Diversion Destinations

Furry Family Fun Defines Purina Farms

Visit Purina Farms this summer for free family fun just outside St. Louis County.

Purina Farms is fun day trip for dog-loving families, especially those with young children. The demonstration farm is run by Nestle-Purina, which has its North American headquarters in St. Louis. It’s a great place to take little ones to learn about pets and farm animals. The 300-acre farm is located in Gray Summit, about 14 miles west of Eureka. There are two distinct areas of the farm: the Visitor’s Center and the new Purina Event Center, which opened in 2010. Purina Farms has been offering tours since 1926 and it attracts an average of 135,000 visitors a year. The farm is open every day but Monday, March through November, and is a destination all of its own. The Purina Event Center is on the same property and hosts indoor and outdoor …

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Eureka Army Officer Commissioned

Alex Hendel, of Eureka, was among 17 officers commissioned during a ceremony at Washington University Friday.

Newly commissioned 2nd Lt. Elijah Murrell said he wants to challenge himself mentally and physically as an Army officer. "I am super excited," said Murrell, of O'Fallon, MO. He and 16 of his colleagues—including Eureka resident Alex Hendel—became Army officers Friday during the 93rd Gateway Battalion Army Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) Commissioning Ceremony at Washington University. Murrell is headed to Fort Campbell in Kentucky. He said he then plans to apply for the U.S. Special Forces. Under Secretary of the Army Joseph Westphal presided over the gathering, telling the graduates they will serve "so that someone you love can live … that's what you, when you take that oath of office to defend that Constitution and fight those …

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PatchCast: Cabin Fever Hike Draws Crowd

Also on today's PatchCast, growing diversity numbers in Brentwood and a musician spotlight at Marquette High School.

Cure for Cabin Fever? Hiking!: What do people who are a bit tired of being cooped up in winter do? Take an annual hike through the woods, at least in Wildwood that's what many do. Twice the Music's Twice as Nice: Marquette High School's "Battle of the Bands" showcased a talented lineup of students, including Ballwin's own Austin Jones, who flexed his musical chops in two different genres. Brentwood's Growing Population Leads to More Diversity, Revenue: The city's percentage of minority residents nearly doubled over the past decade. Local Police Unenthusiastic About Red-Light Cameras: MoDOT has sanctioned the use of red-light cameras statewide, but officials say they will not be coming to Manchester or Town and Country.

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PatchCast: Death in Mehlville Shocks Neighbors

Also on today's PatchCast, Parkway West girls swimming team wins 12th state title and how chickens make great pets.

Neighbors Shocked at Death of 40-year-old Disabled Man: Mark J. Woods was found dead this morning inside his burning duplex. Parkway West Claims 12th State Swimming Title: The dramatic competition came down to one event: the 400-yard freestyle medley. Chickens: Not Just for Dinner Anymore: Raising domestic chickens is more than a hobby or fad. They are a great addition to life. Seckman's Kraus Reflects on Another State Title: Seckman junior Matt Kraus won the state championship in the 112-pound weight class at Mizzou Arena.

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PatchCast: High Schoolers Showcase Baseball Talent

Also on today's PatchCast, learn about Crestwood officials' proposal to add commercial sponsorships on city property to battle declining revenue and meet Parkway School District's new superintendent.

Prep Baseball Players Show Their Stuff: At a showcase event in Affton, players from Missouri and Illinois spend Presidents Day playing their favorite game. Crestwood Proposes Commercial Sponsorships to Drive Up Revenue: Rec director sees opportunity. New Parkway Superintendent Focused on Relationships, Strategic Planning: Keith Marty said he hopes to get to know people throughout the district and begin implementing Project Parkway plans. Jimmy Schork Defines Patriotism in Winning Essay: Northwest R-1 Board of Education recognizes the writing talents of a North Jefferson Intermediate School 5th grader.

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