This Place of Promise

The State Historical Society of Missouri will be holding a presentation on Gary Kremer’s book “This Place of Promise: A Historian’s Perspective on 200 Years of Missouri History” Gary Kremer is the executive director of the State Historical Society and uses his knowledge and personal experience to explore how the people of Missouri were shaped over time. The presentation will take place on Tuesday, Dec. 12, noon- 1 p.m. at the Center for Missouri Studies, 605 Elm St., Columbia. For more information check out the link.

Thoughts of a Colored Man

Told in the SLAM narrative, this performance, written by Keenan Scott II, celebrates the achievements and triumphs of black men that are often ignored or overlooked. This performance takes place on September 20th at Studio 4. Tickets are just $15. For more information check out the link.

Shakespeare’s Pizza 50th Anniversary Big Bash

Hey all, Shakespeare’s Pizza, one of the best locally owned pizzerias in Columbia, is having its 50th birthday and they are putting on a celebration. They are offering a free slice of pizza and are having a free concert for anyone who wants to come by. The event takes place on September 23rd, the doors open at 4pm, and the concert starts at 5pm. For more information, check out this link.

Joanne Berneche Memorial Exhibition

An exhibit for the late local artist Joanne Berneche will be displayed at the George Caleb Bingham Gallery from August 28th through September 21st with the Reception on September 7th from 4:30-6:30pm. Joanne was a local artist and educator. She taught at many local institutions and was the president of the Columbia Art League from 1979-1981. The exhibited was put together by friends of Joanne and her late husband Jerry and local art leaders. It will feature over 300 works from Joanne. If you are interested in the exhibit or just want to learn more check out this link.

Jurassic Empire

Dinosaurs are back (but for a limited time) at the Columbia Mall from June 9th-18th. This will be a drive-thru event. So, jump in your car and watch as Jurassic Empire brings dinosaurs to life with their amazing animatronics. For more information and tickets, check out their website.

Pedaler’s Jamboree

It is that time of year again for the Pedaler’s Jamboree Bicycle and Music Festival. If you haven’t already, it is not too late to get your ticket. Enjoy a wonderful bike ride along the Katy trail with places to stop for live music and entertainment. The ride will end at Boonville’s Kemper Park with the main music stage and overnight camping available for those registered. For more information check out their site.

Jumping Origami

Origami is one of the oldest arts still being practiced today. It has a fascinating history that reaches back a thousand years but modern origami really didn’t get start until the 1600s. But since then, this art has delighted people the world over. If you are interested in looking at, learning more about, or creating your own origami, the Boone County History & Culture Center has then event for you and your family. This free event will be held May 13th from 10am-12pm and will help you create your very own origami creation. For more information check out the link.