, caring can change the way you think and act. Since you can’t always pay it back, you pay it forward. And that extra effort usually comes exactly when it’s needed most. Right on Q.
As Quincy-ans, you are Right on Q.
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Newcomb Fire
More Info: Newcomb FireHours Today: By appointment only
The Historic Quincy Business District has decided to tweak our website a bit. We have removed the “Downtown News” section and replaced it with our blog, giving us an opportunity to share our thoughts and commentary in a new forum.
We felt it was appropriate for our first post to be from Executive Director Travis Brown regarding the fire at the Newcomb Hotel last night. These were his thoughts at the conclusion of last night.
I will have plenty more to say in the coming days and weeks to be sure, tonight before heading home I want to share these thoughts:
1. Tonight, I couldn’t be prouder to be a resident of the City of Quincy. Having the opportunity to see up close the unbelievable efforts of the City was amazing. Chiefs Joe Henning and Rob Copely and the entire QFD and QPD were nothing short of remarkable in their efforts to save the building and then contain the fire. John Simon and the Adams County EMA were phenomenal in moving residents from the Lincoln-Douglas and doing so many other unseen things that often don’t get recognized. The City Officials, from Engineering to Planning to Kyle Moore for Mayor and several city council members were all on hand to pitch in. They were planning the next steps to keep everyone safe and keep things moving in a positive direction for Quincy. It was something I am glad I had the chance to witness. These dedicated public servants are owed a great deal of respect and adulation, and I for one am immensely proud they serve OUR community.
2. The business owners are resilient. While this wasn’t their building, there will be smoke damage, road closures and a number of other issues we have to work through in the coming days. But tonight was another one of those nights where everyone just wanted to come together to make sure each other was alright. Employees came down, property owners came down, everyone wanting to know if there was something they can do to help. For now, we have to play the waiting game and let the professionals deal with the situation at hand. However, it was great to see them come together. I’m glad I got to see them and let them know that we (myself, our organization, and our community) are here to support them however we can.
3. The heartache. Being this far along in the process to have the Newcomb redeveloped and having such devastation is gut-wrenching. As you watch the flames devour the magnificent structure you couldn’t help but feel sick knowing the potential for revitalization has been lost.
4.It could have been worse. You never want to lose a building, any building, for any reason. You especially don’t want to see so many people put in jeopardy because of a raging fire. But it could have been worse. It could have been an occupied building, a residential building. It could have housed a vibrant business. It could have been in the middle of a block. It could have been worse. The fire occurred in a building which has been vacant for many, many years. It was contained to just that structure. None of the QFD officers appear to be injured. Even in the midst of the heartache I can’t help but be thankful because it most certainly could have been worse.
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REV. RAVEN & THE CHAIN SMOKIN’ ALTAR BOYS TO PERFORM AT 2025 BLUES IN THE DISTRICT CONCERT ON AUGUST 8
More Info: REV. RAVEN & THE CHAIN SMOKIN’ ALTAR BOYS TO PERFORM AT 2025 BLUES IN THE DISTRICT CONCERT ON AUGUST 8Hours Today: By appointment only
Blues In The District, a beloved tradition in Quincy, IL, draws music lovers together to celebrate the soulful, emotional, and electrifying sounds of the Blues. Rev. Raven & the Chain Smokin’ Altar Boys will take the stage at 5:30pm on Friday, August 8 in Washington Park. The Reverend has opened for a variety of acts including B.B King, Gatemouth Brown, Pinetop Perkins, Lonnie Brooks, Lefty Dizz, Fabulous Thunderbirds, Jeff Healy, and numerous others at festivals.
“This fifth concert in the Blues In The District series brings Reverend Raven and the Chain Smokin’g’ Altar Boys– a traditional Blues band with a lot of passion for the genre and performing,” stated Executive Director Brianna Rivera. “Concert goers can expect a great night of music. They play original songs with nods to Slim Harpo, Little Walter, Jimmy Rogers, Billy Boy Arnold, Junior Wells and the three Kings.” In addition to Blessing Health System in partnership with Quincy Children’s Museum children’s activities, families will enjoy food from two local establishments—JKW BBQ and Big Bro’s BBQ. TCBY will be in the park with frozen yogurt treats as well.
“Started in 1998, 2025 marks the 28th series of Blues In The District,” stated Executive Director Brianna Rivera. “This year’s line up is once again top notch. We look forward to seeing everyone enjoy this beloved tradition. We invite everyone to bring food and drinks, lawn chairs and friends for a great time in Washington Park.” The District reminds attendees that tents and glass containers are not allowed.
Blues In The District takes place the second and fourth Friday of June, July, and August. The final performers of the 2025 Blues In The District lineup will be Lil’ Ed and The Blues Imperials on August 22. For more information about food vendors, and entertainment for children visit thedistrictquincy.com.
“We couldn’t host these concerts without our sponsors,” stated Rivera. “The sponsors for this concert include: See Quincy, State Street Bank, and Steinkamp Hauling. A very special thanks goes out to our merch sponsor, Expressions by Christine; our stay sponsor, The Atrium; and our media sponsor, Townsquare Media.” Blues In The District, along with band merchandise, will be available in The District’s red tent near the stage.
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RIVER ROOTS
More Info: RIVER ROOTSHours Today: By appointment only
A Quincy Classic with Deep Local Roots
River Roots sits on Maine Street like a time capsule with a pulse—part headshop, part local art gallery, part community living room. The kind of place you walk into “just to look around” and end up staying a while because it feels good to be there. Owned by Amy Phelps, River Roots has become a Quincy staple for people who appreciate old-school culture, handmade creativity, and a shop that’s clearly built with love.
“We’re an original old school headshop,” Amy says, and she means that in the best way. River Roots specializes in glass art, especially pieces made by artists from Quincy and other Mississippi River towns. It isn’t mass-produced, cookie-cutter inventory. It’s local work with personality—pieces that carry a little bit of the region in them.
Amy started River Roots with her heart more than a business plan. She was looking ahead to retirement and wanted to spend that next chapter doing something that genuinely made her happy. “I wanted something to do that I love leading into my retirement,” she explains. But it wasn’t just about her—it was about Quincy too. “Quincy needed a cool hippy store,” she says, so she built one.
Her vision has always been rooted in people. “Personal relationship with customers,” Amy says, is what guides her decisions, along with “trying to fill my store with locally made products.” That commitment has shaped River Roots into something bigger than a storefront. “In 7 years we’ve gained 79 artists,” she says proudly, “whether they’re from Quincy or another Mississippi River town.”
“Quincy needed a cool hippy store”
Amy Phelps, Owner/River RootsThe shop’s reputation has traveled far beyond the river towns. River Roots was named Head Shop of the Month in a national industry magazine—an honor that still makes Amy grin. “It was also the 420 edition,” she adds, a perfect little cherry on top for a business that’s always stayed true to its culture.
If Amy has one piece of advice for someone dreaming of opening their own place, she doesn’t sugarcoat it: “Location is key!” River Roots is living proof of what can happen when the right business meets the right community—built on local art, loyal customers, and a vibe that keeps Quincy coming back.
River Roots Smoke Shop
Amy Phelps, owner
703 Maine St
Quincy IL 62301
(217) 214-BONG
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Save the Date for The District’s Annual Feast in The Heart of Quincy
More Info: Save the Date for The District’s Annual Feast in The Heart of QuincyHours Today: By appointment only
Save the Date: Feast in the Heart of Quincy
Sunday, September 14 | 4:30 – 7:30 PM
Hampshire Street | Between 6th & 7th
Near Platt Daddy BBQ & Thyme SquareJoin us for an unforgettable evening as we transform Hampshire Street into a beautiful open-air dining room, seating 200 guests at one long, communal table in the heart of Quincy’s historic downtown.
Feast is more than just a meal – it’s a true farm-to-table celebration of our region’s rich agricultural roots and the talented chefs who bring it all to life. Every course is crafted using the freshest, locally-sourced ingredients – many from the Quincy Farmers Market – showcasing the best of our local farms, producers, and restaurants.
Guests are invited to arrive after 4:30 PM to mingle, sip, and enjoy a relaxed hour of fellowship before dinner begins. At 5:30 PM, we’ll all gather at the table for a stunning, multi-course, family-style meal featuring 5 to 6 chef-curated dishes designed to highlight the flavors of the season.
Tickets will go on sale soon.
$200 per pair (sold in pairs only due to seating arrangements)
Proceeds benefit The District and the Quincy Farmers Market, helping support our local food systems and vibrant downtown community.Please note: Due to the nature and complexity of the event, meal substitutions are not available.
