The podcast discusses the preferences for Halloween versus Christmas. Dan enjoys Halloween for its horror movies, trick-or-treating, and fall activities, while Kate dislikes Halloween due to commercialization and inappropriate costumes. The group shares local Halloween events, including the Chesterfield Gumbo Flats Pumpkin Run, Wildwood Fall Harvest Festival, and St. Charles' Legends and Lanterns. They also talk about personal traditions, like Dan's spooky fight club tournament and Kate's pink cowboy Barbie costume. The conversation highlights the community aspect of Halloween and the family-oriented nature of Christmas, with each holiday having its unique charm and traditions.

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The podcast episode discussed the decline of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, noting the shuttering of Feast magazine and the end of the Monday print edition. Subscription numbers have plummeted, with daily subscriptions dropping from 280,000 to 24,000 and Sunday subscriptions from 400,000 to 37,000. The conversation also touched on the federal government shutdown, its impact on federal employees, and the potential political implications, particularly around Obamacare subsidies. The discussion highlighted the importance of local news coverage and the challenges faced by traditional newspapers in adapting to the digital age.

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Dr. Melissa Schneider, the new superintendent of Parkway School District, discussed her transition from Loveland, Colorado, to West St. Louis County, highlighting the summer heat and humidity as a new experience. She praised the community's amenities and her long onboarding process, which began in December 2021. Schneider detailed the $265 million Proposition S bond issue, noting improvements like new cafeterias, pool updates, and secure vestibules. She emphasized the Facilities 2050 Plan, focusing on future enrollment and building needs. Schneider also addressed the impact of the senior property tax freeze, estimating a $26 million loss over 10 years, and her efforts to engage with the community through various events and meetings.

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The West and Mid Rivers Insider Podcast discussed the recent approval of Missouri's new congressional district map, which splits Senate District 5 and expands District 5, potentially increasing Republican representation. The map faces legal challenges, including a lawsuit from the NAACP. The panel debated the implications of redistricting on voter representation and the broader political landscape. They also covered the ongoing impact of long COVID, noting that 20 million Americans suffer from long-term symptoms. The discussion highlighted the challenges of treating long COVID and the importance of vaccinations in preventing severe disease.

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Tim Weber discusses the controversial redistricting process in Missouri, emphasizing its importance despite its dry subject matter. He explains that the U.S. conducts a census every 10 years to redraw congressional and legislative districts, reflecting population changes. Missouri, a deeply Republican state, is redrawing its districts to secure an additional congressional seat, a move driven by President Trump's request. Weber argues that the new maps accurately represent the state's shifting demographics and are a fair reflection of the state's political leanings. He acknowledges the risks and the political nature of the process but supports the new maps as a more accurate representation of Missouri's current political landscape.

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The conversation revolves around the back-to-school season, with participants discussing the impact of summer's end, the performance of interns, and the challenges faced by school districts. Rockwood and Parkway districts are grappling with budget issues, while St. Charles County is dealing with growth. The discussion also covers the new cell phone policies in schools, the importance of extracurricular activities, and the influence of social media on students. The group shares personal anecdotes about their children's experiences, including the challenges of managing school supplies and the evolving role of technology in education. They conclude by reflecting on their hopes for their children's future independence and success.3

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Tim Weber announced that Project Cumulus, a massive data center in St. Charles, was withdrawn after their podcast recording on August 18. The project, covering 440 acres and potentially 330 football fields, faced concerns over contaminated drinking water wells and floodplain issues. Despite the withdrawal, the project may return. The discussion also covered the Francis Howell non-superintendent resignation, with a state audit investigating fiscal responsibility. Upcoming fall festivals in Manchester, Wildwood, and Darden Prairie were highlighted, including parades, concerts, and community events. The podcast concluded with a reminder of the Best of voting opening soon.

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The West and Mid Rivers Insider Podcast features Dan Clerke, Director of Esports at Maryville University, discussing the rapid growth and success of the university's Esports program. In 10 years, Maryville has won 20 national championships, with a current roster of 30 players competing in Rocket League, League of Legends, and Valorant. The program emphasizes academic excellence, with players maintaining a 3.65 GPA and balancing rigorous training schedules. Clerkea highlights the need for standardization and the impact of publishers on the industry's growth. Maryville aims to foster well-rounded athletes who can succeed in Esports and beyond.

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The podcast discusses two significant local stories. First, the Francis Howell School District's hiring and subsequent resignation of Superintendent Mike Dominguez. Dominguez was announced in March 2025, but resigned on July 11, 2025, citing family needs. He received a $229,200 to $250,000 settlement and was hired as an assistant superintendent in Oklahoma. The board voted unanimously to accept the settlement. Second, St. Louis County Executive Sam Page was indicted for four criminal counts related to using county funds to oppose Prop B. The indictment was brought by Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey. Both stories highlight issues of transparency, political dynamics, and community reactions.

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The discussion on the West and Mid Rivers Insider Podcast focused on the impact of COVID-19 on businesses five years later. Key points included MasterCard's shift to remote work and new initiatives like paid volunteer days and mental health training. Box STL gym adapted by sanitizing more and reopening with a new business model. The conversation also covered the impact of AI on workforce dynamics, the importance of local businesses, and recent Missouri legislation, such as banning cell phones in schools, allowing homeschooled students to join public sports teams, and increasing protections for child abuse victims. The episode concluded with a call to support local businesses.

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