Cindy Stuckey Owner of Shaded Permanent Cosmetics Troy, IL   "Seeing tears of joy when someone looks in the mirror and sees their brows again—it’s incredibly humbling," Cindy shares. Shaded Permanent Cosmetics in Troy IL  is more than just a beauty studio—it’s a place where confidence is restored, artistry is celebrated, and clients leave feeling like the best versions of themselves. At the center of it all is Cindy Stuckey, a passionate entrepreneur whose meticulous attention to detail and commitment to excellence is earning her a growing reputation in the community. From Hairstyling to Permanent Beauty Cindy’s journey into the world of permanent cosmetics began after spending two decades as a hairs…

Know of upcoming events in the Collinsville, Maryville, Troy, Marine and St. Jacob area that should be included in Whirlocal Collinsville - Triad? Email [email protected] Here are the happenings this weekend. Jigsaw Puzzle Race When: Friday, February 21, 6-8pm Where:  Quintons Crafthouse  126 W. Main St  Collinsville  Beat cabin fever with our 1st Jigsaw Puzzle Race! Put your jigsaw puzzling skills to the test for this puzzling good time! Teams of up to 4 will race against each other to see who can complete the most if not all of the same puzzle More Info: Facebook Page Core + Pelvic Floor Workshop When: Saturday, February 22,  9-11am Where: Enlightened Pelvic Health,  6209 East Ma…

When Kristen Portell and Michael Hancock relaunched KM Custom Construction, they weren’t just reigniting a business—they were setting a new standard in the local construction industry. Rooted in integrity, transparency, and a deep commitment to craftsmanship, this dynamic duo is reshaping what it means to be a trustworthy contractor serving the Collinsville-Triad area. A Journey 25 Years in the Making Michael isn’t new to construction. With over 25 years of experience under his tool belt, he’s built homes from the ground up and tackled everything from intricate custom pieces to full-scale remodels. Originally from Southern Illinois, Michael owned his own construction business before life took him in a different direction�…

Know of upcoming events in the Collinsville, Maryville, Troy, Marine and St. Jacob area that should be included in Whirlocal Collinsville - Triad? Email [email protected] Here are the happenings this weekend. Galentine’s Night Out  When: Wednesday, February 12,  starting at 6-8pm Where: Lou Belle and Bing,   317 W. Main st, Collinsville Raise your hand (and tag your friends) if you need a night out with the girls! We’re so excited for our third annual Galentine’s Night Out! This year, @lalalinks.stl will be joining us for some permanent jewelry fun. More Info: Facebook Page Galentine’s Night Out  When: Thursday, February 13, 6pm Where: Old Herald Brewery & Distill…

Know of upcoming events in the Collinsville, Maryville, Troy, Marine and St. Jacob area that should be included in Whirlocal Collinsville - Triad? Email [email protected] Here are the happenings this weekend. Galentine’s Night Out When: Thursday, February 6,  starting at 6-8pm Where: Lou Belle and Bing,   317 W. Main st, Collinsville Raise your hand (and tag your friends) if you need a night out with the girls! We’re so excited for our third annual Galentine’s Night Out! Join us for some permanent jewelry fun. More Info: Facebook Page Valentine Cookie Decorating When: Thursday, February 6, 6-8pm Where: Quintions Crafthouse  126 W. Main St  Collinsville February’s Galen…

Anna Jones, Entrepreneur Near the corner of Market and Main street in Troy, Illinois, Anna Jones has reimagined what it means to be a local entrepreneur. With her two thriving businesses, Salt Wellness Spa and BeLong Luxury Salon and Extension Co, Anna has brought innovation and opportunity to Main Street. Her vision goes beyond wellness and beauty; it’s about building a community that inspires growth, confidence, and connection. “I saw Main Street and thought, there needs to be more here,” Anna recalls. And with that thought, she has transformed the area into a hub of health, beauty, and empowerment. Salt Wellness Spa: A Sanctuary for Healing Located at 105 E Market Street, Salt Wellness Spa is a tranquil…

Know of upcoming events in the Collinsville, Maryville, Troy, Marine and St. Jacob area that should be included in Whirlocal Collinsville - Triad? Email [email protected] Here are the happenings this weekend. Craft Night + Supply Swap at Lou Belle and Bing When: Friday, January 31 starting at 6-8:30pm Where: Lou Belle and Bing,   317 W. Main st, Collinsville Creating with others just for fun is just what the doctor ordered. I’m not a therapist but feel free to call it Art Therapy! While you’re at it, bring your unwanted craft supplies, declutter a little and experiment with new mediums! More Info: Facebook Page Galentine's Day When: Saturday, February 1, 6-9pm Where: Quintions Crafthous…

When Kathryn (Katie) Schiber and Lisa Fox decided to open Blue Chair Counseling in Maryville, Illinois, they weren’t just creating a space for mental health services—they were building a dream rooted in friendship, compassion, and their shared vision for making a difference in the community. Their official journey began on January 2, 2024, when they opened the doors of their welcoming practice to clients in need in Maryville. From Thrift Shops to Therapeutic Spaces The story behind the name "Blue Chair" is as unique as their journey. Both Katie and Lisa have a love for thrift shopping, often scouring local stores for hidden gems. One day, they stumbled upon a pair of blue chairs at a local Habitat for Humanity Restore…

Know of upcoming events in the Collinsville, Maryville, Troy, Marine and St. Jacob area that should be included in Whirlocal Collinsville - Triad? Email [email protected] Here are the happenings this weekend. Gateway Wedding Show When: Thursday, January 23, 5pm Where: Gateway Convention Center,  1 Gateway Dr. Collinsville The Gateway Wedding Show features many different vendors that can help brides, grooms, & event planners personalize their upcoming special event! More Info: Facebook Page Agavero Dine to Donate When: Thursday, January 23 starting at 11am Where: Agavero Grill and Cantina,   604 N Bluff Rd, Collinsville Lunch, dinner, carry out, dine in... 15% of your total (…

When life presented challenges, Nikki Allen turned to creativity, founding The Happy Elephant, a unique candle-making business in Troy, IL. Finding Inspiration During Uncertainty In 2020, Nikki’s career in hospitality came to an abrupt halt due to the pandemic. During this downtime, she stumbled upon information about the harmful chemicals in big-brand candles and decided to explore making her own. With a starter kit from Amazon, she began experimenting in her kitchen, creating candles for friends and family. To her surprise, people loved them and even wanted to buy them! By October 2020, Nikki sold her first candles to strangers at a pumpkin patch event. “It was a lightbulb moment,” Nikki recalls. “Strangers …

Know of upcoming events in the Collinsville, Maryville, Troy, Marine and St. Jacob area that should be included in Whirlocal Collinsville - Triad? Email [email protected] Winterfest Banquet When: Friday, January 17, 5pm Where: Gateway Convention Center,  1 Gateway Dr. Collinsville Social hour at 5 pm and dinner at 6 pm. Followed by speakers Craig Thompons, KC9T, and Carl Luetzelschwab. K9LA. More Info: Facebook Page Winterfest Hamfest When: Saturday, January 18, 8am Where: Gateway Convention Center,  1 Gateway Dr. Collinsville INDOOR FLEA MARKET - HAM FEST -  Scanners, Ham Radios, car and home ANTENNAS, coax cable, connectors, new and used, PCs, miscellaneous electronics Mo…

Know of upcoming events in the Collinsville, Maryville, Troy, Marine and St. Jacob area that should be included in Whirlocal Collinsville - Triad? Email [email protected] Here are the happenings this weekend. Family Paint and Pizza Night When: Friday, January 10, 6-8pm Where:Quintons Crafthouse,  126 W. Main St, Collinsville Let's have some fun with the family where we paint and eat pizza! No experience needed as the 8x10 canvas will have the design outline drawn on it More Info: Facebook Page  Craft it off! When: Saturday, January 11, 10-12pm Where:Quintons Crafthouse,  126 W. Main St, Collinsville Hey Swifties - it’s our crafty era! Craft your very own 4 oz Lavender Haze so…

Stacy Jones, Director of Services at the Collinsville Food Pantry, highlights the organization’s mission with a simple yet powerful message: “Food insecurity doesn’t stop after the holidays. People are hungry every day. If you need us, we’re here. If you can give, don’t forget us." The Collinsville Food Pantry is more than a food distribution center—it’s a lifeline for individuals and families in need. Through a range of vital programs, the pantry provides food, support, and hope to the Collinsville community. Essential Programs at the Collinsville Food Pantry 1. Tote Me Home Program The Tote Me Home Program ensures that children in the Collinsville Unit 10 School District don’t go hungr…

Know of upcoming events in the Collinsville, Maryville, Troy, Marine and St. Jacob area that should be included in Whirlocal Collinsville - Triad? Email [email protected] Here are the happenings this weekend. Winter Market 2024 When: Friday, December 20, - Saturday December 21,  2pm-8pm Where: Gateway Convention Center,  1 Gateway Dr Collinsville Find the perfect last-minute gift for that special someone. Shop & Stroll 30,000 square feet of one-of-a-kind gifts from over 100+ vendors, handmade crafts, boutique items, BOOZY hot chocolate, Holiday inspired mimosas, photo booth, visit with SANTA ,more family fun for everyone! More Info: Facebook Page  Breakfast with Santa When: Saturday December…

Know of upcoming events in the Collinsville, Maryville, Troy, Marine and St. Jacob area that should be included in Whirlocal Collinsville - Triad? Email [email protected] Here are the happenings this weekend. DIY Doormat Party  When: Friday, December 13, 6pm-8pm Where:Quintons Crafthouse,  126 W. Main St, Collinsville Make your own hand painted doormat to add a little fun to your front porch! Bring your own drinks (alcoholic and non) More Info: Facebook Page  Toy Drive for Fire Truck O’Toys When: Collecting toys until Friday 13th Where: Rebecca Korando Allstate Insurance, 6201 W. Main St, Suite 100, Maryville,  For the kids spending their holidays in our 6 local pedia…

Know of upcoming events in the Collinsville, Maryville, Troy, Marine and St. Jacob area that should be included in Whirlocal Collinsville - Triad? Email [email protected] Here are the happenings this weekend. Family Paint Night: Gingerbread When: Friday, December 6, 6pm Where:Quintons Crafthouse,  126 W. Main St, Collinsville Let's have some fun with the family where we paint and eat pizza! An instructor from Quintons Crafthouse will lead the class as we all enjoy a night full of fun and creativity. More Info: Facebook Page  Festival of Trees When: Friday, December 6, 3pm Where: 207 E Center St, Troy, IL,  2024 Festival of Trees is coming to Friedens UCC on December 6th - 8th …

Dr. Richard Boatman of Troy Family Dental is the perfect example of how life can take unexpected—and wonderful—turns. Dentistry wasn’t even on his radar growing up, but thanks to a serendipitous decision to take the Dental Admissions Test alongside a college friend, a lifelong passion for caring for people was born. Today, Dr. Boatman and his team at Troy Family Dental are known for their compassionate, high-quality care and a welcoming environment that makes every patient feel like family. Raised by a single mom who worked tirelessly to provide for her kids, Dr. Boatman initially dreamed of becoming a pediatrician. His journey into dentistry began as a last-minute decision. Though initially hesitant, Dr. Boatman found his…

Know of upcoming events in the Collinsville, Maryville, Troy, Marine and St. Jacob area that should be included in Whirlocal Collinsville - Triad? Email [email protected] Here are the happenings this weekend. Lou Belle and Bing Porch Sale When: Saturday, November 23 at 7:30am Where: Lou Belle Bing 317 W. Main St, Collinsville  Shop our Porch Sale on Saturday, November 23rd! It’s Deer Widows Weekend in Uptown, so while you’re out, shop discounts of up to 50% from many of our vendors. More Info: Facebook Page Frame Twister Swap Meet When: Sunday, November 24 11am Where: Tri Township Park, 408 Wickliffe St, Troy Last swap meet of the year 11-24-24.11am To 3pm is the official swap meet t…

Village of Maryville 18th Annual Turkey Trot 5k and 1 Mile When: Saturday, November 16, 7:30am Where: Drost Park  E Division St, Maryville, IL Join us for Maryville's 18th Annual Turkey Trot, hosted by the Maryville Parks & Recreation Committee! Lace up for the 5K Run or test your precision in the 1-Mile Accuracy Walk/Run on Saturday, November 16th. More Info: Facebook Page Yoga for Grief When: Sunday, November 17, 6-8pm Where: WholeBody Physical Therapy, Running and Yoga, 406 West US Highway 40, Troy, IL Join us for a gentle, healing yoga practice designed to provide comfort and support as you navigate the journey of grief. This 60-minute class will guide you through mindful movement, breathwork, and relax…

The holiday season is here, and if you’re dreaming of a beautifully lit home without the hassle, you’re in luck! We caught up with Olamide "Olly" Animashaun, the owner of Elite Shine Window Cleaning and Elite Lights, to learn about his seasonal, temporary holiday lighting service that’s perfect for anyone in Troy, Edwardsville, Collinsville, Maryville, and the Metro East Illinois area who wants their home to sparkle 618-350-4399 Temporary Christmas Lights Professionally Installed & Uninstalled WhirLocal: Olly, holiday lights bring so much joy, but they can also be a lot of work. Can you tell us how Elite Lights makes it easier? Olly: Absolutely! We handle everything for our customers. With our te…

Thanksgiving Cookies Mother's Day Cookies In a storefront at 533 Troy Plaza, in Troy. Nicole Tedder has continued her late mother’s Kathy Hansel dream, transforming a beloved at-home bakery into a thriving family business rooted in tradition, artistry, and a passion for custom treats. This bakery doesn’t just bake; it celebrates the legacy of a family of bakers, crafting delightful cookies, cakes, and pastries from recipes passed down through generations. Here, each treat carries the warmth of home and the joy of celebrating life’s sweetest moments. A Family Affair, Built on Generations of Baking Nicole’s journey into baking started as a family ritual. “The bakery was actually my mom's,” she shares, rememb…

Know of upcoming events in the Collinsville, Maryville, Troy, Marine and St. Jacob area that should be included in Whirlocal Collinsville - Triad? Email [email protected] Here are the happenings this weekend. St. Louis Metro Princess Day When: Saturday, November 2 at 10am Where: Gateway Convention Center  1 Gateway Drive Collinsville Experience the joy, laughter, and happily ever after with your favorite fairytale friends! Our event features 10 performances & activities to delight you and your little ones! More Info: Facebook Page Paint your Partner/ BFF When: Friday, November 1 from 6-8pm Where: Quintons Crafthouse, 126 W. Main, Collinsville Bring your partner or best friend along…