Tag: The Heart of Quincy
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2025 Literary Awards Dinner
More Info: 2025 Literary Awards DinnerHours Today: By appointment only
June 7 @ 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm
An evening of award-winning Authors, Actors, Advocates, & Journalists
Join us in celebrating the Small Bites Short Story Contest Winners and the 9th Annual Women in Literature, Media & Journalism Awards. Witness inspiring authors and media professionals being honored for their contributions to the literary world.
The Gala Awards Dinner will commence at 6:00 PM, featuring distinguished guest speakers who have made waves in their respective fields:
• Meredith Prunkard: Vice President of Current Programming for Original Productions
• Rodney Damon Collins: Acclaimed actor, recognized for his role in Central Authority
• Robert Plant: Author and Small Bites Short Story Contest Grand Prize winner
• Danielle D. Smith: Award-winning author and filmmakerA portion of the proceeds from the event will benefit three remarkable charities: Powerful Beginnings, Freedom from Abuse, and Echo Foundation, exemplifying the community spirit at the heart of this celebration.
Tickets are now available at $70 per seat or $400 per table (up to 8 guests). Contact Lisa Orban at indiesunitedpublishing@gmail.com to reserve your spot. You can also make an online reservation at https://www.indiesunited.net/2025-author-retreat
Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate creativity, courage, and compassion in literature and media. Secure your seat today and join us in honoring those who inspire change and elevate the literary landscape.
Indies United Publishing
indiesunitedpublishing@gmail.com
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A Dream Come True…but with a Shift
More Info: A Dream Come True…but with a ShiftHours Today: By appointment only
For years, Doug Tenhouse, owner of Loyd’s Gifts & Collectibles had thought about owning a small antiques and collectibles store. With retirement in 2020 came the ability to start collecting again and from there, everything just fell into place. He noticed the storefront at 504 Hampshire was empty and available for rent. This gave him the motivation to take the plunge. “The biggest challenge was that I started at the end of the COVID Shutdown, so getting some inventory was a challenge initially,” stated Tenhouse. “People were still cautious about getting out, but were ready to get back to some normalcy too.”
Originally, Doug’s plan was to simply be an antique and collectibles store. But after speaking with the former business at the location he found out the customers enjoyed the new gift items, snarky merchandise, and greeting cards as well. Knowing this information, Doug knew adding items that past customers enjoyed would be a good business decision so he shifted his business plan. Loyd’s carries a variety of gifts and collectibles from vintage to new, and is now known for its funny greeting cards and crazy socks. “But we have a variety of other gifts for babies up to any age,” stated Tenhouse. “There’s always something new to discover at Loyd’s.”
When it comes to advice for entrepreneurs, Doug has given us his top three pointers.
1. Be patient! It takes a while to take off.
2. Word of mouth is the best advertisement.
3. Treat customers as you would like to be treated.“There’s always something new to discover at Loyd’s.”
—Doug TenhouseDoug’s goal for his business–has always been and continues to be–a destination for fun and unusual items at a reasonable price. “I have many customers that enjoy coming in and reading the funny cards and love the variety of merchandise.” Loyd’s Gifts & Collectibles will soon celebrate four years in business. “I think there were doubters when I first opened, but I’m still here,” stated Tenhouse. Knowing Doug has put his heart and soul into his business, it isn’t a surprise that Loyd’s is still open and helping shoppers find just the right gift or item for their home or collection.
loydsgifts.com
Loyd’s Gifts & Collectibles is located at 504 Hampshire.
Tuesday – Thursday 10-5, Friday 10-4, Saturday 10-3
Closed Sunday and Monday.
Connect with Doug
217-214-5693
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BAGLUNCH BLUES BAND TO KICK OFF THE 2025 BLUES IN THE DISTRICT CONCERT SERIES JUNE 13
More Info: BAGLUNCH BLUES BAND TO KICK OFF THE 2025 BLUES IN THE DISTRICT CONCERT SERIES JUNE 13Hours 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. This year, BagLunch Blues Band is set to take the stage in Washington Park as the inaugural band for the 2025 concert series. On Friday, June 13 the band will be bringing their unique style and energy to the Heart of Quincy.
Family Entertainment will be available 5:30-8:30pm under the Blessing Tent. Activities sponsored by Blessing Health System in partnership with Quincy Children’s Museum.
FOOD TRUCKS
In addition to great Blues, enjoy great BBQ from Platt Daddy & Big Bros. TCBY will be back this year serving up sweet/cool treats!Thank you to our sponsors!
June 13 concert sponsor, QHS Alumni Association along with corporate sponsors, Traeder’s TNT Golf Car & Motorsports, and Schmiedeskamp, Robertson, Neu & Mitchell LLPMerchandise sponsor: Expressions by Christine
Media Sponsor: Townsquare Media
Stay Sponsor: The Atrium Hotel on Third
Looking for after-Blues festivities? Stop by State Street Theater!
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BagLunch Blues Band to Perform at 2025 Blues In The District
More Info: BagLunch Blues Band to Perform at 2025 Blues In The DistrictHours Today: By appointment only
November 10 @ 7:06 am
Join us as The District and Blessing Health System present our 2025 Blues In The District series. The artist for our first concert of the series is BagLunch Blues Band.
Bag Lunch Blues Band has a great time together performing Hip Shakin’, Juke Joint Jumpin’, House Rockin’ Blues so you can put on your party dress, high heeled sneakers, let your hair down and your fancy flow. The Band is comprised of Mike Edsel, Mike Spina, Howard Young, Paul Cockrum, Tony Anthonis.
Bring your food, your drinks, your friends and your lawn chairs for a great time in Washington Park. On-site food for this concert: Big Bros BBQ, Platt Daddy, and TCBY. Free kids activities: the southwest corner until 8 p.m., sponsored by Blessing Health System in partnership with Quincy Children’s Museum. (No tents and no glass, please.)
Blues and band merchandise will be available at our red District tent near the stage. Special thanks to our merch sponsor, Expressions by Christine; our stay sponsor, The Atrium; and our media sponsor, Townsquare Media.
This concert’s sponsors: QHS Alumni Association, Traeder’s TNT Golf Car & Motorsports, and Schmiedeskamp, Robertson, Neu & Mitchell LLP
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CELEBRATION, COMMUNITY, & CIGARS… The Luxe Stogie Co. Experience
More Info: CELEBRATION, COMMUNITY, & CIGARS… The Luxe Stogie Co. ExperienceHours Today: By appointment only
Tucked into 910 York Street, Luxe Stogie Co. is more than just a cigar shop—it’s a place where community, respect, and tradition meet. Owned by veteran Alex O’Neal, Luxe Stogie Co. blends a carefully curated retail experience with a welcoming lounge atmosphere, making it a destination for both seasoned cigar aficionados and those just beginning their journey.
The inspiration for Luxe Stogie Co. came in an unforgettable moment of celebration. After his son-in-law graduated from USMC Boot Camp in San Diego, Alex purchased two cigars so the two could mark the milestone together. That experience sparked a dream of creating his own cigar lounge—a vision he brought to life with determination and encouragement from his wife. After months of research and planning, he launched Luxe Stogie Co. in the fall of 2023.
Go for it! It’s very scary to start your own business, but when you set your mind to something and you give it your all, it’s an amazing journey.
Alex O’Neal, Luxe Stogie OwnerWhat sets Luxe Stogie apart is its unwavering commitment to respect and hospitality. “You show us respect, we show you respect,” Alex says. “We like to meet customers where they are in their life, whether they are just curious about cigars or are seasoned cigar smokers.” Luxe Stogie Co. takes pride in its Veteran-owned roots and carries a wide selection of high-quality cigars, including many from other veteran-owned companies. Every humidor is meticulously maintained to ensure customers enjoy the finest smoking experience possible.
The company’s growth has been remarkable. Luxe Stogie Co. began as a mobile-only lounge, traveling to events to introduce customers to its collection. By June 2024, the business had grown enough to open a brick-and-mortar retail space with a small public lounge. Just a year later, in spring 2025, Luxe Stogie Co. expanded its public lounge space. This fall, the business will complete Phase 3 of its expansion: a members-only lounge designed to offer an elevated and exclusive experience.
Alex is quick to credit the support of customers and fellow business owners for helping Luxe Stogie Co. grow faster than he ever imagined. His advice for aspiring entrepreneurs is simple but powerful. “Go for it! It’s very scary to start your own business, but when you set your mind to something and you give it your all, it’s an amazing journey.”
With its roots in respect, service, and community, Luxe Stogie Co. continues to thrive as Quincy’s go-to destination for quality cigars and good company.
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ChristKindle Market 2025
More Info: ChristKindle Market 2025Hours Today: By appointment only
November 7 @ 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
The District encourages everyone to mark their calendars as its beloved ChristKindl Market will take place on Friday-Sunday, November 7-9 and at a new location. This year’s Market will be held at The Armory, which resides in Germantown, is located at 416 Jersey Street in Quincy. “We once again look forward to this special Christmas-focused event that is always a big hit for holiday shopping, and celebrating our city’s German heritage,” stated The District Executive Director Brianna Rivera. “Having the Market at The Armory allows the show to be more accessible–especially for those who have walking impairments or can’t navigate steps. This new space also allows us to add several more one-of-a-kind vendors. One thing will remain the same–and that is the festive, unique holiday atmosphere.”
SAVE THE DATES
Friday, November 7: 5-8pm (Preview Party)
Saturday, November 8: 10am-4pm
Sunday, November 9: 11am-3 pmAdditional information-including a link to the vendor application-will be released as the event date grows closer.
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Enchanted Books
More Info: Enchanted BooksHours Today: By appointment only
In this Heart of Quincy Business Spotlight we highlight Enchanted Books. Enchanted Books is a new and used bookstore owned by Jennifer Tournear, a life-long avid reader who firmly believes in chasing dreams. “When the opportunity arose to try my hand at being a bookstore owner, I jumped in feet first and am thrilled to be celebrating our 2nd anniversary in April.”
Customer service is top priority for this District business. “We strive to make everyone who walks through the doors feel important, safe, and wanted.” Tournear and her team take pleasure in curating the perfect book for whatever customers are looking for. “We have learned through supply and demand what customers want, what they are looking for, and what we are lacking.” Over the past two years, Jennifer has listened to her customers and expanded the areas that customers are most interested in.
While owning a small business is a dream come true, it comes with its challenges. “Knowing which books to carry, what new releases to choose every week, and how to add fun and functional events to benefit the community to our store are three things I’m always looking at.” A new event that was held in February, Bookish Bingo, was so successful a second date in March was added. Events like these are what adds to the wonderful atmosphere and culture of The District.
While Enchanted Books is well-known for its large assortment of books and gifts, its storefront windows are what truly makes its first impression. At its annual meeting this past January, The District awarded Enchanted Books its Design Award. Each year a District business that takes pride in maintaining an interesting and inviting storefront is selected to receive this award that celebrates creativity, effort, and attention to detail in making downtown an attractive place.
When asked what advice she would give an aspiring entrepreneur Tournear stated, “Its very important to do your research, make a solid business plan, and do the things that you believe in your heart you were born to do.”
Enchanted books is located at 532 Maine Street
http://www.myenchantedbooks.com/
217-262-1786
Open Tues 10-6, Wed 10-4, Thur 10-6, Fri & Sat 10-4
Closed Sun & Mon.Social Media: Facebook, Instagram, TikTok
Click here if you are a District Business owner and would like to be included in our Heart of The District Business Spotlight.
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Experience Brilliant Blues Performer Mike Wheeler at 2025 Blues In The District Concert Series
More Info: Experience Brilliant Blues Performer Mike Wheeler at 2025 Blues In The District Concert SeriesHours Today: By appointment only
June 27 @ 5:30 pm – 9:30 pm
Join The District and Blessing Health System as they present the 2025 Blues in the District series in Quincy’s Washington Park. The artist for June 27 – Mike Wheeler Band: during the Midsummer Arts Faire!
Mike Wheeler has a vast knowledge of music and a voice that’s reminiscent of the late Sam Cooke. He can sing and play everything so well that you may forget what the original record even sounds like. From Jazz to Rock, from popular music to Top 40, he slides in and out of musical genres with sophistication, ease, and indulgence. Mike Wheeler is a brilliant staple in the Chicago blues community, playing and writing songs for a variety of Chicago artists.
The Mike Wheeler Band consists of Mike Wheeler (guitar and vocals), Larry Williams (bass and vocals), Cleo Cole (drums), and Jesse Lockridge (keyboards and vocals).
Bring your food, your drinks, your friends and your lawn chairs for a great time with fantastic dual events in Washington Park. On-site food for this concert will be provided by the Midsummer Arts Faire! Free kids activities: the southwest corner until 8 p.m., sponsored by Blessing Health System in partnership with Quincy Children’s Museum. No tents and no glass, please.
Blues and band merchandise will be available at The District tent near the stage. Special thanks to our merch sponsor, Expressions by Christine; our stay sponsor, The Atrium; and our media sponsor, Townsquare Media.
This concert’s sponsors: Craig Industries, GatesAir, Davis & Associates, Realtors, HOMEBANK, and Quincy Audiology.
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Feast in the Heart of Quincy
More Info: Feast in the Heart of QuincyHours Today: By appointment only
September 14 @ 4:30 pm – 7:30 pm
TICKETS GO ON SALE THURSDAY AUGUST 1.
SAVE THE DATE for The District Feast in the Heart of Quincy – Farm to Table Dinner presented by Quincy Medical Group – Sunday, September 14, 2025.
Be our guest as we host 200 District friends at one long table down the middle of Hampshire Street – near Platt Daddy BBQ and Thyme Square – between 6th & 7th streets.
Cocktail Hour 4:30-5:30pm
Featuring two signature cocktails by Platt Daddy BBQDinner 5:30-7:30pm
The 2025 Feast head chef is Jeremy Platt, owner of Platt Daddy BBQ, will be overseeing the night’s 5-course meal that will feature meat from EIO Farms. Chefs from Thyme Square and Krazy Cakes will also be a part of this event.TICKETS ON SALE THURSDAY AUGUST 1.
Tickets are $200 for a pair and will go on sale Thursday, August 14. Please note – all tickets are sold in pairs of 2 due to seating arrangements.
Additional information – including details about the ‘Win the bar’ raffle will be announced soon!
Feast in the Heart of Quincy benefits The District and its Quincy Farmers Market. This Quincy tradition is prepared using the freshest ingredients from local farmers, many of which can be found at The District Quincy Farmers Market held Saturdays, now through October, 8am-1pm in Washington Park
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Luke Repass Band to Perform at the 2025 Blues in The District
More Info: Luke Repass Band to Perform at the 2025 Blues in The DistrictHours Today: By appointment only
July 11 @ 5:30 pm – 9:30 pm
Join The District and Blessing Health System as they present the 2025 Blues in the District series. The artist for July 11 – Luke Repass.
Born in Chicago but raised in the south, Luke Repass is a self-taught guitarist who specializes in engaging and captivating crowds with his unique style and overwhelming talent.
Luke is a professional musician who strives to wow audiences every show. Whether a small bar on the south side, an extravagant Blues club on the northside, or music festivals throughout the nation, Luke never fails to give his all, along with his band mates.
Bring your food, your drinks, your friends and your lawn chairs for a great time in Washington Park. On-site food for this concert: Big Bro’s BBQ, Your Mama’s Food Truck, and TCBY. Free kids activities: the southwest corner until 8 p.m., sponsored by Blessing Health System in partnership with Quincy Children’s Museum. No tents and no glass, please.
Blues and band merchandise will be available at our red District tent near the stage. Special thanks to our merch sponsor, Expressions by Christine; our stay sponsor, The Atrium; and our media sponsor, Townsquare Media.
This concert’s sponsors: Knapheide, V&R Accounting, and Tower on Maine.
