Tag: Pacific Missouri

Posted in Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri Feb. 16-22, 2026

Posted on by Amanda

This week there’s paint nights, author events, karaoke and open mic nights, as well as the Singo event in Pacific, which combines bingo and karaoke, plus head to downtown Washington on Saturday to let the good times roll, at the Mardi Gras celebration!

There’s even more events just a short drive from Franklin County, such as the Bridgerton Social event at the Rolla Public Library, a spaghetti/chili supper in Rosebud, and much more.

Pro tip: sometimes events get canceled or rescheduled, so if you’re making a special trip, or it’s a long drive, 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. 19
Blondie’s Breezeway in St. Clair is hosting a paint and sip night.
Get more info and register.

Thursday, Feb. 19
The Tri-County Community Senior Center in Pacific is hosting a Health and Wellness Fair. The fair is free and open to the public and is happening from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Learn more.

Friday, Feb. 20
Red Door Liquor & Cigars in Eureka is having a night of international whiskey. Attendees will try over 30 different whiskies from all over the world. There are two seatings, 6 – 7 p.m. or 7:15 – 8:15 p.m. Cost is $45 per person and it includes whiskey sampling and heavy appetizers. 
Find out more.

Friday, Feb. 20
The Office Bar & Grill in Washington is hosting its karaoke night from 8 p.m.-midnight.
Learn more.

Saturday, Feb. 21
Meet children’s author Constance J. Hagedorn, Ph.D., along with her daughter Ashley, at Red Cedar Inn in Pacific.
Get more details.

Saturday, Feb. 21
Head to Hoffmann Hillermann Nursery & Florist for a modern terrarium workshop. Attendees will get help choosing the perfect plants to create a one-of-a-kind terrarium and learn how to care for your terrarium to keep it healthy and happy.
Register and learn more.

Saturday, Feb. 21
The Tipsy Keg is hosting a Mardi Gras themed masquerade. Wear your Mardi Gras colors, lots of beads, and a masquerade mask at this fun party. There will be karaoke, dancing, and drink specials throughout the evening.
Find out more.

Saturday, Feb. 21
For its centennial, “Route 66 expert” and local author Joe Sonderman will present a fascinating look at The Main Street of America at the Pacific Scenic Regional Library Branch.
Get more details.

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Saturday, Feb. 21
Get ready to play bingo while belting out tunes at Singo and Karaoke, at the Tri-County Community Senior Center in Pacific. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., and tickets are $20 per person.
Learn more.

Saturday, Feb. 21
It’s Mardi Gras in downtown Washington! The celebration will be filled with shopping, food, music, drinks, and New Orleans flair.
Find out more.

Saturday, Feb. 21 & Sunday, Feb. 22
Head to Off the Rails Burger Bar in Pacific for a two day seed swap and get a jumpstart on your spring planting.
Learn more.

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. 20
Join Waffles the Mini Highland Cow for a Donut and Hot Chocolate Painting Party in Warrenton.
Learn more.

Saturday, Feb. 21
The Gasconade County Threshers Association is hosting a spaghetti/chili supper in Rosebud. There will be a cash bar, live auction, and alpha gal menu options.
Find the event on Facebook.

Saturday, Feb. 21
Calling all Bridgerton fans! You are warmly invited to an afternoon of charm, conversation, and spirited competition as we discuss the first half of the newest Bridgerton season and ready ourselves for what comes next at the Rolla Public Library. Enjoy tea, lively discussion, and a selection of quizzes, games and trivia to test your knowledge of the Ton. Regency‑inspired attire is optional, though delightfully encouraged for those wishing to embrace the occasion.
Find out more.

Sunday, Feb. 22
Attention poets, comedians, and musicians — it’s time to shine at Prairie Barn Winery & Christmas Tree Farm’s Open Mic event.
Get more info.

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 Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri Feb. 9 – 15, 2026

Posted on by Amanda

Valentine’s Day is this weekend, and if you want to keep soaking up the love around this holiday, there’s plenty of opportunities this week. From a daddy daughter spa night, to multiple galentine’s events, craft events, and much more. Find even more Valentine’s Day events perfect for couples, friends, or families in this special Valentine’s Day post.

Pro tip: sometimes events get canceled or rescheduled, so if you’re making a special trip, or it’s a long drive, 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.

Monday, Feb. 9
Washington Green Spa Wellness is hosting a Daddy Daughter Spa Night. The 45-minute experience includes foot soak, scrub + foot massage, co-fin hand treatment + hand and arm massage, hot cocoa + snack cup, plus a single stem rose to take home.
Reserve your spot.

Wednesday, Feb. 11
Oak and Front Kitchen + Bar in Washington is having a Galentine’s Night from 4:30-9 p.m. Sip some wine or your favorite cocktail and enjoy a dessert board with your gals.
Find out more.

Wednesday, Feb. 11-Saturday, Feb. 14
Are you ready to get married, but don’t want to plan a wedding? Wish there was a Vegas-style ceremony option right here in Franklin County? For a limited time, there is. The Yes, a Valentine’s Day Wedding event is happening for a few days at the Washington Expo Center. The details have been handled, all you have to do is walk down the aisle and say “I do.”
Learn more.

Thursday, Feb. 12
The Union Branch of the Scenic Regional Library will share Love Letters of the Presidents. This hour long program will feature readings from love letters written by American Presidents.
Register.

Thursday, Feb. 12
Looking for a girls night out? Sip on fun Valentine’s themed drinks at the Galentine’s Day Pop-Up Bar at Serendipity Slush Co. in Washington. There are two seating times available for this special event: from 5-7 p.m. and 7:30-9:30 p.m.
Get more info.

Thursday, Feb. 12 & Sunday, Feb. 15
Want to up your cocktail-making game? Then head to Eight Nine Eight Cigar Bar & Lounge in Washington for the Mixology 101 classes. Attendees will learn to make the number one selling cocktail, the Eight Nine Eight Old Fashioned, as well as an Espresso Martini, and a Strawberry Mojito.
Sign up.

Thursday, Feb.12
HOM Healing Center in Pacific is having a Galentine’s event that will feature mini facials, massages, food, and drinks.
Learn more.

Thursday, Feb. 12
The Washington Public Library’s “crafternoon” event is focused on creating a Valentine’s themed craft. All supplies will be provided.
Get more info.

Thursday, Feb. 12
Stop by the newest BB Coffee Lab location on its opening day, from 6 a.m.-6 p.m.
Learn more.

Friday, Feb. 13
Present Moment Yoga in Washington is hosting an interactive workshop, led by Dr. Ike who will introduce attendees to the practice of healing qi gong, an ancient Chinese health practice! Qi gong involves slow movements and breath work. Attendees will be invited to participate in the movements, so please wear comfortable clothing.
Register.

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Friday, Feb. 13
Attend a succulent potting bar class with a twist at the plant and sip galentine’s event at Hoffmann Hillermann Nursery & Florist. Tickets are $35 and include a free glass of wine, with additional glasses of wine available for $5.
Reserve your spot.

Friday, Feb. 13
Mangia Bella at Elijah McLeans in Washington is hosting a galentine’s night. Expect cocktails, bites, and lots of cozy, galentine’s vibes.
Find out more.

Friday, Feb. 13
Enjoy a galentine’s day event with a fun, floral twist at the Main Street Studio in downtown Washington. This Build-An-Arrangement Night is hosted by Joyful Blooms and is a hands-on floral design experience that’s the perfect way to celebrate friendship, creativity, and a beautiful night out together.
Find out more.

Friday, Feb. 13
The Union Community Center is hosting a Gather and Grow Open House, free to the public. The event is from 8-10 a.m. and attendees can find information on aging ahead senior center meals and activities, event and party rental, community programs, and volunteer opportunities at the center.
RSVP to attend.

Friday, Feb. 13 & Saturday, Feb. 14
If you’re looking for a spooky Valentine’s event, head to Terror on Route 66 in Sullivan for Cupid’s Nightmare: A Valentine’s Haunted House.
Get times and ticket info.

Comic book themed colorful image of a man and woman kissing
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Saturday, Feb. 14
The Washington Coffee Shop will have live music for Valentine’s Day. Enjoy the sounds of singer Elayna Cusano from 10 a.m.–12 p.m.
Get more info.

Saturday, Feb. 14
The Fraternal Order of Eagles in Sullivan is hosting a Valentine’s event called Denim, Diamonds, and Dancing. The event will feature live music by Justin Bizzle and lots of dancing.
More details.

Sunday, Feb. 15
Keep the galentine fun going at the Galeninte’s Bento Box Decorating event at Thrive Studio & Events in Sullivan. Attendees will frost and decorate their own Valentine’s themed bento cake. Cost is $30, with all supplies provided.
Find out more.

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. 13
Edelweiss Winery & Events in Hermann is hosting a Galentine’s celebration you won’t forget. The “Nowhere to Wear This” themed event means attendees can rock those sparkly outfits that have been hanging out at the back of the closet for way too long.
Get more info.

Friday, Feb. 13 & Saturday, Feb. 14
Brookdale Farms in Eureka is having a Valentine’s dinner event fit for a fairy tale. The Carriages & Candlelight event will feature a romantic, candlelit dinner experience with intimate seating, live instrumental music, a catered dinner, professional photo moments, and an open bar, and carriage rides throughout the evening.
Find tickets.

Friday, Feb. 13
St. James Winery is hosting a special Valentine’s Dinner and facility tour. Attendees will enjoy a four-course culinary experience paired with specially selected wine or beer, crafted to elevate every bite. Your evening includes an intimate guided tour where you’ll learn about the winemaking process, enjoy the ambiance, and savor each course as the night unfolds. Let the atmosphere, the pairings, and the company sweep you away.
See the menu and buy 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!

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.