2015

It was one of the most intense storms I have ever been in and that's saying something since I've been in a couple of tornadoes in my lifetime.  I am referring to the May 13, 2015 storm that brought straight line winds of over 70 miles an hour with a direct hit on the City of Quincy.

The Hannibal Jaycees are working hard to make this year's haunted house truly exceptional. Chris Powell, chairman of the Hannibal Jaycees Haunted House, took us through the haunted house site to give us a behind the scenes look at things to come in 2015.

It was hot that Saturday morning. Almost hot enough to sweat a fellow through to his suit vest! It was the first day of the 2nd annual Big River Steampunk Festival in Hannibal. Since I had arrived in the morning, I got to browse through the various arts and crafts booths as well as food vendors throughout the Historic Downtown Main Street Area.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol is encouraging qualified individuals of all backgrounds to apply to be a trooper. The Patrol will offer testing at nine different locations. Those who successfully complete testing will be eligible to continue in the selection process for the 102nd Recruit Class, 2015. Testing at some locations will begin as early as March 4.

The summer of 2015 is coming to a close. Here's a look ahead at upcoming area events in September, October and November.

Hannibal residents and visitors celebrated Independence Day in America's Hometown with the 60th annual National Tom Sawyer Days.

The Hannibal Jaycees have sent us the official guide to the 60th annual National Tom Sawyer Days! This booklet provides information on everything for this year’s celebration, including times and locations for the popular annual events, and live entertainment like the Jon Pardi concert at Tanyard Gardens.

The annual Midsummer Arts Faire will take place in Quincy's Washington Park June 26-28. This free event has become a summertime favorite for residents and visitors to Quincy. Midsummer Arts Faire organizers spoke with us to provide information on everything you need to know about the upcoming Arts Faire, whether you've attended in the past, or you're a first time fairgoer.

The 2015 Mega Raffle conclusion was held Saturday at the Knights of Columbus In Quincy. The top three prizes were a $10,000 third prize, the second prize winner got a new Chevy Camaro or Kia Sorento, and the first place prize was $100,000!

National Tom Sawyer Days in Hannibal will be held downtown during the Fourth of July holiday weekend. It was recently announced that country music's Jon Pardi will be the Friday night headliner at Tanyard Gardens. According to the Hannibal Jaycees, several upgrades and improvements are being planned for Hannibal's annual summertime festival, including bringing in different rides for the carnival.