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⚡️ A Local Kid Beats Cancer, A New Chesterfield Music Facility

👋 Good Morning, West County!

In today’s ⚡️ West County Pulse newsletter:

  • 🏥 A Local Kid Beats Cancer

  • 🎸 A New $150M Music Facility

  • 🍔 Dave & Tony's in Creve Coeur Closes

Let’s jump into today’s newsletter!

Jared Michel

THE DIGEST

🏥 Local Kid Beats Brain Tumors, Pays It Forward

Drew Patchin, a local kid who had his wish granted at FOX 2 last year, is now cancer-free and giving back to the community. Drew and his family will be setting up a lemonade stand near Parkway Northeast Middle School this Sunday from 10:30am to 12 to raise money for the Bennett Project and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, both of which significantly helped Drew during his battle with brain tumors. The family is excited to support the organizations that have been there for them throughout Drew's medical journey. Learn more here.

🌪️ 2024 Marks 5th Highest Tornado Year in STL

The St. Louis region has experienced a high number of tornadoes in 2024, with 28 confirmed touchdowns so far, making it the fifth-highest year on record. However, 2006 remains the worst year, with 75 tornadoes. While it may seem like tornado frequency has increased over time, this is largely due to improved detection methods. May is historically the most common month for tornadoes in the St. Louis area. Read KSDK’s full reporting here.

🏛️ Councilman Proposes New County Government

St. Louis County Councilman Mark Harder has proposed a new form of government for the county. The proposed change would replace the elected county executive with a professional manager who would oversee daily operations. Harder believes this change could help reduce political stalemates and corruption.

🎻 Free SLSO Concert on June 24 at New Library

The St. Louis County Library has announced that the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra will perform a free community concert to celebrate the opening of the new Clark Family Branch on June 24. The concert will feature Cally Banham on oboe and English horn, leading a woodwind quintet. Seating is general admission, available on a first-come, first-served basis, and doors will open at 6:30pm. Register to attend here.

BUSINESS

🎸 New State-of-the-Art Music Facility in Chesterfield

A new $150 million music production facility, Gateway Studios, is under construction in Chesterfield. The 32-acre campus will feature large rehearsal spaces, docks for rigs, kitchens, and dressing rooms, allowing musicians and bands to prepare for their tours. Despite delays due to the pandemic, the one-of-a-kind facility is set to open later this year, bringing jobs and restoring St. Louis' standing in the music industry.

🌿 Ellisville Mulls Drive-Thru Cannabis Dispensary

Ellisville's City Council is considering a conditional use permit for a new cannabis dispensary with a drive-thru at the former Steak 'n Shake location on Manchester Road. The dispensary would be the third in Ellisville and could generate an estimated $612,000 in additional sales tax revenue for the city. However, Silky's Frozen Custard next door has raised concerns about potential traffic safety issues.

🍔 Dave & Tony's Closes After 15 Years in Creve Coeur

Dave & Tony's Premium Burger Joint in Creve Coeur has permanently closed after 15 years of service. The gourmet burger restaurant, known for its build-your-own steak thickburgers and extensive topping options, announced the closure on social media over the weekend. The owners, Tony Dahl and his wife Brandi, decided not to renew their lease at the Bellerive Plaza location on Olive Blvd.

🏆 Schnucks Earns US Best Managed Company Title Again

Schnuck has been named a 2024 US Best Managed Company for the third consecutive year. The program, sponsored by Deloitte Private and The Wall Street Journal, recognizes outstanding U.S. private companies based on strategy, execution, culture, governance, and financial performance. Schnucks operates 115 stores across the Midwest and employs nearly 12,000 teammates.

And by the way…. Schnucks is giving away free donuts after Cardinal home runs for the rest of this year’s regular season.

SCHOOL DISTRICT UPDATES

Parkway

🎒 Life Lessons from Sorrento Springs Kids

KMOV's Steve Harris asked Sorrento Springs kindergarteners some big life questions. Their cute and insightful answers will melt your heart and brighten your day.

Rockwood

🧵 LaSalle Springs Students Sew for a Cause

At LaSalle Springs Middle School, family and consumer sciences teacher Brooke Biernbaum led a group of nearly 30 students in a sewing project to benefit those in need. Over the past eight weeks, the students created more than 25 colorful pillows and zipper bags during their Academic Lab time. The handmade items will be donated to Sunshine Ministries, a local organization that provides social services to the less fortunate in the St. Louis area.

CITY HIGHLIGHTS

Ballwin

🚔 38-Year Veteran Cop Recognized for Excellence

Officer Michael Hitchcock, a 38-year veteran of the Ballwin Police Department, has been selected as this month's recipient of FOX 2's Proud to Serve award. Officer Hitchcock, who currently serves as the school resource officer for all six elementary schools in Ballwin, has won numerous accolades throughout his career, including "Employee of the Year" and "School Resource Officer of the Year." Nominated by his daughter Rebecca, Officer Hitchcock receives $500 from Brown & Brown Law Firm along with the well-deserved recognition for his dedication to the Ballwin community.

Chesterfield

🌆 Residents Give High Marks for Road Upgrades

Chesterfield's Public Works Department worked hard in 2023, successfully reconstructing over 16,000 square yards of streets. The city reported the various projects earned an impressive 86% approval rating from residents, highlighting the city's dedication to improving infrastructure and enhancing the community's quality of life.

⚾ Kids: Pitch, Hit & Run Your Way to the MLB!

The Chesterfield Valley Athletic Complex announced it will host a free Pitch, Hit & Run event for kids aged 7-14 on Saturday, June 8. This exciting program offers young baseball and softball enthusiasts a chance to showcase their skills and potentially earn a spot at the 2024 MLB World Series. Learn more / register your children here.

Des Peres

👶 Water Play for Ages 6 & Under Starts Next Week

The Lodge’s Outdoor Water Waddlers program kicks off next week on May 28th, offering a fantastic morning activity for children aged 6 and under. Held Monday through Friday from 9:30am to 10:30am at the Outdoor Splashpad and Lower Pool, this program allows parents and guardians to spend quality time splashing and playing with their little ones before the day gets too hot. Learn more here.

Eureka

🚒 Eureka Fire Celebrates 80 Years of Service

The Eureka Fire Protection District is commemorating its 80th anniversary this year. What started as an all-volunteer force in 1944 has grown into a professional fire department with 52 full-time employees across three firehouses. The district faces unique challenges due to its location and community features, but continues to serve the growing Eureka area with the support of its residents. Read The Leader’s full write up complete with old photos here.

Manchester

🍺 Manchester Craft Beer Fest Drew Large Crowd

The Manchester community came together for a fun afternoon at the annual Craft Beer Festival this past Saturday. Held at Schroeder Park, the event featured beer tastings from about 24 breweries, live entertainment by 5 Star Roscoe, and delectable food truck fare from Lily's Cafe.

🚴‍♂️ Tiny Tot Triathlon: Bike, Run, Swim!

As a friendly reminder, Manchester’s Tiny Tot Triathlon is right around the corner. With parent assistance, young kids ages 3-9 can choose from Beginner, Intermediate, or Advanced triathlon courses that vary in distance and incline/decline. The event features four heats at 9:00, 9:15, 9:30, and 9:45am, followed by an hour of pool access for swimming after completing the biking and running portions. All tiny tot participants will proudly receive a medal at the finish line, making it a rewarding and memorable experience for the whole family. Learn more / register here.

Town & Country

🎵 Town & Country's Concert Series Hits High Note

The city of Town & Country hosted another successful outdoor concert last week, the second of the season. The event drew a large crowd and featured an unforgettable performance by Rock Opera. Mission Taco Joint's sponsorship played a crucial role in making the evening possible. The city will host two more concerts later this summer June 21 and August 23.

Wildwood

🥾 Join the Green Rock Trail Challenge on June 1

Don't miss Wildwood’s Green Rock Trail Challenge on June 1st at Greensfelder Park! Registration is open until May 31st for this 6-mile hike, limited to 150 participants. Fee is $20, and participants should have a reasonable fitness level for the varying terrain. Learn more / register here.

🗳️ Cliff Albers Appointed to Wildwood City Council

The Wildwood City Council has appointed Cliff Albers to fill a vacant seat in Ward 8, previously held by now-Mayor Joe Garritano. Albers, a 20-year Wildwood resident with a master's degree in management, brings volunteer experience from the Vianney Alumni Association and St. Joseph Parish Athletic Association. He will serve the remainder of the term until April 2025.

Valley Park

☕ Valley Park: Coffee, Conversation, & Community

Valley Park is inviting its residents to a Coffee and Conversation event on Friday from 8am to 9:30am. The event will be held at Great Southern Bank, located at 2981 Dougherty Ferry Road, at the corner of Dougherty Ferry and Big Bend.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Next Week

  • Monday May 27: Manchester’s Memorial Day Remembrance Service @ Stoecker Park at 10am.

  • Thursday May 30: Creve Coeur PD’s Coffee with a Cop @ McDonald’s from 8am to 10am.

  • Friday May 31 - Sunday June 2: Big Bird Fly-In & RC Air Show in Eureka. Learn more here.

  • Saturday June 1:

    • Wildwood’s Green Rock Trail Challenge. Learn more here.

    • Manchester’s Tiny Tot Triathlon for kids aged 3-9 @ Schroeder Park from 9am to 11am. More info here.

THANKS!

Thanks for reading this edition of the ⚡️ West County Pulse newsletter. If you found something useful, please share it with a friend!

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