👋 Good Morning, West County!

In today’s ⚡️West County Pulse newsletter:

💰 Rams Settlement Potentially to Fund Ballot Measure
📺 Today Show Host Visited County Library
🌶️ A New Global Spice Market

Let’s jump into today’s newsletter!

— Jared Michel

Top Stories

🏈 Rams Money Could Fund April Vote

St. Louis County still has $128 million from the Rams settlement, and now some council members want to use the interest it's earning. The proposal would spend $520,000 of interest money to fund an April ballot measure about council authority over county employees. The original settlement money would remain untouched in the bank.

📺 Today Show's Guthrie Visits County Library

Savannah Guthrie from NBC's Today show visited the Clark Family Branch library on Saturday. The television co-anchor came to discuss her new children's book "Mostly What God Does is Love You," which she adapted from her essays on faith. Guthrie began her broadcasting career in Columbia, Missouri and mentioned having visited St. Louis in the past, including attending a Cardinals game at Busch Stadium.

🐾 County Animal Shelter Needs Volunteers

St. Louis County's Animal Care and Control Shelter has introduced a Pilot Volunteer Program following the APA of Missouri's departure from shelter management. Interested residents can apply through today (February 25th) online here.

🏠 Manchester Police Warn of Fake Utility Workers

Last week Manchester Police Department issued a warning after scammers pretending to be utility workers stole from an elderly resident's home. The thieves used a fake gas line emergency story to gain entry. While the resident wasn't harmed, the incident highlights the importance of verifying worker credentials.

🗳️ Election Judges Needed for April 8

St. Louis County needs election judges for the April 8th Municipal Election. Requirements include U.S. citizenship, Missouri voter registration, and party declaration as Democrat or Republican. Workers must complete training, have transportation, and be able to lift 30 pounds. If interested, call 314-615-1865 or send a message to [email protected].

Business

🏪 New Global Market Opens in Wildwood

A new international grocery store has opened its doors in Wildwood. Sneha SPICE Grocery offers a comprehensive selection of spices and ingredients from Nepal, India, and other Asian countries, expanding food shopping options in West County.

🔋 Ameren Unveils 20-Year Power Plan

Ameren Missouri has announced a comprehensive expansion plan that will affect power delivery across the area. The utility company has secured initial agreements with major energy customers and plans to add thousands of megawatts in new power generation, including natural gas, renewable energy, and nuclear facilities by 2045.

🏪 Forever 21 Closing West County Store

Forever 21 is preparing to close its West County Center location as part of a broader company restructuring. The retailer, which recently merged with JCPenney under Catalyst Brands, will close its stores at West County Center, South County Center, and St. Louis Galleria by April.

🏆 Mercy Hospice Nurse Receives DAISY Award

Mercy Hospital St. Louis has announced their latest DAISY Award recipient from the Hospice department. The winning nurse was praised for balancing medical expertise with genuine care, including follow-up calls during off-hours. This recognition celebrates healthcare professionals who make meaningful differences for patients and families.

School District Highlights

📚 Rockwood Teachers Face Possible Pay Freeze

Teachers from Rockwood gathered outside Kehrs Mill Elementary Monday morning to advocate for higher wages. The demonstration comes as teachers and the school board work to negotiate a new contract. Without an agreement, teachers could face a pay freeze, affecting staff across west county schools.

Ballwin

🌟 Ballwin to Host Spring Break Day Camp

Ballwin Parks and Recreation is offering a spring break day camp for children ages 5-11 at The Pointe. From March 17-21, participants will enjoy swimming, crafts, and games from 9am to 4pm.

Creve Coeur

🌳 Creve Coeur Arbor Day Celebration This April

Creve Coeur's annual Arbor Day celebration will return to Millennium Park this spring. The April 27th event from 1-3pm will feature free tree saplings, planting demonstrations, and educational displays.

Ellisville

🐕 Dog Park Temporarily Closed

A malfunctioning lock has forced the closure of Bluebird Park's dog park. Ellisville Parks and Recreation officials have not yet provided an estimated reopening date.

Wildwood

🏊 Pool Passes Now Available for Summer

The Edge Aquatic Center in Ellisville is accepting pool pass applications for summer 2025. Through an agreement between Wildwood, Ellisville, and Ballwin, residents can purchase passes online or at the Ellisville Park Administration Building. Early bird pricing offers a $20 savings through May 23.

Upcoming Events

THANKS!

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