Architecture & Civic Life: A new book, Out There: New Architecture Across America, spotlights regional firms—including Modus Studio in Fayetteville—arguing that great design can build everyday civic dignity. Chess & Community Spotlight: Grandmaster Praggnanandhaa won his first Rapid & Blitz title at the 2026 Saint Louis Rapid & Blitz, with the Saint Louis Chess Club hosting the Grand Chess Tour stop. Youth Development: A Pettis County 4-H story shows how hands-on failure in woodworking turned into real coding skills and a career path. Local Planning & Growth: Livingston County residents can weigh in on future growth at a Sept. 1 MU Extension forum, using survey data on why people stay, leave, or return. Family Fun & Culture: Mizzou’s Tomato Festival returns Aug. 27 with tastings of 200+ varieties plus gardening demos and hands-on learning. Health & Rural Workforce: MU’s Rural Immersion Program brought future healthcare students to northwest Missouri to connect rural health with agriculture, economy, education, and culture. Public Health Leadership: The Senate confirmed Erica Schwartz as CDC director, a move that affects vaccine guidance and coverage nationwide. Housing & Lifestyle: Multifamily rents rose in July, with Yardi pointing to steady demand even as concessions stay high. Back-to-School: Missouri’s tax-free holiday runs Aug. 7–9, with rules on clothing, supplies, and eligible tech. Obituaries: Missouri communities marked the deaths of longtime residents including Elaine Le Nore Honeck (102) and Sharon Mae Jensen.