👋 Good Morning, West County!

In today’s ⚡️West County Pulse newsletter:

🗳️ Early Voting
🔎 County Prosecutor Changes
🎢 Smoke-Free Six Flags

Let’s jump into today’s newsletter!

— Jared Michel

General News

🗳️ Early Birds Can Vote Now For April 8

Early voting has officially begun for the April 8 St. Louis County elections. Residents can now vote "in-person absentee" without providing an excuse at seven convenient locations, including the Daniel Boone and Grand Glaize libraries. Ballot content for St. Louis County can be found here.

🔎 County's New Prosecutor Makes Changes

St. Louis County Prosecutor Melissa Price Smith is restructuring the office after her January appointment. She has established a violent crimes unit and plans to launch a dedicated homicide unit in May. Price Smith has prioritized strengthening relationships with local law enforcement and maintaining regular communication with neighboring jurisdictions' prosecutors to coordinate regional efforts.

🏺 Museum Showcases 150 Years of MO Items

The Missouri History Museum downtown in Forest Park has opened a fascinating new exhibit called "Collected." Featuring 150 years of items donated to the Missouri Historical Society, the display showcases clothing, books, and everyday objects connected to significant moments in our state's history. Visitors can experience this unique look at Missouri's past since the exhibit opened last Saturday.

🌟 Local Man Named Best Buddies Ambassador

Recognition on a global scale has come to a West County resident. Ethan Schroeder was recently selected as a Best Buddies Global Ambassador—one of only about a dozen worldwide. The 33-year-old, who works as a prep specialist at Raising Cane's, will now represent the organization at major events nationwide, advocating for meaningful relationships between people with and without intellectual disabilities.

Business

🎢 Smoke-Free Policy at Six Flags St. Louis

Starting April 5, Six Flags St. Louis will prohibit smoking inside its facilities. The new policy bans cigarettes, e-cigarettes, and vaping devices throughout both the main theme park and Hurricane Harbor water park.

👶 Community to Unite for ALIVE Donation Drive

The Hub STL is organizing an important community initiative this coming weekend. On Sunday (April 6th) from 2-4pm at The District, they'll collect new baby items for ALIVE St. Louis, an organization supporting domestic violence survivors. Donations of diapers, wipes, formula, baby clothes, and blankets will directly help families rebuilding their lives during challenging transitions.

🏥 Senior Health Fair Coming to Chesterfield

The Chesterfield Parks, Recreation & Arts Department is hosting its Wellness Unplugged Senior Health Fair on Thursday, (4/3) at 10am at Chesterfield City Hall. The event will feature free health screenings, expert consultations, and wellness information. Memory screenings will also be available but require pre-registration by sending an email to [email protected] or by calling 636-812-9500.

School District Highlights

📊 Rockwood Launch Annual Survey

Rockwood has launched its yearly Community Survey that will remain open until April 18th. The anonymous feedback tool covers leadership, academics, character education, and culture in Rockwood schools. Superintendent Dr. Curtis Cain emphasized that input from all stakeholders is essential for creating effective educational opportunities that meet the needs of every student. The survey is available online here.

🌍 Marquette High Hosts Annual Culture Fest

Students at Marquette High School are hosting their third Culture Fest event on Thursday (4/3). Visitors can explore nearly 20 country booths and enjoy cultural performances like a lion dance by the St. Louis Chinese Language School.

Des Peres

🎁 Des Peres Lodge Offers Health Day Special

The Lodge Des Peres is running a special promotion for World Health Day from April 7-13. New monthly members will have their processing fees waived, while annual members receive a free 30-day extension. All new members get four flex passes and a limited-edition insulated tote bag with travel mug while supplies last. Learn more online here.

Ellisville

🥕 Community Garden Ready for Planting

Ellisville's community garden has received new protective fencing. Parks and Recreation officials confirm the installation is complete and the community garden is now ready for planting.

Manchester

🌌 Free Stargazing in Manchester

Manchester is hosting a free Stargazing Night tomorrow (4/2) at Fussner Field from 7:30-9pm. Volunteers from the St. Louis Astronomical Society will have telescopes set up to help attendees view celestial objects. The event is open to all ages with no registration required, but note there are no restrooms available.

🏊 Manchester Pool Passes Now Available

Manchester Parks and Recreation has announced their Early Bird Pool Pass program for the upcoming summer season. Passes purchased before May 23 offer reduced rates for city pool access, with resident prices starting at $72 for children/seniors and $99 for adults. Family packages provide additional savings with options based on family size. Learn more here.

Twin Oaks

🩸 Twin Oaks Hosts Blood Drive Thursday

Twin Oaks is hosting a blood drive this Thursday (4/3). The drive will run from 10am to 2pm in the Community Room (1381 Big Bend Road).

Upcoming Events

THANKS!

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