The Missouri Department of Transportation, along with consultants from Burns &amp; McDonnell, have begun the next stages in the planning process on the I-229 corridor and double decker bridge in downtown St. Joseph

&nbsp;The I-229 Moving Forward Environmental Assessment was completed in 2025. and a Finding of No Significant Impact was issued by the Federal Highway Administration for the preferred alternative, which will remove the bridge and replace it with a four-lane roadway.

The I-229 project team will work throughout the summer of 2026 to collect survey data, define right of way and environmental impacts, coordinate with the railroad, conduct stakeholder and public outreach, and begin conceptual design work. The team will also be working through the FHWA process to remove the interstate designation from I-229.

In the fall of 2026, MoDOT is expected to make a determination if the project will be constructed via the Design-Bid-Build or Design-Build process. Project design is anticipated to begin in 2027, with construction planned for 2028-2030.

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

MoDOT gives update on I-229 double decker bridge project

ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after a traffic stop.&nbsp;

Just after 4p.m. Wednesday.an officer on patrol conducted a traffic stop of a Ford Taurus for a traffic violation in the 700 block North 11th Street in Atchison, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.

 The driver, 48-year-old William Gehring of Kansas City, Missouri, was found to be in possession of illegal drugs and was transporting an open container.

Police arrested him on requested charges of possession of cocaine, possession of methamphetamine, possession of marijuana, transporting an open container, and illegal use of vehicle tag.&nbsp;

Mo. man was transporting cocaine in Kansas, had illegal car tag

HARRISON COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 8:30a.m. Thursday in Harrison County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2003 Chevy Impala driven by a 17-year-old Bethany boy was southbound on 250 Avenue two miles south of Bethany. The car began to skid. It crossed the center of the road, traveled off the east side of the road, struck a ditch and rolled onto its top.

A private vehicle transported the driver to Harrison County Community Hospital. He was properly restrained, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

Mo. teen hospitalized after rollover accident

Access to and from Messanie Street at U.S. Route 169 is now fully open following the completion of significant traffic signal upgrades.

MoDOT, in coordination with RS Electric, reopened the intersection Thursday, March 5. The project aimed to improve traffic flow and safety at the intersection.

Drivers are advised to remain cautious as they adjust to the new signal configurations at the intersection.

Messanie Street access in St. Joseph reopened

Six Flags announced a big change this week, selling seven different theme parks, including Kansas City's Worlds of Fun and Oceans of Fun, as well as Six Flags St. Louis.

In a press release on its website touting "a new chapter," the entertainment company announced it has entered into a sales agreement with EPR Properties for seven parks:

The list of theme parks includes Worlds of Fun and Oceans of Fun, as well as Six Flags St. Louis, along with&nbsp;Michigan’s Adventure in Grand Rapids, Michigan,&nbsp;Schlitterbahn Waterpark Galveston in Galveston, Texas, Six Flags Great Escape in Queensbury, New York, Six Flags La Ronde in Montreal, Quebec, and&nbsp;Valleyfair in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

The company said this was part of a "thoughtful decision about where we focus our energy," adding that this allows the company to focus on "parks with the greatest potential for innovation, expansion, and elevated guest experiences."

The sale, valued at $342 million, is EPR's largest acquisition since 2017.&nbsp; The company has also acquired the use of the Six Flags brand through 2026, meaning very little will change at Worlds of Fun and the other properties to begin with.&nbsp;&nbsp;Six Flags said the included parks will still maintain their regular operating schedules and all season passes sold will continue to be honored through the 2026 season, including the multipark pass privileges.

For Dining Pass, Fast Lane, Photo Pass and Drink Plans, Six Flags is still working through the particulars, but said, "To ensure you are receiving fair value for your dining plan purchase, we are providing you with a $10 credit to be used in F&amp;B at your home park this season."

EPR will retain the Six Flags branding rights to all of the parks through the end of 2026, so no name change will be coming to Worlds of Fun and Oceans of Fun yet, but changes are expected in 2027.

You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.

Six Flags changes include sale of Worlds of Fun, Oceans of Fun as well as Six Flags St. Louis

Local children can hit the ice this weekend as Bode Ice Arena in St. Joseph hosts a "Try Hockey for Free" event on Saturday, March 7.

The session, which runs from 4:00 - 5:00 p.m., is designed to give kids ages 4 - 9 the opportunity to experience the sport in a fun, safe environment. No prior skating or hockey experience is necessary, as trained coaching staff will be on hand to teach the basics.

While most equipment is provided, participants are required to bring their own gloves and a bicycle helmet. Prospective skaters can register <a href="https://tryhockeyforfree.com/event_detail/4464?fbclid=IwY2xjawQVW5JleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFwNUpvS0pWUzZsMFRQTzFEc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHsktwPqNW0mq-aMXmMjLkGNy_5mDLCjL-B2CLqxl0pbHGZ6E4gVZmjqEG93J_aem_edu7lTiSOB-oYpidSvg9uw">online</a>.

Local children invited to hit the ice for free hockey at Bode

The United Way of Greater St. Joseph is bringing back a popular volunteer program after two months off, seeking volunteers for the Caring Connections Crew 

Director of Community Investment Jodi Flurry says during the program around 30 to 40 volunteers will pack kits of some sort 

"They will be packing in the next two weeks several hundred meal kits, so these are meal kits that are shelf stable food that will go out to the community through local agencies who come and get them to hand out to their clients, as well as people who just simply come to United Way,” Flurry says on the KFEQmunnity show.  “But we need people to come volunteer to pack meal kits, in other months we might be packing a fresh start kit or hygiene kits, but for the next two weeks we’re going to have three different sessions through the United Way Caring Connection Crew, inviting the community to come in and help pack these kits.” 

The program launched last year but saw a boom in volunteers during a short freeze in SNAP, or food stamp benefits during a lengthy government shutdown.  

Flurry says volunteers packed several thousand meal kits for people in need of extra food in November and December 

"Some regularly, like their goal was they wanted to volunteer for every session, and sometimes it was like a brand-new person, which is awesome that this is their way to volunteer, they want to do something,” Flurry explains.  “And it’s a short time commitment, it’s an hour and a half, it’s inside so you don’t have to worry about the rain or the drizzle, but it is a short time commitment, it is fun, it is easy, and it really has an impact.” 

The United Way of Greater St. Joseph has several volunteer opportunities happening for people to help make an impact within their community 

Flurry says the great thing about many of these opportunities is they are a short time commitment, knowing many may not have several hours to be able to volunteer 

"We want to provide these opportunities for individuals, families to come volunteer,” Flurry says.  “And with the Caring Connection Crew, next week is spring break for the St. Joseph School District, so we are actually having a session during the day so kids who might be on spring break or a family who might be looking for something to do while their kids  are home on spring break, that’s going to be Wednesday at 1:30, we have weekend events for people who might work during the week and can’t come, and then we also have evening events.” 

The first opportunities to be part of the Caring Connections crew are next week on March 11th and March 14th, with a final opportunity this month on March 18th.  

More volunteer opportunities will be available throughout the year.  To volunteer, you can contact the United Way or visit its website. 

United Way of Greater St. Joseph calling for volunteers to pack meal kits with Caring Connection Crew

Celebrated Irish traditional band Téada will bring its 25th-anniversary tour to The United on Sunday, March 15, for an authentic St. Patrick’s Day celebration.

The 3:00 p.m. performance at 602 Felix St. marks a return to St. Joseph for the five-piece ensemble, which last appeared locally in 2019. Known for a dynamic, deeply rooted approach to traditional music, the group has headlined major festivals across North America, Europe, Africa, and Australia.

The performance features a diverse array of traditional instruments, including the fiddle, piano, flute, uilleann pipes, accordion, and bodhrán. The group is led by founding member Oisín Mac Diarmada, a Trinity College Dublin graduate described by The Irish Echo as "one of the most gifted and creative traditional fiddlers playing today."

Adding to the spectacle, award-winning step dancer Samantha Harvey will perform alongside the band. Harvey is also an accomplished pianist and accordion player.

The festivities begin at 2:00 p.m. with a special whiskey reception hosted by St. Joseph resident Shane McDonald. A certified Whiskey Ambassador with a certificate from the Edinburgh Whisky Academy, McDonald will lead a tasting featuring styles from the Midleton Distillery in County Cork, Ireland.

"This tasting provides wonderful examples of the most often-enjoyed styles of Irish whiskey," McDonald said.

Attendees must be 21 or older to access the cash bar. Pricing for the event is as follows:

Téada’s latest album on the Gael Linn label features guest appearances by actor John C. Reilly and the late Séamus Begley, further cementing the band's status as a premier ambassador of Irish culture.

Global Irish Traditional Band Téada to perform St. Patrick’s concert in St. Joseph

On a party-line vote, a Missouri House committee approved the bill putting a constitutional amendment on the ballot to allow expanded sales tax to supplant income tax

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>

The proposal to&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2026/01/28/missouri-gop-backs-income-tax-repeal-as-critics-warn-sales-taxes-hit-poor-hardest/">eliminate the state income tax</a>&nbsp;is moving to the Missouri House floor following a party-line committee vote Wednesday.

The 7-3 vote on Republican Gov. Mike Kehoe’s top priority followed a heated discussion where Democrats on the House Commerce Committee accused Republicans of steering the state into a fiscally dangerous future.

“You don’t turn an economy around on a dime,” said state Rep. Steve Butz, a St. Louis Democrat. “If there is a mistake made, either by the public or by this legislature — and surely we have enough examples of the legislature making plenty of mistakes — we’re not going to be able to react quickly enough to offset that.”

Republicans, in response, said Missouri is losing out to states like Tennessee and Florida that have no income tax. Eliminating the tax would put each taxpayer in charge of whether they want to spend their money on taxable goods and services or use it elsewhere, they said.

“We can see what’s happened to other states,” said state Rep. Brian Seitz, a Republican from Branson. “It’s affected them in a very positive manner. People are staying. The states are being built and rebuilt. Industries are coming in, and we want to have a piece of that pie.”

As originally filed, the proposed constitutional amendment would ask voters to give lawmakers broad authority to set up a new expanded sales tax system and use the revenue to reduce and then eliminate the state income tax. The committee passed a revised version Wednesday morning that sets revenue growth goals for reducing the top income rate, which is currently 4.7%.

For each additional $20 million in revenue over the base year of fiscal year 2025, the top rate would be cut by 0.01 percentage points, with a cap of a 1.6 percentage point reduction in the top rate in any given year.

To achieve the maximum reduction in a single year, revenue would have to grow by $3.2 billion from the expanded sales tax base.

The tax would be eliminated when those reductions combine to lower the top rate to 1.4%.

Missouri’s personal income tax is almost flat, with the top rate applying to taxable incomes greater than $9,436. There are significant exemptions from the tax, including&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/07/07/missouri-will-exempt-social-security-public-pension-payments-from-state-income-taxes/">all Social Security payments</a>, a share of retirement income and&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</a>, which are the profits from the sale of property or other assets.

The income tax generated about 65% of the state’s annual general revenue receipts in fiscal year 2025, which were $13.4 billion in the year that ended June 30.&nbsp;

The proposal, if passed by the General Assembly, would go on the ballot in August or November. It would give lawmakers three years to expand the sales tax to “all goods and services” and eliminate exemptions to raise enough revenue to replace the income tax without having to seek another statewide vote.&nbsp;

The current state sales tax is 3% for general revenue, plus 1.225% earmarked for public schools, conservation, state parks and soil conservation. Local option sales taxes add to the 4.225% total, and there are more than 50 locations in the state where the total sales tax is 11% or higher.

Matching the current revenue from the individual income tax without expanding the transactions that are taxed would require raising the state sales tax to nearly 13%.

The proposal would allow sales tax on motor fuel for the first time. It would also exempt revenue from sales tax on fuel from a constitutional provision&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2026/01/23/new-missouri-income-tax-cut-plan-would-allow-first-ever-sales-tax-on-gas-and-diesel/">dedicating all taxes</a>&nbsp;on gasoline and diesel to highway needs.

Missourians will reject the plan, Democrats said during committee debate.

“They’re already worried about the current budget and the cost of living,” state Rep. Pattie Mansur, a Kansas City Democrat. “They’re concerned about essential programs that are being cut now. The&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2026/02/27/missouri-lawmakers-explore-options-to-restore-disability-services-funding/">building has been full</a>&nbsp;of people the last couple of weeks worrying about this. No one is asking for the elimination of state income tax.”

Republicans responded by saying the proposal will test what voters want and make the legislature conform to that.

“This really does nothing but go to the voters and say, ‘Do you want to change the system and try a new approach’,” said House Speaker Jon Patterson, a Republican from Lee’s Summit who is sponsoring the proposal.&nbsp;

And there are plenty of people, he said, asking to eliminate the income tax.

“A lot of times they ask with their feet,” Patterson said. “They move, they go to different places. They might not ask, but they’ve told us what their answers are.”

Republicans push forward with proposal to replace Missouri income tax with sales tax

 United Way of Greater St. Joseph is seeking community volunteers to help determine how local donor dollars will be invested in 2027.

The annual allocations process serves as the organization’s primary method for evaluating partner agencies and ensuring financial accountability. Volunteers are tasked with examining agency operations, programs, and finances to provide funding recommendations to the United Way Community Investment Council and Board of Directors.

Participants help ensure that community contributions achieve a measurable impact in three key areas: education, health, and financial stability. In 2025, more than 160 residents from diverse professional and personal backgrounds participated in the process. Organizers note that serving on a subcommittee offers a unique "behind-the-scenes" look at how local nonprofits operate and provides a direct voice in community investment.

Volunteers are assigned to subcommittees, each responsible for reviewing two to three partner agencies. The commitment involves:

Those interested in volunteering for the 2026 cycle should contact Jodi Flurry at United Way of Greater St. Joseph:

Call for volunteers: United Way annual allocations process

KFEQ Morning Sports

May corn closed up 9 3/4 cents and July corn was up 9 1/4 cents. May soybeans closed up 9 3/4 cents and July soybeans were up 9 1/2 cents. May KC wheat closed up 20 cents, May Chicago wheat was up 15 1/2 cents, May Minneapolis wheat was up 10 1/4 cents.

For Thursday, traders saw the need for added risk premium in commodity markets, with wheat futures leading the way with another double-digit spike back toward calendar year highs. That positively influenced corn futures as well in tandem with another very strong round of export data released by USDA on Thursday morning. Soybeans were higher and back toward early week highs for the rally, with soybean oil providing bullish influence given the firm energy sector. Meanwhile, in other outside markets, the Dow Jones Industrial Average crashed again following a brief midweek reprieve from selling. Inflation and high interest rates fears (as a result of high energy costs) are driving investor sentiment, with the U.S. Dollar pressing higher and back towards 2026 highs as well.

The live cattle complex traded mildly higher following Wednesday's sizeable surge. Traders are cautiously advancing the spot April contract above its 40-day moving average, but it's not come without some worry as traders question whether or not they're overdoing the upward trend right now. If we had seen some stronger trade in the fed cash cattle market, then there likely wouldn't be any worry amongst traders; but we've yet to see any cash trade develop. There's a single bid currently on the table at $375 in Nebraska, but otherwise the market is sitting idle as feedlot managers wait for packers to offer up stronger bids. Asking prices are noted at $244 in the South but are still not established in the North.

The live cattle complex is pushing its spot April contract above the 40-day moving average, but the feeder cattle complex isn't seeing the same level of support as traders aren't comfortable pushing above their 40-day moving average at this time. The feeder cattle contracts continued to hedge on the side of safety and continue to trade steady to slightly lower.

Following Wednesday's sharp rally, the lean hog complex was mixed heading into Thursday's close as traders no longer want to push the contracts up to the market's resistance. It is helpful to see pork cutout values mildly higher as traders need to see continued fundamental support.

<a href="https://dehayf5mhw1h7.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/356/2026/03/05135830/web-closing-markets.mp3">Click HERE for audio</a>

Commodity markets daily recap

The dairy checkoff has unveiled “Dairy Does More,” a national marketing platform to help grow demand by reshaping how consumers think about dairy foods. 

Developed by Dairy Management Inc., the initiative brings to life the “Undeniably Dairy” brand in a contemporary way and reflects a long-term strategy to strengthen dairy’s role in modern lifestyles. DMI said the idea is about unlocking new growth by helping consumers see dairy products of all kinds in a whole new light. “Consumers often put food into boxes,” said Aris Georgiadis, senior vice president of marketing communications. “Milk is for kids, yogurt is for breakfast, and cheese is for dinner, but it’s our job to break those patterns.” 

Dairy Does More launched March 2 and will be supported by three 30-second digital video spots, social media activations, and in-market programs. State and regional checkoff teams will have opportunities to leverage campaign elements in their social and marketplace programs.

Dairy Checkoff Launches “Dairy Does More”

The tech industry’s relentless push for data centers in rural areas is colliding head-on with farmers, who see the projects as a threat to their way of life. 

Politico said the issue is drawing vocal criticism from conservative candidates for political office and fueling unrest in Republican primaries. Data center supporters are looking at vast parts of the nation’s farmland as excellent sites for the sprawling server-packed facilities they need to support the White House goal of making the U.S. the dominant force in developing artificial intelligence. “Farmers and some of the Republicans vying to represent them say that supporting these projects sends the wrong message when deep-red rural America is being hurt by the president’s tariff agenda and the high cost of living,” Politico reported. 

Data centers target rural areas because, like farms, they require a lot of land and access to substantial water and electricity supplies.

Farmers Increasingly Rejecting Data Center Bids for Land

The now closed Strait of Hormuz moves about 20 million barrels of crude oil and petroleum products daily, totaling about 20 percent of global demand. DTN reports that fertilizer exports also move through the Strait, including about a quarter of the globally traded nitrogen market.

 Politico said the White House will offer naval escorts and political risk insurance for oil and gas tankers traveling through the Strait of Hormuz in a bid to slow down a surge in energy prices after Iran warned it will attack ships at a choke point in the Strait. “The announcement brought some immediate relief to the overheated crude oil market,” Politico reported. 

In a Truth Social post, President Trump said he’s ordered the U.S. Development Finance Corporation to provide risk insurance and guarantees for the financial security of all maritime trade, especially energy. “If necessary, the U.S. Navy will begin escorting tankers through the Strait of Hormuz,” Trump added.

Fertilizer Prices Significantly Higher After Attack on Iran

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

Row-crop futures fell marginally Wednesday, retreating from chart resistance after hitting fresh highs for their recent moves early this week, with little fundamental news to influence price direction. Outside markets have settled to some degree after a volatile start to the week amid the onset of war in the Middle East and corresponding disruptions to world energy trade. Crude oil futures, of course, remain elevated but have stalled on attempted moves above $75 per barrel on NYMEX futures. The U.S. Dollar Index also moved lower for the first time this week, still among the highest level of 2026 but a touch below the mid-January high after Tuesday's reversal. Equity markets have recovered well from early Tuesday lows as investors recover from the initial market shock through the weekend and turn to monitoring the ongoing situation in the Middle East.

The live cattle complex was charging full steam ahead into Wednesday's closing bell as the market is currently trading $3.00 to $4.00 higher into the afternoon. Pinpointing what's driving the rally in the cattle sector is somewhat challenging, but more than anything it seems as though traders have reignited their bullish sentiment toward the market and are now giving the complex more technical support. There's a single bid currently on the table in Nebraska at $375, but otherwise no cattle have traded yet in the cash market. Boxed beef prices are higher: choice up $0.78 ($388.83) and select up $1.79 ($380.37) with a movement of 52 loads (40.57 loads of choice, 4.68 loads of select, 2.56 loads of trim and 4.11 loads of ground beef).

Upon seeing the live cattle complex rally aggressively, the feeder cattle contracts jumped into action as well as most of the contracts were sizeable $6.00 to $7.00 increases. The 40-day moving average seems to be giving the complex a little bit of resistance, but if the live cattle complex continues to trade higher traders may elect to conquer it later in the week.

With a slight uptick in pork demand, the lean hog contracts were also rallying into Wednesday's close. So far this week the market has chopped mostly sideways as traders haven't wanted to push the contracts any higher without increased fundamental support. But the slight uptick in pork demand has traders willing to advance the contracts at this point in time.

<a href="https://dehayf5mhw1h7.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/356/2026/03/04135038/web-closing-markets.mp3">Click HERE for audio</a>

The U.S. farm machinery equipment market experienced challenges across many fronts in 2025. Recent data suggests many new and used equipment sales categories continued to decline last year. Additionally, lower grain prices and farm incomes, along with the elevated cost of borrowing money, have dampened farmer demand for equipment and machinery. Major manufacturers like Deere, CNH Industrial, and AGCO are adjusting their inventories by scaling back production. 

Reports show the most significant challenge was the tariffs implemented in 2025, which further squeezed manufacturer margins. In 2020, farm tractor sales grew by 17.7 percent, and combine sales rose by almost five percent. A market downturn became more pronounced in 2023 and continued sharply the following year. But despite the decline in sales, machinery and equipment prices remain high. The National Agricultural Statistics Service said the index for machinery prices increased 0.8 percent in December 2025 compared to 2024.  

Farm machinery manufacturers facing headwinds

Farmer sentiment improved in February as the Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer Index rose from 113 points in January to 116. The Current Conditions Index increased by 11 points, while the Future Expectations Index dropped one point. The Future Expectations Index this month was 45 points lower than last year’s February index, reaching its lowest level since September 2024. 

Although concerns about agricultural exports moderated somewhat from the previous month, they’re still higher than those expressed in December. In addition, the percentage of respondents who think the U.S. is headed in the “right direction” declined for the second month in a row. Almost 44 percent of respondents to the survey indicated that their farm operations were worse off in February than they were a year earlier. About 15 percent of respondents plan to reduce the size of their operations, while 34 percent said they don’t plan to grow at all. 

Farmer sentiment rebounds

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

Row crop futures raced to a strong start following Monday evening's open, bullishly influenced by another 5-6% move in crude oil futures as the U.S. and Israel-Iran war rages on. However, as was the case on Monday, the U.S. Dollar strengthened relative to other currencies, hitting the highest mark since late November before fading slightly through Tuesday's trade. Moreso, soybeans and soybean oil remain well overbought from a technical standpoint, and rally attempts beyond November highs are understandably being met with profit-taking speculative selling and likely producer hedging pressure as well. Still, despite finishing well below daily highs, futures appeared equally stubborn to move drastically lower than even, with several markets setting higher lows as compared to Monday's reversal session and ultimately closing with modest gains on Tuesday. Equity markets were a bearish flagship on Tuesday as well, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average down for a third consecutive session, although bouncing from what were almost three-month lows in early trade.

The live cattle complex got back to trading higher as traders seemed to have found some technical support throughout the day's trade. Today's slight uptick in price doesn't mean that the pressures (both external and internal) have merely disappeared, because they haven't, but rather instead that traders believe enough downside regression has been seen in the near term and that it's both acceptable and safe for the complex to trade mildly higher. No cash cattle trade has developed yet. Boxed beef prices are higher: choice up $6.60 ($387.94) and select up $1.53 ($379.74) with a movement of 54 loads (34.97 loads of choice, 4.66 loads of select, 3.63 loads of trim and 11.11 loads of ground beef).

And in keeping in unison, most of the feeder cattle complex followed the live cattle market's direction and was also trading slightly higher. The live cattle contracts were trading higher in a somewhat stable fashion, but the feeder cattle complex was much more sporadic about its trade this morning, bouncing back and forth throughout the vast majority of the entire session.

And without the support of stronger pork demand, the lean hog complex was trading mixed to lower into Tuesday's closing bell. And at this point, a sideways lower trend is expected to continue in the lean hog complex until fundamental support improves.

<a href="https://dehayf5mhw1h7.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/356/2026/03/03142506/web-closing-markets.mp3">Click HERE for audio</a>

Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins announced the “One Farmer, One File” modernization plan, another action designed to put “farmers first” with sweeping technological improvements at the USDA. Speaking during the Commodity Classic, she said USDA’s plan is to create a single, streamlined record that follows farmers, no matter where they go in the USDA system. “The modernization of old, duplicative, wasteful systems has just one goal in mind, which is to improve our customer service so the people we serve are able to farm and feed America and the world,” she said. 

“So, the ‘One Farmer, One File’ prevents our farmers from duplicating tasks while it increases their productivity and time in the field.” Not only will it reduce the administrative burden for farmers, but it will also make program delivery more efficient, save time for USDA staff, and decrease spending on disparate information technology systems. 

USDA launches “One Farmer, One File” initiative

About 180 million metric tons of fertilizers are consumed each year, and Forbes said roughly 55 to 60 million metric tons of urea move through international seaborne trade annually. The Middle East accounts for approximately 40 to 50 percent of that traded volume, and nearly all of those exports have to travel through the Strait of Hormuz. “In other words, more than one-quarter of the globally traded nitrogen fertilizer, and a meaningful share of total nitrogen production, moves through a single maritime choke point that is now threatened by war,” Forbes said. 

What Iran means for global fertilizer markets 

A former Kansas wrestling coach was charged through criminal complaint for allegedly creating child sexual abuse materials (CSAM) by clandestinely filming minors showering during a high school sporting event, according to the U.S. Department of Justice.

According to court documents, Ryan Brungardt, 37, of Salina is charged with two counts of production of child pornography and one count of attempted production of child pornography.&nbsp;

Brungardt is a former employee at Lakewood Middle School and former wrestling coach for Salina Central High School in Salina. Brungardt is accused of using a cellphone to record three minors while they showered in a locker room during the Tournament of Champions, a wrestling tournament which was held at Newton High School in Newton, Kansas, in January 2024.&nbsp;

The defendant made his initial court appearance for the criminal complaint on Wednesday, March 4, 2026, before U.S. Magistrate Judge Brooks G. Severson of the U.S. District Court for the District of Kansas. A detention hearing is scheduled for Monday, March 9, 2026.

The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI), Salina Police Department, and Newton Police Department are investigating the case.

Investigators are in the process of reviewing additional seized cellphone videos in this case that are suspected to have been recorded at wrestling meets and tournaments in Newton, Hays, Garden City and Salina, Kansas during the 2023-2024 wrestling season. Anyone who believes they witnessed crimes or any suspicious activity at these events is asked to contact the Kansas Bureau of Investigation at (785) 600-8790 or report at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kbi.ks.gov/sar" target="_blank">www.kbi.ks.gov/sar</a>.

Kan. high school coach accused of secretly filming minors in showers

BUTLER COUNTY —The bomb squad was called after an explosive device was found in a rural Kansas mobile home.

Just before 3p.m. March 4, Butler County 911 Communications dispatched deputies to a suspicious device located at 11000 block of SW Shumway Road in rural Augusta, according to Butler County Undersheriff Daimon Cundiff.

The Augusta Department of Public Safety Fire Division, BATF, FBI and Wichita Police Bomb Squad also responded to investigate.

The reporting party stated that she was cleaning out an old mobile home when she discovered a single stick of what was later identified as an old explosive material similar to dynamite. 

Deputies secured the area for safety for a brief time while the Wichita Bomb Squad removed the material to a facility for proper disposal. The individual believed to be the owner of the material had passed away previously and there&nbsp; is no criminal investigation.

Woman found explosive device in rural Kansas mobile home

EDITOR'S NOTE: The Topeka Fire Department on Thursday afternoon reported the cause of the fire was unattended cooking and not an electrical fire.

SHAWNEE COUNTY– One person died in an apartment fire in&nbsp; Topeka.

Just after 9p.m. Wednesday, crews&nbsp;responded to an apartment fire located at 715 SW Western Avenue in Topeka, according to a media release.&nbsp;

 Crews reported on arrival that there was heavy smoke coming from the multi-family apartment complex. Firefighters began an aggressive interior attack on the fire from within the structure. Firefighters rescued several residents from the structure. Four people were transported to the hospital, one with life-threatening injuries.

One individual was pronounced deceased at the scene. 9 apartment units are displaced by the fire.

&nbsp;The preliminary cause of the fire was determined unattended cooking and not an accidental electrical fire.&nbsp; Authorities released no additional details early Thursday.

New details: 1 dead, 4 hospitalized after Kansas apartment fire

MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan.&nbsp;–&nbsp;<a>McConnell Air Force Base’s aircraft are departing today, moving away from the waves of&nbsp;</a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.weather.gov/ict/weatherstory">severe weather</a>&nbsp;which is forecasted for the Wichita area Thursday night and then again Friday night, according to a statement from the base.

That forecast calls for a slight to enhanced risk of severe storms with potential for severe winds, hail and the possibility of tornadoes.

Air Force active duty and reserve aircrews from the 22nd&nbsp;and 931st&nbsp;Air Refueling Wings are relocating the base’s KC-46A Pegasus and KC-135R Stratotanker aircraft to several other military bases across the country. This will ensure the aircraft maintain full readiness as they continue to support tasked missions and be available for future taskings, while also avoiding any potential damage from the upcoming weather.

All remaining aircraft, undergoing various phases of maintenance, along with a range of flightline vehicles and equipment, are being stored in hangars as the base readies for the full range of potential weather outcomes.

Kan. Air Force base to relocate aircraft ahead of severe weather

&nbsp;Senate Republicans voted down an effort Wednesday to halt President Trump’s war against Iran, demonstrating early support for a conflict that has rapidly spread across the Middle East.

The legislation, known as a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-war-powers-trump-iran-constitution-37ec6685d9ded1d467a719f91e537487">war powers resolution</a>, failed on a 47-53 vote tally. Kansas U.S. Senators Jerry Moran and Roger Marshall voted against the resolution.

On social media, Kansas senior U.S. Senator Jerry Moran explained his vote against the resolution. "The Iranian government has terrorized its own people, funded terror networks, threatened the security of our allies and called for the destruction of the U.S. Iran’s ambition to enrich uranium and acquire long-range missiles threatens the U.S. and the stability of the region.

Iran’s continued attacks on American troops, our embassies and consulates, and the bombardment of Israel, require vigilance and ongoing military action in the Middle East. Support for this resolution as written would constrain ongoing operations and potentially put American service members at greater risk. Congress must remain fully engaged through oversight and deliberation, and we must do so in a way that supports, not jeopardizes as this resolution would do, the men &amp; women carrying out their current mission. If military engagements become sustained or expanded, Congress must debate and authorize further use of force on behalf of the American people

On his social media account, Senator Marshall explained his no vote against the resolution. "I voted against the Democrats’ War Powers Resolution—a political ploy to undermine our military operations." 

"Our military’s strike against the Iranian regime was bold, necessary, and long overdue. Iran has spent decades killing Americans and pursuing a nuclear weapon. Praying for our troops and their families—and for a swift end to this conflict."

The vote on Thursday afternoon gave lawmakers an opportunity to demand congressional approval before any further attacks are carried out. The vote forced them to take a stand on a war shaping the fate of U.S. military members, countless other lives and the future of the region.

-The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Kansas U.S. Senators explain their vote on War Powers Resolution

Concession companies at Kansas City International Airport (MCI) are gearing up for the FIFA 2026 World Cup by planning to increase staff. 

A hiring fair hosted by Vantage Group will be held on March 12 at the airport for various positions. Companies like Dunkin’ Donuts, Smoothie King, and others will be hiring immediately for open positions. Prospective employees are encouraged to bring resumes and valid identification to the fair, which aims to prepare for the influx of visitors expected in Kansas City during the World Cup. 

Free parking will be available for attendees at the event.

Kansas City Airport Concessions to Host Hiring Fair Ahead of 2026 FIFA World Cup

<a href="https://www.businesswire.com/" target="_blank">BUSINESS WIRE</a>

KANSAS CITY—-EPR Properties announced Thursday that it has entered into definitive agreements to acquire a portfolio of seven regional parks from Six Flags Entertainment Corporation for a gross transactional value of $342 million, of which the Company provided approximately $315 million and our operating tenants provided the balance, including funds for working capital and capital improvements. This transaction significantly expands the Company's attractions portfolio and represents its largest acquisition since 2017.

<a href="https://www.sixflags.com/blog/looking-forward-a-new-chapter-for-six-flags?fbclid=IwY2xjawQWihBleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFsYzZtakF3WTVuRkxQZXZac3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHkaAETJ4zMV0das0yoP6MkXkVMOgW3h5bzqF6ejIleo_FtIJzLiF41qZtpNt_aem_so5pEBI0IvQUgjNyUMGUwA">Click here for more detail</a>s on what the sale means for park guests

The seven parks comprise over 1,600 acres, featuring 418 attractions across five states and Canada, and drawing approximately 4.5 million annual attendees. The six regional parks that are located throughout the U.S. will be leased to and operated by Enchanted Parks (formerly Innovative Attraction Management) pursuant to a long-term master lease, and the one park located in Canada will be leased to and operated by La Ronde Operations, Inc. following the completion of the transaction. Both entities are proven operators with which the Company has an existing relationship.

"This strategic acquisition represents a compelling opportunity to expand our attractions portfolio with high-quality experiential real estate assets in established regional markets," said Gregory K. Silvers, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of EPR Properties. "These properties embody the essential characteristics we seek: delivering stable, long-term cash flows, strong drive-to accessibility, multi-generational appeal, and significant underlying land value. This transaction aligns with our disciplined investment criteria and accelerates our strategic expansion into experiential properties that create enduring value for our shareholders.”

Properties Included In Transaction

The company has acquired the non-Six Flags branded property names as part of the transaction and acquired rights to the Six Flags brand through 2026. The transaction is expected to close toward the end of the first quarter or beginning of the second quarter, subject to the satisfaction of certain closing conditions and third-party approvals. No significant impact on guests is expected during this transition. The parks will continue their regular operating schedules, and all season passes sold will be recognized through the 2026 operating season.

Worlds of Fun sold as part of $342 million deal

SHAWNEE COUNTY– The Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office recently assisted authorities in Trinity County, California, after receiving information related to a possible homicide involving two family members in Weaverville, California.

On Tuesday, a Shawnee County resident contacted the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office to report information regarding a possible homicide involving relatives who were reportedly living in Weaverville, California. Investigators with the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division met with the reporting party and gathered information regarding the report.

Investigators relayed the information to the Trinity County Sheriff’s Office, which then initiated its investigation.

Based in part on the information received, investigators with the Trinity County Sheriff’s Office obtained and executed a search warrant at a residence in the 3100 block of Bear Creek Road in Weaverville. During the search, investigators located the deceased body of Darren Jackson, 58, in a compost pile on the property. Multiple deceased puppies were also located.

Kevin Jackson, 54, the victim’s brother, was taken into custody in connection with the investigation and arrested on requested charges of&nbsp;First degree murder, Felon in possession of a firearm,&nbsp;Felon in possession of ammunition and animal cruelty.

Tip to Kan. sheriff helps in arrest of Calif. man for killing his brother

SEDGWICK COUNTY —The Textron Aviation team is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Russell W. “Russ” Meyer Jr., the longtime chairman and CEO, and Chairman Emeritus, of Cessna Aircraft Company.

Mr. Meyer was an aviation legend, leading Cessna for nearly 30 years and overseeing the development and launch of Citation business jets. He played a key role in stabilizing the industry through the General Aviation Revitalization Act of 1994, and earned top aviation awards including two Collier Trophies, the Wright Brothers Memorial Trophy and induction into the National Aviation Hall of Fame.

He believed in using aviation to help others, founding the&nbsp;<a href="https://airlift.txtav.com/">Special Olympics Airlift</a>&nbsp;— which has transported athletes to the Games for forty years — and supporting workforce development by starting Wichita's 21st Street Training Program to create career opportunities for underserved residents. His passion for youth development extended to many important charitable organizations and causes.

“Russ was a remarkable human being and one of the most respected leaders I have ever known. I held Russ in the highest regard, not only for his extraordinary business acumen, but for the integrity, humility and genuine care he showed for people at every stage of his life. He led with conviction, compassion and an unwavering belief that leadership carries a responsibility to serve something greater than oneself,” said Ron Draper, president and CEO, Textron Aviation. “On behalf of the entire Textron Aviation team, I extend my deepest condolences to Russ’s family, friends and all who had the privilege of knowing and working with him. I was truly privileged to know Russ as a colleague, a mentor and a friend.”

Russ leaves an enduring legacy of innovation, advocacy and service. He shaped our company, our industry and the Wichita, Kansas, community in ways that will be felt for generations to come.&nbsp; For more on the li

Aviation legend, former Cessna CEO has died

On Wednesday, a Department of State charter flight of American citizens departed the Middle East in route to the United States, as part of our ongoing efforts to assist Americans return home.


Additional flights will be surged across the region and American citizens in UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Israel interested in the Department's charter flight or ground transportation options, should complete the Crisis Intake Form at <a href="https://t.co/ZUvr9gptAQ" target="_blank">http://mytravel.state.gov/s/crisis-intake</a> or contact the State Department's 24/7 Task Force at +1-202-501-4444.

US begins charter flights for stranded Americans wanting to leave the Middle East

The Benton Cardinal boys basketball team has advanced to the Class 4 District 16 championship game for a second year in a row, after beating the Lafayette Fighting Irish 67-22 in the final boys matchup ever between the two rival schools.&nbsp;

After both teams started slow missing shots, the Cardinals took control of the game and never looked back, leading by 10 points at the end of the first quarter, and extending that to a 24 point lead by halftime, leading 36-12.&nbsp; Lincoln Goodwin led the way through the first half, scoring 19 of his 21 points.&nbsp;&nbsp;

By the end of the third quarter, Benton pushed the lead to 32 points, leading 55-22, then playing stifling defense in the fourth quarter, the Cardinals did not allow Lafayette to score another point the rest of the way, outscoring the Irish 12-0 on way to the 67-22 victory.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The win brings to an end a longstanding rivalry, at least on the boys side, between the northside of St. Joseph and the southside of St. Joseph.&nbsp;&nbsp;In the series between the teams, the Fighting Irish have won 28 games, seven of those coming in the postseason, while the Cardinals have won six.&nbsp;

Head Coach Jared Boone says it may not be until next season that it feels real that this game won't be happening again.

"It was kind of fate, I've kind of been saying all year I figured it was going to be us and them playing whether it was this game, the championship game, or whatever,"&nbsp; Boone tells reporters after the game.&nbsp; "I use the reference with my coaches and my wife it's kind of like Batman and Joker, we're just destined to be in each others way, it's going to be weird I think next season is when it's really going to hit there's no Benton and Lafayette game to look forward to on the schedule."

Goodwin led the Cardinals with 21 points while Jason Simmons added 13 points.&nbsp; Mach Mayom chipped in nine points for Benton.&nbsp; For Lafayette, Kamden Turner led with nine points and Jodell Redman added six points.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Benton will face Maryville in the Class 4 District 16 championship game on Saturday, after the Spoofhounds won a narrow game against Chillicothe 44-42.&nbsp; Tipoff will be at 3pm on Saturday at Benton High School.

Benton advances to Class 4 District 16 championship game in final matchup against Lafayette

The Kansas City Chiefs have made a blockbuster trade, moving All Pro cornerback Trent McDuffie to the Los Angeles Rams in exchange for a haul of draft picks including three in this year's NFL draft.&nbsp;

It's&nbsp;the second time in three years the Chiefs have traded away a top cornerback instead of handing out a big-money extension. In 2024, Kansas City traded L'Jarius Sneed to the Tennessee Titans.&nbsp; Cornerback will become a need in the free agent market and draft also with&nbsp;Jaylen Watson set to become a free agent next week.

Per a source, the Rams will receive McDuffie and in exchange the Chiefs will get the 29th pick in the first round of this years draft, as well as Los Angeles' fifth and sixth round picks, along with a 2027 third round selection.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Rams had two first-round picks in this year's draft as a result of a trade they made with the Atlanta Falcons last year. Los Angeles still owns the 13th pick in this draft.

McDuffie is expected to sign a long term contract extension with the Rams.&nbsp; During last week's NFL Combine, Chiefs GM Brett Veach had expressed interest in keeping McDuffie on the team as the two sides negotiated a contract extension as he was entering the final year of his contract.&nbsp;

“We had a lot of dialogue with Trent last spring, last summer. He’s first out of the gate. Looking forward to get with him and obviously Trent’s a great player.&nbsp; We’d certainly love to have Trent back for the long-term,” Veach said to reporters in Indianapolis.

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