A ribbon-cutting was held to mark the grand opening of the Hampton Inn in Columbia.

Columbia Alderman James Agne, left, takes a tour of the new Hampton Inn with developer Terry Johnson.

The crew from Select Propane participates in the Waterloo Homecoming Parade.

The Columbia Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon-cutting to mark the grand opening of Charlie’s Carstar on North Main Street.

The Columbia Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon-cutting June 19 to welcome the grand opening of Agnes Ross. The plumbing fixture and repair store is located at 113 W. Gundlach Street in the historic Old Distillery Building. The owners are Susan and David Nobbe.

Lou Miller of LM2 Pool Supply is gearing up for the summer at his store at 217 N. Main in Waterloo.

Former Army Ranger Kyle Buettner, left, has joined the staff of Petri Insurance. It is owned by his father-in-law, John Glessner.

Select Propane recently opened its doors and is distributing propane to residents and businesses in Monroe, Randolph and St. Clair counties. The shop is located on Route 3 between Red Bud and Waterloo. Owner Ron Ramsey, left, has more than 20 years experience in the propane industry. Looking over a new truck with Ramsey is employee Alan Brellinger.

Licensed esthetician Joni Cygan, left, and Dawn Sweatt welcome guests to the grand opening of Joni’s Skin Essentials. The skin treatment studio and gift boutique is located at the Courthouse Pointe, 208 East Mill Street, in Waterloo.

A World of Difference was one of the Waterloo stores participating June 12 in the Chocolate Affair. Owner Dr. Cheryl Rayot-Tannous, left, served organic ice cream bars, organic chocolate wafer cookies and micro-brewed root beer. Among those enjoying the treats were Lauren Dietz, center, and Kim Crowell.

Jennifer Eggleston has been hired as the new YMCA of Monroe County aquatic director. Eggleston moved to Millstadt in 1983 at the age of 10. She lived in Columbia from 1998 until 2002, when she graduated from Columbia High School.