January gets a bad rap sometimes. The bleak weather often influences us to wish the month away in anticipation of warmer days and greener grasses.

But January in Southeast Missouri does offer a few things to look forward to this year.

The Harlem Globetrotters will play Wednesday at the Show Me Center. It's hard to smile while whistling "Sweet Georgia Brown," however, it's hard not to smile when you hear it.

Martin Luther King Day is Jan. 16. The Cape Girardeau community comes together for several days of service and recognition, culminating with Southeast Missouri State University's annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration Dinner. The keynote speaker this year, L. Douglas Wilder, was the first elected African-American governor. He was sworn in as the governor of Virginia on Jan. 13, 1990.

Cape Girardeau expands its storytelling reputation Jan. 20 with an afternoon and evening of Humorous Storytelling. Kevin Kling will join repeat performer Bil Lepp at the Rose Theatre to bend your ear and tap your funny bone.

If you respond more to music, check out the Eric Church concert that same night at the Show Me Center. Church, a Country Music Association Award nominee, sings "Homeboy" and "Drink in My Hand." His album "Chief" sold more than 145,000 copies in its first week. His Blood, Sweat and Beers tour is sure to be country gold.

See? January's not all bad. Just be sure to bundle up when you head out to enjoy it.