St Joseph Restaurant Week is officially here with 29 area eateries participating and bringing some new and fun menu items to area residents. 

St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce Director of Communications Kristi Bailey says there are food choices for all times of the day 

"Breakfast, lunch, and dinner, we’re really encouraging people to try somewhere they’ve never gone before or if you have a tried and true, like you love a certain place, try something new on the menu,” Bailey says on the KFEQmunnity show.  “So, we just really encourage people to get out and support these restaurants in what can be a slower time of year.” 

Bailey says the program is the second most popular event held throughout the year, next to Shop St. Joe.  During the week, to get people motivated to go out, Bailey says there will be gift card giveaways on social media 

"Definitely one of the most popular times of the year for our social media engagement, because we started last week on Thursday or Friday doing giveaways,” Bailey explains.  “Each restaurant that’s participating, they give a $25 gift card, so usually I just ask a question kind of related to the restaurant.” 

Bailey says all you have to do is answer the question to be entered to win.  You can also win gift cards in the mornings with Gregg Lynn on JoeTown 107.5 and the afternoons on Q Country 92.7 with Travis Dodge throughout the week.   

Bailey says on top of the gift card giveaways and special menus, there are several special events, many being food related, but also some with educational opportunities. 

"The Den is presenting at Cup of Joe on Wednesday, just to kind of talk about how they got their start, they’re not technically a restaurant of course, but they do a lot of food related events at The Den,” Bailey says.  “And then we have our Business After Hours on Thursday, and that’s at the United Building downtown which is a really cool event space, and that’s free to attend, you don’t have to register, just come out to that.” 

On Friday there will be a happy hour also at The Den and a wine tasting at Cafe Belle Epoque before the week wraps up with a Brunch, Margs, and music event at La Mesa on Saturday.  

St. Joseph Restaurant Week runs through Sunday. You can find more information by clicking <a href="https://www.stjrestaurantweek.com/">HERE</a>.

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

St. Joseph Restaurant Week in full swing encouraging residents to get out and eat

The St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce will host a series of Public Affairs Coffee sessions throughout March, providing a platform for local candidates to address the community ahead of upcoming elections.

The series begins Wednesday, March 4, featuring candidates for the St. Joseph School District Board of Education. The forum will run from 7:30 - 9:00 a.m. at the Stoney Creek Hotel and Conference Center, located at 1201 N. Woodbine Road. Kevin Waltman of Eagle Media will serve as the moderator. For those unable to attend in person, the session will be recorded and broadcast on 680 KFEQ the following day at 9:00 a.m.

A final forum is scheduled for Wednesday, March 25, focusing on the St. Joseph City Council candidates and the finalists in the mayoral race. This session will also be held from 7:30 - 9:00 a.m. at Stoney Creek. All candidates from their respective races have been invited to participate in these events, which are presented by Farmers State Bank.

Registration is required for all attendees to cover the cost of a full breakfast. The fee is $15 for Chamber members and $20 for the general public. Interested parties can register online at <a target="_blank" href="http://saintjoseph.com">saintjoseph.com</a> or by calling 816-232-4461.

St. Joseph Chamber to host candidate forums in March

North Central Missouri College (NCMC) will join institutions across the United States on Saturday, February 28, 2026, to celebrate the 40th annual National TRIO Day. 

The event honors the achievements of first-generation students, income-eligible individuals, students with disabilities, and veterans, while recognizing the transformative impact of Federal TRIO Programs on higher education.

Established by Congress in 1986, National TRIO Day highlights the importance of educational access and academic persistence. These programs originated from the landmark Higher Education Act, designed to dismantle barriers to postsecondary success. Over the past four decades, TRIO has helped more than six million students nationwide earn college degrees, strengthening the nation through the power of opportunity.

NCMC’s TRIO Programs will mark the milestone with a series of events and recognition ceremonies. These activities aim to bring together students, alumni, campus leaders, and community partners to share success stories and deepen the public’s understanding of the TRIO mission.

“TRIO students are scholars, problem-solvers, community builders, and future leaders, with grit, persistence, and determination,” said Cindy Wells, Director for NCMC Talent Search. Tocarra Williams, Director of NCMC Student Support Services and Upward Bound, added, “National TRIO Day is our opportunity to celebrate their accomplishments, acknowledge their hard work, and reaffirm our commitment to ensuring every student has the support and resources to achieve their goals.”

The milestone anniversary serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for equitable access to education. Kimberly Jones, president of the Council for Opportunity in Education (COE), noted that this year honors the millions of alumni who have turned dreams into careers. “As we celebrate this anniversary, we recommit ourselves to protecting and strengthening TRIO so future generations can continue to thrive,” Jones stated.

NCMC Joins nationwide celebration for 40th Annual National TRIO Day

Congressman Sam Graves of Missouri joined U.S. Representatives Tracey Mann of Kansas and Jimmy Panetta of California, who serve as co-chairs of the Congressional FFA Caucus, along with 57 other colleagues to introduce a formal resolution. 

This measure designates the week of February 21 - 28 as National FFA Week. Similar companion legislation was introduced in the U.S. Senate by Senators Todd Young of Indiana and Chris Coons of Delaware.

Representative Graves highlighted the personal impact the organization had on his development, noting that the leadership skills he gained during high school remain relevant in his current role. He praised the organization for its commitment to providing high-quality agricultural education and fostering personal growth for the next generation of leaders in the industry.

National FFA Advisor Dr. Travis Park described the commemorative week as an opportunity to showcase the collective influence of the organization across the country. He credited the success of the program to the dedication of agricultural teachers, alumni, and various partners who support the student members as they transition into roles as innovators and advocates for the agricultural sector.

The National FFA Organization operates as a congressionally chartered, school-based leadership group. It currently boasts a membership of more than 1,042,245 students across 9,400 local chapters. These chapters are active in all 50 states, as well as Puerto Rico, Washington D.C., and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

As a member of the Congressional FFA Caucus, which consists of more than 60 representatives, Graves and his colleagues work to raise the profile of agricultural education. The caucus focuses on building strong relationships between federal lawmakers and the future leaders of the American food and agriculture industries.

Congressman Sam Graves leads bipartisan effort to designate National FFA Week

KFEQ Morning Sports

DEKALB COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 12:30p.m. Tuesday in DeKalb County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2016 Chevy Malibu driven by an 18-year-old Cameron man was westbound on U.S. 36 two and one half miles east of Osborn. The car traveled off the north side of the road, returned to the road, crossed the westbound lanes, traveled off the south side of the road, struck a tree, a fence and a ditch.

Cameron ambulance transported the driver to Mosaic in St. Joseph. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

Missouri teen injured after violent crash into a fence

The Missouri Department of Conservation invites participants to unleash their creative spirits by painting custom lures for either function or fashion. 

This unique workshop allows guests to finish their creations with treble hooks for fishing or transform them into fun statement earrings. The event will be held during the Albrecht-Kemper Museum of Art’s March After Hours on Tuesday, March 24.

The workshop takes place in the Education Center on the east side of the museum. To access the site, visitors should use the main driveway by the sculpture and follow the directional signs from the public south parking lot. Painting will be open between 4:00 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. to ensure projects have sufficient time to dry. While the painting session concludes early, the main museum remains open until 7:00 p.m., at which time guests can pick up their finished work.

MDC provides all necessary supplies, including blank lures, acrylic painting materials, and finishing hardware. Participants only need to bring their creativity to the table. Although the event utilizes water-based paints, a paint shirt is recommended for younger artists to protect their clothing during the process.

MDC notes that registrants for this event must be a minimum age of 4 years old by 3/24/2026.

MDC to host custom lure painting at AKMA

United Way Success By 6 is inviting area parents, grandparents, primary caregivers, and child care professionals to participate in a series of free monthly information sessions. 

United Way of Greater St. Joseph says these gatherings are designed to provide valuable insights into childhood development and effective caregiving strategies. The upcoming session is scheduled for March 16 from 6:00 -&nbsp; 7:30 p.m. and will be held at the Wyatt Park Christian Church Fellowship Hall, located at 2623 Mitchell Avenue. For those unable to attend in person, a virtual participation option is also available.

The focus of the March presentation centers on the principles of Conscious Discipline, specifically exploring how to transition from a mindset of surviving to one of thriving. The curriculum will highlight how to utilize the power of free will to set healthy limits and encourage better compliance in children. Participants can expect to walk away with practical strategies aimed at fostering personal responsibility and self-control within the children they care for. Those interested in planning ahead should also note that future sessions are already slated for April 20 and May 11.

This series offers a specific benefit for child care professionals attending the physical sessions, as they are eligible to receive 1.5 Missouri Clock Hours Child Care Licensing credit for each meeting they complete. To secure a spot, interested individuals can register <a href="https://www.stjosephunitedway.org/success-6-parentsprimary-caregivers">here</a>.

For additional questions regarding the program, call 816-364-2381. Further educational resources regarding the Conscious Discipline methodology can also be found at consciousdiscipline.com.

United Way Success By 6 functions as a collaborative community movement. It brings together a diverse group of partners, including representatives from business, government, labor, education, and child care, alongside parents. The collective goal of this partnership is to ensure that every child in the community is well-prepared and equipped to become a successful learner by the time they start kindergarten.

United Way Success By 6 to host free Conscious Discipline Workshop in St. Joseph

Kansas Department of Transportation

The Kansas Department of Transportation has officially released the 2026 - 2028 Official State Bicycle Map. 

This updated resource is designed to assist both local commuters and long-distance cyclists in navigating the state’s terrain safely, whether they are planning a brief neighborhood ride or an ambitious cross-state trek.

The new edition places a special emphasis on the U.S. Bicycle Route System and various Rail-Trails. According to KDOT Active Transportation Manager Jenny Kramer, these inclusions are intended to highlight the historic and unique landmarks found throughout Kansas. By showcasing these specific paths, KDOT hopes to encourage residents and visitors to explore the state’s diverse scenery while maintaining an active lifestyle.

To enhance rider safety, the map utilizes a color-coded system for state highways and county roads. This allows cyclists to easily identify traffic volumes and road conditions at a glance. Notable features include:

The publication also introduces Kansas Trails Inc., a new organization dedicated to making state trails more accessible and sustainable. The map provides contact details for the group, which focuses on providing the community connections and resources necessary to maintain the state’s trail infrastructure for all users.

Cyclists can obtain the 2026-2028 map and supplemental safety flyers free of charge. Materials are available for order through the KDOT website at <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ksdot.gov/KSBikeMap">www.ksdot.gov/KSBikeMap</a>. For personalized inquiries, the public can also call 785-296-5186.

New Kansas bicycle maps now available

The Amelia Earhart Hangar Museum in Atchison has again been ranked one of the best history museums by USA Today readers.   

The museum dropped a spot from where it had been ranked before, from number four, down to number five, with the National Orphan Train Complex in Concordia taking its spot just above it at four. 

Executive Director Mindi Love Pendergraft isn't hurt by dropping a spot on the list, and says it's great for the state of Kansas 

"Our tourism department, Kansas tourism, has done a fabulous job the last several years of promoting Kansas and getting the word out about all the wonderful things and places there are to visit here, so I think it’s a testament to their work,” Pendergraft tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.  “And I hope it brings more people from outside of Kansas to visit our state, so I think it’s great.” 

Pendergraft says still being in the top five on the list is a big deal because of some of the museums it is going up against 

“Many of them are national museums and tell national stories, so to be included on this list and to rank so high is really phenomenal,” Pendergraft explains.  “So, we’re pleased with it, I’m sure the Orphan Train is too, the Oz Museum in Wamego was also on the list this year.” 

The Oz Museum was ranked number six among the best pop culture museums.   

 Pendergraft says for the museum being on the list is a great honor, but also presents a great opportunity to get its name out to the nation 

"For us it’s just a huge testament to the quality of the museum, to the quality of the opportunities here in Kanas to learn and go to museums and outdoor parks and all of that,” Pendergraft says.  “So, for us as a museum it’s great and critically important to drive more visitors to our site.”  

And for the city of Atchison, Pendergraft says it's a great honor as well, because of the love the city has for Amelia Earhart 

"It’s her birthplace, it’s the place she called home, and so I think for everyone here in Atchison it’s a great honor to have recognition,” Pendergraft says.  “It brings a lot of tourism to our city, so certainly that helps with all the businesses, it helps with hotels, it helps with restaurants, it helps with gas stations, and our shops downtown.” 

In its first year being nominated, the museum was number four on the list of best new museums.  The hangar museum has had visitors from all 50 states, and several different countries throughout its time being open. 

Amelia Earhart Hangar Museum ranked fifth best history Museum by USA Today readers

May corn closed up 3 1/2 cents and July corn was up 2 3/4 cents. May soybeans closed up 9 3/4 cents and July soybeans were up 9 1/4 cents. May KC wheat closed down 2 3/4 cents, May Chicago wheat was down 3 1/2 cents, May Minneapolis wheat was up 1 1/2 cents.

What began as another mixed and dull trade for Wednesday saw soybeans again gain bullish favor by late morning, shaking off overnight lows for the third time this week and very close to challenging November highs on the May contract. Corn futures were also able to move higher for the third time in the past four sessions and back among the highs of the year thus far. Meanwhile, wheat futures continue to slide on profit-taking directly tied to simmering geopolitical concerns ahead of Thursday's continuation of negotiations between the U.S. and Iran. Along those lines, crude oil futures were lower for the third straight session, but remain among the highs of 2026 with risk premium baked in. Equity markets continued their recovery of Monday's losses and treasuries were quietly lower.

Although we still haven't heard whether or not there will be a union strike at the JBS plant in Greeley, Colorado, traders seemed comfortable advancing the live cattle contracts Wednesday. Still no cash cattle trade has developed and it's most likely trade will be delayed until Friday. If a plant strike does happen in Colorado, then there's a chance prices may trade steady as opposed to higher as not as many cattle would be needed in the immediate future. Boxed beef prices are higher: choice up $1.92 ($379.35) and select up $0.75 ($366.76) with a movement of 59 loads (34.16 loads of choice, 4.69 loads of select, 8.08 loads of trim and 11.88 loads of ground beef).

Upon seeing the live cattle complex step out and comfortably trade higher, the feeder cattle contracts were logging a sizeable rally ahead of Wednesday's noon hour. Nothing sent the live cattle contracts tumbling lower, the feeder cattle contracts were able to sustain the bulk of their rally into Wednesday's closing bell.

The lean hog complex continued to trade higher, keeping with what is now a seven-day rally as traders continue to drive the market higher upon the technical interest they've recently found. It's been interesting to watch the market's fundamentals play out over the last seven trading days as pork cutout values have been mostly mixed, but packer interest in the cash market has been better.

<a href="https://dehayf5mhw1h7.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/356/2026/02/25140634/web-closing-markets-1.mp3">Click HERE for audio</a>

Commodity markets daily recap

U.S. farm groups are urging Congress to move quickly on a new Farm Bill, warning that continued delays could increase uncertainty for producers heading into the 2026 growing season. Commodity organizations say programs covering crop insurance, conservation, nutrition assistance and farm safety nets need long-term stability. Congressional hearings are underway, but farm leaders say producers need clarity well before planting and financing decisions are finalized. 

Agricultural economists note that high input costs, volatile weather and global competition have increased reliance on federal support programs. Farm groups warn that a delayed bill could complicate lending decisions and participation in conservation initiatives. Congressional leaders say negotiations are ongoing but acknowledge challenges in reaching a bipartisan agreement. Farm organizations say timely passage is critical to maintaining confidence in the U.S. farm economy.

Farm groups urge Congress to move quickly on 2026 farm bill

U.S. meat exporters are facing increased pressure overseas as global production rises and price-sensitive buyers look for lower-cost supplies. USDA data show beef and pork exports remain strong by historical standards, but shipments have softened in several key Asian markets. Industry groups say a strong U.S. dollar, higher production costs and growing competition from South America are affecting price competitiveness. 

Export markets are critical to U.S. livestock prices, particularly for cuts less favored by American consumers. The U.S. Meat Export Federation says trade access plays a major role in supporting farm-level returns. Trade officials say ongoing negotiations and market development efforts are focused on maintaining access and expanding demand. Industry leaders warn that continued competition could pressure producer margins if exports slow further.

U.S. meat exports face growing global competition

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

There was very little impactful news for Tuesday to drive prices. Soybean futures appear to have found a comfortable range of liquidity with an early attempt lower rejected by buyers who are still finding optimism in a firm soybean oil market. Meanwhile, corn futures remain sluggish and confined to their February price range with profit-taking in wheat through the week thus far a source of spillover weakness. Outside markets for Tuesday saw recovery in equities after an ugly start to the week on Monday. Energy markets remain generally elevated relative to their 2026 range thus far but are treading this week with the next round of U.S.-Iran negotiations upcoming on Thursday. In other outside market news, President Trump's State of the Union address is Tuesday evening at 8 p.m. CST, and investors will undoubtedly be tuned in to hear comments regarding the U.S. economy, tariff situation, and more.

The live cattle complex continued to trade mixed as it's unclear whether or not an agreement was reached at the JBS packing plant in Greeley, Colorado, to avoid a union plant strike. This uncertainty had the nearby contracts trading slightly lower, while the deferred contracts were trading mildly higher. Still no cash cattle trade has developed, and it's unlikely any trade will surface ahead of Thursday or Friday. Boxed beef prices are higher: choice up $6.65 ($375.87) and select up $1.79 ($366.10) with a movement of 58 loads (39.59 loads of choice, 4.96 loads of select, zero loads of trim and 13.79 loads of ground beef).

The live cattle complex may have traded mixed, but the feeder cattle contracts found a little more support and were softly to fully higher moving into Tuesday's closing bell. More than anything it seems the market is no longer up against immediate resistance pressure, which is why traders are comfortable to now allow the contracts to push slightly higher.

The lean hog complex maintained with its recent trend and traded solidly higher into Tuesday's close. This morning's pork cutout values were down slightly, but prices were stronger Monday and the market remains far enough away from technical resistance pressure that traders are comfortable advancing the contracts at this point in time.

<a href="https://dehayf5mhw1h7.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/356/2026/02/24140930/web-closing-markets-1.mp3">Click HERE for audio</a>

Farmers and conservation groups filed a lawsuit last week challenging the Environmental Protection Agency’s reapproval of Dicamba herbicide that’s sprayed on genetically-resistant cotton and soybeans. “The re-registration of Dicamba flies in the face of a decade of damning evidence, real-world farming know-how, sound science, and the law,” said George Kimbrell, legal director of the Center for Food Safety and a counsel in the case. “In reality, the Trump administration has once again betrayed farmers and poisoned the environment to pad corporate pesticide profits, so we’ll see them in court.” 

He also said EPA administrator Lee Zeldin’s “hollow promises” that new restrictions on Dicamba will prevent damaging drift to nearby farms and backyard gardens is totally unsupported by the facts or common sense. “Zeldin insists he’s working closely with the Make America Healthy Again movement to make pesticides safer,” said Nathan Donley of the Center for Biological Diversity. “We aren’t fooled.”

Groups sue EPA over Dicamba reapproval

Cattle on feed on February 1 and placements in feedlots declined year-over-year. That’s according to the most recent Cattle on Feed Report. About 11.5 million head of cattle and calves were on feed at the beginning of the month, which the USDA said is down two percent on an annual basis. Placements last month totaled 1.74 million head, down five percent from the same month a year ago. 

The highest marketing level came in the 700–799-pound class, totaling 455,000 head. Under 600 pounds totaled 360,000 head, while 600-699 pounds totaled 365,000 head. Cattle placements between 800-899 pounds totaled 381,000 head. Placements included about 105,000 head weighing 900-999 pounds, and 70,000 head weighing 1,000 pounds or higher. The agency also said marketings of fed cattle in January plunged 13 percent on an annual basis, and other disappearance fell by eight percent to 55,000 head.

Cattle on feed, placements decline

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

After a sluggish open on Sunday evening and overnight session to begin the new week, row-crop futures caught a bullish spark as the day trade began but eventually saw bullish momentum fade through the session on a lack of rally-sustaining news for Monday. Friday's session was overshadowed by the Supreme Court ruling which struck down President Trump's use of IEEPA in implementing tariffs. Slow GDP growth in the fourth quarter of 2025 (due to the government shutdown) as well as sticky inflation received little acknowledgment until Monday's session, with heavy selling in equities to begin the new week and a flow of funds to commodities was at least partially responsible for a recovery from overnight lows before profit-taking again set in. Crude oil futures were steady to slightly lower ahead of the next round of negotiations between the U.S. and Iran scheduled for Thursday.

The live cattle complex was trading lower as traders cautiously enter the new week, hoping fundamental support will again surface and help guide the contracts higher. But throughout Monday's trade the complex traded lower, as caution remains the underlying theme. The pressure seems to stem from a number of different sources, as traders have noted the downturn in the equity markets, are aware of the uptick in the grain complex, and are also mulling around last Friday's Cattle on Feed report. Nevertheless, it seems as though the market will likely keep its mundane attitude into Tuesday. New showlists appear to be mixed, lower in Kansas and Texas, but higher in Nebraska/Colorado. Boxed beef prices are higher: choice up $1.28 ($367.98) and select up $3.09 ($363.83) with a movement of 51 loads (26.85 loads of choice, 4.38 loads of select, 8.94 loads of trim and 10.48 loads of ground beef).

The feeder cattle complex was also lower as traders aren't willing to advance the feeder cattle market at a time live cattle contracts are lower and grain prices are seeing a modest bump. And at this point it's very unlikely the market will change its direction and turn higher as a doggish attitude is currently overwhelming the market.

The cattle contracts may be trading lower, but the lean hog complex was keeping with its current trend and continued to trade higher as traders are pleased with the morning uptick in pork demand, and once again aren't up against immediate pressure of hitting technical resistance.

<a href="https://dehayf5mhw1h7.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/356/2026/02/23145018/web-closing-markets-1.mp3">Click HERE for audio</a>

House Ag Committee Chair GT Thompson recently released the text of Farm Bill 2.0, or the “Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026.” Groups like the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association welcomed the provisions that strengthen the agriculture measures included in the One Big, Beautiful Bill. “We appreciate the Chairman’s leadership and diligent work to provide legislative answers to the ongoing needs of cattle producers,” said Gene Copenhaver, president of the NCBA. 

“The bill provides important provisions to streamline voluntary conservation programs, protect grazing as a land management tool, address the critical shortage of rural veterinarians, and establish an important pilot program to safely explore better options for direct-to-consumer sales of locally-raised beef.” Among the improvements, Farm Bill 2.0 expands access to credit and increases outdated agricultural loan limits, amends veterinary grant programs to relieve ongoing rural veterinary shortages, and clarifies animal disease traceability eligibility. 

Farm Bill 2.0 provides additional certainty

The Supreme Court turned the U.S. trade landscape upside down with a decision on Friday striking down the centerpiece of President Donald Trump’s tariff program. Just over one year into the President’s second term, the 6-3 ruling in “Learning Resources, Inc. v Trump” comes after Supreme Court justices showed skepticism in questioning during oral arguments last November. Reports said the ruling appears to halt a massive section of Trump’s tariffs that he announced last year on what he referred to as “Liberation Day". 

Trump said a 1977 law called the International Emergency Economic Powers Act gave the president the ability to declare an economic emergency and take action, but it doesn’t specific tariffs as a specific remedy to the emergency. “IEEPA doesn’t authorize the President to impose tariffs,” read the decision by Chief Justice John Roberts. The Court’s decision doesn’t appear to address the question of eligibility for tariff refunds, which is likely to lead to a complex legal process for companies.

Supreme Court strikes down Trump tariffs

March corn closed up 1 3/4 cents and May corn was up 3 1/2 cents. March soybeans closed down 3 1/2 cents and May soybeans were down 2 3/4 cents. March KC wheat closed up 6 3/4 cents, March Chicago wheat was up 14 cents, March MIAX Minneapolis wheat was up 4 3/4 cents.

Corn and soybean futures traded both sides of even on Friday, with routine trade interrupted at midmorning by reports the U.S. Supreme Court ruled against President Trump's use of the 1977 International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) to implement widespread "reciprocal" tariffs through the first year of his second term. While the initial minutes following the breaking story featured a sharp reversal from daily highs, grain futures settled down and eventually recovered through the session, with wheat futures remaining a bullish beacon throughout with another double-digit surge higher. The exact implications of the ruling will likely take weeks -- if not months -- to determine, but for Friday equity markets initially moved higher on the news, while the U.S. dollar softened.

The livestock complex was trading mixed into Friday's noon hour as the cattle contracts dipped slightly lower ahead of seeing the afternoon's Cattle on Feed report and upon not seeing any fed cash cattle trade by that time.&nbsp;The lean hog contracts continued to scale higher as traders were not currently up against any immediate fears of resistance pressure. 

<a href="https://dehayf5mhw1h7.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/356/2026/02/06205559/30001.mp3">Click HERE for Audio</a>

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>

Federal prosecutors are asking a judge to sentence former Missouri House Speaker John Diehl to two years in prison in his federal COVID relief fraud case, arguing his admitted misuse of nearly $380,000 in pandemic aid “should merit a significant punishment.”

In a sentencing memorandum filed Monday in U.S. District Court in St. Louis, Assistant U.S. Attorney Hal Goldsmith urged the court to sentence Diehl within the federal guideline range of 21 to 27 months. Prosecutors say that range is appropriate given what they describe as Diehl’s “substantial criminal conduct” involving disaster relief money intended to help businesses and workers during the pandemic.

Diehl, a St. Louis-area attorney and former Republican House speaker, pleaded guilty in September to wire fraud. Federal prosecutors said he admitted defrauding the U.S. Small Business Administration out of $379,900 through an Economic Injury Disaster Loan and a later loan modification obtained through false representations.

The government’s filing lays out in detail how prosecutors say the money was spent.

According to the memorandum, the first $1,000 in loan proceeds was used to pay Diehl’s personal country club dues and fees. Prosecutors also say he used the funds for personal expenses including payments on a Tesla, Audi and Jeep, mortgage payments, pool maintenance, additional country club charges and cash withdrawals. The filing also says he used about $200,000 of the loan money to fund a defined benefit plan for his law firm in which he was the sole participant.

Prosecutors further allege Diehl used some of the funds to pay off “a civil settlement related to his time as Speaker of the Missouri House of Representatives.” The memorandum does not specify the nature of that settlement or whether it is connected to the scandal that forced him from office in 2015 which&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article20822424.html" target="_blank">involved sending sexually inappropriate text messages to a 19-year-old House intern</a>.&nbsp;

Goldsmith argued that the fraud was especially serious because, in the government’s view, there is no evidence Diehl’s law practice suffered the sort of pandemic-related economic harm the EIDL program was designed to address.

Last month, Diehl&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2026/01/21/ex-missouri-house-speaker-john-diehl-seeks-to-avoid-prison-in-covid-loan-fraud-case/">asked the court for a non-custodial sentence</a>, arguing in part that he repaid the money. Prosecutors pushed back on that argument in Monday’s filing, saying repayment should not be treated as an “extraordinary” basis for leniency.

The government said Diehl is a “man of great and substantial means” and argued that his prepayment of restitution is not comparable to cases in which defendants sell assets, cash in savings or take extra work to make victims whole.

Prosecutors also pointed to Diehl’s background in public office, writing that his education and political career underscored that he “knew better than to engage in the charged fraud scheme.” The memorandum notes Diehl’s service in the Missouri House, including as speaker, and references a 2023 Missouri Ethics Commission consent order involving improper campaign spending and a fee of $47,392.

“Through his education and public office,” Goldsmith wrote, “(Diehl) had every privilege and opportunity, and to put it bluntly, he knew better than to engage in the charged fraud scheme.”

Federal prosecutors seek prison sentence for former Missouri House Speaker John Diehl

WASHINGTON&nbsp;– U.S. Senator Jerry Moran on Tuesday spoke on the Senate floor to mark the fourth anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and emphasize the importance of continued support for Ukraine from the United States and its allies as Russia’s ongoing aggression reaches its fifth year.

“Vladimir Putin believed his so-called military operation would be over in two weeks, but as the fifth year of the war begins, Russian forces have fought Ukraine longer than they fought the Germans in World War II,”&nbsp;said Sen. Moran.&nbsp;

“Because of the bravery and innovation of the Ukrainians, aided by American and European support, Vladimir Putin’s objective to conquer and control the Ukrainian government remains unobtainable. His war is a strategic failure.”“Ukrainians are coming out of the most difficult winter yet, with temperatures at the most frigid of the war, and the Russian bombing campaigns aimed at energy infrastructure have taken a toll. Instead of being convinced to sue for peace on Putin’s terms, Ukrainians remain unwavering in their commitment to remain an independent and sovereign nation,”&nbsp;continued Sen. Moran.

&nbsp;“We must commit to share in their resolve. I say that again: we must commit to share in their resolve and support the Ukrainian people in their fight for freedom.”Sen. Moran today joined Sens. Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) and Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) in introducing a bipartisan Senate resolution to mark the four-year anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Full text of the resolution can be found&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.foreign.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/DAV26310.pdf">here</a>.

🎥Kan. U.S. Senator marks 4th anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine 

BY&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/akaminski/">ANNA KAMINSKI</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/12/29/kansan-returns-to-the-catholic-church-as-the-states-first-woman-priest/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — U.S. Rep. Sharice Davids said ahead of President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address Tuesday she was concerned about his promises of lower costs, stability and support for American families.

“Instead we are seeing the opposite of that,” the Kansas Democrat said during a virtual press conference. “We’re seeing rising grocery bills. We’re seeing tariffs that have forced small businesses to close. We’re seeing cuts to health care that are, frankly, going to devastate families.”

Davids said her State of the Union guest, Nick Levendofsky, will bring Kansas voices to the forefront. Levendofsky,&nbsp; the executive director of the Kansas Farmers Union and secretary of the Minneapolis-based research nonprofit Institute for Agriculture &amp; Trade Policy, has been an outspoken critic of Trump’s tariff policies and advocate for broader protections for Kansas farmers.

Davids said she is hoping for solutions from Trump rather than partisan rhetoric.

“I have to be honest here. I am not necessarily holding my breath for that,” she said.

The State of the Union address follows Friday’s&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2026/02/20/repub/us-supreme-court-rules-against-trumps-tariffs-in-6-3-opinion-dealing-blow-to-trade-agenda/">U.S. Supreme Court decision</a>, which deemed certain tariffs illegal.

Trump’s tariffs have been detrimental to Kansas farmers, according to Levendofsky.

He said farmers across the country have lost tens of billions of dollars because of tariffs, and crop markets have become stressed or entirely lost. When farmers aren’t making money, they aren’t spending money, he said.

“I hate to say it, but we’ve become less reliable when it comes to trade and what we can offer to the world,” Levendofsky said.

He believes that Congress should address tariffs by exerting its checks and balances authority and intervening in the ongoing trade war.

Also top of mind for Davids and Levendofsky while in D.C. this week is a farm bill that will govern agriculture and food issues for the next several years.

Davids wants to see amendments to the bill that end current trade war policy, protect food assistance programs and address adequate staffing at the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility in Manhattan.

She said she will not support a final product that ignores what Kansans need to stay competitive.

Levendofsky favors updates to the legislation that address climate change issues, attracting new farmers to the profession, supporting underserved farmers, boosting research, promoting rural mental health services and establishing food assistance programs.

“If you eat, you are involved in agriculture,” Levendofsky said.

Kansas is the country’s eighth-largest agriculture producer, exporting more than $7 billion in beef, wheat, soybeans and other grains.

The state lost 700 farms in 2025, according to a USDA study, and 11 Kansas farms filed for Chapter 12 bankruptcy, according to the American Farm Bureau Federation.

The White House has promoted Trump’s first year in his second term in office as a major success. In a statement released Tuesday gouging Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger, who is set to deliver Democrats’ rebuttal following Trump’s address, the White House said, “Americans deserve better than the Radical Left’s vision of higher taxes, weaker borders, and divisive ideology.”

“Tonight, while President Trump highlights the successes of his America First agenda in slashing costs, revitalizing manufacturing, securing our borders, and delivering real relief — Spanberger’s response will only underscore her party’s commitment to the failed lunacy Americans rejected,” the statement said.

U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall, R-Kansas, said while appearing Monday on Newsmax said Trump has made American families safer, borders more secure, the military more successful and the economy more prosperous. He said record-low murder rates, missions in Iran and Venezuela and lower utility costs are worth celebrating.

Marshall called the U.S. Supreme Court’s tariff decision disappointing. Trump’s tariffs have served as a leverage tool to be used for diplomacy, national security and forceful trade deals, he said. He also said manufacturing jobs have moved back to Kansas from overseas as a result of tariff policy.

“This big ship we call America is now moving in the right direction,” he said, “so there’s lots to celebrate.”

Kansas congresswoman, farm leader emphasize agriculture’s importance to State of the Union

JOHNSON COUNTY —Law enforcement investigating an altercation that led to an arrest during a student&nbsp; protest in Olathe have made another arrest.

Just after 2p.m. February 20, police were dispatched to a reported fight in the area of College Boulevard and South Lone Elm Road in Olathe, according to Police Sergeant John Moncayo.

Officers learned there was a planned anti-ICE protest near Olathe Northwest High school when they confronted and started a fight with students who were counter protesting them. During the incident, approximately four students were injured.&nbsp;

Numerous officers responded and stabilized the incident. As a result of the investigation, one juvenile male was taken into custody.

Following the investigation, an additional 18-year-old girl was taken into custody. A 15-year-old boy and 17-year-old boy were also cited and released.

"The Olathe Police Department supports the community’s right to engage in peaceful protest and lawful assembly. We are committed to protecting those rights while also ensuring public safety. Violence, property damage, or threats to people will be addressed appropriately to protect the community."

&nbsp;Anyone with information regarding this investigation is asked to call the Olathe Police Department at (913) 971-6363 or the TIPS Hotline at (816) 474-8477.&nbsp;

Another arrest in student-led Kan. anti-ice protest and fight

🎥Highlights of President Trump's State of the Union address

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement investigating the body found December 30 is that of 25-year-old&nbsp;Kaden Zubler, according to Topeka Police.

Just after 5:30p.m. December 30, police responded to a report of a deceased individual in the area of NE U.S. 24 Highway and NE Calhoun Bluff Road, according to a media release. Upon arrival, officers discovered human remains. Kaden Zubler's identification was confirmed through dental records. He was reported missing in May of 2025.

At this time, foul play is not suspected but police continue to investigate.

Police confirm body was Kansas man missing since May

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Authorities are working to determine the cause of fire in an apartment building in Topeka.

Just before 4p.m. Monday, crews responded to an apartment building fire at 400 SW WesternAvenue in Topeka, according to a media release.

&nbsp;Upon arrival, crews encountered heavy black smoke coming from the first floor of a two-story apartment building. All residents had self-evacuated prior to firefighters arriving on scene.

Fire crews conducted a systematic search of the structure and safely retrieved one dog, which was returned safely to its owner.

Firefighters located the origin of the fire on the first floor and initiated an interior fire attack. Crews extinguished the fire, which had extended into the ceiling space between the first and second floors.

Smoke detectors were found in the structure. There were no injuries reported.

Dog rescued after Kansas apartment fire

CHEROKEE COUNTY —One person died in an accident just before 8p.m. Tuesday in Cherokee County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2014 Ford Fusion driven by Braxon M.&nbsp;Gough, 19, Joplin, Missouri, was westbound on SE 110th Street three miles north of Galena.&nbsp;The car crossed into the eastbound lane and struck a tree.

Gough was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to&nbsp;Frontier Forensics. The KHP did not have seat belt usage details due to the fire.

KHP: Mo. teen dies after car crash into tree and fire

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a home invasion burglary and have made an arrest.

Just after 1a.m. February 20, sheriff's deputies responded to a reported assault and robbery at a residence in the 2600 block of NE Calhoun Bluff Road in rural Shawnee County, according to Deputy Abigail Chrisstian.

Initial investigation indicates that the suspect, Mason P. Schnegelsiepen, 35, of Topeka, allegedly forced entry into the 69-year-old victim’s residence. 

Schnegelsiepen is accused of battering the victim into unconsciousness, stealing cash, and fleeing the scene. 

The victim sustained significant facial trauma and was transported to a local hospital with serious injuries. The suspect was gone prior to the deputies’ arrival.

Deputies tracked Schnegelsiepen to a residence in the 2900 block of SW Lane Street. He was taken into custody without incident and transported to the Shawnee County Law Enforcement Center for further questioning. Schnegelsiepen was arrested and booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges: of Aggravated Battery. He is no longer in custody.

Sheriff: Kan. man hospitalized after home invasion burglary

US hockey team members meet President in the Oval Office

Missouri football will now open its 2026 season with a game against Arkansas-Pine Bluff on Thursday, Sept. 3, in the newly renovated Memorial Stadium. 

The game will kick off at 7 p.m. and will air on SEC Network.&nbsp; KFEQ, your home for Missouri Tiger football and basketball, will potentially have a conflict with the Kansa City Royals that prevents the game from airing on that day.

 Head coach Eli Drinkwitz expressed excitement for the tradition of starting the season on a Thursday night in front of a renovated stadium.

"Opening the season on a Thursday night in CoMo is becoming a great tradition for our program," head coach Eli Drinkwitz said in a news release from the university. "We appreciate Arkansas-Pine Bluff and the SEC for working with us on the adjustment so our season opener can be broadcast nationally on SEC Network. There's nothing like a renovated and full Memorial Stadium to kick off a season, and we're excited to carry our program-record sellout streak into 2026."

 The move to Thursday night games has been successful for Missouri, allowing them to avoid competition with Labor Day weekend travel and the NFL. The Tigers will play seven home games in the 2026 season, including matchups against Florida, Texas, and Oklahoma.

Mizzou football changes date for 'Kickoff in CoMO'

Travis Kelce's future with the Kansas City Chiefs in the NFL remains uncertain, but head coach Andy Reid has confirmed ongoing communication with the star tight end. 

Kelce, who has been with the Chiefs since 2013, has not made a decision about his future yet, but promised to do so before the start of free agency in March. Despite positive comments from teammates and Kelce himself about returning, his future with the team is still up in the air. 

Chiefs General Manager Brett Veach spoke on Tuesday, ahead of the NFL Combine, and said the Chiefs will be prepared for whether Kelce decides to return for another season or not.

“I think we’ve kind of taken a different approach with Travis, in the sense that I think we kind of prepared for either scenario,” Veach told reporters in Indianapolis. [Andy Reid] had mentioned on Friday, he’s had great dialogue with Travis. Travis is the best, he’s an icon and hopefully he comes back. We’ll just kind of let that process play out.”

In early January, Kelce stated on his podcast that he’d be willing to return next season if his body allows him to.

“I think if my body can heal up and rest up and I can feel confident that I can go out there and give it another 18, 20, 21-week run, I think I would do it in a heartbeat,” Kelce said.

Kelce hinted at returning again after the Chiefs brought back Eric Bieniemy as their offensive coordinator last month, saying he, “couldn’t wait to see him back in the building.”

Fans are eagerly awaiting news about whether the tight end will continue his career with the Chiefs for the 2026 season.

You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.

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