North St. Louis Disinvestment: A new local column argues downtown growth is widening the gap, pointing to ongoing poverty, unemployment, and infrastructure neglect in the historically Black North City area after last year’s May 16 tornado. Missouri Higher Ed & Community: Missouri State University marked its first year of a five-year strategic plan, citing new programs, dozens of capital projects, and national recognition. Hispanic Heritage in Columbia: Como Comunidad’s first Hispanic Heritage Festival brings food, music, dance, and hands-on activities, aiming to help families feel seen. Education Abroad: Missouri State hosted an Education Abroad Fair, spotlighting short-term faculty-led trips and semester-long study options plus passport and financial aid support. Arts & Culture on Campus: SLU’s campus hosted filming for the sports comedy “The Streak,” with students volunteering as extras. Public Art: The U.S. Senate says Alexander Calder’s “Mountains and Clouds” restoration is underway, returning a major public sculpture to the Capitol complex. Food Access Policy: Missouri adds new paperwork requirements for SNAP as federal penalties loom, raising concerns about barriers to food assistance. Agriculture Education: Ozark Fall Farmfest drew 1,000+ Missouri FFA members for networking, contests, and youth awards. Local Spotlight: Project Hope 2026 in Cape Girardeau lines up nearly 70 service providers for health, housing, jobs, legal help, screenings, and childcare.