Civic Funding Crunch in Columbia: Community input is shaping what happens next for Columbia’s Shops at Sharp End, where ARPA money is set to run out at month’s end and leaders are now looking for a sustainable future for the retail incubator. Downtown Safety in Action: Columbia’s Downtown Safety Ambassador program is already credited with helping save a life after an ambassador spotted an unresponsive man and called 911. Major Development Pipeline in Kansas City: The Royals filed preliminary plans for the Crown Center Ballpark District, laying out a phased, roughly 91-acre redevelopment with a target stadium opening in 2031 and full buildout by 2040. Pharmacy Staffing Pressure in Missouri: Industry leaders say pharmacist shortages are worsening as pharmacy benefit managers squeeze reimbursement rates, pushing some stores to close and forcing costly transfers. Retail Expansion Watch: Casey’s says it plans a major expansion, targeting 400 new stores over the next three years. Data Center Tensions in Missouri: Stoddard County commissioners held an open meeting amid concerns about possible AI-related data centers, with residents worried about land, water and electricity impacts. Tax Credit Fight in Jackson County: A proposed property tax credit plan is drawing warnings from schools and cities that it could cost them millions, as the county weighs next steps. Consumer Spending for the 4th: Fireworks sales are up in Missouri as the 250th anniversary and a Saturday holiday boost demand.