👋 Good Morning, West County!

In today’s ⚡️West County Pulse newsletter:

🛒 Smart Cart Expansion
🎵 Gateway Studios Launch
🧀 New Grilled Cheese

Let’s jump into today’s newsletter!

— Jared Michel

Top Stories

🛒 Smart Carts Roll Into More Schnucks Stores

Schnucks is adding AI-powered shopping carts to five more area stores. The expansion of these smart carts will allow more customers to skip the traditional checkout process. Each cart is equipped with technology that automatically scans items as customers shop, streamlining the grocery shopping experience.

🎵 Gateway Studios Launch in May in Chesterfield

A new entertainment facility is bringing major production capabilities to Chesterfield. Gateway Studios, opening this May, features three professional studios equipped for tour rehearsals, film production, and corporate events. The 300,000-square-foot facility includes one studio spanning 52,000 square feet with 80-foot ceilings.

❄️ Polar Plunge Returns to Creve Coeur

The Special Olympics of Missouri's annual Polar Plunge is returning to Creve Coeur Park on February 15th. Organizers have set a fundraising goal of $100,000 to support local athletes. Participants can choose between plunging into the cold lake or joining the Polar Strut 5K. Local police departments are already hosting pre-plunge events with high school students.

🏰 Luxury Eureka Home Hits Market

One of Eureka's most substantial homes has entered the market. This $2.5 million Old World-inspired estate includes custom details throughout, from granite countertops to hickory wood floors. The property features a two-story foyer with a sweeping staircase, built-in shelving, and French doors leading to a back deck overlooking the Meramec Valley.

🎯 Assistant Principal Scores State Award

David Arledge, assistant principal at Eureka High School in Rockwood, has been named Missouri's High School Assistant Principal of the Year. Selected from over 450 candidates statewide, Arledge was surprised with the announcement during a school assembly. He will represent Missouri at an upcoming national conference in Seattle.

Business

🧀 New Grilled Cheese Shop Opens Friday

Steve's Meltdown is bringing its popular grilled cheese menu to Chesterfield starting February 7th. The restaurant, which currently operates at City Foundry STL, will open its second location inside Steve's Hot Dogs at The District.

🍕 Katie's Pizza Chief Shares Success Recipe

Katie Lee, owner of Katie's Pizza, recently shared her business experiences in a new St. Louis Post-Dispatch video interview. The local restaurant owner discusses how she overcame early challenges to build her successful pizzeria locations in Town & Country and Rock Hill, while also working on an upcoming book about her journey.

📚 Library Helps 55+ Start New Chapter

The St. Louis County Library is introducing a new program for residents aged 55 and older interested in starting a business. The Empowering Encore Entrepreneurs program runs for eight weeks at the Clark Family Branch, offering participants professional guidance through expert presentations and practical workshops.

🏃 Y Takes On Diabetes Prevention

The Wildwood Family YMCA is introducing a new health program starting February 10th. The Diabetes Prevention Program will meet weekly on Mondays at 5:30pm, offering participants guidance on lifestyle changes that can reduce their risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Enrollment is required through the Y's Community Health Line.

Creve Coeur

🏆 Creve Coeur Business Awards Open Now

The city of Creve Coeur is accepting nominations for its annual Business Awards program. The initiative recognizes local businesses and organizations that have shown innovation or made significant achievements in their industries. Nominations are being accepted through March 7th, with winners to be honored at the Creve Coeur-Olivette Chamber of Commerce Luncheon.

Ellisville

🧪 Mad Scientists Wanted: Spring Break Camp

Ellisville Parks and Recreation is offering a spring break science camp for elementary students. The five-day program at Bluebird Park will run March 17-21 from 9am to 3pm, featuring hands-on activities in chemistry and engineering. The $250 camp includes experiments with simple machines and chemical reactions.

Manchester

🎵 Manchester Announces Free Concert Series

Manchester Parks and Recreation has announced their 2025 summer concert schedule at Schroeder Park Amphitheater. The free series includes six performances between June and August, featuring three community band concerts and three cover bands.

🩸 Manchester Blood Drive Returns Feb 7

The Manchester Justice Center will host a blood drive tomorrow (February 7th). The American Red Cross event will run from 10am to 3pm.

Upcoming Events

THANKS!

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