Tag: Pacific Missouri

Posted in Events

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

Posted on 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.

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!

Posted in Advertorial Feature

Gateway Upper Cervical Institute in Pacific Offers Care That is Only Available at Two Facilities in Missouri

Posted on by Amanda

Although it may be common for people to experience recurring migraines, tinnitus, vertigo or other issues, people don’t have to struggle with these symptoms. While some people can spend years seeking traditional medical help to no avail, others may learn to live with these conditions that can negatively impact daily life.

What people in our area may not know is that a chiropractor in Pacific has an advanced approach that’s helping his patients get relief from ailments like migraines, vertigo, tinnitus, and several other health issues that don’t often respond to traditional medical treatments or chiropractic methods. 

Gateway Upper Cervical Institute – a division of Orris Family Chiropractic led by Dr. Max Orris – uses specific techniques that utilize sound wave technology. This form of advanced orthogonal upper cervical care doesn’t rely on traditional chiropractic methods that involve twisting or popping to perform an adjustment. 

Because orthogonal means “a perfect square” this form of treatment realigns the neck bone so that it sits in its proper place. The top bone in the neck is known as the atlas and when its optimally aligned, it should form a square between the head and the rest of the body when viewed on an X-ray. 

“Our goal is to get everything as close to square as possible. We’re literally getting your head on straight,” he explains of the treatment.

The atlas should form a square between the head and the rest of the body when viewed on an X-ray.

This form of care is so advanced that Gateway Upper Cervical Institute is just one of two offices in the state that’s capable of delivering this type of treatment to its patients. Since the only other provider of this type of advanced orthogonal care in Missouri is located near Joplin, Dr. Max sees patients seeking care who reside in the Franklin County and St. Louis metro areas, as well as people living within a two to three hour drive of the office.

Dr. Max launched Gateway Upper Cervical Institute in 2025, because being able to provide this level of care and specific technique is something he’s wanted to do since graduating from Logan University just over a decade ago.  

When he was finishing up his degree program Dr. Max visited several chiropractic offices along the Gulf Coast, shadowing Doctors of Chiropractic in order to complete his doctoral program. During that time, Dr. Max shadowed and learned from a chiropractor in St. Petersburg, Florida who developed the advanced orthogonal technique that Dr. Max currently uses at Gateway Upper Cervical Institute. Receiving an advanced orthogonal adjustment in St. Petersburg all those years ago is something that has left a lasting impression.

The reason why advanced orthogonal is different than other upper cervical care.

“To this day that was the most profound adjustment I’ve ever had,” he recalls. While Dr. Max wasn’t having any symptoms at the time that would require advanced orthogonal care, he says that he left feeling “really good” and noticing how different that adjustment felt for him. 

Possible candidates for advanced orthogonal care

Although the symptoms of migraines, vertigo, tinnitus or even TMJ may differ, the root cause of these issues can stem from the atlas becoming misaligned. Whatever the initial cause, relief can be possible through advanced orthogonal care. 

When a patient comes in for care, Dr. Max utilizes a series of tests and equipment, including a seated X-ray machine and a specialized chiropractic instrument, called a stylus, which delivers a precise, high-frequency sound wave. After a patient has gone through the X-ray process, Dr. Max reviews the results with them, and pinpoints the stylus exactly where the misalignment occurs for each patient, per their individual X-ray results. The sound wave technology delivers quiet, painless treatment for each person.

Dr. Max utilizes a series of tests and equipment to treat patients seeking advanced orthogonal care.

Patient results

Many patients who see Dr. Max for advanced orthogonal care have seen improvement in their conditions, often in a short amount of time. Tinnitus can be a common issue for veterans, and over time, people learn to live with the condition and can get used to the persistent ringing in the ears without realizing the impact it has on their hearing. One veteran with tinnitus who was seen by Dr. Max reported an improvement in his hearing ability after one treatment. 

Vertigo impacts a person’s life since the dizziness condition creates a false sensation that the room is spinning, even when a person with vertigo is sitting still. Its impacts on balance and movement means that a person experiencing vertigo may have issues with fulfilling day to day activities, such as driving. Patients who receive treatment for this can often see improvements that allow them to get behind the wheel again.

The stylus uses sound wave technology to deliver precise and pain-free treatment.

Because getting optimal patient results is important at Gateway Upper Cervical Institute, Dr. Max also performs a series of tests designed to measure results and to better inform future adjustments.  

If you believe you or someone you know may benefit from advanced orthogonal care performed by Dr. Max, reach out by phone at 636-271-2960, or visit Gateway Upper Cervical Institute on the web. Gateway Upper Cervical Institute is located at 409 West Osage, in Pacific, inside Orris Family Chiropractic.

Posted in News and Features

Want to Help Others, But Don’t Know Where to Start? Check Out By This They’ll Know on Facebook

Posted on by Amanda

If you’ve ever thought about lending a helping hand to those around you, but don’t know where to start, you’re not alone. According to Megan Burridge, founder of a new Facebook group called By This They’ll Know, a lot of people have a desire to help others, but the logistics that can be behind the act of caring for our neighbors can make it feel like it’s too hard to start.

“I truly believe people want to help others but don’t know how,” Megan explains. “I like to use the analogy of attending a wedding reception: you know you’ll end up on the dance floor, but so many people don’t want to go first,” she shares with a laugh. “But once someone does, then more people come out to the dance floor.”

That belief comes from some observations she made during a recent lived experience. In the summer of 2025, Megan’s husband faced some health challenges and during that time she said so many people reached out to her and offered to help. She felt overwhelmed by the outpouring of kindness, but it also highlighted some gaps she’s noticed within her faith community.

Megan Burridge, founder of the Facebook group By This They’ll Know. Photo credit: Megan Burridge.

As a Christian, Megan believes a big part of living by that faith involves helping others. However she’s noticed that there can be a gap between churches and individual Christians stepping up to help others when compared to people not affiliated with a particular faith.

“I noticed that most people who are helping are not identifying as Christian,” Megan says.

That didn’t sit well with her and what she believes she’s meant to do as a Christian. Motivated to do something about her observation and taking inspiration from a Bible verse, she formed By This They’ll Know on Facebook. In just a few short months, the group has grown to nearly 500 members. And, during that time, people have made an impact around their communities, especially over the past holiday season.

Just a few examples include member Alyssa and her children who held a food drive every Saturday in November. Alyssa and her kids passed out free hot cocoa to all who made a food donation and collected 1,145 items for local food pantries in the process.

Food donations secured for area food pantries that were collected by member Alyssa and her children in November 2025. Photo credit: Alyssa R., member of By This They’ll Know.

Likewise, several members got together before Thanksgiving and assembled Thanksgiving meal kits, which consisted of canned and dry goods placed in a disposable turkey roasting pan.

Members work together to assemble Thanksgiving meal kits. Photo credit: Kiley M., member of By This They’ll Know.

And another member, Melissa, started a Blessing Box in her neighborhood. Similar to how a Little Free Library works, people can donate items like shelf stable food, hygiene products, scarves, gloves, and more, and the items are available for free, for anyone who needs them.

A Blessing Box filled often contains shelf stable food, hygiene products, and items for cold weather, like gloves or scarves. Photo credit: Melissa F., member of By This They’ll Know.

Although many people think of those in need in November and December, in reality the need for help knows no particular season, but thankfully, neither does kindness and giving. With a solid foundation formed over last fall, By This They’ll Know is on track to continue to grow and give people who are looking for way to help others a starting point. Going forward, Megan hopes to create events where people within By This They’ll Know can get together and get to know each other and build friendships and community with like-minded individuals.

Interested in learning more or getting involved? The group is open to a variety of faiths, as well as those who aren’t affiliated with any religion. Members can reside in Franklin, St. Charles, St. Louis, and Warren County areas, and beyond.

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.

Posted in Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri, Jan. 5-11, 2026

Posted on by Amanda

The hustle of the holiday season is over and the New Year has arrived. This week there’s a few opportunities to help you get on track with your 2026 goals, take in live entertainment, test your knowledge with trivia, and more.

As a reminder, events may change or 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.

Tuesday, 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. 6
Start the New Year with creating a 2026 Vision Board at Scenic Regional Library’s St. Clair Branch. This free workshop begins at 6 p.m., and requires registration.
Register.

Thursday, Jan. 8
Liberty Hall in Washington is continuing its Dynamic Women Speaker Series in 2026, with “Awakening the Wise Heart” presented by Regan Caruthers.
Learn more and purchase tickets.

Friday, Jan. 9
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. This event repeats on Jan. 16, 23, and 30.
Learn more.

Friday, Jan. 9
Dance the night away with line dancing led by Glittering Grapevine kicks off at 6 p.m. at The Office Bar & Grill in Washington.
Get more details.

Friday, Jan. 9
The Main Street Studio is a new event space in Washington and is kicking off its first community event with a Vision Board and Goal Night from 6-8 p.m. The evening will be led by Kaylie Kaufman, Nutrition Coach & Mindset Speaker. Kaylie will guide attendees through setting meaningful, realistic goals for 2026 and share practical, encouraging tools to help you actually achieve them.
More info on Facebook.

Friday, Jan. 9
Have a crochet or other fiber project you’re working on or are you interested in starting a new project while also meeting new people? DeAnn’s Dazzling Designs on Main Street in St. Clair is hosting a free event called Fiber Friends Monthly Meet where you’ll work on crocheting granny squares.
Learn more.

Back view of white two-story home with a covered patio
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Saturday, Jan. 10
The Office Bar & Grill in Washington hosts an Open Mic Night every Saturday from 6-10 p.m.
Find out more.

Sunday, Jan. 11
Tri County Community Senior Center in Pacific is hosting a Winter Ball from 2-5 p.m. Tickets are $10 in advance or $15 at the door, and the celebration includes hors d’oeuvres, sangria, beer, and non alcoholic beverages, as well as live music performed by The Elderly Brothers.
Learn more.

Sunday, Jan. 11
Attention Brides-to-Be, you don’t want to miss the Washington Wedding Show happening from 12-3p.m. at The Historic John B. Busch Brewery Event Center.
Get more info.

Road Trippin’

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

Friday, Jan. 9
Calling all “Gilmore Girls” TV series fans! Prairie Barn Winery in St. James is hosting a “Gilmore Girls” themed trivia night.
Get more info.

Comic book themed colorful image of a man and woman kissing
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Friday, Jan. 9
St. Vincent De Paul School in Marthasville is hosting a Music Trivia Night. The event is $30 per person, with beer, seltzer, soda, and setup included in the price. Attendees are welcome to bring in food.
Learn more.

Friday, Jan. 9 & Saturday, Jan. 10
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 & Sunday, Jan. 10-11
Winter Round-Up at Brookdale Farms is a family-friendly winter festival packed with outdoor fun, live entertainment, and cozy seasonal activities for all ages. From interactive hayride shows and hands-on crafts to inflatables, s’mores by the fire, and hot cocoa!
Find out more and 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!