Amanda

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri Feb. 2 – Feb. 8, 2026

Posted on February 1, 2026February 5, 2026 by Amanda

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner and this week there’s lots of opportunities to create crafts, take in a local art exhibit, play black light bingo, and celebrate National Eat Ice Cream for Breakfast Day or indulge in spicy, flavorful cuisine in WashMo’s Cajun Night.

You can also take a Valentine’s Day cookie decorating class, or grab your girlfriends and attend numerous Galentine’s events such as the Rosebud Winter Wine Walk, or events at a couple area wineries. Other Valentine’s events include the Love Shack Valentine’s Pop-Up Bar, and a family-friendly storybook breakfast event.

As a reminder, winter weather may force a change or events may get rescheduled. While I strive to keep these posts as up to date as possible, it might be a good idea double check with the event venue before heading out!

Did I miss an event? Tag me on Facebook or Instagram and I can share the event in my stories.

Thursday, Feb. 5
Head to the Union Branch of the Scenic Regional Library for Booze and Boos program, a paranormal history program of many of the beer barons of St Louis, plus a few extras from around the US.
Registration is required.

Friday, Feb. 6
The Pacific Branch of Scenic Regional Library is hosting its annual Local Art Show co-hosted with local artist Rex Batson! Original works by local artists will be on display, so join us for an art-loving evening celebrating the many creative talents of our community. Event begins at 6 p.m.
Get more details.

Saturday, Feb. 7
Celebrate National Eat Ice Cream for Breakfast Day at area Silver Spoon Ice Cream locations in and around Franklin County in Washington, Eureka, or House Springs.
Learn more.

Saturday, Feb. 7
WashMo Cajun Night is a free event with live music and dancing, plus food and drinks available for purchase! Plate includes one entrée with rice, beans, and cornbread, choices include Etoufee, beef brisket, gumbo , Cajun sausage, lemon chicken, and new this year, the Bayou wing basket, prepared by Blues Hog.
Learn more.

Saturday, Feb. 7
Serendipity Slush Co. in Washington is having a pop-up bakery event featuring by His grace Baked goods, made by local baker Lauren Sloan. The event is from noon-3 p.m.
Find out more.

Saturday, Feb. 7
Pop into the makerspace at Scenic Regional Library’s St. Clair location to work on your valentine boxes. We will have a few boxes, paper, glue, stickers, paint, and more while supplies last. This program is designed for children and accompanying adults. Please plan to attend and be engaged with your child for this program. Drop offs will not be permitted. This class may involve messy crafts or activities. Please dress to be messy!
Register here.

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Saturday, Feb. 7
It’s Black Light Bingo Night at the Gerald Lions Club beginning at 7 p.m.
Find out more.

Sunday, Feb. 8
Attend a “Heartstrings” paint class at DeAnn’s Dazzling Designs in St. Clair. Cost is $35 per person, and supplies are included.
Get more info.

Sunday, Feb. 8
Head to Union to Piccadilly Par 1 for a Super Bowl party, beginning at 4 p.m.
Find more details.

Sunday, Feb. 8
Muddy Bank Brewing in Sullivan is hosting a Valentine’s Day Cookie Decorating class at 2 p.m. This kid-friendly event must have an adult help them during the class. Each attendee will receive a cookie decorating kit with 6 cookies to decorate during the class and guidance by the instructor.
Learn more and buy tickets.

Sunday, Feb. 8
Want to support young entrepreneurs? Head to N-Rec Sports Center in Washington for Youth-Preneur Showcase from noon-3 p.m. and support local kids selling their products.
Learn more.

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Sunday, Feb. 8
Catch the Big Game at Eight Nine Eight Cigar Bar & Lounge in Washington. Tickets are $35 per person, and tickets are limited to 30 people. Attendees will enjoy the game in an uncrowded environment and a menu of beer, Carbliss Seltzers, soda, water, and a snack food buffet.
Find out more and buy tickets.

Road Trippin’

Take a little road trip to some of these events happening within a short drive of Franklin County.

Multiple days and times
Looking for a fun and winter-themed experience? Noboleis Vineyards in Augusta is featuring Winter Wine-derland Igloos this winter season. These private spaces feature cozy blankets, twinkling lights, and views of the vineyard.
Get pricing and more info.

Friday, Feb. 6
The Love Shack is a Valentine’s Pop-Up Bar at Brookdale Farms in Eureka. Spend the night line dancing, enjoying drinks, and a food truck, in a fun, love-themed space.
Find out more.

Saturday, Feb. 7
Spend a cozy afternoon of wine tasting, shopping, and small-town charm at the Winter Wine Walk in Rosebud from noon-4 p.m. Tickets are $20 online & $30 day of the event. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through town as you sample a variety of wines from local wineries, paired with complimentary snacks at each stop. It’s the perfect excuse to explore local businesses, catch up with friends, and support our community—all while sipping something delicious.
Get more information.

Saturday, Feb. 7
Head to St. James for a Galentine’s Celebration Tea Party at Prairie Barn Winery. Enjoy an afternoon tea including sweet and savory food selections. One glass of wine, slushy or non-alcoholic beverage included. Seats are limited at $25 per person.
Find out more.

Saturday, Feb. 7
Learn how to paint a cuddly Highland cow at a paint & sip event at Noboleis Vineyards in Augusta. The event is from 1-3 p.m., and is $30 per person.
Get tickets.

Saturday, Feb. 7
Gather your favorite gal pals for an afternoon of wine, relaxation, and all-around Galentine’s fun at St. James Winery! Sip your favorite St. James Winery wines, enjoy a cozy and festive atmosphere, and treat yourself to unique experiences and offerings. We’re building an inspiring lineup of makers, artisans, and wellness vendors—so expect a day full of discovery, indulgence, and memorable moments.
Learn more.

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Saturday, Feb. 7
It’s a Galentine’s Glow Bingo Party at The Factory on Jackson in Salem. The fun begins at 6 p.m.
Get more info on Facebook.

Saturday, Feb. 7 & Sunday, Feb. 8
Head to Brookdale Farms in Eureka for a family-friendly Valentine’s event. The Be Our Valentine: An Enchanted Storybook Breakfast will feature character moments, storybook magic, plus food and mimosas available for adults.
Get tickets.

Have a public event coming up? Submit your event details like time, location, and cost to attend. Be sure to include your website and social media details so I can help spread the word about your event!

News and Features

Meet the Women Providing Meals for the Community Through the Nonprofit Feeding on Faith

Posted on January 29, 2026January 27, 2026 by Amanda

A couple of years ago, friends Mary Stevens and Judy Mattox felt called to make meals for people in need. At first they organized a small group that served meals at their shared church, and while that was a successful effort, they both felt led to do more, but in order to do that they’d need to take a couple leaps of faith, like registering as a nonprofit, finding a kitchen where they could prep and cook meals, and raise funds.

Feeding on Faith has been official since November of 2024, after everything was finalized – from becoming a 501 (c) 3 nonprofit, to meeting health department requirements, to finding a kitchen and place to serve meals, all of which took about six months.

Things really started to pick up for the organization once they were able to begin organizing community meals served at the Marylou Community Building in Truesdale, located in Warren County, which started this past summer and is still going strong.

Mary, left, and Judy, right, are the duo behind the nonprofit Feeding on Faith. Photo credit: Feeding on Faith via Facebook.

The meals they’ve served have changed along with the seasons, over the summer the ladies served items like “walking tacos” for lunch at the concession pavilion located outside of the Marylou Community Building. During that time, they fed a lot of kids since school wasn’t in session, as well as some single adults, retirees, and families.

Mary and Judy say they still see “a pretty good mix of people” at each community meal, with many return attendees.

“We see a lot of families and we hear the same thing each time: ‘you don’t know how much this helps,'” Mary shares.

And since the women both feel like creating this nonprofit was a calling from God, it’s important that the help they provide often looks like the kind of comforting meal you’d get if you were invited to a friend’s house for dinner.

Casserole meals are popular dishes, but the ladies have also made hearty meals like scalloped potatoes and ham, soups and chili, as well as sandwiches and chips, and chili dogs. Although both ladies love to cook for others, Judy is the baker of the two, so every meal also includes a dessert of some sort.

Although they’re a fairly new organization, they’ve made a significant impact for those in need. So far, they’ve served over 900 meals to the community, helping to feed people at the community meal events as well as providing meals to nearby shelters.

“We really wanted to serve 2,000 meals last year, but in the beginning we had some delays with renting a kitchen,” Mary explains.

In addition to feeding people at the every other Monday community meals, some of the shelters and other groups they’ve provided meals for include a domestic abuse shelter and they’ve helped make lasagnas for the Lincoln County chapter of the nation-wide meal train program called Lasagna Love.

Having access to the space inside Marylou Community Building once every other week means they have a place to keep their supplies, a requirement per the health department, but also it means they’re able to preserve any leftovers and purchase more perishable ingredients in advance.

“We were able to buy a freezer, so now we can buy things when they’re on sale,” Judy says.

The ladies make all the meals that they serve to the community. Photo credit: The Socialite_Amanda Bretz

As a nonprofit they rely on donations and volunteers, and whenever they’re able to make ingredients and funds stretch, the more people they’re able to help. Mary shares that since they’re such a new organization, a lot of volunteers at Feeding on Faith have been friends and family, although they also welcomed a Girl Scout Troop to help serve a community meal last year.

And there’s also been support from individuals and organizations in the community, including Cuivre River Electric, Long Row Lavender Farm, Woodbridge Corp., Sam’s Club in Wentzville, and many more. Without those donations – of both funds and supplies – the nonprofit wouldn’t have been able to make such a profound impact.

Planning for the future

Both Judy and Mary see Feeding on Faith expanding to help even more people.

“Judy wants a food truck,” Judy says with a laugh.

The women hope to grow the nonprofit by purchasing a food truck or food trailer so they can be mobile to meet, and feed, people where they’re at.

“That’s this year’s partial goal,” Mary adds.

Mary also envisions having a bigger space that’s all their own, so they can have premade, frozen meals ready to help people whenever they need it.

“We’re very grateful to be able to use this space, but unfortunately we don’t have access to it all the time,” Mary shares of the Marylou Community Building. “I’d love to make up individual meals in advance and put them in the freezer at our own place so that if someone reaches out and needs a meal for that day, we can easily help.”

Mary and Judy work together to make multiple lasagnas in an assembly style at the Marylou Community Building in Truesdale. In January 2026, the Feeding on Faith community meal was lasagna, salad, garlic bread, and dessert. Photo credit: The Socialite_Amanda Bretz

The next community meal served at the Marylou Community Building in Truesdale is on Monday, Feb. 2, from 5-6:30 p.m. If you’d like to learn more about Feeding on Faith, you can follow the organization on Facebook, or visit its website.

Note: This article is part of a series highlighting volunteer groups, individuals who give back to area causes, and people who are building community, such as the piece I wrote on The Homemade Exchange. If you know someone making a positive impact in or around the Franklin County area, email me at smalltownsocialitemo@gmail.com and I may feature them on the website.

Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri Jan. 26 – Feb. 1, 2026

Posted on January 26, 2026January 26, 2026 by Amanda

This week’s article is a cure for cabin fever a lot of us might have after spending some time snowed in!

There’s lots of opportunities to get crafty, like a paint & sip night at Sip on Main, create a glow in the dark lantern at Pages in Pacific, and make blankets for Project Linus at DeAnn’s Dazzling Designs. There’s also trivia nights, a chance to enjoy dueling pianos at the P-Town Piano Party, Franklin County Back to School Fair’s Mouse Races, a murder mystery dinner, Wash Mo Blues SnowBall, and much more!

With the recent snow, it’s possible that some events scheduled for earlier in the week may get canceled or rescheduled. I try to keep these posts as up to date as possible, but it might be a good idea double check with the event venue before heading out!

Did I miss an event? Tag me on Facebook or Instagram and I can share the event in my stories.

Tuesday, Jan. 27
*Rescheduled from Jan. 6* Get crafty with DIY Advice Cards. Each card will have its own unique theme, artwork, and rules set by its creator – YOU! The cards will feature messages that can help guide you through situations you may encounter during the new year.
Get more details.

Tuesday, Jan. 27
Smokin’ Oak Pizza in Washington’s weekly trivia night is all about great questions, good company, and having a genuinely good time. Every Tuesday expect hot pizzas, cold drinks on tap, plenty of laughs, friendly competition, and—best of all—prizes. Whether you’re a trivia pro or just in it for the fun, everyone’s welcome.
Find out more.

Tuesday, Jan. 27
Head to The Novel Nook in Washington for a unique book club experience where everyone brings their own book! Instead of a single assigned read, participants bring whatever book they’re currently enjoying—fiction, nonfiction, classic, or contemporary—and share highlights, insights, and thoughts with the group. This is a space for book lovers to discover new reads, engage in lively discussions, and connect with fellow readers, all while celebrating diverse literary tastes. Whether you’re deep into a thrilling mystery, an inspiring memoir, or a thought-provoking novel, bring it along and talk books with other readers on the last Tuesday of every month at 6:30 p.m.
Get the details.

Wednesday, Jan. 28
The Franklin County Silent Book Club will meet at UnderGROUNDS in Washington from 5:30-7 p.m. This nontraditional book club allows you to bring your own book and read in companionable silence, with socializing afterwards with fellow readers. You’ll carve out time for reading, meet new people, and hopefully leave with some new recommendations.
Learn more.

Wednesday, Jan. 28
Brushin’ Whimsy is hosting a paint and sip night at Sip on Main from 6-8 p.m. Attendees have a choice of painting two different winter scenes, cost is $35 per person. Pre-registration required.
Sign up.

Wednesday, Jan. 28
N-Sports Rec Center in Washington is hosting a wine, charcuterie, and bingo night. Cost is $25 per person.
Find out more and reserve your spot.

Thursday, Jan. 29
The Alley in Washington is having a Valentine’s Day Gnome Craft & Cocktails event. Cost is $25 per person and attendees will be create a Valentine’s themed gnome painting and receive one drink with ticket price.
Get tickets.

Friday, Jan. 30
Test your knowledge of music trivia at the Washington Elks Lodge. The Music Trivia night will begin when the doors open at 6:30 p.m., and trivia begins at 7 p.m. Cost is $25 per person, drinks are included in price. Outside food is allowed, but outside beverages are not.
Learn more.

Friday, Jan. 30
Do you live with a strange animal? Come to the Washington Public Library from 4-5 p.m. to meet exotic pets and learn how to care for them.
Learn more.

Saturday, Jan. 31
Create a glow in the dark lantern at Pages in Pacific. All materials included, as well as refreshments. $20 each spot with a $5 deposit.
Get more information.

Saturday, Jan. 31
Stop into DeAnn’s Dazzling Designs on Main Street in St. Clair to make blankets for Project Linus. Bring your own fleece fabric or for a $20 donation use the fleece fabric available at the shop.
Find out more.

Saturday, Jan. 31
*Rescheduled from Jan. 24 due to weather* Chef Alex Blattel is curating a special 4-course dinner and wine pairing at Triple 3 Vineyard. The evening will also include a behind-the-scenes tour of the winery’s production facility. Cost is $133 per person. Seating is limited.
Get tickets.

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Saturday, Jan. 31
P-Town Piano Party is a dueling piano show complete with dinner and a cash bar. This year’s event will be hosted at the Pacific Eagles Hall. Dinner is prepared by Vilcek Catering. Enjoy great songs from all eras as our performers entertain you. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the MVR – IIII Bridge Foundation.
Get more details.

Saturday, Jan. 31
Franklin County Back to School Fair’s Mouse Races. Doors open at 6 p.m. and races begin at 7 p.m. sharp. BYOB and snacks, but soda will be provided. This night of fun and raising money will help kids in the area. Tickets are $20 if you buy ahead of the event and $25 at the door.
Purchase tickets.

Saturday, Jan. 31
Head to Blondie’s Breezeway in St. Clair for an interactive Murder Mystery Dinner. The event begins at 5:30 p.m. and the dinner includes four-courses.
Get more info and buy tickets.

Saturday, Jan. 31
The Office Bar & Grill in Washington hosts an Open Mic Night every Saturday from 6-10 p.m.
Find out more.

Saturday, Jan. 31
The Washington VFW is the site of the Winter Wash Mo Blues SnowBall Member Appreciation Night. All are welcome at this event, happening from 7-10 p.m. Enjoy live music by the Faithful Strays, outside food is welcome, but drinks must be purchased at the VFW.
Learn more.

Road Trippin’

Take a little road trip to some of these events happening within a short drive of Franklin County.

Thursday, Jan. 29
Head to Ruthie’s Family Restaurant in Rosebud for an evening of line dancing and dinner.
Find out more.

Friday, Jan. 30 – Sunday, Feb. 1
Looking for a fun and winter-themed experience? Noboleis Vineyards in Augusta is featuring Winter Wine-derland Igloos this winter season. These private spaces feature cozy blankets, twinkling lights, and views of the vineyard.
Get pricing and more info.

Friday, Jan. 30 & Saturday, Jan. 31
The Snow Spur Saloon is a winter-themed pop-up bar that’s part of the Winter Roundup event at Brookdale Farms. The pop-up is happening every Friday and Saturday night throughout January and February.
Get tickets.

Saturday, Jan. 31
Are you newly engaged and searching for possible wedding venues? The Hermann Wedding Trail is happening on Saturday, and engaged couples are welcome to check out beautiful wedding, reception and rehearsal dinner venues and visit with wedding vendors who will ensure you have the perfect day!
Find out more on Facebook.

Saturday, Jan. 31
Celebrate National Seed Swap Day with a plant and seed swap at the Rolla Public Library from 1-3 p.m. Attendees should bring packets of seeds to share, as well as houseplants, cuttings, or books.
Get more information.

Sunday, Feb. 1
Prairie Barn Winery in St. James is hosting a Sunday trivia event on Musicals. The will be hosted trivia outside (weather permitting) starting at 2:30 p.m. You can also stay inside for cozy indoor games, wine tastings and relaxation.
Find out more.

News and Features

Local Author Teal Collins Knows How to Make the Darkness Sparkle in Her Romantic Fantasy Novels

Posted on January 22, 2026January 22, 2026 by Amanda

Some stories are just better with a little bit of darkness woven into them. And sometimes that looks like tales about vampires, otherworldly creatures, curses, or other forms of magic that can often blur the line between what can be perceived as good versus evil.

Fantasy romance, or romantasy, is clearly having a moment. While there’s always been a market for vampire romances, or epic fantasy novels that include a love story, the popularity of book series like A Court of Thorn and Roses, and Throne of Glass, by Sarah J. Maas, and The Empyrean series by Rebecca Yarros, prove readers can’t get enough of unearthly beings, otherworldly settings, and a magic that often comes with high stakes.

Lonedell-based fantasy romance author Teal Collins, a self-proclaimed lover of all things dark and mysterious, has long felt a pull towards stories that are dark, atmospheric, and mythical.

She writes novels full of supernatural secrets, strange creatures, a love story, and perhaps weaving a bit of magic of her own, Teal finds a way to “make the darkness sparkle” in her stories.

That draw toward the dark, magical, and mysterious doesn’t end at writing her own novels. When she’s not writing, her favorite kinds of stories to dive into often include fantasy, romance, and urban fantasy elements.

Local author Teal Collins. Photo credit: Teal Collins

“I love stories where the ordinary world brushes up against something supernatural. Shows like “The Vampire Diaries” and “Outlander” are comfort watches for me, and books like “Tuck Everlasting,” “Twilight,” the Sookie Stackhouse series, and Harry Potter shaped my love for romantic, otherworldly storytelling,” Teal shares.

Although she found writing in childhood, first with songs and poetry, she moved into crafting novels as a teen, even though she admits “I didn’t quite know what I was doing yet,” at that age.

The first novel in the Blood and Brine Trilogy is available now on Amazon.

For her current series, the Blood and Brine Trilogy, she points to a vivid dream she had as a teenager as the inspiration for her first novel “Calling Emery.”

“Around that time, I was discovering paranormal romance, and while I loved it, I felt like something was missing for me emotionally,” she explains. “I wanted a story that leaned more into longing, memory, and the feeling of being on the edge of something otherworldly. Writing this book became a way to explore the story I had been quietly carrying for a long time.”

Teal started the book when she was a young adult and ended up setting it aside for years, but the story kept beckoning to her, and she eventually picked it back up and published the novel in the fall of 2024.

“Calling Emery” features vampires and other monsters, as well as magic, mayhem, and of course, romance.

The writing process

Writers often have writing rituals they stick to, sometimes that looks like a targeted daily word count, while for others it can mean certain foods, drinks, locations, or even music that helps set the tone. For Teal, her writing habit looks like working late at night, sipping on a Dr. Pepper, and listening to a classical playlist that she says helps her sink into the atmosphere of the world she’s creating.

Another ritual she adheres to: she’s careful about what media she consumes while she’s working on a book. It’s important for her to stay focused on the story she’s building and not let elements from books, TV shows, or even song lyrics creep into her subconscious and influence her writing process.

A look at what’s ahead

Book two in the Blood and Brine Trilogy is slated to release later this year.

Teal is currently working on the second book in the series, called “A Sea of Pines.” Each new release will expand the world of “Calling Emery,” leaning deeper into its mythology, relationships, and emotional stakes. Since it’s still in progress, there isn’t a firm release date for “A Sea of Pines,” but she plans to publish it this year.

You can find Teal sharing books, magic, and fantasy vibes on social media. She’s most active on TikTok, but readers can also follow her on Facebook and Instagram. “Calling Emery” is on Amazon and is available in print and ebook formats.