👋 Good Morning, West County!

In today’s ⚡️West County Pulse newsletter:

🗳️ Early Voting Starts Tomorrow
🌨️ Winter Weather Outlook
🧥 Kurt Warner Foundation Coat Drive Returns

Let’s jump into today’s newsletter!

— Jared Michel

Top Stories

🗳️ StL County Early Voting Starts Tomorrow

St. Louis County is set to open satellite voting sites for the November 2024 election. Starting tomorrow, residents can cast their ballots early at various locations throughout the county. The initiative aims to make voting more accessible for all eligible voters, with no excuse required for absentee voting.

🌨️ NOAA Releases Winter Weather Outlook

Missouri's winter forecast is a bit of a toss-up this year. While the NOAA report doesn't specifically mention our state, we're sandwiched between regions with different predictions. The Great Lakes area to our north might see more precipitation, while the Southern Plains to our southwest could be drier.

🌳 New Playground Opens at Faust Park

Faust Park in Chesterfield has opened a new attraction called Whimsical Woods. This outdoor play area features hand-built structures like cabins, treehouses, and small castles. Created using recycled materials, the space aims to encourage imaginative play in nature. Park officials are considering future expansions, including a two-mile trail with more miniature houses.

🛣️ Ladue Road Getting a Facelift

The Creve Coeur City Council has approved a major upgrade for Ladue Road. The $2 million project will resurface the 2.1-mile stretch from Lindbergh to Emerson. Improvements include new sidewalks, traffic signals, and illuminated signs. This comprehensive renovation addresses the patchwork of repairs accumulated since the road's last repaving in 2007.

Business

🧥 Warner's Warm-Up Coat Drive Returns

The 24th annual Warner's Warm-Up Coat Drive is set to begin today, running through November 3. Creve Coeur’s and Chesterfield’s police departments are participating in the collection of new and gently-used coats for those in need. The drive, organized by Kurt Warner's foundation and Operation Food Search, aims to provide warmth to residents across the Bi-State area.

🎃 Thies Farm's Pumpkinland Marks 40 Years

Thies Farm's Pumpkinland is celebrating its 40th year of operation. The farm offers family activities including an obstacle course and pumpkin picking. This year's crop is reported to be above average, with many larger pumpkins available.

🐺 Annual Wolf Fest Draws Crowds in Eureka

The Endangered Wolf Center in Eureka welcomed visitors for its annual Wolf Fest on Saturday. The event offered a mix of educational opportunities and family activities. Attendees participated in open house tours, enjoyed local food trucks, and learned about the center's mission to protect Mexican and red wolves.

📰 Local Mogul Eyes St. Louis Newspaper

David Hoffmann, chairman of the Hoffmann Family of Companies, has expressed interest in acquiring the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. Currently holding a 5% stake in Lee Enterprises, the paper's parent company, Hoffmann sees potential in the newspaper industry despite recent challenges. The billionaire's interest comes as the Post-Dispatch faces significant changes in its operations.

School District Highlights

🎓 New Approach at Parkway Middle School

Parkway is introducing a new educational model. Central Middle School now offers four learning academies: Design, Empower, Flex, and Legacy. These programs provide students with personalized learning experiences while following Parkway's core curriculum. KSDK News recently featured this innovative approach on their broadcast.

🏫 Rockwood-STLCC College Partnership

Rockwood is offering seniors a chance to get ahead. The Make it Count Program allows eligible students to take full-time college courses during their final semester. Students can earn college credits while completing high school. A virtual information session on Wednesday (October 23rd) will provide more details.

City Highlights

Ellisville

🔭 Starry Night in Bluebird Park

Ellisville Parks and Recreation is collaborating with the St. Louis Astronomical Society for a community stargazing night tonight. This free event will give families a chance to use telescopes and learn about constellations. It's a great way to spend an evening outdoors while gaining a new perspective on the night sky.

Manchester

🍂 Parks Prepare for Winter Season

Manchester Parks and Recreation has announced important preparations for the winter season. Starting November 1st, park visitors should be aware that pavilions, restrooms, and water fountains will be closed until spring. This annual winterization process helps protect park facilities from cold weather damage.

Wildwood

🌳 Wildwood's Green Dream Taking Root

Wildwood's Village Green development is making steady progress. The first phase, set to complete by the end of 2024, will introduce several community-focused features. Residents can expect a new civic green, a stage area for events, additional parking, and a hard surface oval for vendors. The city is looking forward to unveiling this new public space.

Valley Park

🌟 Valley Park Senior Recognized for Service

Valley Park High School student Jessie Sabatino-Steele has been nominated for the 2024 Outstanding Student Leader Program. This program recognizes students who excel in community service and fundraising. Jessie's involvement in school activities, citizenship, and maintenance of high personal standards have contributed to her nomination, highlighting her positive impact on the Valley Park community.

Upcoming Events

Visit our full community calendar here for a comprehensive list of events.

📆 Next 7 Days

THANKS!

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