Show-Me Institute

The Insider's Hour with Show-Me Institute: Candidate Policy Briefing - Two Times Available
2024-08-08 11:30 - 13:00 (America/Chicago) | MO
Join us as we discuss the biggest policy issues facing Missouri: tax policy and a taxpayer bill of rights, economic development, and education policy.
Brenda Talent, David Stokes, and Elias Tsapeles from the Show-Me Institute will share their expertise and non-partisan research and analysis on each of these important topics and answer your questions.
Candidates of all parties and the public are invited to attend the Show-Me Institute’s Candidate Policy Briefing during this month’s Insider Hour.
Two chances to get the scoop:
Both Thursday, August 8
Lunch Event
MAC West
1777 Des Peres Road
St. Louis, MO 63131
Doors open: 11:30 a.m.
Discussion and Q&A: 12-1:00 p.m.
Ticket Price: $15.00 (includes lunch and beverages)
Lunch Event Tickets Here
Evening Event
Cafe Napoli
7754 Forsyth Boulevard
St. Louis, MO 63105
Doors open: 4:30 p.m.
Discussion and Q&A: 5-5:45 p.m.
Ticket Price: $15.00 (includes a beverage and light snacks)
Evening Event Tickets Here

The Case for a Missouri Taxpayer Bill of Rights
2024-08-12 12:00 - 13:00
On August 12, join us for a virtual event where Elias Tsapelas, director of state budget and fiscal policy at the Show-Me Institute, and Aaron Hedlund, chief economist at the Show-Me Institute, will make the case for a Missouri Taxpayer Bill of Rights. This event will explore the limitations of the current Hancock Amendment, propose reforms to better protect taxpayers in the state, and more.
This event is an opportunity for taxpayers, policymakers, and anyone interested in state fiscal policies to engage with experts and learn about the future of taxpayer protections in Missouri.
Registration: This event is free to attend, but registration is required. Register here.

Private Screening of "Tune Out the Noise"
2024-08-13 17:00 - 19:00
Join us for a private screening of the documentary film “Tune Out the Noise,” followed by a Q&A session with Rex Sinquefield.
Details:
Tuesday, August 13, 2024
Doors open at 5:00 p.m. | Show starts at 5:30 p.m.
Chase Park Plaza Cinemas, 212 Kingshighway Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63108
Ticket Price: $15.00 per ticket (includes popcorn and soda)
Purchase Tickets Here
About the Film: Directed by Academy Award winning director Errol Morris, “Tune Out the Noise” is a documentary film about a group of unlikely upstarts who crossed paths at the University of Chicago in the middle of the 20th century, just as computers were first being used to analyze data. That serendipitous, monumental shift enabled them to develop, and then apply, research that turned Wall Street upside down, from its ineffectual investing methods to how those were sold to the public.
It’s a story about how finance became a science and challenged the traditional methods of investing. That, in turn, led to the invention of index funds, the founding of Dimensional Fund Advisors—an investment firm dedicated to implementing the science—and the evolution of client-focused financial advice. These advances have benefited generations of investors.
Watch the Trailer Here

What's Next for St. Louis Schools?
2024-09-19 15:30 - 17:00
Every week, the headlines report significant issues affecting St. Louis public schools, from transportation and finances to school leadership, with no apparent solution on the horizon.
Join us for an in-depth discussion about the current state of St. Louis schools and how state and local policies can make a difference. Panelists include Susan Pendergrass and James Shuls from the Show-Me Institute, and Robbyn Wahby from the Missouri Charter Public School Commission.
RSVP for this Complimentary Event Here
Details
Thursday, September 19
World Chess Hall of Fame
4652 Maryland Avenue
St. Louis, MO 63108
Doors open: 3:30 p.m.
Discussion and Q&A: 4-5:00 p.m.
Our panel of experts will explore these topics and more:

the current budget and financial state of our schools
Transparency issues
The transportation situation
Whether the city has too many schools

You must register online prior to the event to attend. Walk-in registration will not be permitted.
This event brought to you by: Show-Me Institute and Show-Me Opportunity

Next Gen Connection with Show-Me Institute
2024-09-24 16:30 - 18:00
Every week, the headlines report significant issues affecting St. Louis public schools, from transportation and finances to school leadership, with no apparent solution on the horizon. Show-Me Institute Director of Research and Senior Fellow James V. Shuls will discuss how free-market state and local policies can make a difference.
RSVP Here for this Complimentary Event
Event Details
Tuesday, September 24, 2024
Cafe Napoli
7754 Forsyth Boulevard
Clayton, MO 63105
Discussion and Q&A: 5:00 p.m.
Sponsored by: James G. Forsyth III, John Lamping, and Rex Sinquefield

POSTPONED: Charles C. W. Cooke October 9
2024-10-09 18:00 - 19:00
The event featuring Charles C. W. Cooke, scheduled for Wednesday, October 9, at Lindenwood University, has been postponed. Due to travel complications related to Hurricane Milton, we are unable to proceed with the event as planned.
We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. We are working on scheduling a new date for the event. Thank you for your understanding.

The Show-Me Institute’s 20th Anniversary Celebration
2024-11-14 16:30 - 19:30
Please join us for a festive evening celebrating history in the making at the Show-Me Institute’s 20th Anniversary Celebration!
We will begin the celebration with a Cocktail Reception featuring a tribute to our founders, remarks by Dr. Arthur B. Laffer, economist and Presidential Medal of Freedom Recipient, and a champagne toast. We will finish the night with a special dinner and entertainment. We hope you will join us for the entire evening!
Dr. Arthur B. Laffer, Reception Keynote Speaker, Economist and Presidential Medal of Freedom Recipient

Marc Cox, Emcee, host of The Marc Cox Morning Show on 97.1 FM Talk

Event Details
Thursday, November 14, 2024
4:30 pm Cocktail Reception
6:30 pm Dinner and Entertainment
St. Louis Club
7676 Forsyth Boulevard
Clayton, Missouri 63105

Please purchase your tickets online here or by filling out and returning this reply card
by November 6, 2024.

CLICK HERE FOR INFORMATION ABOUT PARKING

Tickets
Dinner Table for 8 and 8 Reception Tickets: $10,000 – SOLD OUT

Dinner and reception attendance for 8

(Estimated value of goods and services: $3,120)
Reception and Dinner: $1500 – SOLD OUT

Reception and Dinner attendance for one

(Estimated value of goods and services: $390)
Reception Ticket: $250

Reception attendance for one

(Estimated value of goods and services: $150)
Show-Me Institute is a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Contributions to the Show-Me Institute are deductible for federal income tax purposes as allowed by law. The tax deduction is limited to the excess of the contribution over the fair market value of any goods or services received in exchange for the donation. All proceeds will benefit the Show-Me Institute
For additional information, please contact LaVanna Wrobley, lavanna.wrobley@showmeopportunity.org.

2025 Economic Trends for the U.S. and Missouri
2024-12-12 12:00 - 13:00
The election is over, and the markets are reacting. What will another Trump Administration mean for the future? Missouri has a new governor and key officeholders. How will this shape public policy in Missouri?
Join Dr. Aaron Hedlund, Chief Economist at the Show-Me Institute and former Chief Domestic Economist and Senior Adviser at the White House Council of Economic Advisers, and Elijah Haahr, former Missouri Speaker of the House and host of The Elijah Haahr Show on KWTO, for an insightful discussion on the 2025 economic outlook for Missouri and the United States.
Dr. Hedlund and Mr. Haahr will provide expert analysis on critical economic issues and discuss how these trends may shape the U.S. and Missouri economies, including:

Unsustainable government spending
The growing national debt
Housing and labor markets, inflation, and the role of the Federal Reserve

If you’re interested in attending this free event, please RSVP to LaVanna Wrobley at lavanna.wrobley@showmeopportunity.org

*You must RSVP prior to the event to attend. Walk-ins will not be allowed.*

Event Details
Thursday, December 12, 2024
The Library Center
4653 S. Campbell Avenue
Springfield, MO 65810
Doors open: 11:30 a.m.
Presentation and Q&A: 12:00 noon – 1:00 p.m.
Complimentary lunch will be served.

Save the Dates for 2025 Next Gen Connection Hours
2025-02-04 16:30 - 18:00
Mark your calendar for the 2025 Next Gen Connection Hour dates! Join us for these popular events, where our experts will share evidence-based free-market policy ideas to foster innovation and create opportunities in St. Louis and across Missouri.
Our first 2025 Next Gen Connection Hour will be held on February 4. Brenda Talent and David Stokes will highlight the 2025 policy priorities identified by the Show-Me Institute, focusing on common-sense reforms that can immediately and positively impact everyday life for Missourians. You won’t want to miss it!
RSVP HERE
Next Gen Connection Hours will take place in the Private Reserve Bar at Café Napoli in Clayton, starting with a networking reception at 4:45 p.m., followed by the program and Q&A at 5:30 p.m. More information and reservation links will be provided before each event.

Next Gen Connection Hour - A Look Ahead: Policy Priorities for 2025
2025-02-04 16:30 - 18:00
Join us for our first Next Gen Connection Hour of the year. The topic will be “A Look Ahead: Policy Priorities for 2025” Brenda Talent and David Stokes will highlight the 2025 policy priorities identified by the Show-Me Institute, focusing on common-sense reforms that can immediately and positively impact everyday life for Missourians.
RSVP HERE
Details
Tuesday, February 4, 2025
4:45 – 5:30 p.m. Networking Reception
5:30 – 6:00 p.m. Discussion and Q&A
Cafe Napoli, Clayton, MO

Insider's Hour: Does Missouri Need a MOGE
2025-02-18 11:00 - 13:00
Due to expected winter weather, the evening event has been canceled. However, the lunch event will still take place as scheduled.
Missouri’s government has nearly doubled in size over the past five years, with general revenue spending increasing nearly 50%. It’s time to establish a Missouri Office of Government Efficiency (MOGE) to rein in excess spending and eliminate unnecessary regulations.
Join Brenda Talent and Elias Tsapelas as they share bold ideas to address the unsustainable growth of Missouri’s budget and reduce government waste.
Lunch Event – SOLD OUT
Tuesday, February 18
MAC West
1777 Des Peres Road
St. Louis, MO 63131
Doors open: 11:30 a.m.
Discussion and Q&A: 12-1:00 p.m.
Ticket Price: $15.00 (includes lunch and beverages)

Due to expected winter weather, the evening event has been canceled.
Tuesday, February 18
Cafe Napoli
7754 Forsyth Boulevard
St. Louis, MO 63105

Save the Dates for 2025 Insider’s Hour
2025-02-18 12:00 - 13:00
The Show-Me Institute will continue to hold our Insider’s Hour events in 2025 and we hope you will join us again this year! Our goal is to keep you informed on policies that can positively impact the lives of Missourians, locally and across the state.
Our first 2025 Insider’s Hour will be held on February 18. Brenda Talent and Elias Tsapelas will discuss the importance of establishing a Missouri Office of Government Efficiency (MOGE) to rein in excess spending and eliminate unnecessary regulations. You won’t want to miss it!
Insider’s Hours will be held at two times: 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the MAC West and 4:30 to 6:00 p.m. at Café Napoli in Clayton. More information and ticket purchase links will be posted before each event.

Insider’s Hour in Kansas City
2025-03-26 16:30 - 18:00
What’s Happening in Jefferson City?

Get the inside scoop on the Missouri legislative session and policies that could directly impact the lives of Missourians at the Show-Me Institute’s Insider’s Hour! Join CEO Brenda Talent, Director of State Budget and Fiscal Policy Elias Tsapelas, and Senior Fellow Patrick Tuohey for a discussion on tax and education policy and the latest efforts to improve government efficiency.
Wednesday, March 26
Carriage Club
5301 State Line Road
Kansas City, MO 64112
Doors open: 4:30 p.m.
Discussion and Q&A: 5:15 – 6:00 p.m.
Ticket Price: $20.00 (includes light snacks and beverages)
Get your Tickets Here

Next Gen Connection Hour - St. Louis
2025-04-08 16:30 - 18:00
Join us for the Show-Me Next Generation Connection Hour. Brenda Talent and Elias Tsapelas will provide an update on Missouri’s tax policy landscape and discuss key proposals under consideration by state lawmakers. How might you be affected?
This complimentary event is open to anyone interested in learning more about policies that could shape Missouri’s future.
RSVP HERE

This event is made possible thanks to the generous sponsorship of: Jennifer Bukowsky, James G. Forsyth III, Gregg Keller, Rex Sinquefield, and Carter Smith.

Insider's Hour with the Show-Me Institute: Columbia, MO
2025-04-09 12:00 - 13:00
Join us for an open discussion on Missouri’s tax and Medicaid policies and key proposals under consideration by state lawmakers, with Brenda Talent and Elias Tsapelas from the Show-Me Institute. Wake Up Missouri’s Dr. Randy Tobler will guide the conversation as moderator.
This event is open to anyone interested in learning more about policies that could shape Missouri’s future.
RSVP HERE

Lawless: The Miseducation of America's Elites with Ilya Shapiro
2025-04-10 12:00 - 13:00
In partnership with the WashULaw Federalist Society, the Show-Me Institute is pleased to present Ilya Shapiro, senior fellow and director of constitutional studies at the Manhattan Institute, for a discussion of his new book, Lawless: The Miseducation of America’s Elites.
RSVP for This Complimentary Event Here
Thursday, April 10, 2025
12:00 noon
Washington University in St. Louis Law School
Anheuser-Busch Hall, Room 305
One Brookings Drive
Parking Information
Visitor parking is conveniently located on the 4th level of the Snow Way Garage. You can access the Snow Way Garage via the Big Bend and Snow Way intersection or the Forest Park Parkway and Throop intersection. The Law School (Anheuser-Busch Hall) is to the right of the intersection of Throop Drive and Snow Way.
The current parking fee is $15.00 per day or a prorated hourly rate. Payment will be required upon exiting the garage; credit cards are accepted.
About the Book
Lawless: The Miseducation of America’s Elites
Law schools used to teach students how to think critically, advance logical arguments, and respect opponents. Now those students cannot tolerate disagreement and reject the validity of the law itself. Rioting Ivy Leaguers are the same people who will soon:

Be America’s judges, DAs, and prosecutors
File and fight constitutional lawsuits
Advise Fortune 500 companies
Hire other left-wing diversity candidates to staff law firms and government offices
Run for higher office with an agenda of only enforcing laws that suit left-wing whims

Ilya Shapiro will discuss how we got here and what we can do about it. The problem is bigger than radical students and biased faculty—it’s institutional weakness.
About the Speaker
Ilya Shapiro is a senior fellow and director of constitutional studies at the Manhattan Institute. Previously he was executive director and senior lecturer at the Georgetown Center for the Constitution, and before that a vice president of the Cato Institute and director of Cato’s Robert A. Levy Center for Constitutional Studies.
Read full bio here.
This event is brought to you by: Show-Me Institute, WashULaw Federalist Society, Sinquefield Charitable Foundation, and Show-Me Opportunity.

Insider's Hour: St. Louis
2025-04-15 12:00 - 13:00
What’s happening in Jefferson City?Get the scoop on Missouri’s tax policy, possible Medicaid reforms, and the outcomes of the April election at our Insider’s Hour.
Join us for an open discussion with Brenda Talent, David Stokes, and Elias Tsapelas from the Show-Me Institute.
Tuesday, April 15MAC West1777 Des Peres RoadSt. Louis, MO 63131
Doors open: 11:30 a.m.Discussion and Q&A: 12–1:00 p.m.Ticket Price: $15.00 (includes lunch and beverages)
Get Your Ticket Here

2025 EdChoice Friedman Index Webinar
2025-04-30 11:00 - 12:00
Register here to reserve your spot for this virtual event today.
How much educational freedom do families in Missouri really have?
The 2025 EdChoice Friedman Index offers a first-of-its-kind measurement of private education choice across the nation. Inspired by the vision of Milton and Rose Friedman, this report evaluates how effectively each state empowers families to direct education funding toward the best options for their children—whether public or private.
In The 2025 EdChoice Friedman Index: All Students, All Options, All Dollars, EdChoice Friedman Fellow Ben Scafidi and EdChoice Senior Research Associate Colyn Ritter present a comprehensive analysis of education choice programs in all 50 states. The report examines how well states enable families to access and afford private education through choice programs.
Join the Show-Me Institute on Wednesday, April 30th, at 11:00 AM CT / 12:00 PM ET for an insightful discussion and Q&A session with Ben Scafidi and Colyn Ritter on The 2025 EdChoice Friedman Index.
You can access the Friedman Index here. You won’t want to miss this!
Brought to you by: Show-Me Institute, EdChoice and Show-Me Opportunity

Insider's Hour: Legislative Wrap Up
2025-06-05 12:00 - 13:00
It’s a wrap! The Missouri legislative session adjourned in mid-May. How did Missourians fare? Which bills passed, and which didn’t? Join us for a post-session recap with Senator Tracy McCreery and Representative Ben Keathley, followed by a Q&A session.
We’ll cover the outcomes in key policy areas including education, tax reform, the state budget, and energy policy. Don’t miss this opportunity to ask your questions about the issues that matter most to you.

Buy Your Ticket Here

Event Details
Thursday, June 5MAC West1777 Des Peres RoadSt. Louis, MO 63131
Doors open: 11:30 a.m.Discussion and Q&A: 12:00–1:00 p.m.
Ticket Price: $15.00 (includes lunch and beverages)

MOScholars Program Webinar
2025-07-10 11:30 - 12:30
In 2021, the Missouri General Assembly created the MOScholars program, allowing individuals and businesses to receive state tax credits for contributions to certified educational assistance organizations (EAOs). But what does that mean for you and your Missouri tax bill?
Join us for a timely and informative webinar where you’ll learn:
• What the MOScholars program is and who it helps
• How Missouri tax credits work, and how you can direct your tax dollars
• What qualifies as an EAO
• What to do at tax filing time
• How your participation supports school choice in Missouri
Keith Kehrer and Derek Rose, lawyers from Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner, join Show-Me Institute’s Director of Research Susan Pendergrass on Thursday, July 10, at 11:30 a.m. for a presentation on how the MOScholars law operates, with Q&A following.
The Missouri Bar MCLE has approved the live program for 1.2 general CLE hours.
Register Here

Tax and Spend: Legal Limits on Government Budgets
2025-07-16 17:00 - 18:30
Do state balanced budget requirements (i.e., tax and expenditure limitations) effectively constrain government spending? How can tax policy promote efficient collection and use of taxpayer dollars?
These questions and more will be explored with special attention to Missouri and the City of St. Louis. Topics will include Missouri’s Hancock Amendment along with the City of St. Louis’s fiscal woes and its notorious 1% earnings tax, among other things.
Spots are limited! Don’t miss this opportunity to learn about tax policy AND earn CLE credit!
Registration Begins June 30, 2025.
Register Here
Note: If this event is marked as “Sold Out,” those wishing to attend should email events@showmeinstitute.org to inquire about available seats.

Columbia: Understanding the New Golden Age
2025-08-01 11:30 - 13:00
During his inaugural speech on January 20, 2025, President Trump proclaimed the beginning of the New Golden Age, a time of “unparalleled growth and success for America.” The New Golden Age will include manufacturing dominance and expanded market access, preserving tax cuts, entrepreneurship, and prosperity for all Americans.
What is the status of the administration’s pro-economic growth plan? Are Americans experiencing greater success and purchasing power?
The Show-Me Institute and 93.9 The Eagle are pleased to welcome back Dr. Aaron Hedlund for an insightful look into the economic plans of the Trump Administration. Dr. Hedlund is the Show-Me Institute’s chief economist, and currently on a leave of absence serving as chief economist at the White House Council of Economic Advisers.
A complimentary lunch will be provided.
RSVP Required.
Register Here
Note: If this event is marked as “Sold Out,” those wishing to attend should email events@showmeinstitute.org to inquire about available seats.
Advance registration is required. No on-site or walk-up registration will be permitted.

Kansas City: Understanding the New Golden Age
2025-08-01 16:30 - 18:00
During his inaugural speech on January 20, 2025, President Trump proclaimed the beginning of the New Golden Age, a time of “unparalleled growth and success for America.” The New Golden Age will include manufacturing dominance and expanded market access, preserving tax cuts, entrepreneurship, and prosperity for all Americans.
What is the status of the administration’s pro-economic growth plan? Are Americans experiencing greater success and purchasing power?
The Show-Me Institute is pleased to welcome back Dr. Aaron Hedlund for an insightful look into the economic plans of the Trump Administration. Dr. Hedlund is the Show-Me Institute’s chief economist, and currently on a leave of absence serving as chief economist at the White House Council of Economic Advisers.
Cost: $20 (includes beverages and light snacks)
RSVP Required.
Register Here

Next Gen Connection Hour with the Show-Me Institute
2025-08-19 16:45 - 18:00
How will the One Big Beautiful Bill impact Missouri?
Get the scoop! Join us for the Show-Me Institute’s Next Gen Connection Hour. Brenda Talent, Elias Tsapelas, and Avery Frank will discuss how the One Big Beautiful Bill will impact Missourians, from changes affecting Medicaid recipients to broadening tax credits, prioritizing America First energy, changes to education policy, and more. And how will all these changes affect the Federal deficit and debt?
Tuesday, August 19, 2025
4:45 – 5:15 p.m. Networking Reception
5:15 – 6:00 p.m. Discussion and Q&A
Cafe Napoli
7754 Forsyth Boulevard
Clayton, MO 63105
This complimentary event is open to anyone interested in learning more about policies that could shape Missouri’s future. Please feel free to share with friends and colleagues.
Please rsvp by emailing LaVanna Wrobley. We hope you’ll join us!

Fund Students, Not Buildings: How School Choice Impacts Education Finance
2025-09-16 16:30 - 18:30
How does school choice impact the way states fund education? What lessons can Missouri learn from states like Texas and Florida that have embraced education choice? What does the evidence show about the effects of universal open enrollment?
Join us on for a panel discussion with Cory Koedel, director of education policy at the Show-Me Institute, and Martin Lueken, director of EdChoice’s Fiscal Research and Education Center. Susan Pendergrass, director of research at the Show-Me Institute, will moderate a discussion between Cory and Martin on the fiscal impacts of school choice programs, how these policies affect education spending, what the education provisions in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act could mean for Missouri’s students, parents, and taxpayers, and more.
Tuesday, September 16
MAC West
1777 Des Peres Road
St. Louis, MO 63131
Reception: 4:30 p.m.
Program: 5:30 p.m.
Complimentary (includes beverages and appetizers).
Registration for this event is now closed.If you have any questions, please email events@showmeinstitute.org.
RSVP was required for attendance. Walk-in registration will not be permitted.

Education in Missouri: Trends, Challenges, and Opportunities
2025-09-18 11:30 - 13:00
Join us for the inside scoop on the state of education in Missouri!
Show-Me Institute CEO Brenda Talent, Director of Research Susan Pendergrass, and Director of Education Policy Cory Koedel will discuss the expansion of charter schools into Columbia, the need for the state to embrace universal open enrollment, the $50 million investment in the MOScholars program, the education provisions in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, and more.
We hope you will join us!
Thursday, September 18, 2025
Country Club of Missouri
1300 Woodrail Avenue
Columbia, MO 65203
Doors open: 11:30 a.m.
Discussion and Q&A: 12-1:00 p.m.
Ticket Price: $20.00
(includes lunch and beverages)

Buy Your Ticket Here

Next Gen Connection Hour with the Show-Me Institute
2025-10-07 16:45 - 18:00
Get the Scoop! Two Pressing Issues Facing Missourians!
Join us for the Show-Me Institute’s Next Gen Connection Hour. Brenda Talent, David Stokes, and Avery Frank will discuss local tax policy and the disturbing decline in third-grade reading proficiency.
We will cover these important topics with time to answer all your questions:
Momentum is growing across Missouri to make major reforms to property taxes, but would that promote long-term economic growth or simply shift the burden onto more harmful taxes like the income tax?
Can Missouri replicate the success of Mississippi, Indiana, and Tennessee by implementing literary-based reforms? What reforms will work best?
Tuesday, October 7, 2025
4:45–5:15 p.m. Networking Reception
5:15–6:00 p.m. Discussion and Q&A
Cafe Napoli
7754 Forsyth Boulevard
Clayton, MO 63105
This complimentary event is open to anyone interested in learning more about policies that could shape Missouri’s future. Please feel free to share with friends and colleagues.
Please RSVP by emailing LaVanna Wrobley. We hope you’ll join us!
This event is made possible thanks to the generous sponsorship of: Jennifer Bukowsky, James G. Forsyth III, Gregg Keller, Rex Sinquefield, and Carter Smith.

October 14: Insider's Hour
2025-10-14 11:30 - 13:00
Building Better Cities: Free-Market Municipal Reform in Missouri
How should Missouri’s cities, towns, and villages organize, fund, and operate themselves to better serve residents and taxpayers?
Join David Stokes, director of municipal policy at the Show-Me Institute, for a discussion of municipal reform in Missouri. Drawing on his multi-part series A Free-Market Guide for Missouri Municipalities, David will outline how local governments can improve accountability, streamline services, and foster economic growth through free-market principles. The latest installment in the series focuses on planning and zoning reform, key issues that affect communities across the state.
This event offers municipal officials, taxpayer advocates, and engaged citizens an opportunity to learn how free-market approaches can improve governance and service delivery in Missouri’s municipalities.
Tuesday, October 14
MAC West
1777 Des Peres Road
St. Louis, MO 63131
Doors Open 11:30 a.m.
Program: 12:00 – 1:00 p.m.
Cost: $15 (includes lunch)
Register Here

Economic Development in Springfield
2025-10-15 11:30 - 13:00
Do Incentives Deliver on the Promises?
Springfield is planning a new convention center project, estimated to cost $175 million, with funding coming from a half-cent sales tax, state support, and private partnerships. Recently, the Springfield City Council unanimously approved placing a measure on the November 4 ballot that would increase the lodging tax from 13.1% to 16% to help fund the convention center project.
Join us as Patrick Tuohey, senior fellow at the Show-Me Institute, lays out the pros and cons of subsidies and tax incentives used to fund economic development projects.
Please RSVP by emailing events@showmeinstitute.org.
Wednesday, October 15
The Library Center
4653 S. Campbell Avenue
Springfield, MO 65810
Doors open: 11:30 a.m.
Discussion and Q&A: 12—1:00 p.m.
Complimentary lunch will be served.
RSVP HERE FOR THIS FREE EVENT
Advance registration is required. Walk-up registration will not be permitted.

Insider's Hour with the Show-Me Institute - 2026 Blueprint
2025-12-08 11:30 - 13:30
The 2026 Blueprint: Moving Missouri Forward is here!
The Show-Me Institute will focus on 17 key policy areas in 2026 to strengthen Missouri’s economy, expand educational freedom, advance free-market healthcare reforms, and ensure affordable and reliable energy. These proposals are presented in The 2026 Blueprint: Moving Missouri Forward, which will be discussed for the first time at the MAC West on December 8, 2026.
We invite you to attend this rare opportunity to hear from all of the Show-Me Institute’s scholars at one event. Together, they will discuss these reforms, outline specific challenges facing Missouri, provide background and analysis, and present actionable solutions designed to improve everyday life for Missourians.
Monday, December 8
MAC West
1777 Des Peres Road
St. Louis, MO 63131
Doors open: 11:30 a.m.
Discussion and Q&A: 12—1:30 p.m.
Ticket Price $20 (includes lunch and beverages)
REGISTER HERE
