Rescheduling won’t allow interstate commerce, federal legalization or an instant federal regulatory takeover. But it will give Missouri marijuana companies some tax relief

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/rebecca-rivas/">REBECCA RIVAS</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>

President Donald Trump’s&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/12/18/repub/trump-signs-order-to-loosen-federal-restrictions-on-marijuana-but-its-still-illegal/">executive order</a>&nbsp;to reschedule marijuana won’t change much in terms of how Missouri’s marijuana industry operates, business owners and legal experts agree.&nbsp;

It doesn’t change the fact that marijuana can’t be transported or sold across state lines. It doesn’t do away with the cap on the number of business licenses to cultivate and sell marijuana in Missouri.&nbsp;

And it doesn’t allow customers to use credit cards at dispensaries,&nbsp; since credit card networks and issuing banks are still governed by institutional risk frameworks that prohibit cannabis transactions.

But the order will give Missouri marijuana companies some tax relief and long-awaited recognition for the medicinal benefits their products can offer, said Mark Hendren, president of Flora Farms cannabis company that operates 12 dispensaries in Missouri.

“Obviously for a cannabis company like us, the big impact is allowing us to pay our taxes and run our businesses just like all other legal businesses,” Hendren said.&nbsp;

Right now, marijuana companies can’t deduct many business expenses from their taxes, including rent, travel, advertising and most professional services.&nbsp;

“Frankly, it’s a testament to the resilience of the industry that they’ve been able to be a profitable model, even without 280E tax deductions,” said Craig Small, a Denver-based cannabis attorney. “But with this coming change, certainly that might immediately increase profits by about 30%.”

Trump’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/12/increasing-medical-marijuana-and-cannabidiol-research/" target="_blank">order</a>&nbsp;moves cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III on the Federal Drug Administration’s list of controlled substances. Schedule I, the most restrictive category under federal law, indicates a high likelihood of abuse and no accepted medical value.&nbsp;

Trump said the move reflected that cannabis could have medicinal value, even if abuse was still possible.

The rescheduling process is predicted to take place during 2026, Small said, but the timeline is still unclear.

Nicholas Rinella, CEO of Hippos cannabis company, said it’s encouraging&nbsp;to see cannabis operators moving closer to being “treated like every other legitimate business.”

“That shift allows us to reinvest into our operations, scale responsibly and continue delivering world-class products,” Rinella said. “It’s also meaningful to see the federal government begin to align with public sentiment in recognizing the real societal benefits of cannabis.”

Andrew Mullins, executive director of the Missouri Cannabis Trade Association, said rescheduling properly recognizes cannabis as medicine and allows for greater research of marijuana.

Mullins pointed out that marijuana has been listed as a Schedule I drug since 1970, along with heroin, LSD and ecstasy because the federal government previously determined that there were no currently accepted medical uses for cannabis.&nbsp;

“Federal rescheduling of cannabis removes barriers and creates opportunity for the 40 U.S. states, including Missouri, that have legalized medical and/or adult-use cannabis,” he said. “And no other state in the country is as well positioned as Missouri to take advantage of this reform.

Mullins said Missouri’s cannabis industry has been called one of the most successful in the entire country.&nbsp;

Since Missouri’s first legal medical marijuana sale in 2020, he said Missouri has surpassed $4.5 billion in total cannabis sales. In 2024 alone, the Missouri cannabis industry generated $244.93 million in sales tax revenue for state and local governments.&nbsp;

Hippos recently launched the state’s first&nbsp;<a href="https://finance.yahoo.com/news/og-yields-division-hippos-llc-211614513.html?guccounter=1&amp;guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZ29vZ2xlLmNvbS8&amp;guce_referrer_sig=AQAAALJ_nxQp1ZAinJV-pT65fE4BdYdleO-A8xAw0pAlVHx3aOkbGQ6fNFQ6n2l1NlEZWZKnEJXbZa4GZtorTRVOduWWE_96_7IXic5QhftZkoyvpVdnenTuCvQ4wq9p2upLgpSZ0FCp-_aVovC7OVBUnhQhN554ILEREAJ2idcYmoE4" target="_blank">THC oral spray</a>, and the timing couldn’t be better for innovation in the space, Rinella said.&nbsp;

Cannabis prohibition, he said, represents a relatively short chapter in human history, and the country is “approaching a point where history corrects itself.”&nbsp;

“Forty years from now, my grandkids will probably have a harder time understanding that I grew up in an era when cannabis was federally prohibited,” Rinella said, “than they will understanding that I grew up before the internet existed.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712141630999.png" alt="&nbsp;Photo by Rebecca Rivas/Missouri Independent" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Photo by Rebecca Rivas/Missouri Independent</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Rescheduling won’t allow interstate commerce, federal legalization or an instant federal regulatory takeover. But it will give Missouri marijuana companies some tax relief</h2>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/rebecca-rivas/">REBECCA RIVAS</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>President Donald Trump’s&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/12/18/repub/trump-signs-order-to-loosen-federal-restrictions-on-marijuana-but-its-still-illegal/">executive order</a>&nbsp;to reschedule marijuana won’t change much in terms of how Missouri’s marijuana industry operates, business owners and legal experts agree.&nbsp;It doesn’t change the fact that marijuana can’t be transported or sold across state lines. It doesn’t do away with the cap on the number of business licenses to cultivate and sell marijuana in Missouri.&nbsp;And it doesn’t allow customers to use credit cards at dispensaries,&nbsp; since credit card networks and issuing banks are still governed by institutional risk frameworks that prohibit cannabis transactions.But the order will give Missouri marijuana companies some tax relief and long-awaited recognition for the medicinal benefits their products can offer, said Mark Hendren, president of Flora Farms cannabis company that operates 12 dispensaries in Missouri.“Obviously for a cannabis company like us, the big impact is allowing us to pay our taxes and run our businesses just like all other legal businesses,” Hendren said.&nbsp;Right now, marijuana companies can’t deduct many business expenses from their taxes, including rent, travel, advertising and most professional services.&nbsp;“Frankly, it’s a testament to the resilience of the industry that they’ve been able to be a profitable model, even without 280E tax deductions,” said Craig Small, a Denver-based cannabis attorney. “But with this coming change, certainly that might immediately increase profits by about 30%.”Trump’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/12/increasing-medical-marijuana-and-cannabidiol-research/" target="_blank">order</a>&nbsp;moves cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III on the Federal Drug Administration’s list of controlled substances. Schedule I, the most restrictive category under federal law, indicates a high likelihood of abuse and no accepted medical value.&nbsp;Trump said the move reflected that cannabis could have medicinal value, even if abuse was still possible.The rescheduling process is predicted to take place during 2026, Small said, but the timeline is still unclear.Nicholas Rinella, CEO of Hippos cannabis company, said it’s encouraging&nbsp;to see cannabis operators moving closer to being “treated like every other legitimate business.”“That shift allows us to reinvest into our operations, scale responsibly and continue delivering world-class products,” Rinella said. “It’s also meaningful to see the federal government begin to align with public sentiment in recognizing the real societal benefits of cannabis.”Andrew Mullins, executive director of the Missouri Cannabis Trade Association, said rescheduling properly recognizes cannabis as medicine and allows for greater research of marijuana.Mullins pointed out that marijuana has been listed as a Schedule I drug since 1970, along with heroin, LSD and ecstasy because the federal government previously determined that there were no currently accepted medical uses for cannabis.&nbsp;“Federal rescheduling of cannabis removes barriers and creates opportunity for the 40 U.S. states, including Missouri, that have legalized medical and/or adult-use cannabis,” he said. “And no other state in the country is as well positioned as Missouri to take advantage of this reform.Mullins said Missouri’s cannabis industry has been called one of the most successful in the entire country.&nbsp;Since Missouri’s first legal medical marijuana sale in 2020, he said Missouri has surpassed $4.5 billion in total cannabis sales. In 2024 alone, the Missouri cannabis industry generated $244.93 million in sales tax revenue for state and local governments.&nbsp;Hippos recently launched the state’s first&nbsp;<a href="https://finance.yahoo.com/news/og-yields-division-hippos-llc-211614513.html?guccounter=1&amp;guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZ29vZ2xlLmNvbS8&amp;guce_referrer_sig=AQAAALJ_nxQp1ZAinJV-pT65fE4BdYdleO-A8xAw0pAlVHx3aOkbGQ6fNFQ6n2l1NlEZWZKnEJXbZa4GZtorTRVOduWWE_96_7IXic5QhftZkoyvpVdnenTuCvQ4wq9p2upLgpSZ0FCp-_aVovC7OVBUnhQhN554ILEREAJ2idcYmoE4" target="_blank">THC oral spray</a>, and the timing couldn’t be better for innovation in the space, Rinella said.&nbsp;Cannabis prohibition, he said, represents a relatively short chapter in human history, and the country is “approaching a point where history corrects itself.”&nbsp;“Forty years from now, my grandkids will probably have a harder time understanding that I grew up in an era when cannabis was federally prohibited,” Rinella said, “than they will understanding that I grew up before the internet existed.”

What Trump’s marijuana rescheduling order does — and doesn’t — mean for Missouri cannabis

BUCHANAN COUNTY—Four people were injured in an accident just after 6:30p.m. Saturday in Buchanan County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee driven by a 25-year-old Smithville man was southbound on Interstate 29 in St. Joseph. The Jeep traveled off the east side of the road, returned to the road and rear-ended a 2015 Toyota Highlander driven by a 38-year-old Smithville man. After impact the Jeep began to skid, struck the guardrail on the west side of the road and overturned.

Buchanan County EMS transported the Jeep driver and a 6-year-old boy, 9-year-old girl and a 14-year-old girl, who were passengers in the Toyota, to Mosaic Life Care.The Toyota driver was not injured. All were properly restrained at the time of the crash, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

BUCHANAN COUNTY—Four people were injured in an accident just after 6:30p.m. Saturday in Buchanan County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee driven by a 25-year-old Smithville man was southbound on Interstate 29 in St. Joseph. The Jeep traveled off the east side of the road, returned to the road and rear-ended a 2015 Toyota Highlander driven by a 38-year-old Smithville man. After impact the Jeep began to skid, struck the guardrail on the west side of the road and overturned.Buchanan County EMS transported the Jeep driver and a 6-year-old boy, 9-year-old girl and a 14-year-old girl, who were passengers in the Toyota, to Mosaic Life Care.The Toyota driver was not injured. All were properly restrained at the time of the crash, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

Mo. man, 3 juveniles injured after rear-end crash

HOLT COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just after 3:30p.m. Saturday in Holt County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2008 Honda Civic driven by a 68-year-old Hastings, Nebraska man was southbound on Interstate 29 ten miles south of Oregon. The car traveled off the west side of the road down an embankment. The car struck a sign and the embankment.

EMS transported the driver and a 66-year-old female passenger to Mosaic Life Care. They were properly restrained, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

HOLT COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just after 3:30p.m. Saturday in Holt County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2008 Honda Civic driven by a 68-year-old Hastings, Nebraska man was southbound on Interstate 29 ten miles south of Oregon. The car traveled off the west side of the road down an embankment. The car struck a sign and the embankment.EMS transported the driver and a 66-year-old female passenger to Mosaic Life Care. They were properly restrained, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

2 hospitalized in St. Joe after car travels down embankment

HOLT COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 1a.m. Saturday in Holt County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2004 Dodge Ram driven by an 18-year-old Kansas City, Kansas, man was northbound on Interstate 29 approximately three and one half miles northeast of Oregon. The pickup traveled off the road, struck an embankment and returned to the road. The driver overcorrected and the pickup traveled off the road again, struck an embankment and came to rest in the ditch.

Atchison Holt ambulance transported the driver to Mosaic in St. Joseph. He was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

HOLT COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 1a.m. Saturday in Holt County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2004 Dodge Ram driven by an 18-year-old Kansas City, Kansas, man was northbound on Interstate 29 approximately three and one half miles northeast of Oregon. The pickup traveled off the road, struck an embankment and returned to the road. The driver overcorrected and the pickup traveled off the road again, struck an embankment and came to rest in the ditch.Atchison Holt ambulance transported the driver to Mosaic in St. Joseph. He was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

Kansas man hospitalized in St. Joe after pickup crash

BUCHANAN COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 2p.m. Friday in Buchanan County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2015 Chevy Malibu driven by an 87-year-old Platte City man was southbound on Interstate 29 in St. Joseph. The driver merged from the driving lane to the passing lane and the car struck the passenger side of a southbound 2008 Kenworth semi driven by a 67-year-old St. Joseph man.

After impact the car traveled off the east side of the road. The semi traveled off the east side of the road and struck a cable barrier, continued into the northbound lanes and overturned.

Buchanan County EMS transported the semi driver to Mosaic Life Care. The 87-year-old driver was not injured. Both were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.&nbsp; The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

BUCHANAN COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 2p.m. Friday in Buchanan County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2015 Chevy Malibu driven by an 87-year-old Platte City man was southbound on Interstate 29 in St. Joseph. The driver merged from the driving lane to the passing lane and the car struck the passenger side of a southbound 2008 Kenworth semi driven by a 67-year-old St. Joseph man.After impact the car traveled off the east side of the road. The semi traveled off the east side of the road and struck a cable barrier, continued into the northbound lanes and overturned.Buchanan County EMS transported the semi driver to Mosaic Life Care. The 87-year-old driver was not injured. Both were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.&nbsp; The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

St. Joseph man injured after semi overturns

The Missouri Department of Transportation has released its schedule for highway maintenance and construction work in the Northwest Missouri region for the week of Dec. 22 - 28, 2025.

To accommodate increased holiday travel, officials say most projects will be suspended beginning at noon Wednesday, Dec. 24. Work is expected to resume as early as 6 a.m. Friday, Dec. 26.

While most active crews will be off the road during the holiday break, MoDOT warns that some long-term traffic impacts and work zones will remain in place.

Motorists should also be alert for moving operations throughout the region that may not be listed on the formal schedule, which can be found <a href="https://traveler.modot.org/map/">here</a>.

All planned work is subject to change due to inclement weather.

Atchison County:&nbsp;Route F – closed at the Rock Creek Bridge for a bridge rehabilitation project through January 2026.

Buchannan County:&nbsp;Gene Field Road Bridge will be closed due to damage from being struck by an oversized load. The bridge is scheduled to be let for contractor bidding in January 2026.:&nbsp;

Route 752 (Alabama Street) –&nbsp;closed from U.S. Route 59 to Sherman Street for an intersection improvement project through the remainder of 2025.

Caldwell County:&nbsp;Route D closed for a bridge replacement project at the Shoal Creek Bridge through March 2026.

Carroll County:&nbsp;Route B closed at the Sambo Creek Bridge through mid-January 2026 for a bridge deck replacement project.

Chariton County:&nbsp;Route CC closed at the Yellow Creek Bridge for a replacement project through the <a href="https://www.modot.org/projects/northwest-missouri-design-build-bridge-bundle">Northwest Bridge Bundle</a> through December.

Route PP closed at the Mid-Fork Chariton River Bridge and Chariton River Overflow Bridge for replacement projects through the Northwest Bridge Bundle through March 2026.

Route KK closed at the Puzzle Creek Bridge for a replacement project through the Northwest Bridge Bundle through mid-March 2026. Route KK will also be closed at the Little Chariton River Bridge, north of Glasgow, for a deck replacement project through March 2026.

Route O closed at Bee Creek Bridge for a replacement project through the Northwest Bridge Bundle through April 2026.

Harrison County:&nbsp;Route W closed for a culvert replacement from 195th Avenue to Route F, Dec. 22, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Route W also closed for a culvert replacement from 267th Street to 255th Street, Dec. 23, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Mercer County:&nbsp;U.S. Route 136 – Bridge maintenance at the Weldon River Bridge, Dec. 22, 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. MoDOT says the bridge will be narrowed to one lane with temporary traffic signals to guide motorists through the work zone.

Nodaway County:&nbsp;Route C will see shoulder work from Caravan Road to Route KK heading north out of Elmo, Dec. 22.

Sullivan County:&nbsp;Route T closed at the East Locust Creek bridge due to deterioration. The bridge is scheduled to be replaced in the spring of 2026.

Worth County:&nbsp;U.S. Route 169 closed for a bridge deck replacement project at the Middle Fork Grand River Bridge through January 2026.

Route W closed for a bridge replacement at the West Fork Grand River Bridge through January 2026.

MoDOT is reminding drivers to buckle up, put your phone down, and slow down and move over in work zones.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704585565260.png" alt="MoDot" />
 <figcaption>MoDot</figcaption>
 </figure>By RYAN SKAITHThe Missouri Department of Transportation has released its schedule for highway maintenance and construction work in the Northwest Missouri region for the week of Dec. 22 - 28, 2025.To accommodate increased holiday travel, officials say most projects will be suspended beginning at noon Wednesday, Dec. 24. Work is expected to resume as early as 6 a.m. Friday, Dec. 26.While most active crews will be off the road during the holiday break, MoDOT warns that some long-term traffic impacts and work zones will remain in place.Motorists should also be alert for moving operations throughout the region that may not be listed on the formal schedule, which can be found <a href="https://traveler.modot.org/map/">here</a>. All planned work is subject to change due to inclement weather.Atchison County:&nbsp;Route F – closed at the Rock Creek Bridge for a bridge rehabilitation project through January 2026.Buchannan County:&nbsp;Gene Field Road Bridge will be closed due to damage from being struck by an oversized load. The bridge is scheduled to be let for contractor bidding in January 2026.:&nbsp;Route 752 (Alabama Street) –&nbsp;closed from U.S. Route 59 to Sherman Street for an intersection improvement project through the remainder of 2025.Caldwell County:&nbsp;Route D closed for a bridge replacement project at the Shoal Creek Bridge through March 2026.Carroll County:&nbsp;Route B closed at the Sambo Creek Bridge through mid-January 2026 for a bridge deck replacement project.Chariton County:&nbsp;Route CC closed at the Yellow Creek Bridge for a replacement project through the <a href="https://www.modot.org/projects/northwest-missouri-design-build-bridge-bundle">Northwest Bridge Bundle</a> through December.Route PP closed at the Mid-Fork Chariton River Bridge and Chariton River Overflow Bridge for replacement projects through the Northwest Bridge Bundle through March 2026.Route KK closed at the Puzzle Creek Bridge for a replacement project through the Northwest Bridge Bundle through mid-March 2026. Route KK will also be closed at the Little Chariton River Bridge, north of Glasgow, for a deck replacement project through March 2026.Route O closed at Bee Creek Bridge for a replacement project through the Northwest Bridge Bundle through April 2026.Harrison County:&nbsp;Route W closed for a culvert replacement from 195th Avenue to Route F, Dec. 22, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.Route W also closed for a culvert replacement from 267th Street to 255th Street, Dec. 23, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.Mercer County:&nbsp;U.S. Route 136 – Bridge maintenance at the Weldon River Bridge, Dec. 22, 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. MoDOT says the bridge will be narrowed to one lane with temporary traffic signals to guide motorists through the work zone.Nodaway County:&nbsp;Route C will see shoulder work from Caravan Road to Route KK heading north out of Elmo, Dec. 22.Sullivan County:&nbsp;Route T closed at the East Locust Creek bridge due to deterioration. The bridge is scheduled to be replaced in the spring of 2026.Worth County:&nbsp;U.S. Route 169 closed for a bridge deck replacement project at the Middle Fork Grand River Bridge through January 2026.Route W closed for a bridge replacement at the West Fork Grand River Bridge through January 2026.MoDOT is reminding drivers to buckle up, put your phone down, and slow down and move over in work zones.

Planned MoDOT roadwork for Northwest Missouri

A 33-year old Savannah, MO man has pleaded guilty to charges of child sex trafficking involving two minors.

Ross Rutherford entered a plea to two counts of second-degree child sex trafficking on Dec. 12 in Andrew County Circuit Court.

According to court documents, Rutherford admitted that a victim under age 18 sent him suggestive pictures in May 2024. Rutherford stated in his plea that he sent the victim money on several occasions.

In a separate court filing, Rutherford admitted to asking a second victim, also a minor, to send nude pictures of herself in January 2025.

Rutherford could face 10 years to life in prison.

A judge denied bond for Rutherford, who is scheduled to be sentenced Jan. 26, 2026.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766171500992.png" alt="From Andrew County Sheriff 's Dept" />
 <figcaption>From Andrew County Sheriff 's Dept</figcaption>
 </figure>A 33-year old Savannah, MO man has pleaded guilty to charges of child sex trafficking involving two minors.Ross Rutherford entered a plea to two counts of second-degree child sex trafficking on Dec. 12 in Andrew County Circuit Court.According to court documents, Rutherford admitted that a victim under age 18 sent him suggestive pictures in May 2024. Rutherford stated in his plea that he sent the victim money on several occasions.In a separate court filing, Rutherford admitted to asking a second victim, also a minor, to send nude pictures of herself in January 2025.Rutherford could face 10 years to life in prison.A judge denied bond for Rutherford, who is scheduled to be sentenced Jan. 26, 2026.

Savannah man pleads guilty to child sex trafficking

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman talks to author Ted Harbin about his book, "The World's Toughest Rodeo."

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/tQOndtQhuaY?si=nErzqXVkl3XrS-6A" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman talks to author Ted Harbin about his book, "The World's Toughest Rodeo."

🎙 Forward Ever: Ted Harbin, author of 'World's Toughest Rodeo'

It will not be a white Christmas in the Midland Empire.

Meteorologist Dan Holiday says to expect temperatures to be in the low to mid 60s. "The computer models are showing we should be somewhere around 62 degrees Christmas Eve. On Christmas Day its going to be closer to 64 degrees."

Holiday says travel should not be impacted by the weather. Travelers heading to Southeast Kansas or Central and Southern Missouri could see temperatures closer to 70 degrees.

The warmer weather is expected to last through at least mid-January, however, Holiday notes, "If you get beyond fourteen days, there are just things that can upend the long-range forecast, but for now we can expect well above average temperatures and below-average precipitation."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740600536187.jpg" alt="clouds, heaven, blue, white, nature, summer day, sunny day, sunny, sun, sunbeams, beautiful day, summer, sunny day, sunny day, sunny day, sunny day, sunny day" />
 <figcaption>clouds, heaven, blue, white, nature, summer day, sunny day, sunny, sun, sunbeams, beautiful day, summer, sunny day, sunny day, sunny day, sunny day, sunny day</figcaption>
 </figure>By RYAN SKAITHIt will not be a white Christmas in the Midland Empire.Meteorologist Dan Holiday says to expect temperatures to be in the low to mid 60s. "The computer models are showing we should be somewhere around 62 degrees Christmas Eve. On Christmas Day its going to be closer to 64 degrees."Holiday says travel should not be impacted by the weather. Travelers heading to Southeast Kansas or Central and Southern Missouri could see temperatures closer to 70 degrees.The warmer weather is expected to last through at least mid-January, however, Holiday notes, "If you get beyond fourteen days, there are just things that can upend the long-range forecast, but for now we can expect well above average temperatures and below-average precipitation."

Midland Empire can expect unseasonably warm holiday week

State wildlife officials confirmed an outbreak of avian influenza among Canada geese at two southwest Iowa lakes after dozens of birds were found dead earlier this month.

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reported the virus at Green Valley Lake and Lake of Three Fires. Wildlife staff began receiving reports of dead geese at Green Valley Lake on Dec. 11 and have since collected an estimated 60 carcasses.

Local officials estimate thousands of geese are currently using Green Valley Lake as a stopover during their fall migration.

DNR state wildlife veterinarian, Dr. Rachel Ruden, says this is the first time we have seen a large number of dead birds in southwest Iowa.

Ruden added that it is currently uncertain how long the outbreak will last.

The DNR is asking the public to report sightings of 20 or more carcasses in a concentrated area to local wildlife staff.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1725718440042.png" alt="bird flu" />
 <figcaption>bird flu</figcaption>
 </figure>By RYAN SKAITHState wildlife officials confirmed an outbreak of avian influenza among Canada geese at two southwest Iowa lakes after dozens of birds were found dead earlier this month.The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reported the virus at Green Valley Lake and Lake of Three Fires. Wildlife staff began receiving reports of dead geese at Green Valley Lake on Dec. 11 and have since collected an estimated 60 carcasses.Local officials estimate thousands of geese are currently using Green Valley Lake as a stopover during their fall migration.DNR state wildlife veterinarian, Dr. Rachel Ruden, says this is the first time we have seen a large number of dead birds in southwest Iowa.Ruden added that it is currently uncertain how long the outbreak will last.The DNR is asking the public to report sightings of 20 or more carcasses in a concentrated area to local wildlife staff.

Avian Influenza Confirmed in Southwest Iowa Geese

TOPEKA –Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach announced a settlement with Menards, a home improvement retail chain. Kansas, along with nine other states, investigated Menards for its business practices during the COVID-19 pandemic and for its merchandise credit check program, also known as Menards’ “11% Rebate.”

&nbsp;In addition to paying Kansas $81,570.75, Menards agreed to clearly disclose limitations relating to its 11% Rebate, allow 12 months for consumers to submit an 11% Rebate claim and investigate the ability to redeem the 11% Rebate online.

&nbsp;“When a supplier offers rebates or in-store credits to consumers, the Kansas Consumer Protection Act requires the conditions and limitations of said program be fully and clearly disclosed,” said First Assistant Attorney General Nathaniel Castillo. “Anything less can mislead the consumer in violation of the Act.”

&nbsp;Menards is headquartered in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, and operates approximately 9 stores across Kansas.

Click&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ag.ks.gov/home/showpublisheddocument/24700/639016562246570000" target="_blank">here</a>&nbsp;to read the agreement between Menards and the Kansas Attorney General.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766145107129.png" alt="Google image" />
 <figcaption>Google image</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA –Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach announced a settlement with Menards, a home improvement retail chain. Kansas, along with nine other states, investigated Menards for its business practices during the COVID-19 pandemic and for its merchandise credit check program, also known as Menards’ “11% Rebate.”&nbsp;In addition to paying Kansas $81,570.75, Menards agreed to clearly disclose limitations relating to its 11% Rebate, allow 12 months for consumers to submit an 11% Rebate claim and investigate the ability to redeem the 11% Rebate online.&nbsp;“When a supplier offers rebates or in-store credits to consumers, the Kansas Consumer Protection Act requires the conditions and limitations of said program be fully and clearly disclosed,” said First Assistant Attorney General Nathaniel Castillo. “Anything less can mislead the consumer in violation of the Act.”&nbsp;Menards is headquartered in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, and operates approximately 9 stores across Kansas.Click&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ag.ks.gov/home/showpublisheddocument/24700/639016562246570000" target="_blank">here</a>&nbsp;to read the agreement between Menards and the Kansas Attorney General.

Menards settles complaint over deceptive discount ads

LEAVENWORTH COUNTY&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) is investigating an officer-involved shooting that occurred Thursday afternoon in Leavenworth.&nbsp;

Just after 3:30 p.m., the Leavenworth Police Department received several calls reporting an armed man behind the bank located at 601 Delaware St. in Leavenworth, according to a media release from the KBI.&nbsp; Multiple officers arrived and located a man who was armed with a rifle and wearing a trench coat and a surgical mask. Officers made contact with the man, who was later identified as Andrew L. Hutchinson, 24, of Leavenworth.&nbsp;

Preliminary information indicates that Hutchison briefly complied with commands to get on the ground, but then fled on foot through the alley behind the bank. Multiple officers chased Hutchison. During the chase one officer fired toward Hutchinson, striking him.&nbsp;

The rifle was secured, and officers and EMS rendered aid to Hutchinson. He was then transported to an area hospital. Hutchinson is currently in stable condition, and is expected to recover from his injuries.

No law enforcement officers were injured during the incident.

This independent investigation aims to discover all events leading up to the officer-involved shooting. In police use of force cases, the KBI releases details to the public as soon as possible. This information is preliminary in nature, and is based on evidence collected and early statements of the parties involved, witnesses, medical personnel and others. It does not represent final or thorough findings which take several weeks to complete.

When this investigation concludes, case findings will be presented to the Leavenworth County Attorney for determination of charges. The investigation is ongoing.

LEAVENWORTH COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating an officer involved shooting in Leavenworth County.

Just after 4p.m. Thursday, police responded to a report of a suspicious person near 6th and and Shawnee Street in Leavenworth, according to a media release.

Officers found a person wielding a rifle and wearing a mask and trench coat. Officers did shoot the armed suspect.&nbsp; The suspect was transported to an area hospital. Police did not release details on what led up the shooting or the the condition of the hospitalized suspect. No officers were injured.&nbsp; The Kansas Bureau of Investigation is in charge of the investigation.

LEAVENWORTH COUNTY&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) is investigating an officer-involved shooting that occurred Thursday afternoon in Leavenworth.&nbsp;Just after 3:30 p.m., the Leavenworth Police Department received several calls reporting an armed man behind the bank located at 601 Delaware St. in Leavenworth, according to a media release from the KBI.&nbsp; Multiple officers arrived and located a man who was armed with a rifle and wearing a trench coat and a surgical mask. Officers made contact with the man, who was later identified as Andrew L. Hutchinson, 24, of Leavenworth.&nbsp;Preliminary information indicates that Hutchison briefly complied with commands to get on the ground, but then fled on foot through the alley behind the bank. Multiple officers chased Hutchison. During the chase one officer fired toward Hutchinson, striking him.&nbsp;The rifle was secured, and officers and EMS rendered aid to Hutchinson. He was then transported to an area hospital. Hutchinson is currently in stable condition, and is expected to recover from his injuries.No law enforcement officers were injured during the incident.This independent investigation aims to discover all events leading up to the officer-involved shooting. In police use of force cases, the KBI releases details to the public as soon as possible. This information is preliminary in nature, and is based on evidence collected and early statements of the parties involved, witnesses, medical personnel and others. It does not represent final or thorough findings which take several weeks to complete.When this investigation concludes, case findings will be presented to the Leavenworth County Attorney for determination of charges. The investigation is ongoing.---------------LEAVENWORTH COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating an officer involved shooting in Leavenworth County.Just after 4p.m. Thursday, police responded to a report of a suspicious person near 6th and and Shawnee Street in Leavenworth, according to a media release.Officers found a person wielding a rifle and wearing a mask and trench coat. Officers did shoot the armed suspect.&nbsp; The suspect was transported to an area hospital. Police did not release details on what led up the shooting or the the condition of the hospitalized suspect. No officers were injured.&nbsp; The Kansas Bureau of Investigation is in charge of the investigation.

KBI: Police shot armed man who was wearing a trench coat, mask

Attorney General Brenna Bird announced that Iowa has joined a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.google.com/search?q=https://www.iowaattorneygeneral.gov/newsroom/attorney-general-bird-secures-nearly-447000-in-settlement-with-menards-over-misleading-rebate-marketing">multistate settlement</a> with home improvement retailer Menards to resolve claims regarding the company’s "11% rebate" program.

The settlement addresses allegations from 2020 that the company marketed the program in a misleading manner. Under the agreement, Iowa is set to receive nearly $447,000.

As part of the resolution, Menards has committed to several changes in how it handles consumer rebates including clear disclosures, extended deadlines, faster tracking and more transparency to their return policy.

The legal action was a collaborative effort involving several states. Along with Iowa, the attorneys general of Arizona, Illinois, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Nebraska, Ohio, South Dakota, and Wisconsin participated in the settlement.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1641410824579.jpg" alt="coupon, code, discount" />
 <figcaption>coupon, code, discount</figcaption>
 </figure>By RYAN SKAITHAttorney General Brenna Bird announced that Iowa has joined a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.google.com/search?q=https://www.iowaattorneygeneral.gov/newsroom/attorney-general-bird-secures-nearly-447000-in-settlement-with-menards-over-misleading-rebate-marketing">multistate settlement</a> with home improvement retailer Menards to resolve claims regarding the company’s "11% rebate" program.The settlement addresses allegations from 2020 that the company marketed the program in a misleading manner. Under the agreement, Iowa is set to receive nearly $447,000.As part of the resolution, Menards has committed to several changes in how it handles consumer rebates including clear disclosures, extended deadlines, faster tracking and more transparency to their return policy.The legal action was a collaborative effort involving several states. Along with Iowa, the attorneys general of Arizona, Illinois, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Nebraska, Ohio, South Dakota, and Wisconsin participated in the settlement.

Iowa reaches $447,000 settlement with Menards over rebate program

ANDREW COUNTY —Three people were injured in an accident just after 3:30p.m. Wednesday in Andrew County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2004 Ford Ranger driven by an 18-year-old Helena, Missouri, man was eastbound on CR 344 four miles north east of St. Joseph. The driver failed to negotiate a curve. The pickup began to slide, traveled off the west side ofthe road and rolled.

Andrew County EMS treated the driver and a 15-year-old passenger at the scene. A private vehicle transported a 17-year-old passenger to Urgent Care Express in St. Joseph. All three were properly restrained, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victins.

ANDREW COUNTY —Three people were injured in an accident just after 3:30p.m. Wednesday in Andrew County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2004 Ford Ranger driven by an 18-year-old Helena, Missouri, man was eastbound on CR 344 four miles north east of St. Joseph. The driver failed to negotiate a curve. The pickup began to slide, traveled off the west side ofthe road and rolled.Andrew County EMS treated the driver and a 15-year-old passenger at the scene. A private vehicle transported a 17-year-old passenger to Urgent Care Express in St. Joseph. All three were properly restrained, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victins.

3 injured after Andrew Co. rollover accident 

Iowans dreaming of a white Christmas will likely see landscapes of brown and faded green this year, according to the National Weather Service.

Despite significant snowfall across the state in recent weeks, meteorologists say a warming trend and incoming rain will likely strip the ground bare before Dec. 25.

Temperatures are expected to climb above freezing and into the 40s. Combined with a forecast for rain, the existing snowpack is expected to melt quickly. While flurries are possible Thursday, little to no accumulation is expected.

The outlook follows a period of unusually heavy winter weather for the region. Des Moines has recorded 18 inches of snow over the past month, already surpassing the total snowfall from the entire previous season. Fort Dodge has seen the state’s heaviest accumulations, with 33 inches since Thanksgiving.

However, the long-range forecast suggests the trend of slightly above-seasonal temperatures will continue through the holiday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765562426861.jpg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By RYAN SKAITHIowans dreaming of a white Christmas will likely see landscapes of brown and faded green this year, according to the National Weather Service.Despite significant snowfall across the state in recent weeks, meteorologists say a warming trend and incoming rain will likely strip the ground bare before Dec. 25.Temperatures are expected to climb above freezing and into the 40s. Combined with a forecast for rain, the existing snowpack is expected to melt quickly. While flurries are possible Thursday, little to no accumulation is expected.The outlook follows a period of unusually heavy winter weather for the region. Des Moines has recorded 18 inches of snow over the past month, already surpassing the total snowfall from the entire previous season. Fort Dodge has seen the state’s heaviest accumulations, with 33 inches since Thanksgiving.However, the long-range forecast suggests the trend of slightly above-seasonal temperatures will continue through the holiday.

Iowa's white Christmas hopes melt amid warming forecast

Someone seeking a
state audit of a governmental body has the option of calling the Missouri State
Auditor’s whistleblower hotline.

State Auditor
Scott Fitzpatrick urges anyone with concerns to call the hotline.

“So, we encourage
people to contact the Whistleblower Hotline and one of the reasons we like to
talk about audits at the beginning of the audit is so that people listening
know that if they have information that could be useful to us in the audit,
they can get that to us in a variety of ways,” Fitzpatrick tells KFEQ/St.
Joseph Post.

And while a
whistleblower doesn’t have to give a reason, those calling the hotline will be
asked about the motivation behind the request.

“No, they don’t
have to give a reason,” Fitzpatrick says. “They generally do give a reason,
because typically the first contact is, hey, we want you to do an audit and the
question that we ask is okay why, what’s the reason for the audit, what are
your concerns with the entity?”

A phone call isn’t
the only way to the Auditor Whistleblower Hotline, but that number is
1-800-347-8597.

You can also go to
the <a href="https://auditor.mo.gov/whistleblowerhotline/form">Auditor’s webpage and request an audit</a>. Email also works at <a href="mailto:moaudit@auditor.mo.gov">moaudit@auditor.mo.gov</a>.

Taxpayers can also
gather signatures on a petition to require the Missouri State Auditor to
conduct an audit. A resident of the St. Joseph School District is circulating a
petition requesting a state audit of the district.

You can follow&nbsp;Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765990064595.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSomeone seeking a
state audit of a governmental body has the option of calling the Missouri State
Auditor’s whistleblower hotline.State Auditor
Scott Fitzpatrick urges anyone with concerns to call the hotline.“So, we encourage
people to contact the Whistleblower Hotline and one of the reasons we like to
talk about audits at the beginning of the audit is so that people listening
know that if they have information that could be useful to us in the audit,
they can get that to us in a variety of ways,” Fitzpatrick tells KFEQ/St.
Joseph Post.And while a
whistleblower doesn’t have to give a reason, those calling the hotline will be
asked about the motivation behind the request.“No, they don’t
have to give a reason,” Fitzpatrick says. “They generally do give a reason,
because typically the first contact is, hey, we want you to do an audit and the
question that we ask is okay why, what’s the reason for the audit, what are
your concerns with the entity?”A phone call isn’t
the only way to the Auditor Whistleblower Hotline, but that number is
1-800-347-8597.You can also go to
the <a href="https://auditor.mo.gov/whistleblowerhotline/form">Auditor’s webpage and request an audit</a>. Email also works at <a href="mailto:moaudit@auditor.mo.gov">moaudit@auditor.mo.gov</a>.Taxpayers can also
gather signatures on a petition to require the Missouri State Auditor to
conduct an audit. A resident of the St. Joseph School District is circulating a
petition requesting a state audit of the district.You can follow&nbsp;Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ

Concerned about a body's finances? Call the Whistleblower Hotline

Repeated weekend snowstorms and bitter cold temperatures have chilled sales at Christmas tree farms across Iowa this season, leaving many operators seeing lower-than-average returns during their narrow peak window.

The industry’s prime season typically spans only two to three weeks in late November and early December. Most farms rely on the weekend immediately following Thanksgiving to generate the bulk of their annual revenue.

Brian Moulds, manager of Wapsie Pines Christmas Tree Farm in Bremer County, said sales started strong with a higher-than-normal turnout on Black Friday. However, business has remained below average since that initial surge. Moulds estimated the farm’s gross sales are down roughly 10% compared to last year.

In Story County, heavy weather dealt a more direct blow to operations. Joe Heintz, manager of Strautman Tree Farm, said 10 inches of snow forced the farm to close the weekend after Thanksgiving, wiping out what are typically his busiest days of the year.

Despite the immediate loss in revenue, Heintz noted a silver lining for the long-term outlook. Because tree farmers must plan their inventory six to seven years in advance, harvesting fewer trees this winter will allow the farm to bolster its supply for future seasons.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765897806951.jpeg" alt="handmade student ornaments downtown hays pavilion christmas tree photo by lee ann june.jpg" />
 <figcaption>handmade student ornaments downtown hays pavilion christmas tree photo by lee ann june.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>By RYAN SKAITHRepeated weekend snowstorms and bitter cold temperatures have chilled sales at Christmas tree farms across Iowa this season, leaving many operators seeing lower-than-average returns during their narrow peak window.The industry’s prime season typically spans only two to three weeks in late November and early December. Most farms rely on the weekend immediately following Thanksgiving to generate the bulk of their annual revenue.Brian Moulds, manager of Wapsie Pines Christmas Tree Farm in Bremer County, said sales started strong with a higher-than-normal turnout on Black Friday. However, business has remained below average since that initial surge. Moulds estimated the farm’s gross sales are down roughly 10% compared to last year.In Story County, heavy weather dealt a more direct blow to operations. Joe Heintz, manager of Strautman Tree Farm, said 10 inches of snow forced the farm to close the weekend after Thanksgiving, wiping out what are typically his busiest days of the year.Despite the immediate loss in revenue, Heintz noted a silver lining for the long-term outlook. Because tree farmers must plan their inventory six to seven years in advance, harvesting fewer trees this winter will allow the farm to bolster its supply for future seasons.

Winter storms and bitter cold thin Iowa Christmas tree sales

HOLT COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just before 1:30p.m. Tuesday in Holt County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2013 Ford Escape driven by a 58-year-old Springfield woman was southbound on Interstate 29 seven miles southwest of Oregon. The SUV rear-ended the towed unit on a 2024 Freightliner semi driven by a 37-year-old Winter Haven, Florida man. After impact the SUV began to overturn.&nbsp;

Atchison Holt EMS transported the SUV driver to Mosaic in St. Joseph. The semi driver was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

HOLT COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just before 1:30p.m. Tuesday in Holt County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2013 Ford Escape driven by a 58-year-old Springfield woman was southbound on Interstate 29 seven miles southwest of Oregon. The SUV rear-ended the towed unit on a 2024 Freightliner semi driven by a 37-year-old Winter Haven, Florida man. After impact the SUV began to overturn.&nbsp;Atchison Holt EMS transported the SUV driver to Mosaic in St. Joseph. The semi driver was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

Mo. woman hospitalized in St. Joe after rear-end crash

For many, the holidays are full of light, love, family and festivity. But for others, the last weeks of the year can represent loneliness, loss or family tension.

Kristen Peltz, director of wellness services and counseling at Northwest Missouri State University, provided tips for those struggling to cope, noting that everyone deserves peace and a chance for joy during the season.

Peltz advises those who find the holidays a time of isolation — perhaps due to the loss of a loved one, children leaving home or separation from family — to actively seek connection. She recommends avoiding the natural tendency to isolate when sad or lonely, instead accepting the generosity of others.

For those spending the holidays alone, she suggests volunteering. Helping others offers a much-needed service, gets a person out into the community and often leads to a positive self-assessment.&nbsp;

The holidays are often "a setup for perfectionists," Peltz says, noting that media tries to convince people they can create a perfect celebration. She recommends giving yourself room to have a wonderful, and wonderfully imperfect, holiday.

Allow the cookies to be store-bought, the guests to argue and the lights to go out. Life happens in all its wondrous chaos and unpredictability, and people should celebrate it.

Set Limits and Prioritize Self-Care

The holiday season can make it difficult to stand up to pushy or critical friends and family, but setting limits is crucial, Peltz advises. She recommends clearly stating what you are willing to do and where you draw the line.

Peltz stresses the importance of self-care. People should take care of themselves as much as they care for others and encourage a more equitable distribution of responsibility. She recommends staying firm when push-back occurs, as others will adjust.

In addition to setting external boundaries, Peltz suggests taking time for yourself, even when surrounded by family. This can be as simple as running an errand, taking a walk or stepping into another room for a brief respite. Even sitting in your car for a few minutes to breathe deeply can provide a much-needed break.

Address Loss and Financial Pressure

For those who are reminded of someone dear during the holidays, honoring that person can be an important part of healing. Peltz suggests rituals like creating a memory box, writing a letter to the loved one or engaging in an activity they enjoyed. She points out that grief, painful as it may be, reflects something wonderful.

If finances are a source of stress, Peltz encourages reconsidering spending. This may involve letting others know you are cutting back on gift-giving. People should release the pressure of gift-giving expectations and the financial stress that comes with them.

Peltz also advises practicing acceptance regarding family dynamics. What hasn’t changed yet is unlikely to change over the holidays. People should take a deep breath, relax and remember that their powers of persuasion, diplomacy or resolve are limited.

Finally, Peltz urges those struggling with persistent mood, stress or loss-related challenges to consider counseling. There is no wrong time of year to ask for help.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765403338076.jpg" alt="christmas background, christmas wallpaper, gift, new year's eve, congratulation, christmas, holiday, winter, joy, happiness, christmas tree, surprise" />
 <figcaption>christmas background, christmas wallpaper, gift, new year's eve, congratulation, christmas, holiday, winter, joy, happiness, christmas tree, surprise</figcaption>
 </figure>By RYAN SKAITHFor many, the holidays are full of light, love, family and festivity. But for others, the last weeks of the year can represent loneliness, loss or family tension.Kristen Peltz, director of wellness services and counseling at Northwest Missouri State University, provided tips for those struggling to cope, noting that everyone deserves peace and a chance for joy during the season.Combat Loneliness and IsolationPeltz advises those who find the holidays a time of isolation — perhaps due to the loss of a loved one, children leaving home or separation from family — to actively seek connection. She recommends avoiding the natural tendency to isolate when sad or lonely, instead accepting the generosity of others.For those spending the holidays alone, she suggests volunteering. Helping others offers a much-needed service, gets a person out into the community and often leads to a positive self-assessment.&nbsp;Embrace ImperfectionThe holidays are often "a setup for perfectionists," Peltz says, noting that media tries to convince people they can create a perfect celebration. She recommends giving yourself room to have a wonderful, and wonderfully imperfect, holiday.Allow the cookies to be store-bought, the guests to argue and the lights to go out. Life happens in all its wondrous chaos and unpredictability, and people should celebrate it.Set Limits and Prioritize Self-CareThe holiday season can make it difficult to stand up to pushy or critical friends and family, but setting limits is crucial, Peltz advises. She recommends clearly stating what you are willing to do and where you draw the line.Peltz stresses the importance of self-care. People should take care of themselves as much as they care for others and encourage a more equitable distribution of responsibility. She recommends staying firm when push-back occurs, as others will adjust.In addition to setting external boundaries, Peltz suggests taking time for yourself, even when surrounded by family. This can be as simple as running an errand, taking a walk or stepping into another room for a brief respite. Even sitting in your car for a few minutes to breathe deeply can provide a much-needed break.Address Loss and Financial PressureFor those who are reminded of someone dear during the holidays, honoring that person can be an important part of healing. Peltz suggests rituals like creating a memory box, writing a letter to the loved one or engaging in an activity they enjoyed. She points out that grief, painful as it may be, reflects something wonderful.If finances are a source of stress, Peltz encourages reconsidering spending. This may involve letting others know you are cutting back on gift-giving. People should release the pressure of gift-giving expectations and the financial stress that comes with them.Peltz also advises practicing acceptance regarding family dynamics. What hasn’t changed yet is unlikely to change over the holidays. People should take a deep breath, relax and remember that their powers of persuasion, diplomacy or resolve are limited.Finally, Peltz urges those struggling with persistent mood, stress or loss-related challenges to consider counseling. There is no wrong time of year to ask for help.

Holiday Survival Guide: Finding peace and joy when the season is a struggle

GRUNDY COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just after 4:30p.m. Monday in Grundy County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a Missouri State Highway Patrol 2023 Ford Explorer driven by a 41-year-old St. Joseph man was northbound with emergency lights activated escorting a 2023 Kenworth semi with an oversized load occupying part of the shoulder and part of the southbound lane.

 A southbound 2005 Land Rover driven by a 72-year-old Mercer woman traveled off the right side of the road and and side swiped the Trooper's SUV. The Trooper came to a controlled stop in the southbound lane. The Land Rover returned to the road and rear-eded a southbound 2023 Freightliner school bus&nbsp;driven by a 35-year-old Chillicothe man which had yielded to the Trooper by traveling off the west side of the road.&nbsp; The Land Rover then rear-ended the towed unit of northbound 2023 Kenworth semi driven by a 48-year-old Roxie, Mississippi man.&nbsp;

A northbound&nbsp; 2019 Ford F250 driven by 25-year-old British Columbia man was following the 2023 Kenworth. The pickup driver attempted to avoid the Land Rover. The Land Rover struck the left side of the pickup and came to rest in the northbound lane facing southwest.

Grundy County EMS transported the driver of the Land Rover and a 72-year-old passenger to Wright Memorial Hospital. There were not other injuries. All five drivers were properly restrained, according to the MSHP. The Patrol SUV had approximately $5,000 damage to a mirror and rear quarter panel. The MSHP no longer releases names of accident victims.&nbsp;

GRUNDY COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just after 4:30p.m. Monday in Grundy County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a Missouri State Highway Patrol 2023 Ford Explorer driven by a 41-year-old St. Joseph man was northbound with emergency lights activated escorting a 2023 Kenworth semi with an oversized load occupying part of the shoulder and part of the southbound lane. A southbound 2005 Land Rover driven by a 72-year-old Mercer woman traveled off the right side of the road and and side swiped the Trooper's SUV. The Trooper came to a controlled stop in the southbound lane. The Land Rover returned to the road and rear-eded a southbound 2023 Freightliner school bus&nbsp;driven by a 35-year-old Chillicothe man which had yielded to the Trooper by traveling off the west side of the road.&nbsp; The Land Rover then rear-ended the towed unit of northbound 2023 Kenworth semi driven by a 48-year-old Roxie, Mississippi man.&nbsp;A northbound&nbsp; 2019 Ford F250 driven by 25-year-old British Columbia man was following the 2023 Kenworth. The pickup driver attempted to avoid the Land Rover. The Land Rover struck the left side of the pickup and came to rest in the northbound lane facing southwest.Grundy County EMS transported the driver of the Land Rover and a 72-year-old passenger to Wright Memorial Hospital. There were not other injuries. All five drivers were properly restrained, according to the MSHP. The Patrol SUV had approximately $5,000 damage to a mirror and rear quarter panel. The MSHP no longer releases names of accident victims.&nbsp;

2 injured after 5-vehicle crash including MSHP SUV and school bus

Paddlefish licenses and tags for the Missouri and Big Sioux Rivers season, starting February 1st, are now on sale. 

The DNR's Southwest Iowa fisheries biologist, John Lorenzen, notes that 950 resident and 50 nonresident tags are available. Individuals may purchase up to two tags through December 31st, with a potential third tag becoming available afterward if any remain. 

The paddlefish license costs $25.50 for residents and $49.00 for nonresidents, and a valid Iowa fishing license is mandatory for purchase.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1725027660993.jpeg" alt="Missouri River - small boat.JPG" />
 <figcaption>Missouri River - small boat.JPG</figcaption>
 </figure>By RYAN SKAITHPaddlefish licenses and tags for the Missouri and Big Sioux Rivers season, starting February 1st, are now on sale. The DNR's Southwest Iowa fisheries biologist, John Lorenzen, notes that 950 resident and 50 nonresident tags are available. Individuals may purchase up to two tags through December 31st, with a potential third tag becoming available afterward if any remain. The paddlefish license costs $25.50 for residents and $49.00 for nonresidents, and a valid Iowa fishing license is mandatory for purchase.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Missouri/Big Sioux paddlefish season opens Feb. 1st; tags now on sale

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

A portion of the signatures&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/12/09/missouri-gerrymander-congressional-map-referendum/">submitted last week</a>&nbsp;to force a referendum on Missouri’s gerrymandered congressional district map won’t be reviewed before a Cole County judge rules on whether all should be checked.

People Not Politicians is challenging a decision by Secretary of State Denny Hoskins that no signatures collected before Oct. 14 — the day he certified the form of the referendum petition — are valid.&nbsp;

In an order issued Friday, Circuit Judge Christopher Limmbaugh wrote that he will wait to issue his ruling while local election officials determine if the portion being checked is sufficient to place the issue on a statewide ballot.

Last week, People Not Politicians delivered 691 boxes of petition sheets bearing more than 305,000 signatures to Hoskins’ office. There are signatures from every county in the state, organizers said, and they have little doubt they will reach the threshold of about 110,000 signatures to make the 2026 ballot.

In a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.courts.mo.gov/fv/c/Joint%20Stipulation%20of%20Facts%20and%20Exhibits.PDF?courtCode=19&amp;di=3709303" target="_blank">filing in the case</a>, People Not Politicians stated that about 103,000 of the signatures were collected before the cutoff date.

The other 202,000 signatures should be checked before he makes a decision, Limbaugh ruled.

“Conceivably, this could be enough signatures to place the referendum on the ballot thereby mooting the issues presented in the case at bar,” he wrote.

The case, he wrote, will be “in abeyance until the requisite number of signatures have been certified or up until enough signatures have been rejected so as to prevent plaintiffs’ referendum from appearing on the ballot.”

Limbaugh presided over a&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/12/08/federal-judge-rejects-missouri-ags-push-to-block-referendum-on-gerrymandered-map/">three-hour trial</a>&nbsp;in the case last Monday.&nbsp;

Limbaugh ordered Hoskins to hold on to the signatures not sent to local election authorities for verification while the case is on hold. When the signatures were submitted, Hoskins said he was already acting to preserve the early signatures.

County clerks and election boards have until July 28 to finish checking the signatures.&nbsp;

Limbaugh has already ruled twice against opponents of the map&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/09/12/gerrymandered-congressional-map-initiative-petitions-limits-sent-to-missouri-governor/">forced through by the Republican majority</a>&nbsp;during a September special session.&nbsp;

Limbaugh ruled last week lawmakers had the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.courts.mo.gov/fv/c/Judgment.PDF?courtCode=19&amp;di=3746364" target="_blank">constitutional authority</a>&nbsp;to enact the revised map.

And in October, he&nbsp;<a href="https://www.courts.mo.gov/fv/c/Order.PDF?courtCode=19&amp;di=3713642" target="_blank">declined to issue a temporary order</a>&nbsp;blocking any of the actions during the special session in a case brought by the Missouri NAACP. That case is set for a trial Monday afternoon.&nbsp;

The NAACP wants Limbaugh to declare that Gov. Mike Kehoe had&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/09/15/judge-hears-arguments-in-case-seeking-to-toss-missouris-new-congressional-maps/">no authority</a>&nbsp;under the Missouri Constitution to call lawmakers into session for congressional redistricting and altering the majority needed to pass constitutional amendments proposed by initiative.

The fight over redistricting began in July, when President Donald Trump began&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/07/25/trump-white-house-pressing-missouri-republicans-to-redraw-congressional-map/">pressuring Missouri Republicans</a>&nbsp;to change the map to give the GOP an edge in seven of the state’s eight districts instead of the six they currently hold.&nbsp;

Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/09/10/after-hearing-from-trump-missouri-gop-muscle-gerrymandered-map-forward-in-state-senate/">kept up the pressure</a>&nbsp;during the special session and state Senate Republicans used rule changes to undercut Democratic opposition and muscle the map to passage.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765884385189.png" alt=" Missouri Capitol Police officers conduct security checks Dec. 9 on the 691 boxes of petitions filed to force a referendum on the gerrymandered Congressional district map passed by lawmakers in September. Of the 27 times a referendum has been placed on the Missouri ballot, voters have rejected the General Assembly’s actions all but twice (Rudi Keller/Missouri Independent)." />
 <figcaption> Missouri Capitol Police officers conduct security checks Dec. 9 on the 691 boxes of petitions filed to force a referendum on the gerrymandered Congressional district map passed by lawmakers in September. Of the 27 times a referendum has been placed on the Missouri ballot, voters have rejected the General Assembly’s actions all but twice (Rudi Keller/Missouri Independent).</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/rudi-keller/">RUDI KELLER</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>A portion of the signatures&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/12/09/missouri-gerrymander-congressional-map-referendum/">submitted last week</a>&nbsp;to force a referendum on Missouri’s gerrymandered congressional district map won’t be reviewed before a Cole County judge rules on whether all should be checked.People Not Politicians is challenging a decision by Secretary of State Denny Hoskins that no signatures collected before Oct. 14 — the day he certified the form of the referendum petition — are valid.&nbsp;In an order issued Friday, Circuit Judge Christopher Limmbaugh wrote that he will wait to issue his ruling while local election officials determine if the portion being checked is sufficient to place the issue on a statewide ballot.Last week, People Not Politicians delivered 691 boxes of petition sheets bearing more than 305,000 signatures to Hoskins’ office. There are signatures from every county in the state, organizers said, and they have little doubt they will reach the threshold of about 110,000 signatures to make the 2026 ballot.In a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.courts.mo.gov/fv/c/Joint%20Stipulation%20of%20Facts%20and%20Exhibits.PDF?courtCode=19&amp;di=3709303" target="_blank">filing in the case</a>, People Not Politicians stated that about 103,000 of the signatures were collected before the cutoff date.The other 202,000 signatures should be checked before he makes a decision, Limbaugh ruled.“Conceivably, this could be enough signatures to place the referendum on the ballot thereby mooting the issues presented in the case at bar,” he wrote.The case, he wrote, will be “in abeyance until the requisite number of signatures have been certified or up until enough signatures have been rejected so as to prevent plaintiffs’ referendum from appearing on the ballot.”Limbaugh presided over a&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/12/08/federal-judge-rejects-missouri-ags-push-to-block-referendum-on-gerrymandered-map/">three-hour trial</a>&nbsp;in the case last Monday.&nbsp;Limbaugh ordered Hoskins to hold on to the signatures not sent to local election authorities for verification while the case is on hold. When the signatures were submitted, Hoskins said he was already acting to preserve the early signatures.County clerks and election boards have until July 28 to finish checking the signatures.&nbsp;Limbaugh has already ruled twice against opponents of the map&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/09/12/gerrymandered-congressional-map-initiative-petitions-limits-sent-to-missouri-governor/">forced through by the Republican majority</a>&nbsp;during a September special session.&nbsp;Limbaugh ruled last week lawmakers had the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.courts.mo.gov/fv/c/Judgment.PDF?courtCode=19&amp;di=3746364" target="_blank">constitutional authority</a>&nbsp;to enact the revised map.And in October, he&nbsp;<a href="https://www.courts.mo.gov/fv/c/Order.PDF?courtCode=19&amp;di=3713642" target="_blank">declined to issue a temporary order</a>&nbsp;blocking any of the actions during the special session in a case brought by the Missouri NAACP. That case is set for a trial Monday afternoon.&nbsp;The NAACP wants Limbaugh to declare that Gov. Mike Kehoe had&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/09/15/judge-hears-arguments-in-case-seeking-to-toss-missouris-new-congressional-maps/">no authority</a>&nbsp;under the Missouri Constitution to call lawmakers into session for congressional redistricting and altering the majority needed to pass constitutional amendments proposed by initiative.The fight over redistricting began in July, when President Donald Trump began&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/07/25/trump-white-house-pressing-missouri-republicans-to-redraw-congressional-map/">pressuring Missouri Republicans</a>&nbsp;to change the map to give the GOP an edge in seven of the state’s eight districts instead of the six they currently hold.&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/09/10/after-hearing-from-trump-missouri-gop-muscle-gerrymandered-map-forward-in-state-senate/">kept up the pressure</a>&nbsp;during the special session and state Senate Republicans used rule changes to undercut Democratic opposition and muscle the map to passage.Last week, Democratic attorney Brad Ketcher filed a complaint with the Missouri Ethics Commission alleging any White House employee calling lawmakers about the redistricting plan should have been registered as a lobbyist.The intended result from the new map is to flip the 5th District to the GOP. The district, based in Kansas City, has been represented by Democratic U.S. Rep. Emanuel Cleaver since 2005.&nbsp;The district is carved up under the new map with portions attached to the 4th and 6th Districts. Heavily Republican areas stretching along the Missouri River to Boone County would be added to the remaining Kansas City portions.If the referendum has sufficient signatures, the map would be on the November 2026 ballot unless lawmakers set an earlier date.&nbsp;