07/31/2026
How do you tell the story of a city? You start with someone who helped build it.
For 45 years, Ray Beck helped shape Columbia's future. As Director of Public Works and later City Manager, he guided the city through decades of unprecedented growth, helping create the parks, trails, transportation systems, public spaces, and infrastructure that continue to serve our community today.
But "Fingerprints & Footprints: Ray Beck's Columbia" is more than the story of one man's career. It's the story of Columbia itself.
Through personal reflections and behind-the-scenes stories, Ray shares how city employees, business leaders, volunteers, elected officials, and everyday citizens worked together to transform a small Midwestern town into the thriving community we know today. It's a rare firsthand account of the decisions, challenges, and partnerships that shaped Columbia over nearly half a century.
Join us for the official book launch on Sunday, August 16, as Ray Beck and co-author Jodie Jackson discuss the memoir, followed by a book signing.
📅 Sunday, August 16, 2026
🕐 Talk: 1:00–2:00 p.m. | Book Signing: 2:00–3:00 p.m.
📍 Reichmann Pavilion at Stephens Lake Park
Admission is free, and all net proceeds from book sales benefit the Boone County History & Culture Center.
