Kansas state Republican senator Roger Marshall is touring the state talking to residents about one of the largest tax relief measures enacted in history.  

The Working Families Tax Cuts helps to reduce the federal taxes on tips, overtime pay, and social security benefits.  It also helps deliver relief to families through an expanded Child Tax Credit.  

Marshall says the tax credits are aimed at helping small businesses as childcare remains on top of many people's minds. 

“Small businesses now can expand that up to $600,000 of expenses towards the childcare of their employees as well, and they can work in conjunction with other employees as they set up some type of childcare,” Marshall tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.  “So, this is really tailored towards small businesses being able to help out their employees for that childcare that they need.” 

Marshall says also with the tax cuts, tax refunds are estimated to be higher, which should help as people continue to recover from rising inflation costs 

"So, in the previous administration, those four years we saw housing go up 50%, we saw healthcare and childcare and property taxes and property insurance go up 50%, groceries probably went up 25 to 30% anyway,” Marshall explains.  “So even though we’ve stabilized the inflation now, we’re down about 2.5%, but inflation is cumulative and just now are people, young families, starting to catch up, and real wages are indeed up, so wages are increasing faster than inflation now, but it’s going to take us awhile to dig out of this huge hole that was left to us from the previous administration.” 

The legislation also adds a School Choice Tax Credit.  Marshall says one thing he's heard is complaints about the public school system and people wanting a choice 

"So, one of the things we did is made it easier to make a donation to a private school of your choice, and get a tax credit for it, so hopefully that will increase the opportunity for more and more Kansas students to have this school choice,” Marshall says.  “I hope it increases competition and I hope the public-school systems respond and go back to some more of the basics and focus on the things that are really important.” 

During his tour of the state, Marshall is hitting all four corners, as the tour began in northeast Kansas last week.   

You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Kansas Senator Marshall touring Kansas to promote tax relief legislation

&nbsp;The Missouri Department of Transportation has closed northbound U.S. Route 59 from Route DD to County Line Road just north of St. Joseph Tuesday, Feb. 17, for water main work.

MoDOT says traffic impacts include: Northbound Route 59 is closed from Route DD to County Line Road until further notice. Traffic will be directed east on County Line Road to Route 169 (the Belt Highway).

MoDOT reminds drivers to remain cautious in work zones.

Northbound U.S. Route 59 in Andrew County closed due to water main

A bill that would create a state-run video lottery system to replace the current slot machine games received initial approval Monday in the Missouri House

By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jason-hancock/">Jason Hancock</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>

A federal judge on Friday ruled that slot machines that have operated for years in bars, restaurants and convenience stores across Missouri are illegal gambling devices under state law.

The decision by U.S. District Judge John Ross lands as lawmakers debate whether to legalize the machines — and as Attorney General Catherine Hanaway has&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2026/02/09/missouri-may-finally-be-done-looking-the-other-way-on-gray-market-slot-machines/">vowed to shut them down</a>.

Ross’s 25-page ruling also follows an October federal jury verdict ordering one of the most prominent operators, Wildwood-based Torch Electronics, to pay&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/10/07/torch-lured-business-in-missouri-with-illegal-video-games-federal-jury-finds/">$500,000 to a competitor</a>&nbsp;that said it lost business after Torch repeatedly claimed its games were not gambling devices and therefore were lawful.

Ross pointed to that jury’s conclusions, writing that Torch’s machines “meet the statutory definition of ‘gambling device’ and are therefore illegal under Missouri law when played outside a licensed casino.”

A spokesman for Torch said the company remains convinced its machines are legal.

“Once the court decides the remaining issues before it and enters a final judgment, Torch will appeal, as we’re confident our games adhere to the letter and the spirit of Missouri law,” said Gregg Keller, Torch’s spokesman.

Torch has relied on high-profile lobbyists, political donations, relationships with prosecutors and litigation against enforcement agencies to protect its market. Over the past year, Torch donated $650,000 to political action committees run by its lobbyist, former House Speaker Steve Tilley. Warrenton Oil — whose convenience stores host many Torch machines — contributed another $135,000 to those PACs.

In 2023, then-Attorney General Andrew Bailey withdrew from defending the Missouri State Highway Patrol in a lawsuit brought by Torch after receiving campaign contributions from committees funded by the company.

Hanaway, who took office last year after Bailey stepped down for a job with the FBI, has argued there is no gray area: the machines are illegal. Last week, her office<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-ag-files-first-lawsuits-in-promised-crackdown-on-unregulated-slot-machines/">&nbsp;filed lawsuits against retail shops in Dunklin County</a>&nbsp;alleging the businesses were operating illegal gambling machines on their premises.

In testimony before the Missouri House Budget Committee earlier this month, Hanaway said her office is also assisting with a federal investigation into illegal slot machines in Missouri, involving what she described as “money laundering and banking” questions.

Ross noted that he initially declined to issue a broader declaration on the machines’ legality after the October verdict. But he said he changed course after concluding that the question had remained unresolved at the state level, citing “ongoing delay, inconsistent outcomes and resulting uncertainty in the state system.”

The Missouri House on Monday gave initial approval to legislation that&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/video-lottery-bill-would-allow-2-years-to-remove-missouris-gray-market-slot-machines/">would create a state-run video lottery system</a>&nbsp;to replace the current games. Companies profiting from unregulated convenience store slot machines would have one year to pull their games off the market.

The Missouri Lottery would have authority to license video games for installation in retail locations across the state. The licensed machines would have to pay out at least 80% of the money wagered as prizes and about one-third of the profits would be dedicated to state education programs.

The bill would also impose a 3% tax on video lottery profits to aid local governments and would increase the fee casinos pay for each patron who enters the gaming floor from $2 to $4.

On Monday, the House adopted several amendments to the bill, including one adding an&nbsp;<a href="https://documents.house.mo.gov/billtracking/bills261/amendpdf/6459H03.18H.pdf" target="_blank">annual $250 fee per machine</a>&nbsp;to go towards disability services. The money was pitched as an effort to help roll back&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2026/02/13/families-caregivers-plead-with-missouri-lawmakers-to-reverse-governors-disability-cuts/">Gov. Mike Kehoe’s proposed $80.7 million cuts</a>&nbsp;to services that help people with disabilities live safely in their homes and participate actively in their communities.

“This amendment is about fiscal responsibility and moral responsibility,” said state Rep. Melanie Stinnett, a Republican from Springfield.

State Rep. Dean Van Schoiack, a Republican from Savannah, pointed to the judge’s ruling involving Torch in decrying the legalization bill during Monday’s debate. He said these slot machines are “already illegal” and Missouri should find a better way to pay its bills than “stealing” from its citizens with gambling devices.

The goal of the bill is ultimately about providing clarity in Missouri law, said state Rep. Bill Hardwick, a Republican from Dixon sponsoring the legislation.

“There are illegal games out there. There are games of different varieties,” he said. “We owe it to business owners to clarify the law.”

Federal judge rules Missouri’s gas station slot machines are illegal gambling devices

Northwest Missouri State University’s premier instrumental ensembles, the Wind Symphony and the Symphonic Band, will kick off their spring concert season with a performance featuring a wide array of musical eras and styles. 

The concert is scheduled for 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 26, in the Mary Linn Auditorium at the Ron Houston Center for the Performing Arts. The event is free and open to the public.

The Wind Symphony, conducted by Professor of Music Dr. Katy Strickland, will anchor the evening with a program ranging from classical staples to modern, experimental works. Highlights include Gustav Holst’s "Second Suite in F," a cornerstone of concert band literature, and G.H. Huffine’s 1924 march "Them Basses," which highlights the lower voices of the ensemble. The program also features "Capriccio" by Rodney Newton—showcasing faculty soloist Dr. Max Gerhart—and Alex Shapiro’s "Soundscape," a contemporary piece noted for its techno-inspired aesthetic.

Recognized as the University’s top wind ensemble, the Wind Symphony frequently tackles challenging repertoire from various historical periods. Their reputation for excellence recently earned them a prestigious performance slot at the Nebraska Music Education Association Conference and In-Service Clinic. Beyond the technical demands, Dr. Strickland emphasizes the community aspect of the group, noting that the "fantastic culture" and supportive environment encourage students to remain involved throughout their collegiate careers.

The Symphonic Band, led by lecturer of music Dr. Max Gerhart, will also take the stage to perform four distinct works. While three of the selections were written specifically for wind instruments, the ensemble will also perform a notable adaptation of Hector Berlioz’s orchestral masterpiece, "Symphonie Fantastique."

Operating primarily during the spring semester, the Symphonic Band provides an inclusive space for students of all majors to explore a broad spectrum of music, from modern compositions to light pop. "It is exciting to be able to expose people to great music of the past through the medium of the Symphonic Band," Gerhart said, highlighting the ensemble's role in bringing historical works to a modern audience.

Northwest Wind Symphony and Symphonic Band to Launch Spring Season

The United Way of Greater St. Joseph has announced the launch of its 2026 KinderClub program, an initiative designed to bridge the gap between preschool and kindergarten for families in the St. Joseph area.

The program, part of the United Way Success By 6 movement, targets children entering kindergarten for the 2026-27 school year. Sessions are hosted directly at local elementary schools and led by school staff to provide parents and caregivers with the tools and resources necessary for a smooth transition into formal education.

“Success By 6 is a community-based movement of public and private partners,” the organization said in a statement, noting that the coalition includes representatives from business, government, education, and childcare. The shared goal is ensuring children are successful learners from their very first day of school.

KinderClub sessions are free of charge. To encourage literacy and continued learning at home, families will receive a free book and educational tools at each session they attend.

The 2026 schedule includes five participating schools across the region:

Organizers emphasize that the program is a collaborative effort, requiring the participation of both the child and their primary caregiver to maximize school readiness skills.

Parents interested in registering or seeking more information can visit <a href="https://www.stjosephunitedway.org/success-6-parentsprimary-caregivers">stjosephunitedway.org</a> or contact the United Way of Greater St. Joseph at 816-364-2381.

United Way of Greater St. Joseph announces 2026 KinderClub schedule

A Buchanan County Sheriff's vehicle was struck late Sunday night in St. Joseph.

A press release from the Buchanan County Sheriff's office says investigator Abel Garcia was traveling westbound on Faraon at 9th Street in an unmarked sheriff's vehicle at 11:14 p.m.

Garcia reportedly stopped a the stop sign and proceeded through the intersection. An 18-year old man was driving a motorcycle southbound on 9th Street. The motorcycle entered the intersection and struck the back passenger door of the vehicle.

The 18-year old was taken to Mosaic by ambulance where he was treated and released. Garcia was not injured.

According to the press release, the teen was not wearing a helmet and the motorcycle did not have lights on.

The 18-year old received several citations.

Buchanan County Sheriff's vehicle struck by motorcycle

KFEQ Morning Sports

NODAWAY COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 1p.m. Monday in Nodaway County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2026 P eterbilt semi driven by&nbsp; 40-year-old Columbia man was southbound on RT. Y at 403rd Road five miles south of Graham. The vehicle veered off the west side of the road, returned to the road and overturned.

Nodaway County EMS transported the driver to Mosaic in Maryville. He was properly restrained, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

Missouri man injured after semi overturns

CLINTON COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 7a.m. Monday in Clinton County.&nbsp;

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2018 Chevy Trax driven by a 22-year-old Lathop woman was eastbound on 272 Street at Breckenridge Road two miles north of Lathrop. The SUV collided with a northbound 2000 GMC Sierra driven by 41-year-old Mississippi man at the intersection.

Tri-County ambulance transported the SUV driver to Liberty Hospital. The&nbsp; pickup driver was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

Mo. woman hospitalized after SUV, pickup crash

Nominations for the 2026 St. Joseph Area Sports Hall of Fame class are now open.&nbsp;&nbsp;

St. Joseph Sports Commission Director Brett&nbsp;Esely&nbsp;says the nomination portal is&nbsp;actually open&nbsp;all throughout the year&nbsp;

“We heavily promote that when the calendar turns to 2026, or the new year, because at that point we are really focused on not only the nominations we&nbsp;already&nbsp;have in the portal,&nbsp;which we have quite a few, but that’s the time of year we encourage new nominations,”&nbsp;Esely&nbsp;says on the&nbsp;KFEQmunnity&nbsp;show. &nbsp;“Simply because it is the turn of the calendar year, all nominations for consideration for the class of 2026 are due in April.”&nbsp;

Following&nbsp;that&nbsp;a selection committee will choose the class of 2026, and after those chosen are&nbsp;notified&nbsp;it&nbsp;will be announced later this summer.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Esely&nbsp;points out nominations stay active for up to five years, but even if you have&nbsp;submitted&nbsp;a name before, you still can put their name in again&nbsp;

“We do have people that reach out to us and&nbsp;say&nbsp;can I add to my nomination? And absolutely you can, and I think&nbsp;that’s&nbsp;even more significant from the standpoint of we&nbsp;still have some nominees who are active in what&nbsp;they’re&nbsp;doing”&nbsp;Esely&nbsp;explains. &nbsp;“Whether that be&nbsp;coaches, whether that be&nbsp;some athletes&nbsp;that&nbsp;are still competing, we still have some stories that are still being told, so absolutely you can submit any and all information with your nomination that&nbsp;maybe&nbsp;you didn’t submit before, and if that’s the case&nbsp;just reach out to us at the office and&nbsp;we're&nbsp;happy to add any information for you.”&nbsp;

Esely&nbsp;says any nominees must meet one of&nbsp;three&nbsp;criteria, however it is a&nbsp;broad criteria.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Born in Buchanan County, that Buchanan County piece is significant simply because our Convention and Visitors Bureau and Sports&nbsp;Commission&nbsp;is a county entity,&nbsp;so must be born in Buchanan County,”&nbsp;Esely&nbsp;says. “Made your sports career in Buchanan County, or&nbsp;are&nbsp;making your sports career in Buchanan County, and&nbsp;a lot of people ask well&nbsp;what’s&nbsp;the difference in the second and third piece?&nbsp;Well,&nbsp;some Halls of Fame require you to be retired before&nbsp;you’re&nbsp;able to be nominated and selected, ours does not, ours does not require that.”&nbsp;

Still time to nominate for the 2026 St. Joseph Area Sports Hall of Fame class

Big Brothers Big Sisters of St. Joseph will host its annual Empower Auction on Saturday, March 14, at the InspireU venue in downtown St. Joseph. 

The event runs from 6:00 - 10:00 p.m., and serves as a primary fundraiser to support one-to-one mentoring programs for local youth.

The evening will recognize the 2026 Empower Honorees, a group of local professionals selected for their leadership and community service. This year’s honorees include Ryan and Ann Rush, Kelly Crawford, Courtney Rowe, Rayna Vogan, and the duo of Jennifer Brown and Christy Rippe.

Attendees can expect a program featuring live music, entertainment, and "mission moments" highlighting the organization's impact. The event also includes both silent and live auctions, offering various travel and experience packages.

Proceeds from the auction stay in the community to help Big Brothers Big Sisters create and sustain mentoring relationships. According to the organization, these pairings are designed to ignite the potential of area children and strengthen the local community.

Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available online at <a href="https://bbbsstjoe.squarespace.com/empowerauction">empowerauction.com</a>.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of St. Joseph to host 2026 Empower Auction March 14

March corn closed down 5 1/2 cents and May corn was down 6 1/4 cents. March soybeans closed up 1 cents and May soybeans were up 1/4 cent. March KC wheat closed down 3 3/4 cents, March Chicago wheat was down 11 cents, March Minneapolis wheat was down 3 1/2 cents.

It was a day of mostly lower price action for row-crop futures with soybeans standing alone on the positive side of the fence. Corn futures were lower and posted a poor close from a technical standpoint despite relatively little in the way of news Tuesday. Most of the bearish pressure for corn came via wheat, with Chicago futures falling sharply just two sessions removed from hitting three-month highs on upward revisions to forecasts for Russia's 2026 crop. Outside markets leaned bearish to ag futures on Tuesday, with a firm U.S. dollar trading counter to continued selling pressure in precious metals. Crude oil (and other energy futures) was lower as well Tuesday, despite early reports of Iran's "partial and temporary" closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial waterway for world oil trade. Risks in this regard were seemingly offset in the eyes of traders by positive feedback following the latest round of nuclear negotiations between the U.S. and Iran in Switzerland on Tuesday.

It's was a solidly successful day for the live cattle complex as the market is seeing immense support from traders, which is helped the contracts scale well over $1.00 higher into Tuesday's closing bell. More than anything, the robust fundamental support from last week's cash cattle market, mixed with the bullish long-term trajectory, seemed to have traders' full attention this morning. New showlists appear to be mixed, higher in Nebraska/Colorado, about steady in Kansas, and lower in Texas. Boxed beef prices are mixed: choice up $0.86 ($366.91) and select up $0.14 ($361.37) with a movement of 62 loads (45.85 loads of choice, 5.50 loads of select, 3.48 loads of trim and 6.86 loads of ground beef).

Upon noting the strength of last week's fed cash cattle trade and seeing how traders are energetically supporting the live cattle contracts, it's been an easy decision for traders to push the feeder cattle contracts higher. So long as the live cattle complex continues to trade higher, the feeder cattle contracts will likely follow in the same direction.

After a tumultuous downturn over the last seven trading days, the lean hog complex finally found some technical support as traders potentially believe that the contracts have created enough space from the contract highs scored in early February. Pork cutout values were a tick lower this morning, but that did not seem to be affecting traders through today's session.

<a href="https://dehayf5mhw1h7.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/356/2026/02/17135609/web-closing-markets-1.mp3">Click HERE for audio</a>

Commodity markets daily recap

The National FFA Organization is proud to announce a new way for people to support the next generation for this year’s Give FFA Day. It’s called ChapterBoost. The ChapterBoost program showcases local FFA chapters and their goals for hands-on learning, leadership development, and agricultural education, giving donors the opportunity to make an immediate impact by selecting a project to support directly through crowdfunding for an individual chapter. 

The annual Give FFA Day will be held on Thursday, February 26, during National FFA Week. “We’re setting our most ambitious goal yet to raise $1.75 million on Give FFA Day,” said Kimberly Coveney, senior manager of individual giving for the National FFA Foundation. “Every dollar donated helps open doors for our more than one million members by funding programs, leadership development, and experiences that prepare them for careers in agriculture and beyond.” 

A new way to give back on 'National Give FFA Day'

The USDA announced the enrollment periods for agricultural producers and landowners to submit offers for the Continuous and General Conservation Reserve Program. The Farm Service Agency is accepting offers for Continuous CRP starting this Thursday, February 12, through March 20, 2026. Enrollment for the General CRP will run from March 9, 2026, through April 17, 2026. FSA will announce the dates for the Grassland CRP signup in the near future. 

“We’re still very close to the 27-million-acre statutory cap, with 1.9 million acres available for all CRP enrollments this fiscal year, so enrollment is likely to be competitive,” said Richard Fordyce, USDA Undersecretary for Farm Programs and Conservation. “It’s not about the total number of enrolled acres, it’s about producers and landowners offering the acres that can best deliver real and lasting benefits to soil, water, and wildlife.” Producers and landowners interested in participating in CRP should contact their local FSA county office. 

USDA announces enrollment periods for 2026 continuous and general CRP 

The U.S. Department of Agriculture on Thursday launched the Farmer and Rancher Freedom Framework — a policy initiative designed to shield producers from what the department calls politically motivated legal actions and regulatory overreach. Secretary Brooke Rollins described the four-pillar plan as a cornerstone for defending agricultural heritage and providing fairness in rural America. The framework formalizes existing USDA efforts to streamline regulations, reduce compliance burdens and enhance protections for farmers and ranchers facing litigation or enforcement actions. 

Agricultural stakeholders welcomed the announcement, though critics argue it could weaken environmental and consumer safeguards. The policy echoes recent USDA moves to end “agricultural lawfare,” which has been discussed by advocacy groups and within USDA strategy briefings. The initiative also comes amid broader debates over farm profitability, market pressures and federal intervention in agriculture.

USDA unveils plan to cut red tape, legal pressures on Farmers

Agricultural and conservation groups said they are cautiously optimistic after House Agriculture Committee Chairman G.T. Thompson introduced a new Farm Bill proposal Friday afternoon aimed at restarting stalled negotiations in Congress. Thompson, a Pennsylvania Republican,  unveiled the “Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026,” which is scheduled for consideration by the House Agriculture Committee beginning Feb. 23. If advanced, the legislation could reach the House floor later this spring. 

Agriculture-aligned conservation groups welcomed the move as a signal of progress after months of uncertainty. Several farm-related matters were previously addressed in last year's "One, Big, Beautiful Bill."  Aaron Field, director of private lands conservation for the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership, said the Farm Bill plays a critical role in supporting working lands, wildlife habitat and outdoor recreation tied to agriculture. Groups emphasized that bipartisan support will be required for passage and said they plan to closely review the bill’s conservation and forestry provisions as the legislative process moves forward.

Thompson unveils ‘Farm Bill 2.0’ to Ag Groups 

March corn closed up 1/2 cent and May corn was up 1/4 cent. March soybeans closed down 4 1/4 cents and May soybeans were down 3 3/4 cents. March KC wheat closed down 11 1/2 cents, March Chicago wheat was down 3 3/4 cents, March Minneapolis wheat was down 5 3/4 cents.

It was an overall mixed to lower session in row-crop futures to close the week, with corn showing resilience to trade marginally higher, while soybeans and wheat futures fell as traders looked to square positions ahead of a long weekend, with markets closed on Monday for Presidents Day. Overall, for the week it was positive price action for U.S. grain markets as prices made technical strides as well in holding chart support. Outside markets for Friday traded primarily in reaction to a cooler than expected inflation reading via the Consumer Price Index, which declined to 2.4% annual price growth, the lowest since early 2021. This was a source of pressure to commodities early on Friday, while also fueling recovery efforts in equities after a two-day selloff through the middle of the week. The U.S. Dollar Index was lower on perceived lower interest rates (as a result of lower inflation), while crude oil and other energy markets recovered from daily lows in an otherwise narrow session to close the week.

The live cattle complex drifted only slightly lower as traders try to remain patient, waiting for cash cattle to trade. It's fully assumed prices will be higher late on Friday when trade develops, but the real question is: How much higher? A single bid was on the table in Nebraska at $238, but otherwise no news has developed as of this writing. Asking prices remain firm in Texas at $245 to $247, but aren't clearly established elsewhere. Boxed beef prices are mixed: choice down $0.45 ($364.39) and select up $0.26 ($363.29) with a movement of 30 loads (24.05 loads of choice, 2.18 loads of select, zero loads of trim and 3.48 loads of ground beef).

Keeping in alignment with the live cattle contracts, the feeder cattle complex traded mixed to slightly lower as well. Demand has mostly higher this week in the countryside for both feeders and calves, but there has been notable interest in the heavier weight feeders that will make grass cattle in a few months.

In keeping with its lower trend, the lean hog complex continued to lose position as the market anticipates more supply to be working its way into the system, which causes traders some fear that pork cutout values could weaken. Not to mention, just a little over a week ago the market did reach new all-time highs in the futures complex which put heavy pressure on the market's technical side.

<a href="https://dehayf5mhw1h7.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/356/2026/02/13145333/web-closing-markets-1.mp3">Click HERE for audio</a>

The first Ag Economists’ Monthly Monitor of 2026 shows the U.S. ag economy entered the year in a clear crop-sector recession. However, the survey also finds a deeper crisis of confidence. Economists say the downturn is cyclical and manageable through optimization, but farmers are experiencing it as a structural stress test on their operations and livelihoods. The first survey points to a continuing split in the ag economy, which is strength in livestock, particularly beef cattle, versus persistent financial stress across most of the row-crop sector. 

The Monthly Monitor asks respondents to compare the ag economy right now with the same time a year ago, and most retailers, producers, and economists report being somewhat worse off. “Across nearly all responses, margin pressure emerged as a dominant concern,” said Tyne Morgan of AgWeb. “While several producers talk about diversifying as a key, others responded with cutting costs to the bone, especially around capital spending.” 

Survey shows producers “fighting for survival”

According to data from Joe Janzen, an economist for the University of Illinois, The buildout of grain storage capacity in the U.S. has stopped.  He wrote that U.S. grain storage capacity grew in parallel with production from 2000 to 2019 at about 350 million bushels per year. However, that growth has stagnated since 2020 across all regions and facility types. Janzen said this stagnation, combined with continued production growth, has led to a record-high-capacity utilization rate, particularly in on-farm storage. 

The 2025 crop brought these tensions to a head, with December 1 on-farm utilization reaching 80 percent. What’s less clear is why investment in grain storage capacity dropped. It’s also difficult to determine if current U.S. storage capacity is sufficient for efficient operation along the grain supply chains. Janzen said, “The entire grain industry will need to consider these questions as it addresses the shifting geography of global grain production.” 

U.S. grain storage capacity growth has stopped

March corn closed up 3 3/4 cents and May corn was up 5 1/4 cents. March soybeans closed up 13 1/4 cents and May soybeans were up 12 3/4 cents. March KC wheat closed up 15 1/2 cents, March Chicago wheat was up 15 1/4 cents, March Minneapolis wheat was up 7 1/4 cents.

It was a mostly positive session across the board for row-crop futures Thursday, with soybean futures again leading the way higher on continued trade optimism ahead of President Trump's upcoming visit to China in April. Meanwhile, wheat futures have caught a midweek burst, rallying from trendline support and aided by a strong past few weeks for export sales. This positively influenced corn futures as well for Thursday, with strong export sales in their own right. Outside markets were very volatile on Thursday, with no clear macro news to explain the sharp turn lower in stocks by late morning. Treasuries were firm again following Wednesday's better than expected jobs data for January. The U.S. dollar was firm, but energy markets turned lower on U.S. inventory build-ups in crude and finished motor gasoline last week, and at least a temporary soothing of supply risk as negotiations between the U.S. and Iran are planned to continue.

Following Wednesday's sizeable rally, the live cattle complex was back to trading slightly lower as the market tries to patiently wait to see what's going to develop in the fed cash cattle market this week. With boxed beef prices declining -- as they seasonally do during this time -- traders need to see additional fundamental support, which will likely come from the cash market when trade develops at some point this week. But in the lightning fast world we live in, waiting until the very bitter end of the week to see what's going to develop fundamentally for the market is a painful waiting lesson traders aren't necessarily fond of. Boxed beef prices are lower: choice down $0.39 ($365.53) and select down $0.59 ($361.99) with a movement of 46 loads (24.40 loads of choice, 3.08 loads of select, 7.95 loads of trim and 10.72 loads of ground beef).

And as one would logically assume in this market, with the live cattle contracts trading lower, the feeder cattle contracts followed suit. Demand has been mostly strong this week in the countryside for both feeder cattle and calves -- and especially for cattle that will make yearlings this upcoming summer.

The lean hog complex continues to tumble lower as the market anticipates a wall of supply that's likely going to hit the market at any point in time now. The latest Quarterly Hogs and Pigs report showed market-ready supplies were larger than originally assumed, and the market is bracing itself for that supply to hit.

<a href="https://dehayf5mhw1h7.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/356/2026/02/12200936/web-closing-markets-1.mp3">Click HERE for audio</a>

The USDA is facing some doubts about the reliability of its data from farmers, grain traders, and economists. Reports say the doubts are coming about because of the agency’s significant staff losses and the sharp upward revision in how many acres of corn U.S. farmers harvested in 2025. “Thousands of employees left the agency last year as a part of the administration’s push to shrink the federal government, and industry stakeholders are worried that the shrinking staff limited the agency’s ability to produce timely and accurate data.”  

USDA’s final January estimates of how many acres corn farmers planted and harvested in 2025 represented unprecedented increases from June’s initial estimates. Already-low grain prices dropped over five percent at a time when growers were already struggling to make enough money to stay in business. The unexpected revisions prompted the National Agricultural Statistics Service to launch an internal review of its processes for making acreage estimates.

USDA data under increasing scrutiny

&nbsp;WASHINGTON —Officers arrested a person with a gun near the West Front of the U.S. Capitol Building on Tuesday afternoon, according to an online statement from the U.S. Capitol Police.

Maryland Avenue was temporarily closed between First and Third Streets, SW, while officers investigated

At this time, there does not appear to be any other suspects or ongoing threat. Out of an abundance of caution, Capitol police asked the public to stay away from the area while they investigate and collect evidence.&nbsp;

🎥Man with loaded shotgun arrested after running toward the US Capitol

JOHNSON COUNTY —Last week, a Kansas Highway Patrol trooper attempted to stop a driver on Interstate 70 around Turner Diagonal, according to a social media report from Troop A. The trooper was stopping the driver for displaying a tag that belonged on a Dodge Charger; however, it was being displayed on a GMC truck.

The driver fled east on I-70.  The trooper was joined by another trooper equipped with a Grappler.  The trooper successfully deployed the Grappler on Interstate 70 just east of 18th Street.  

The driver was taken into custody.  It was discovered the driver had multiple felony warrants through multiple jurisdictions and was in possession of methamphetamine.&nbsp; The patrol released no additional details including the name of the suspect.

KHP used Grappler to capture wanted suspect on I-70

Group makes case by drawing upon dystopian horror of ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’

By:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">Tim Carpenter</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Five people walked through the Kansas Capitol on Monday shrouded in long, red cloaks and with faces concealed from view by wing-like white bonnets.

The intent was to catch the attention of legislators and lobbyists, who complied with puzzled looks as they tried to comprehend the scene.

Why the outfits? Were they part of a cult? Might they be nuns? What do they want? Could they be dangerous?

Christy Allen, among the women dressed as characters from the dystopian novel and film “The Handmaid’s Tale,” said the group chose the distinctive wardrobe to emphasize frustration with the direction of state government in Kansas and Missouri as well as the dismantling of political norms by President Donald Trump in Washington, D.C.

Allen and her peers carried small cloth signs that summarized their message to politicians. It said, simply: “Shame.” They were told they would be asked to leave if they displayed the signs inside the Kansas Senate chamber.

“I’m tired of people putting party over people,” Allen said. “I feel with the erosion of all people’s rights, the United States becomes a theocracy. Our uniform, and it is a uniform, and we are an army, stands for the subjugation of all people’s rights, and that’s what’s happening with the hypocrisy right now. It’s carrying over into Kansas. We are free staters, right, and we should stick with that.”

The 1985 novel by Canadian author Margaret Atwood and a more recent television series based on the book described a world where fertility rates plunged and fertile women were enslaved to bear children for the ruling class. Civil war in the United States produced a totalitarian, Christian form of government led by power-hungry leaders who relied on a divine law to control women. In the Handmaid world, female residents were forced to survive under laws forbidding them from owning property, handling money or reading and writing.

Angela Korbin, another member of the Handmaid group, said she was in Topeka to protest how democracy was under attack for the benefit of white, evangelical men.

“I want people to know that women’s rights are trans rights and trans rights are human rights,” she said.

She was referencing Senate Bill 244, an anti-transgender bill passed by the Republican-led House and Senate but vetoed by Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly.

Under the legislation, Kansans using public restrooms would be required to make use of facilities aligned with their sex declaration at birth rather than respect a person’s gender identity. It would establish a mechanism for people who claimed they were offended to seek $1,000 bounties from violators of the law. Government agencies not in compliance could be hit with a $25,000 fine on a first offense or $125,000 fines for subsequent incidents.

“It’s punitive,” Allen said. “Actions say a lot.”

The Handmaid contingent also voiced objections to public policy decisions in Kansas on immigration, health care, education and elections.

Outside the Capitol on Monday, a couple hundred people with colorful signs and flags conducted a protest on Presidents Day that was labeled “Not My President.” It was organized by Kansas 50501, which promotes nonviolent protests in Topeka that build relationships among people eager to defend the Constitution, respect coequal branches of government and deliver on the promise of equal rights for all.

Much of the anger on the south steps of the Statehouse centered Trump’s alleged campaign to violate rights of Americans by directing federal agents to, organizers said, “kill us.”

Teresa Gorby of Ottawa was on hand with a sign that declared “Stop ICE Now.”

“I’m here for my country,” she said. “We need funding for health care, things that help our people not rich guys.”

Topeka residents Duane and Kathy Dahm carried signs that urged people to respect the Constitution and to remind people that “silence kills democracy.”

“We’re just tired and fed up with everything that’s going on,” Duane Dahm said. “All the illegal stuff (Trump’s) doing.”

Other signs registered other concerns: “We’re not being governed, we’re being lied and looted,” “No dictator, no crown. We the people won’t kneel down” and “The darkness has got to give.”

Doug McGaw, a Vietnam veteran who earned a Purple Heart and taught at Emporia State University, said the people had to compel the three branches of the federal government to bring order to chaos.

“We have a corrupt government that will not obey the law,” he said. “We need to stiffen the spine of people who are responsible for our laws and justice system.”

Kansas protesters argue for fundamental reform of government in both style and substance

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement are investigating their seventh homicide case over the past week in Kansas City, Missouri.

Just before 2p.m. Monday, police were dispatched to the VA hospital in Kansas City on a reported shooting, according to KCPD Officer&nbsp;Alayna Gonzalez.

Upon officers arrival, they contacted several individuals who had stated the shooting occurred in the 2900 block of Brighton Avenue. The victim was transported by private conveyance to the VA hospital for medical treatment. VA hospital staff advised officers at that time that the victim was pronounced deceased.

Preliminary information provided by a witness stated that she was inside of her residence when she heard several sounds of shots outside of her home. She exited the residence and located an adult male victim, lying in the street suffering from apparent gunshot trauma. An adult male suspect was seen entering an unknown vehicle and left the area in an unknown direction.&nbsp;

Homicide detectives and crime scene personnel have responded to the scene to begin collecting evidence and witness statements.

If anyone was in the area and heard or saw anything or has any information they are asked to contact Homicide detectives directly at 816-234-5043 or the TIPS Hotline anonymously at 816-474-TIPS. There is a reward of up to $25,000 for information submitted anonymously to the TIPS hotline.

Police: Man dies in shooting near VA hospital in Kansas City

KANSAS CITY —Police have identified the driver who died in an accident just after 2:30p.m. Friday in Kansas City, Missouri.

A white Nissan Murano driven by 34-year-old Sterling A. Roaf was southbound on Virginia in Kansas City at a high rate of speed, according to KCPD Captain Jake Becchina. The Nissan failed to stop for the posted stop sign at Rockhurst and Virginia. 

The Nissan continued southbound and struck a gold Jeep wrangler that was unoccupied and parked on Rockhurst. After striking the Jeep, the Nissan continued over the curb and up the grassy hill where it began to roll. The vehicle struck the Rockhurst College’s “Corcoran Building” before coming to rest. 

Roaf, sole occupant of the Nissan was transported to a local hospital with life-threatening injuries and was later pronounced deceased by hospital staff. This is fatality #7 compared to #5 at this time last year in Kansas City, Missouri, according to Becchina.

Police ID driver who died after crash on college campus in KC

CLOUD COUNTY—Law enforcement conducted an extensive investigation into the allegations of crimes against children, according to a social media report from Concordia Police.

Just before 11a.m. February 13, the Concordia Police Department executed a search warrant at 616 Valley St. in Concordia regarding the investigation. While conducting the search warrant, Officers located drug paraphernalia and methamphetamines.

The suspect, David Brown (alias: Axel Brown), age 21, was arrested for drug paraphernalia and possession of methamphetamines, along with his Cloud County Warrant on requested charges that include Rape, Two counts of Aggravated Indecent Liberties with a Child, Criminal Sodomy, Aggravated Endangerment of a Child, Aggravated Assault Criminal Threat, Criminal Restraint, Contributing to a Child’s Misconduct or Deprivation, Furnishing Alcoholic Liquor or Cereal Malt Beverage to a minor, Taxation- Cigarettes, Electronic Cigarettes, and Tobacco Unlawful Acts

The Concordia Police Department encourages parents and guardians to speak with their children to see if they have had any contact with David “Axel” Brown. If any children have had contact with David “Axel” Brown, please email Detective Emma Thyfault- ethyfault@concordiaks.org and Lt. Adam Sorell- asorell@concordiaks.org.

Police looking for other victims in Kansas child sex crime investigation

JACKSON COUNTY, Kan. —Law enforcement are investigating two suspects on drug allegations.

Jus before 2a.m. Feb. 10,&nbsp; a Sheriff’s Deputy conducted a traffic stop on a GMC Terrain for a traffic infraction near 102nd Road on U.S. Highway 75 in rural Jackson County, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.

 A probable cause search of the vehicle was conducted which resulted in the discovery of illegal drugs. The driver, Raymond Earl Hughes, 61, of Topeka, was arrested and booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine and no proof of insurance.  The passenger, Julyn Michelle Owens, 60, of Topeka was arrested and booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of possession of a hallucinogenic drug and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Sheriff: Kansas couple caught transporting meth

JOHNSON COUNTY—Law enforcement took a suspect, identified as 30-year-old Andrew McCann, according to booking records, into custody after a standoff in the city of Shawnee.

Just after 9a.m. Sunday, police were dispatched to investigate a report of shots fired into an occupied dwelling that occurred Saturday near Quivira Road and W. 71st Street in Shawnee, according to a media release. No injuries were reported.

At approximately 11:40 a.m., Shawnee officers located the suspect near W. 121st Street and Ballentine Street in Overland Park, where he barricaded himself until his arrest.

Suspect in custody after shots fired into Kansas home

Governor Laura Kelly&nbsp;issued a verbal state of disaster emergency proclamation&nbsp;on Sunday, Feb. 15 at 11:48&nbsp;a.m.&nbsp;due&nbsp;to&nbsp;an&nbsp;extended period of dangerous fire weather and the potential for extreme fire spread from Tuesday through Thursday, according to a media release from the Adjutant General’s&nbsp;Department. This declaration&nbsp;allows&nbsp;resources to be&nbsp;used to&nbsp;provide state&nbsp;assistance.&nbsp;

“With high winds and dry conditions, there is a high risk for wildland fires over the next few days,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly&nbsp;said. “I urge&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;residents to avoid activities that could spark fires, remain alert to changing conditions, and follow local emergency guidance.”&nbsp;

Dangerous fire weather is expected Tuesday through Thursday, with Northwest and Southwest Kansas seeing Red Flag conditions driven by strong 30–40 mph winds with gusts to 65 mph, humidity as low as 10&nbsp;percent, rapidly drying grass fuels, blowing dust, and shifting winds that could cause rapid fire growth and extreme and erratic fire behavior.&nbsp; A Fire Watch is in effect for most of North Central, Northeast, and East Central Kansas on Tuesday.&nbsp;Officials emphasize that dry grass and other fuels can dry out in as little as one hour under these conditions, significantly increasing the risk of&nbsp;rapid&nbsp;fire&nbsp;ignition and spread.&nbsp;

“Across Kansas,&nbsp;we’re&nbsp;beginning to see the seasonal shift into more typical fire weather patterns,”&nbsp;Bill Waln, Kansas Forest Service Fire Management Officer&nbsp;said.&nbsp;“We strongly urge the public to avoid activities that could spark a fire and to report any smoke or fire&nbsp;immediately. Early reporting is critical to keeping fires small and protecting lives and property.”&nbsp;

The Kansas Division of Emergency Management will staff the State Emergency Operations Center&nbsp;starting&nbsp;tomorrow&nbsp;with Emergency Support Function partners&nbsp;from the Office of the State Fire Marshal,&nbsp;Kansas Forest Service,&nbsp;and other state agencies&nbsp;to coordinate&nbsp;state&nbsp;efforts&nbsp;and pre‑staging resources to support local&nbsp;counties and local responders if requested.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kan. gov. issues state of disaster emergency for wildland fires 

By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jacobrichey/">Jacob Richey</a>

A Cole County judge ruled Friday that Gov. Mike Kehoe had the constitutional authority to call the special session that resulted in the passage of a new gerrymandered congressional map for Missouri.

During the special session, legislators redrew the map to favor Republicans. The Missouri NAACP filed the lawsuit against state officials including Kehoe in September in an attempt to stop the special session from happening, but the court did not take up the case in time to stop legislators from meeting for the session.

The lawsuit alleged that while the Missouri Constitution allows the governor to call special sessions for extraordinary occasions, Kehoe’s reasoning to call the most recent session did not qualify as an extraordinary occasion.

Judge Christopher Limbaugh disagreed, stating in the ruling issued Friday that the governor has the constitutional discretion to decide what qualifies as an extraordinary occasion.

Article 4, Section 9 of the Missouri Constitution, which describes the powers of the governor, states that on extraordinary occasions, the governor may convene the General Assembly by proclamation and state matters for the legislature to take action on.

Kehoe called Missouri lawmakers to a special session on Aug. 29, 2025, directing them to focus the session on redistricting the state and changing the initiative petition process.

The new congressional map, which is at the center of multiple lawsuits, would likely give the Republican Party a 7-to-1 majority in Missouri’s U.S. House seats. Republicans already hold six of Missouri’s eight congressional seats.

This story originally appeared on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.komu.com/news/state/special-session-to-redraw-missouris-congressional-districts-was-constitutional-judge-rules/article_0782f59f-c883-497d-9260-dbae0a12fae2.html" target="_blank">KOMU.com</a>. It can be republished in print or online.&nbsp;

Special session to redraw Missouri congressional districts was constitutional, judge rules

As the regular season nears it's end, the Missouri Basketball Coaches Association released another round of it's bi-weekly girls basketball polls, where there was another shift in the Class 4 rankings.&nbsp;

In Class 4, the Benton girls shot up, going from #7 in the February 2nd polls, all the way up to #3 with 61 points, still trailing Strafford and Doniphan, with 80 and 71 points respectively.&nbsp; The Cardinals have won their last three games since the previous polls, with victories over Chillicothe, Lafayette, and Maryville.&nbsp; Since back-to back losses to&nbsp;Lincoln Christian and Bennington of Nebraska in early January, Benton is on a nine game win streak.

Meanwhile also in Class 4, the Lafayette girls slid down the polls from #3 to #6 with 42 points.&nbsp; The Lady Irish beat Cameron and Bishop LeBlond, but fell to Benton.&nbsp; The Savannah girls, who were in a three way tie for #9 in the previous polls, fell to #10 with eight points, while Chillicothe also fell from #4 to #8 with 26 points.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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