👋 Good Morning, West County!

In today’s ⚡️ West County Pulse newsletter:

• 🎯 A Wildwood Javelin Star

• 🦇 Rabid Bat Alert

• 🍔 Lion's Choice Roars

Let’s jump into today’s newsletter!

— Jared Michel

THE DIGEST

🎯 Wildwood's Bailey Qualifies for Olympic Trials

Wildwood's Elizabeth Bailey has made a name for herself in the track and field world, setting a new javelin throw record at UNC-Charlotte. Despite facing setbacks in her sophomore year, Bailey's unwavering commitment to improvement has earned her a spot at the prestigious Olympic Trials, where she aims to showcase her skills on the global stage.

🦇 Rabid Bats Discovered in West County Homes

Two bats in west St. Louis County have raised alarms after testing positive for rabies, marking the first cases this year. The St. Louis County Health Department is urging residents to steer clear of wildlife and confine any bats found indoors to prevent potential exposure. If exposed, promptly seek medical advice to prevent the fatal disease.

🙏 Ascension Church Apologizes for Militia Mix-up

An advertisement calling for young men to form a militia to protect a local Catholic church slipped through the cracks and was mistakenly published in a recent church bulletin. The church has since apologized, clarifying that there is no militia being formed and that the suggestion was inappropriate. Parishioners were surprised by the oversight in the review process.

🚧 I-270 Lanes Closing for Weekend Work

Get ready for some weekend road work! Starting tonight, MoDOT will be closing lanes on southbound I-270 between Ladue Road and I-64. Two left lanes will be closed initially, with a third lane closing overnight tonight and Saturday. Plan your route accordingly, as the lanes won't reopen until Monday at 5am.

BUSINESS

🍔 Lion's Choice Roars Into Fast Food Race

In a battle of regional fast food giants, Lion's Choice is vying for the crown of America's favorite in a USA TODAY reader's poll. The St. Louis-based chain, with its loyal following and delectable menu, is currently holding steady in fourth place. Lion's Choice enthusiasts have until July 8th to cast their daily votes and help bring national recognition to this local treasure. Vote for them here!

🚪 44 West Opens Doors to Lavish Living

Valley Park's newest addition, 44 West Luxury Living, celebrated its grand opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony hosted by the West St. Louis County Chamber of Commerce. The upscale apartment complex, situated just off Highway 141, promises to bring a new level of luxury and convenience to the area, offering residents a chance to experience the best in modern living.

🎸 Gateway Studios Hits Sour Note with Contractor

Chesterfield's highly anticipated Gateway Studios has hit a temporary roadblock. A dispute with general contractor ARCO Construction led to a work stoppage and contract termination. But the music won't stop for long - Gateway Studios plans to bring in a new contractor and have the $150 million development ready to rock by December 31, 2024.

🍃 Benson Hill Mulls Acquisition Offer Amid Woes

Creve Coeur based Benson Hill, once hailed as St. Louis' first ag-tech unicorn, finds itself at a crossroads as an investor group led by Argonautic Ventures Master SPC has made a preliminary offer to acquire the struggling company. The group, already holding a 16% stake in Benson Hill, has proposed purchasing the remaining shares.

CITY HIGHLIGHTS

Ballwin

📋 City to Release Full Report on Ex-Chief's Actions

After months of vacancy, the Ballwin Police Department has named John Bergfeld as its new chief of police. Bergfeld, a veteran of the department since 1997, has served in various roles, including patrolman, school resource officer, and assistant chief. His appointment follows the controversial firing of former Chief Douglas Schaeffler in 2023, who has since filed a lawsuit against the city's aldermen.

Chesterfield

🚶‍♂️ New Crosswalk to Enhance Logan Park Access

Chesterfield residents can soon enjoy safer access to Logan Park, thanks to a new crosswalk planned for Schoettler Road. The city council has given the green light for the $19,100 project, which will feature high-visibility markings, warning signs, and a pedestrian-activated flashing beacon. The crosswalk, set to be installed by city staff, will provide a much-needed connection for the 550 residences along the east side of Schoettler Road.

Creve Coeur

🧊 Creve Coeur Ice Arena Hits Thin Ice

The Creve Coeur Ice Arena is currently closed due to mechanical issues. However, the arena is tentatively scheduled to reopen today at 11:00am. Visitors are advised to check for updates before making plans to visit the facility.

Eureka

🌿 Eureka's Creative Corner: Camping Edition

Eureka Parks and Recreation is inviting children aged 2-5 to a unique camping experience at Creative Corner next Tuesday. This hour-long program will engage kids in messy, creative activities, including crafts, a bear hunt, and a tasty s'mores snack.

UPCOMING EVENTS

* indicates an event requiring registration or tickets.

📆 This Week

📆➡️ Next Week

THANKS!

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