St. Charles County, Missouri, released a draft of its new Master Plan, outlining a long-term vision for the county and recommendations for unincorporated areas.

The county said the draft includes guidance on land use, housing, economic development, transportation, community facilities, and natural areas. The county said the effort is part of its ongoing work to review and update the Master Plan as required by the County Charter.

The government said the new draft recognizes that not all land functions the same way. It says some areas may be better suited for conservation, recreation, agriculture, or flood storage, while other areas may be positioned for new homes, businesses, and investment because of access to infrastructure and services.

The county said its goal remains the same: to prepare for future generations to build their lives in the county and maintain the quality of life residents value. The county asked the public to review the draft and share feedback by Monday, July 20.

The announcement was posted on Facebook on 2026-06-22, and the draft is available through the county’s website.

Water Guide

Smithsonian traces origins of jíbaro güiro music

The Smithsonian says jíbaro music grew in Puerto Rico’s mountainous countryside, using a hollow-gourd guiro scraped to produce a shushing or rasping sound. Curated guiros tied to the tradition were collected in 1899 and 1956 in Caguas and Rio Piedras.

Natural History Museum Closes Madison Drive Entrance

The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History said its Madison Drive entrance will not be open to visitors today, June 24. Its Constitution Avenue entrance will remain open from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Apex Police Announces Annual Community Police Academy

Apex Police said applications are open for its annual Community Police Academy. The deadline to return the application is Friday August 7 at 5 p.m.

Apex police blood drive to boost July rewards

Apex police said The Blood Connection is increasing donor rewards in July. Donors will receive $60 in e-giftcard credit and $10 will be donated in their honor to support Special Olympics NC.

Apex to Close Town Offices for July 4 Holiday

The Town of Apex says all town offices and facilities will close on Friday, July 3, for the July 4 holiday. Trash and recycling will follow the normal schedule.

Apex advises what to bring to Fireworks Frenzy

The Town of Apex shared a checklist for attendees at Fireworks Frenzy, including items to bring and items not allowed. The town also urged people to check parking and viewing options and to help keep the festival area clean.

Wake County Public Schools Congratulates Panther Creek Graduates

Wake County Public Schools congratulated the graduates at Panther Creek High School. The post celebrated the Class of 2026 and wished them success next.

Wake County Schools urges families to check score reports

Wake County Public Schools shared a family message asking parents to review students’ Individual Score Reports. The message refers to spring EOG/EOC tests.

Wake County to host En Plein Air exhibit at parks

Wake County Parks said its En Plein Air Art Celebration traveling exhibit will visit four county parks through the rest of 2026. The exhibit will feature more than 40 original works of art, starting at Beech Bluff County Park on July 1.

Enloe Team Wins Fifth Straight NC Envirothon Title

Enloe High School’s Subchronic Exposure team won its fifth consecutive NC Envirothon state championship. The team will represent North Carolina at the International NCF-Envirothon in Starkville, Mississippi, July 19-25.