The 40th Annual Heart of America Chili Challenge is returning to the St. Joseph Civic Arena this Sunday, March 1 to benefit United Cerebral Palsy (UCP).

The milestone event promises a flavor-packed day for the whole family, featuring sixty professional and amateur cooks battling for the prestigious title of Missouri State Chili Champion.

UCP Director, Teresa Gagliano, says, "We serve children and adults with developmental disabilities. This is our only special event of the year."

The festivities kick off when doors open at 11:00 a.m. Guests can enjoy live music from The Michael Shaun Brown Band starting at noon, browse a diverse Vendor and Craft Fair, and place bids in a massive Silent Auction that runs until 3:30 p.m. The main event arrives at 2:00 p.m., when attendees can sample all 60 unique chili recipes for free. Gagliano says, "People can go booth to booth and try all the different chilis."

Beyond the competition, this event serves a vital purpose. All proceeds benefit UCP, supporting children and adults with developmental disabilities throughout Northwest Missouri. Over the past 39 years, this challenge has raised more than $2.6 million for the cause, making this 40th anniversary a true community celebration.

Gagliano says the goal is to raise $150,000 at the chili challenge to help serve the greater St. Joseph area. UCP serves about 400 children and adults.

Don’t miss out on the fun, the flavor, and the chance to make a difference in Northwest Missouri.

The Heart of America Chili Challenge returns to St. Joseph to benefit UCP

(Radio Iowa) - A bill that would freeze undergraduate tuition at Iowa's three public universities for five years has been approved by the Iowa House -- on an 86-to-five vote. 

The tuition rate set for this fall at the University of Iowa, Iowa State University and the University of Northern Iowa would be in place through July of 2031 if the bill becomes law. Representative Taylor Collins, a Republican from Mediapolis, says it would give students predictability and push the universities to cut costs. Democrats like Representative Adam Zabner of Iowa City have recently proposed freezing students' tuition, but they also argue the state support Iowa, Iowa State and U-N-I needs to increase. 

The House approved a separate a bill Tuesday that would require at least 70 percent of the students admitted to the University of Iowa Nursing School be Iowa residents.

Iowa House approves bills to freeze UI, ISU, UNI tuition, set student quotas for UI College of Nursing

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

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

(Radio Iowa) - Iowa's public K-through-12 schools will get a two percent increase in general state support -- so that total state spending on each student will be over 81-hundred dollars next year. 

Republicans in the Iowa House approved the plan late last week and on Monday Senate Republicans voted to send it to the governor. The decision also means every state-funded Education Savings Account for a private school student will get over 81-hundred dollars for the next school year. 

Democrats like Senator Molly Donahue of Cedar Rapids say Republicans are opening the state's checkbook for private schools while telling Iowa's public schools to cut staff and consider consolidations.

Iowa state funding for K-12 students to rise 2% next year

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

Maryville City Manager Ryan Heiland proposed additional funds for the Mozingo Lake Recreation Park Bunker Renovation Project specifically to purchase more sod. 

This request became necessary because the original turf surrounding the work areas was worn down and damaged during the heavy construction process. By allocating these extra funds, the city aims to restore the landscape and ensure the course is in peak condition upon completion.

The Maryville City Council approved a contract with Viridity, LLC to carry out the renovations on the Sechrest 18 course. This project involves a comprehensive overhaul of the course's bunkers, including reshaping them for better playability and installing modernized drainage systems. To prevent future maintenance issues, the project utilizes angular sand, which stays in place better than rounded grains and helps prevent drainage clogs.

In addition to the work on Sechrest 18, the council approved a follow-up contract with Viridity, LLC to begin renovations on the Watson 9 course once the initial eighteen holes are finished. The city has arranged to cover the majority of these costs using Mozingo’s specific fund, ensuring the recreational improvements are financed through the park's own resources.

Maryville City Council approves funding boost and contracts for Mozingo Lake Golf Course renovations

The total could stand as a record as lawmakers contemplate cuts in anticipation of a revenue downturn. One leading Republican is targeting safety net agencies for $500 million in general revenue cuts

BY:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/rudi-keller/">RUDI KELLER</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/squinn/">Steph Quinn</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/rudi-keller/"></a><a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>

The Missouri House voted Monday to spend state general revenue to serve people enrolled under the Medicaid expansion program&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2026/01/14/state-general-revenue-needed-for-first-time-to-fund-missouri-medicaid-expansion/">for the first time</a>&nbsp;since it was passed by voters in 2020.

The $76.7 million item is part of a $3.15 billion&nbsp;<a href="https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB2014&amp;year=2026&amp;code=R" target="_blank">supplemental spending bill</a>&nbsp;that would push total appropriations for the year ending June 30 to $55 billion. That total may stand as a record for at least a few years — Gov. Mike Kehoe’s proposed budget for the coming year would spend $54.5 billion.

And just a few hours before the 130-11 vote to send the bill to the state Senate, a leading Republican on the House Budget Committee said he wants to cut $2 billion — including $500 million in general revenue — from three departments providing safety net services to millions of Missourians.

The extra general revenue spending approved Monday for what is called the adult expansion group — people ages 18 to 64 with limited incomes — is part of an overall appropriation of $521 million, mainly federal funds needed by June 30. The traditional Medicaid program of hospital, nursing and other medical care will receive an additional $535 million to finish the year.

Lawmakers appropriated about $15.1 billion, including just under $2 billion general revenue, for Medicaid during the 2025 session.

Other major items in the supplemental spending bill include:

The only item that drew much discussion during Monday’s debate was the money for MoDOT. It is included because lawmakers cut spending from the State Road Fund as part of an effort to wrest control of some department funding from the Highways and Transportation Commission.

State Rep. Don Mayhew, a Republican from Crocker, resents the&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/11/26/missouri-appeals-court-backs-highways-commission-on-raises-for-state-road-workers/">Western District Missouri Court of Appeals</a>&nbsp;decision that found the commission could spend money from the road fund even if lawmakers did not make an appropriation.

“Clearly, a part of this appropriation is unconstitutional,” Mayhew said. “In fact, I even have judges that agree with me on that particular fact.”

House Budget Committee Chairman Dirk Deaton, a Republican from Noel, said Mayhew’s interpretation was wrong and he had assurances from the commission that it would not spend more than lawmakers will approve.

The Constitution, Deaton said, doesn’t “preclude us from making appropriations, which we historically have always done, and we will do in this case as well.”

Despite the extra funding that cleared the House Monday, Missouri faces a&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/12/18/missouri-faces-budget-crunch-as-capital-gains-tax-cut-hits-harder-than-expected/">contracting budget</a>&nbsp;because state revenues are expected to decline precipitously in the final months of the current fiscal year and an historically high general revenue surplus is&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/06/30/missouri-surplus-peaking-at-8-billion-as-governor-prepares-to-act-on-state-budget/">slowly being exhausted</a>.

Kehoe’s budget proposal for the coming year anticipates the general revenue balance — which peaked at $5.8 billion in June 2023 — will be&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2026/01/20/missouri-discovers-250m-budget-mistake-but-officials-warn-spending-squeeze-remains/">about $265 million</a>&nbsp;on June 30, 2027.So far, the dire forecast that state general revenues will decline by 2.1% in the current year have yet to show up in daily receipts. Through Friday, revenues have increased 1.7% year-to-date.

State budget officials predict that refunds forced by a&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/04/07/missouri-lawmakers-set-to-pass-capital-gains-tax-cut-with-questions-about-its-total-cost/">capital gains exemption</a>&nbsp;will send daily revenue reports into negative territory starting next month.

To save general revenue, state Rep. Darin Chappell, a Republican from Rogersville said Monday afternoon he wants to cut $500 million in general revenue from the state health, mental health and social services departments.&nbsp;

Chappell, who chairs the budget subcommittee overseeing those departments, gave members until noon Tuesday to suggest places to cut.

Chappell estimated that the general revenue cuts would cost the state another $1.5 billion to $2 billion in federal funding. Overall, the proposal would reduce Kehoe’s proposed general revenue budget for the state’s health, mental health and social services departments by 9%.

Chappell said the cuts are a matter of simple math.

“When the money’s gone, the money’s gone,” he said.

State Rep. Betsy Fogle of Springfield, the ranking Democrat on the House Budget Committee, told The Independent the requested cuts would reduce Missourians’ quality of life.

“I don’t know how we cut the budget an additional $2.5 billion in a way that does not leave lasting impacts on the most vulnerable people in the state,” Fogle said.

Chappell told The Independent that he can’t say where he will recommend cuts until he collects feedback from committee members.&nbsp;

But he intends to restore Kehoe’s&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2026/02/09/missouri-families-worry-proposed-80-7-million-cut-will-hobble-disability-care-programs/">$80.7 million proposed cut</a>&nbsp;from funding for disability care services as well as other cuts to substance use disorder services.

“I’m going to do my dead-level best,” Chappell said, “to make sure those are funded, but find that money elsewhere in the budget.”

Missouri House passes supplemental spending bill that pushes state budget to $55 billion

ANDREW COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 5p.m. Monday in Andrew County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2018 Chevy Traverse driven by a 39-year-old St. Joseph woman was northbound on U.S. 169 at Route D in Avenue City.&nbsp; The driver attempted to make a west into a parking lot. The driver failed to yield to a southbound 2006 Chevy 1500 driven by a 69-year-old Helena man.&nbsp; The vehicle collided.&nbsp;

Andrew County EMS transported a 10-year-old male passenger in the SUV to Mosaic. There were no other injuries. The driver of the pickup was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

10-year-old St. Joe boy injured after pickup, SUV crash

(Radio Iowa) - The governor's call to raise state taxes on cigarettes and other tobacco products and impose a new tax on vaping products and consumable hemp products has narrowly failed in a Senate Committee. 

Governor Reynolds says Iowa continues to have one of the highest lung cancer rates in the country and a higher tax on these products could prompt some Iowans to quit smoking cigarettes or vaping. The bill considered in the Senate Health and Human Resources Committee would have diverted the new sales taxes on vapes and consumable hemp products into a state fund that would be used next year to assist victims of human trafficking and plug a million dollars into Iowa's Double Up Food Bucks program that helps low income Iowans buy more fresh fruits and vegetables. 

The bill wound up getting nine votes -- one short of the 10 necessary to win committee approval.

Tax hike on tobacco, vaping products fails in Iowa Senate committee

Northwest Missouri State University, in coordination with the National Weather Service and the Missouri State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), will conduct a series of tornado drills this March. These exercises are designed to test the university’s indoor emergency operations and the Bearcat Alert texting system ahead of the spring severe weather season.

The primary drills are scheduled for 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, March 4, and Wednesday, March 11. In the event that actual inclement weather occurs on those dates, a backup drill has been scheduled for 11 a.m. on Wednesday, March 18. University Police Chief Amanda Cullin emphasized that consistent practice is vital for ensuring the campus community can react effectively during a real emergency.

In addition to the drills, the University Police Department and Wellness Services will host the annual Bobby Palooza from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 26. Held at the J.W. Jones Student Union’s east pavilion, the event offers students free burgers and hot dogs along with essential safety tips as they prepare for Spring Break.

The campus activities align with Missouri Severe Weather Preparedness Week, which runs from March 2–6. This statewide initiative encourages residents to utilize resources like the "Storm Aware" website, which provides instructional videos on seeking shelter in various building types, from mobile homes to schools.

University officials remind students and staff that while Northwest tests its warning system every Wednesday at 11 a.m., any siren heard outside of that window should be treated as an immediate, life-threatening emergency. Detailed procedures are posted in every campus building and are available via the HazAdapt mobile app.

The university advises following specific protocols depending on the type of alert issued:

Safety experts warn against seeking shelter in large open spaces like gyms or cafeterias due to the risk of roof collapse. If caught driving, individuals should find a sturdy building or, in rural areas, seek cover in a roadside ditch while remaining alert for flash flooding.

Northwest Missouri State University announces severe weather drills and safety events

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 down 1 1/4 cents and May corn was down 1/2 cent. March soybeans closed up 7 1/2 cents and May soybeans were up 7 cents. March KC wheat closed up 14 1/2 cents, March Chicago wheat was up 12 1/2 cents, March Minneapolis wheat was up 8 1/2 cents.

Row-crop futures were mixed Thursday with wheat and soybeans higher while corn futures remained sluggish. USDA's early forecasts for 2026-27 were largely as traders anticipated, featuring a switch from corn acres to soybean acres expected to occur this spring. Otherwise, there was very little news Thursday to break markets out of their weekly trends. Outside markets continue to reflect increased risk surrounding tensions between the U.S. and Iran, with crude oil futures hitting their highest mark since early August. Meanwhile, the U.S. Dollar Index has strung together positive sessions this week to climb from four-year lows hit in late January. The index has been resistant at 98 through February, however.

The live cattle complex traded mixed into Thursday's close, as the market is currently seeing its nearby contracts trading higher while the deferred months scale lower. It would appear as though the nearby contracts are trading higher, although no trade has developed yet in the fed cash cattle market, as traders know that supplies of market-ready cattle are going to be thin through the first quarter and potentially partway through the second quarter, which may be part of the reason why the February through June contracts were higher. Absolutely nothing has developed yet in the fed cash cattle market, and there's a chance that trade could be delayed until after Friday's Cattle on Feed report. Boxed beef prices are higher: choice up $1.30 ($365.10) and select up $0.05 ($360.68) with a movement of 54 loads (36.97 loads of choice, 9.47 loads of select, zero loads of trim and 7.16 loads of ground beef).

The feeder cattle contracts weren't as bullish, as traders yearn to see continued fundamental support before they'll likely push the contracts much higher. And another part of the market's cautiousness could be stemming from the fact that traders are holding a slightly more cautious position ahead of the Cattle on Feed report.

The lean hog complex was trading mostly higher into Thursday's closing bell, as once again, trades aren't feeling pressured by any resistance thresholds following the past week's sharp downturn. Pork cutout values were up slightly, but not enough to make any impactful difference for traders.

<a href="https://dehayf5mhw1h7.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/356/2026/02/19140859/web-closing-markets-1.mp3">Click HERE for audio</a>

HICKORY COUNTY —One person died in an accident just before 5p.m. Tuesday in Hickory County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2017 Ford Escape driven by a 64-year-old Lee's Summit woman was westbound on U.S. 54 six miles east of Preston. The SUV traveled off the road and struck a tree.

The driver was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Springfield Mortuary. She was wearing a seat belt at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

Missouri woman killed after SUV strikes a tree

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.

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