St. Joseph School District officials are continuing to prepare for the shift into a two high school model next school year  

After surveying staff of what schools, they would prefer to be at next school year, Superintendent Ashly Mcginnis says the current phase of the reorganization is meeting with those effected staff members 

"With Eugene Field and Pershing being retired sites, and also Lafayette becoming a middle school, those were our main priority staff at that time,” McGinnis says on the KFEQmunnity show.  “And so, we’ve had those one-on-one meetings with every staff member from those buildings, and we’ve actually met with Central High School and Benton High School, because there’s going to be some movement.” 

McGinnis says with students moving from Lafayette to Central, which will impact staffing at that high school, also pointing out staffing could still be impacted by retirements or teachers resigning.  

McGinnis says while discussions have been tough, but also gives credit to staff who seem to be understanding of the current reality 

"And most of them have been team players, and we’ve had to go back to staff and say we really need this specific skillset at Benton High School or at Central High School and would you be willing to help us, or at Carden Park,” McGinnis explains.  “And so, all of our schools have different needs, and we have those conversations with our staff, we’re trying to work with people but we also some specific needs that we need help with.” 

McGinnis says it's huge for the district to have staff willing to step up into positions of need to help fill staffing in the district.   

As discussions around staffing happen in the St. Joseph School District with the shift to two high schools next school year, district officials are also being sure to keep the students top of mind.  

McGinnis says the recently developed Student Advisory Council, comprised of students from all three high schools, has been meeting once a month with her. 

McGinnis says the first meeting centered around students concerns and specific items preserving history, but things changed during this months meeting McGinnis says 

"I was amazed by our students, they are leaders, and they didn’t want to just talk about the concerns or the issues, they wanted to be problem solvers and think of things to propose to me as steps of action,” McGinnis says.  “And so, we actually broke down to three committees.” 

The three committees focus around academics, climate and culture, and the enrollment increases at each school.  McGinnis says students are mindful of the problems but are also working to create solutions collaboratively. 

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

St. Joseph School District working with staff, students as reorganization efforts continue

Emery Sapp &amp; Sons, Inc., working with the Missouri Department of Transportation, has been contracted to replace the Marlowe Branch Creek Bridge in Worth County Missouri Route 46.

 The bridge is scheduled to close beginning Thursday, March 5.

Traffic impacts include the Marlowe Branch Creek Bridge on Route 46 will be closed from March 5 through May 2026. Motorists will need to seek an alternate route during the closure.

As a part of the project, the West Fork Grand River Bridge replacement on Route W in Worth County was completed Feb. 12.

MoDOT reminds drivers to work with crews by always buckling up, keeping your phone down, slowing down and moving over in work zones.

Worth County Route 46 bridge to close beginning March 5

If you're looking for something to do around town, here are a few events going on in St. Joseph.

There are a few days left to enjoy St. Joseph Restaurant Week. The last day is Sunday, March 1. For more information, visit <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fstjrestaurantweek.com%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExNGVhVFcyWHBVOVZHN1JTOHNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR5V-bnVyknyCHZ5JyUI-2bcSLHjzrUXoszGZWJfi7lTgaMR-XUtfWg3ELoVjQ_aem_w4Aw4Vb8U66KwYRaUTU92A&amp;h=AT4rLrP4ZMBZxDibog0dHT3CNe1wbWtDF4j_yDvOb5u13BQW9r35zmrxp1bWI7BhrSTCcfu5a_lk6z_fMtC5ZPkxqnCDYV8gWtMUrgPEjRft2jP6MRDioSShjQ6dyHhjYhsCP_mmqQte_V7T&amp;__tn__=-UK-R&amp;c[0]=AT6MNL0WfUB5dO2hcyrFkEwlFshz3CXI0Z9hB-m619oGIQmD41S27D0l_3zy74czJRjCPlmKfogdtoznQBr4Lh6FpQYl4jp08IBAJQBmsm3RILy-Icu85fLtDp7NCOdDZiciHxK4-FQPqxpwZKu0oFBECaz2dZhBoK3MIoZJjEL3L6JldPgtyXEYViopeTm2Ypikx6XnCIAFPQ5lvgn9o0_mRg" target="_blank">stjrestaurantweek.com.</a>

Get your tastebuds ready as the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ucpnwmo?__cft__[0]=AZaboAHcLlvIoB7lm3np2Lr5fP_GpaKrB9Ea3xHQmZq9eNtjdE5sdLjA-nLHQDEDwJ7O4filp7qgGMvd_ldGq5nRe-brUpFGa2t1MkLny43qamW9KKnSUzybG-2ahpT295L6FRc6xdqzh_QHsk3SRisn8WN9Kd84KrXzXOlj5vCJcflLKRC-FBpwCIV2v6ePCzY&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">UCP of Northwest Missouri</a> Chili Challenge will take place this Sunday, March 1, at the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/StJosephCivicArena?__cft__[0]=AZaboAHcLlvIoB7lm3np2Lr5fP_GpaKrB9Ea3xHQmZq9eNtjdE5sdLjA-nLHQDEDwJ7O4filp7qgGMvd_ldGq5nRe-brUpFGa2t1MkLny43qamW9KKnSUzybG-2ahpT295L6FRc6xdqzh_QHsk3SRisn8WN9Kd84KrXzXOlj5vCJcflLKRC-FBpwCIV2v6ePCzY&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">St. Joseph Civic Arena</a>. For more information, visit <a href="https://ucpnwmo.org/chili-challenge/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExNGVhVFcyWHBVOVZHN1JTOHNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR6_HhghKqOHbKnVs7HdY2eERoCa-4SrsY2p6FMr0DczpYlhdI_qNsF34Zp0qQ_aem_xY98b16TuaTcfwgD6-mv0Q" target="_blank">https://ucpnwmo.org/chili-challenge/</a>.

Take a trip to <a href="https://www.facebook.com/RemingtonNatureCenter?__cft__[0]=AZaboAHcLlvIoB7lm3np2Lr5fP_GpaKrB9Ea3xHQmZq9eNtjdE5sdLjA-nLHQDEDwJ7O4filp7qgGMvd_ldGq5nRe-brUpFGa2t1MkLny43qamW9KKnSUzybG-2ahpT295L6FRc6xdqzh_QHsk3SRisn8WN9Kd84KrXzXOlj5vCJcflLKRC-FBpwCIV2v6ePCzY&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Remington Nature Center</a> to check out the weekly fish feedings on Fridays at 10:30 a.m. The event is included with regular admission to the nature center.

Head to the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MissouriTheater?__cft__[0]=AZaboAHcLlvIoB7lm3np2Lr5fP_GpaKrB9Ea3xHQmZq9eNtjdE5sdLjA-nLHQDEDwJ7O4filp7qgGMvd_ldGq5nRe-brUpFGa2t1MkLny43qamW9KKnSUzybG-2ahpT295L6FRc6xdqzh_QHsk3SRisn8WN9Kd84KrXzXOlj5vCJcflLKRC-FBpwCIV2v6ePCzY&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Missouri Theater and Theater Building</a> March 6 - 8 as <a href="https://www.facebook.com/rrtstjoe?__cft__[0]=AZaboAHcLlvIoB7lm3np2Lr5fP_GpaKrB9Ea3xHQmZq9eNtjdE5sdLjA-nLHQDEDwJ7O4filp7qgGMvd_ldGq5nRe-brUpFGa2t1MkLny43qamW9KKnSUzybG-2ahpT295L6FRc6xdqzh_QHsk3SRisn8WN9Kd84KrXzXOlj5vCJcflLKRC-FBpwCIV2v6ePCzY&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Robidoux Resident Theatre</a> presents Annie. For more information, visit <a href="https://bit.ly/4sctTO8?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExNGVhVFcyWHBVOVZHN1JTOHNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR7uWNRdHv-h-8KipZ5Dkie5XqHU39tAU6MTWgV7w1buf-tPDkBskL7tcEV0Qg_aem_JHzw0fy3rWaAZtVFJvB2tQ" target="_blank">https://bit.ly/4sctTO8</a>.

Check out some events going on around St. Joseph

The St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce will host its 22nd annual Farm City Breakfast from 7:00 - 9:00 a.m. on Friday, March 13, at Word of Life Church, 3902 NE Riverside Road. 

As one of the Chamber’s best-attended single-day events, the breakfast recognizes the essential role of farmers, producers, and the agribusiness sector in the local economy.

This year’s keynote speaker is Dan Meers, who recently retired after more than 35 years as "KC Wolf" for the Kansas City Chiefs. The NFL’s longest-tenured mascot and a member of the Mascot Hall of Fame, Meers has performed at over 10,000 events across 12 countries, including five Super Bowls. Beyond his career in professional sports, Meers is a highly regarded motivational speaker known for his infectious enthusiasm and optimism.

The event will also feature the presentation of the second annual Farm Family of the Year Award to the Scott Gann family. A multi-generational farming operation, the Ganns are being recognized for their commitment to the industry and the community. Scott Gann, a past chairman of the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, also remains active in the region through his local construction company.

Proceeds from the breakfast support Agriculture Future of America (AFA) Scholarships for area students pursuing agricultural degrees. Natalie Hawn, President and CEO of the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce, noted that the event serves as a vital networking hub for hundreds of producers and agribusiness professionals to discuss industry issues while funding the education of future leaders.

Tickets for the event are $12 per person, with registration available online at <a href="http://saintjoseph.com">saintjoseph.com</a>. The LifeLine Group serves as the presenting sponsor for this year's program.

St. Joseph Chamber to host 22nd Annual Farm City Breakfast featuring former KC Wolf Dan Meers

Despite unclear enforcement mechanisms for restrictions on transgender athletes, House lawmakers approved legislation to remove the law’s expiration date

By:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/ahanshaw/">Annelise Hanshaw</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>

The Missouri House passed a&nbsp;<a href="https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB%201663" target="_blank">bill</a>&nbsp;along party lines Thursday that would remove the expiration date on the state’s restrictions for transgender athletes.

In 2023, the General Assembly&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/05/10/missouri-house-sends-bill-banning-transgender-health-care-for-minors-to-governor/">passed a law</a>&nbsp;that prevents transgender athletes from competing according to their gender identity alongside a ban on gender-affirming care for minors. Democrats in the Senate filibustered the bill, leading to a compromise that added a four-year expiration date.

Every year since the law’s passage, lawmakers have filed bills seeking to scrap the sunset.

During Monday’s debate, House Democrats said that the provision gave lawmakers time to consider research on transgender athletes and determine whether restrictions were fair. That learning process, they argued, is not complete.

“Removing the sunset should only happen if we as a collective have undertaken a thorough review and study about the topic,” said state Rep. Pattie Mansur, a Kansas City Democrat. “We have not discussed this topic as a collective.”

The bill’s sponsor, state Rep. Brian Seitz, a Republican from Branson, said the expiration “was just a matter of capitulation.” Making the restrictions permanent, he argued, is necessary to “give female athletes a level playing field.”

Allowing transgender women to compete “undermines the fairness and opportunity” for women to succeed, he said.

Other House Republicans spoke about maintaining a competitive environment for women’s athletics, saying transgender women had an “advantage.”

“If we erode sex-based protections in athletics, we do not expand opportunities,” said state Rep. Cathy Jo Loy, a Republican from Carthage. “We would collapse the very category that allowed generations of women to compete fairly.”

Prior to the law’s passage, regulations on transgender athletes were left to organizations like the Missouri State High School Activities Association and the National Collegiate Athletic Association. MSHSAA’s policy allowed transgender athletes that have been taking hormone-suppression medication for at least one year to compete according to their gender identity, opening the door for 12 transgender athletes to try out for school athletics from 2012-2022.

State Rep. Wick Thomas, a Kansas City Democrat and the House’s first nonbinary member, pointed out that more bills have been filed targeting transgender athletes than the number of transgender athletes in Missouri high school sports.

“That seems like an incredible misuse of time and taxpayer dollars to spend so many hours, every single year constantly attacking those 12 kids who tried to play recreational sports with their friends,” they said.

Thomas also worried about the law’s enforcement, saying “anyone deemed too masculine will be under investigation.”

The law gives authority to the state’s education and higher education departments to establish enforcement mechanisms, but&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/08/21/enforcement-unclear-as-missouri-approaches-transgender-athlete-restrictions/">neither created such rules</a>. A year after the law became effective, education department officials denied any responsibility,&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/09/04/missouri-schools-lack-public-enforcement-policies-for-transgender-athlete-restrictions/">telling The Independent</a>&nbsp;that the department “is not involved in school athletics and activities.”

The legislation also gives students and their guardians the ability to sue if they are “deprived of an athletic opportunity” because of a transgender athlete in Missouri.

State Rep. Raychel Proudie, a Democrat from Ferguson, told lawmakers Monday that she didn’t intend to speak during the House’s debate of the bill. But thinking about how people might try to enforce the restrictions worried her.

The law may have an outsized effect on Black women, who Proudie says are too often “masculinized.”

“How do we enforce this when someone decides they don’t want to face an athletic team and says the players look a little too masculine,” she said, worrying that they might inflict “invasive tests” to determine an athlete’s sex.

Seitz did not comment on the prospect of athletes being subject to physical inspection, reiterating that the bill was only “removing the sunset” from a law currently in effect.

The bill now heads to the Senate for consideration.

Bill to make transgender athlete ban permanent passes Missouri House

GENTRY COUNTY —Three people were injured in an accident just before 8:30a.m. Thursday in Gentry County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2018 Ford F150 driven by a 28-year-old King City man was northbound on U.S. 169 at the King City city limits. The pickup crossed the center line and struck a southbound 2011 GMC Sierra driven by a 26-year-old King City man, head-on.&nbsp;

EMS transported both drivers and a 56-year-old male passenger in the GMC pickup to Mosaic in St. Joseph. The drivers and the passenger were not wearing seat belts, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

3 hospitalized in St. Joe after head-on pickup crash

Area residents are encouraged to practice safe weather procedures next week during during Severe Weather Preparedness Week.

Meteorologist Dan Holiday says this is the time of year to implement your plan of action during severe weather events. "It can be in the form of damaging winds or storms or tornados, really anything that could damage your home, vehicle or you. You should know where your safe place is going to be"

Holiday adds the Midwest often sees the most severe weather between late April into early June. "However, by the time we get to mid-March, there are weather ingredients that come together and we can see more significant weather patterns."

Missouri will hold a statewide tornado drill on March 4, with a suggested time of 11:00 a.m.

Sgt. Shane Hux, with the Missouri State Highway Patrol Troop H in St. Joseph, recommends keeping an eye on the weather, especially if you are driving. "The important thing to remember is that severe storms can form very quickly."

Hux says if a tornado is spotted, get into the nearest building as quickly as possible for shelter. Hux emphasizes that drivers should not take shelter under overpasses. "Overpasses are not safe during tornados. Get into a nearby building. However, if you're driving in rural areas and see a funnel cloud, take cover in the nearest ditch and cover your head, but watch for rapidly-rising water."

Hux notes some other tips to help prepare for severe weather:

1. Never attempt to drive through water on the road

2. If you become stuck in water, always move to higher ground if you can safely do so

4. Dial Star 55 to connect with the nearest Troop headquarters

Stay ahead of spring weather during Severe Weather Preparedness Week

A 44-year-old Columbia, Missouri, man has been sentenced to 15 years in federal prison for a multi-state crime spree involving drug trafficking and firearm possession, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office.

Walter Antwine Moore received his 180-month sentence from U.S. District Judge Greg Kays following guilty pleas to drug distribution and possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.

The legal proceedings consolidated crimes committed across three different jurisdictions between late 2022 and early 2023.

The earliest incident occurred on December 6, 2022, at a casino in Quapaw, Oklahoma. After losing over $1,000 at a blackjack table, Moore became belligerent toward a dealer and made threats involving "yellow police tape and sirens." When Quapaw Marshals attempted a pat-down, Moore reached into his jacket and tried to flee. During a struggle with deputies, a baggie in Moore’s possession burst, scattering 913 blue fentanyl pills across the floor.

A month later, on January 7, 2023, police in St. Joseph, Missouri, responded to a convenience store report of a man stealing potato chips and attempting to sell drugs. Upon searching Moore’s vehicle, officers discovered:

The final confrontation took place on February 10, 2023, at a train station in Kansas City, Missouri. When interdiction detectives questioned Moore upon his arrival, he became confrontational and attempted to run. After being tackled by tactical officers, investigators recovered a cellophane-wrapped bundle nearby containing approximately 2,300 fentanyl pills.

The case was a collaborative effort between the Western District of Missouri and the Northern District of Oklahoma. The investigation involved multiple agencies, including the DEA, ATF, the Quapaw Nation Marshals Service, and various regional drug task forces. Moore was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Trey Alford and Adam McConney.

Columbia man gets 15 years after St. Joe, Kansas City, Oklahoma drug busts

Missouri Western State University is reporting a second consecutive year of spring enrollment growth, fueled by a significant rise in student retention and a surge in local freshman enrollment.

According to recent spring census data, the university’s total headcount rose to 3,132 students, a 1.52% increase over the previous year. This growth highlights a sustained upward trend for the institution following several years of strategic reorganization.

The most significant data point in the census was a 5% increase in overall Fall-to-Spring retention. University officials noted that the gains were particularly strong among non-traditional students. Retention for adult learners (ages 25 and older) jumped 7%, while traditional student retention saw a 3% uptick.

“MoWest continues to build meaningful momentum, not only in who is choosing us, but in how well we are supporting students once they arrive,” said Dr. Elizabeth Kennedy, president of Missouri Western. She attributed the success to a sharpened focus on the student experience and expanded support initiatives.

The university saw a major influx of new degree-seeking freshmen, with an increase of 126 students compared to last spring. Much of this growth originated locally; Buchanan County student headcount rose by 8.54%, while total enrollment across the university’s entire service region grew by 3.82%.

New student pipelines also showed modest but steady gains. Transfer enrollment increased by 2.9%, and new first-time, first-year students rose by 2.33%.

The enrollment report highlighted several academic programs that are driving current interest. Growth was most notable in healthcare, education, and technology sectors, including:

University leadership credited the alignment of these academic programs with regional workforce demands as a key factor in attracting both traditional and adult learners. As the university looks toward the Fall term, officials say they plan to continue implementing strategic initiatives aimed at expanding regional access and maintaining this upward trajectory.

MWSU reports second consecutive year of spring enrollment growth

For a fifth consecutive year, spring enrollment at Northwest Missouri State University has surpassed 7 ,000 students.  

University President Lance Tatum says it's a testament to the hard work and dedication of the faculty and staff at the university 

“Everyone is very focused on building enrollments and building sustainable enrollments,” Tatum tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.  “So, to see that there was success again this spring just reassures that we are on the right path.” 

Tatum says the culture developed at Northwest has made the university an attractive spot for students, due to focus on its students 

"I’m really proud of the way in which our staff and faculty have really kind of leveled up to make sure that students who arrive on campus get a great first start in the fall and then choose to continue with us through the spring and beyond,” Tatum says. 

Spring enrollment at Northwest was 7, 674 students.  Among that number there were 4,315 undergraduate students, which marks a 4% increase from the previous year.  

Tatum says there has been a more focused approach on growing that undergraduate population of students on campus in Maryville, by developing new strategies 

"We have invested heavily in our admissions recruiting processes, we’ve brought on new software platforms, we’ve expanded our creative, we’ve increased our exposure and frequency on our social media platforms really focusing on finding the right fit student for Northwest,” Tatum explains.  “And I think that’s really the secret that we’re really focused on, and that is not just quantity of numbers, but finding the right students in terms of Northwest satisfying what they’re trying to accomplish in their collegiate career.” 

With the positive enrollment this year, Northwest saw an 88% retention rate, as well as a 94% persistence rate which tracks students who complete their degree programs.  

Tatum says that 88% is good, but the goal is to be even higher 

"Our goal is to get above 90%, I would love for us to be somewhere in that 90 to 91% range,” Tatum says.  “I think that really shows that we’re recruiting students to Maryville and then they’re choosing to stay beyond that first semester.” 

Tatum is aware that the 90 to 91 percent is a stretch goal and that there are a number of factors that may cause students to leave college between the fall and spring 

"In some cases, students get here, it’s not the place they thought they were coming to for whatever reason, so they leave after their fall semester,” Tatum explains.  “You know there’s financial considerations that sometimes play into this, students miscalculate the amount of cost there is with attending a university, and so they can’t go beyond their first fall semester.” 

Tatum though believes to push the number up is the first step in building the full retention number, in terms of getting first from fall to spring, then your first to second year, and so on.  

Typically, enrollment numbers drop in the spring semester, but Northwest has seen consistent numbers since 2022, when the university had a record of 8,817 students enrolled. 

You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.

NWMSU President Tatum thrilled by fifth straight year of positive spring enrollment

KFEQ Morning Sports

The wheat market led row crops higher on Friday, shaking off an otherwise sluggish week as traders took Thursday's successful hold of chart support, and lack of a deal between the U.S. and Iran as reason enough to halt profit-taking and follow the influence of higher crude oil prices to close the week. Along those lines, there were reports that Thursday's negotiations made some progress, and talks are expected to continue. Meanwhile, the surge in wheat prices positively influenced corn futures as well, which rose for the third straight session while covering technical ground. Soybeans were mixed through much of the session, struggling with resistance and hedging pressure as prices tread among November highs currently, but well supported to the downside by trade optimism and concerning conditions for the Argentine crop and ultimately managing a very strong close for the week. In outside markets, equities moved sharply lower again with the Dow Jones Industrial Average threatening a monthly loss for February, which would be the first monthly loss since April of 2025.

May corn closed up 5 cents and July corn was up 4 3/4 cents. May soybeans closed up 7 1/4 cents and July soybeans were up 6 1/2 cents. May KC wheat closed up 18 1/4 cents, May Chicago wheat was up 17 cents, May Minneapolis wheat was up 14 cents.

Live cattle futures posted active pressure across all futures contracts, with spot month February contracts trading $2 per cwt lower, while other nearby contracts traded $3 to $3.60 per cwt lower. Continued strong pressure in outside markets is adding additional pressure to the entire live cattle complex. Cash cattle markets are starting to improve with light trade reported in parts of Kansas at $244, $5 lower than last week's weighted averages. A few live deals are also being reported in parts of Nebraska. Some bids are now on the table in Texas, but so far, they are being passed. Boxed beef prices are Higher: choice up $1.08 ($378.97) and select up $3.44 ($374.23) with a movement of 48.35 loads (38.87 loads of choice, 2.46 loads of select, no loads of trim and 7.02 loads of ground beef).

Feeder cattle futures were leading the market lower Friday, as buyer support seemed to crack during the Thursday trading session. The overall lack of buying interest stepping into the market during initial trade Friday in outside markets seemed to leave even more pressure flooding into the complex. Spot month contracts held the best at this point with prices over $5 per cwt lower at midday, while other nearby contracts held $7 to $7.50 per cwt losses as traders have not only focusing on outside market pressure, but also a lack of market stability through the entire beef complex at the end of the month.

Lean hog futures once again were the quiet and more stable livestock market of the complex, with prices mixed within a very narrow trading range despite the aggressive selling pressure flooding into both the cattle trade and outside financial markets. April futures continued to trade higher through the morning and heading into midday, with a 30-cent gain developing. The rest of the complex remained slightly under pressure with losses of 5 to 15 cents per cwt holding in most nearby contracts. The overall lack of direction in both pork market technical trade as well as stability in market fundamental direction through late February seems to be a welcome relief compared to the market pressure across other markets.

<a href="https://dehayf5mhw1h7.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/356/2026/02/27140315/web-closing-markets-1.mp3">Click HERE for audio</a>

Commodity markets daily recap

Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins announced the imminent disposal of USDA’s South Building and Braddock Place, designed to reduce the real estate footprint of the U.S. Government in the National Capital Region. “This is a long overdue move to protect the American taxpayer dollars from being wasted on expensive real estate inside the Washington, D.C., area when our government should be closer to the producers we serve,” Rollins said. 

“More than 85 percent of the South Building is unoccupied, and there’s a $1.6 million backlog in deferred maintenance.” She also said it’s “unacceptable” to put these costs on the U.S. taxpayer. “We’re being strong stewards of taxpayer dollars while also ensuring top-notch customer service and fulfilling our promise to American farmers,” Rollins added. USDA Deputy Secretary Stephen Vaden added that the massive, underutilized real estate footprint wasn’t sustainable in the current USDA budget. 

USDA relocation plans moving forward

The Fertilizer Institute voiced strong support for key conservation, innovation, and nutrient stewardship provisions included in the House Agriculture Committee’s Farm Bill proposal. The organization is grateful that Chairman GT Thompson recognized the important role that nutrient stewardship and conservation technologies play in helping farmers produce abundant, affordable food while protecting natural resources. “These provisions in the draft Farm Bill reflect a practical, science-based approach to strengthening American agriculture,” said Corey Rosenbusch, president and CEO of the Institute. 

Of particular importance to TFI is the inclusion of a clear definition of plant biostimulants, as well as an exclusion to ensure that these innovative, nutrition-based products are not regulated as pesticides. “Incentivizing precision agriculture and enhanced efficiency technologies through conservation programs is a smart investment,” Rosenbusch added. “These tools help farmers get the most out of their applied fertilizer and deliver economic benefits on the farm while enhancing environmental protections.” 

Fertilizer Institute applauds Farm Bill 2.0 

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

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

The live cattle complex traded mostly lower into Thursday's closing bell, as the market seems to be holding its breath, unsure what's going to shake out in this week's fed cash cattle market and whether or not a strike is going to happen at JBS's plant in Greeley, Colorado. And with the market nearing resistance pressure, traders are simply unwilling to advance the contracts without further fundamental support. There are bids currently on the table in Nebraska and Texas, but no cattle have traded yet. Asking prices are noted at $388 to $390 in the North and at $250-plus in the South. Boxed beef prices were mixed: choice down $0.24 ($378.99) and select up $3.79 ($370.86) with a movement of 49 loads (28.44 loads of choice, 5.69 loads of select, 4.04 loads of trim and 10.55 loads of ground beef).

The feeder cattle complex was feeling the full effect of the market's underlying uncertainty as its contracts traded $5.00 to $6.00 lower for the bulk of Thursday's session. Without seeing the live cattle contracts trading higher -- and still no reassurance as to what's going to come of this week's fed cash cattle trade -- the feeder cattle contracts were left to trade sharply lower.

After an impressive seven-day rally, some of the nearby lean hog contracts traded slightly lower into Thursday's closing bell. With pork cutout values down again slightly, traders may be opting to reel back their support of the contracts until the market's fundamentals improve.

<a href="https://dehayf5mhw1h7.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/356/2026/02/26140648/web-closing-markets-1.mp3">Click HERE for audio</a>

The overall Rural Mainstreet Index dropped below a growth-neutral level of 50.0 for February. That’s according to the most recent monthly survey of bank CEOs in rural areas of a ten-state region dependent on agriculture or energy. The region’s overall reading for February fell to 47.9 from 52.0 in January. This marks the 12th time that the index has dropped below growth-neutral since January 2025. “Due to weakness in the farm economy, especially for grain, about 75 percent of bankers support additional Congressional financial support for the agriculture sector,” said Ernie Goss of Creighton University. “They said pullbacks in farm exports during 2025 continue to undermine the regional farm economy.” 

The February survey showed farm loan delinquency rates plateauing at a modest rate of less than 1.5 percent. The Farm and Ranchland Price Index also fell below growth neutral at 45.5. The overall index ranges from 0 to 100, with growth neutral at 50.0.

February Rural Mainstreet Index falls below growth neutral

A new ten percent U.S. tariff on goods from around the world took effect on Tuesday. Meatingplace said a list of tariff exemptions included beef, some fertilizers, and metals like steel and aluminum that are already under Section 232 national security tariffs. The ten percent tariff under Section 122 was announced last week after the Supreme Court struck down President Donald Trump’s widespread use of tariffs, in place since February 2025. “Section 122 only allows tariffs for 150 days without congressional action,” Meatingplace said. “The President had said over the weekend he was raising them to 15 percent, the cap set in Section 122, but Tuesday’s action remained at ten percent.” 

Fertilizers that are exempt from the new import tariffs include urea, ammonium nitrate, UAN, ammonium sulfate, along with DAP, MAP, and others. Ammonia, sulfuric acid, and sulfur are not exempt, unless they are imported via the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Trade Agreement.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Beef, most fertilizers exempt from new tariffs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Farm groups urge Congress to move quickly on 2026 farm bill

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

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

U.S. meat exports face growing global competition

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

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

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

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

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

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

Former President&nbsp;Bill Clinton&nbsp;is testifying Friday before members of Congress who are investigating convicted sex offender&nbsp;Jeffrey Epstein. Below is his opening statement.

Watch below, the first minutes of President Bill Clinton testifying under oath, via videotape, before a Federal Grand Jury about his relationship with former White House Intern Monica Lewinsky - before the Independent Counsel, held at White House, beginning at 1:03 pm., Monday, August 17, 1998.

🎥 Former President Bill Clinton's opening statement to House Oversight Committee

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating an alleged armed carjacking in Manhattan and have made arrests.

Just after 1:30p.m. Thursday, officers filed a report of robbery near Beck Street and Casement Road, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

A 28-year-old man reported a known 67-year-old male suspect stole his 2013 Dodge Ram truck at gunpoint. The truck was later recovered. Michael Ivy, 67, of Wamego, was arrested at 7:41 p.m. in the 1000 block of S. Seth Child Road for aggravated robbery.&nbsp; Ivy is being held on a $125,000 bond&nbsp;

&nbsp;Two other arrests were made as a result of the initial report, including Otto Tisdale, 40, of St. George, who was arrested at 5:29 p.m. in the 300 block of Allen Road. He is being held in the Riley County Jail on requested charges of violating the offender registration act, possession of opiate/opium/narcotic or certain stimulant, and for the use/possession of with intent to use drug paraphernalia in the human body.&nbsp;

Bailey Collier, 23, of Louisville (Kan.), was arrested at 1:46 p.m. in the 300 block of Allen Road for parole violation. Collier is being held without bond, according to the RCPD.&nbsp;&nbsp;

67-year-old Kansas man accused of armed carjacking 

More than 1,000 Missourians traveled to the Capitol to attend Disability Rights Legislative Day. Lawmakers from both chambers have said they will try to restore $80.7 million in cuts proposed by Gov. Mike Kehoe

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

Hundreds of Missourians with disabilities, their families and advocates crowded into the Capitol rotunda Wednesday for a rally on the state’s 25th annual Disability Rights Legislative Day, spilling into surrounding halls and onto the stairs framing the speakers’ podium.

<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2026/02/13/families-caregivers-plead-with-missouri-lawmakers-to-reverse-governors-disability-cuts/">Personal testimony from dozens of Missourians</a>&nbsp;earlier this month moved a bipartisan group of lawmakers to pledge to restore $80.7 million in cuts to disability care services recommended in Gov. Mike Kehoe’s&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2026/01/13/missouri-revenue-surplus-nearly-gone-as-gov-mike-kehoe-unveils-his-budget-plan/">proposed budget</a>&nbsp;for fiscal year 2027.

Suzie Parker, president of People First of Missouri, told the gathering that their stories are why lawmakers are scrambling to find funding for the services, which help people with disabilities live safely in their homes and participate actively in their communities.

“The impact is our story,” Parker said. “The impact is what [lawmakers] will take when they are arguing the bills on the House floor and how they affect our lives.”

Kehoe’s spending plan would cut $6.2 million in state spending on self-directed supports, a Medicaid program allowing individuals with disabilities or their families to hire and train specialized care staff. It would also slash $21.9 million in general revenue funding from structured group day programs, called day habilitation, and eliminate two other services, including one designed to help people with disabilities more independently navigate their communities.

In an online meeting of the Missouri SDS Family Support Group this week, steering committee member Larry Opinsky told more than a hundred attendees that as the House Budget Committee contemplates amendments to Kehoe’s budget, the time had come to focus on the Senate.

“This is a significant, significant thing that we’ve done in the House,” he said, “and [that] we’re planning on doing in the Senate.”

Like Parker, Opinsky said showing lawmakers the impact of the cuts has interrupted the routine of the Capitol.

“Jeff City operates on a regular basis with corporate lobbying,” Opinsky said. “…They are not used to hearing from individual families and stories from every corner of the state.”

Lawmakers’ discussion of the issue moved squarely into the Senate Wednesday, as Republican state Sen. Lincoln Hough of Springfield unveiled an alternative to Kehoe’s proposed budget.&nbsp;

Hough, who was&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/09/14/missouri-gop-senator-slams-party-leaders-for-forcing-vote-on-bills-without-allowing-debate/">ousted as chairman</a>&nbsp;of the Senate Appropriations Committee in September, proposed restoring Kehoe’s cuts to disability services with $105 million, including $32 million in general revenue. To obtain more revenue for all of state government, Hough’s plan would take money from funds the state&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/06/03/a-piece-of-history-for-your-house-missouri-auctions-stone-salvaged-from-capitol-building/">set aside in 2022</a>&nbsp;and 2023 for an underground expansion of the Capitol.

After Hough began introducing his budget package, Republican state Sen. Rusty Black of Chillicothe, who chairs the Senate Appropriations Committee, said in a press release he intends “to work with colleagues to restore these cuts [to disability services] as the Senate builds its budget.”

As lawmakers pitch ideas to sustain funding for these services, advocates cautioned that some of their proposals would be partial or short-term fixes, or entail cutting other parts of Missouri’s social safety net.

Republican state Rep. Darin Chappell of Rogersville, chair of the House subcommittee overseeing health, mental health and social services, said Monday that he&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2026/02/23/missouri-house-passes-supplemental-spending-bill-that-pushes-state-budget-to-55-billion/">plans to slice $500 million in general revenue spending</a>&nbsp;from those departments’ budgets before they leave his desk, though he reiterated his promise to do his “dead-level best” to fund the disability services.

It’s not clear yet what would be targeted for cuts, or what Republican state Rep. Dirk Deaton of Seneca, chair of the House Budget Committee, would send to the full chamber.&nbsp;

But Christina Ingoglia, director of policy advocacy for the Missouri Developmental Disabilities Council, told The Independent that any cuts to the state’s safety net would impact people with disabilities.

“People with developmental disabilities are in all these populations,” Ingoglia said.&nbsp;

Lawmakers are also trying to generate funds from video lottery machines that would be licensed under a bill&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2026/02/18/missouri-house-narrowly-passes-bill-to-regulate-gray-market-slot-machines/">narrowly passed in the House last week</a>. An&nbsp;<a href="https://documents.house.mo.gov/billtracking/bills261/amendpdf/6459H03.18H.pdf" target="_blank">amendment</a>&nbsp;proposed by Republican state Rep. Melanie Stinnett of Springfield would earmark proceeds from an annual $250 fee per machine to fund “community services and support” for people with developmental disabilities.

Stinnett told The Independent that the measure could generate $7 million to $10 million annually after a transitional period when “gray-market” machines would be phased out.&nbsp;

That would not be enough to replace the $28.6 million in proposed cuts to disability services. Opinsky told The Independent that the amendment still “could be a piece of the puzzle.”&nbsp;

The&nbsp;<a href="https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB2989&amp;year=2026&amp;code=R" target="_blank">video lottery bill</a>, sponsored by Republican state Rep. Bill Hardwick of Dixon, could encounter headwinds in the Senate. Senate President Pro Tem Cindy O’Laughlin, a Shelbina Republican, has suggested that because federal courts have ruled the machines illegal, the state should be “clearing them out.”

O’Laughlin wrote in a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10240865124508050&amp;id=1312548800" target="_blank">social media post</a>&nbsp;last week that the state should only make cuts impacting disabled Missourians “if there’s nowhere else to turn” and suggested finding savings through a “hiring and wage freeze” for state employees.&nbsp;

Stinnett said that if the bill carrying her amendment fails, she will “continue to search for other options” to fund the services.

“I viewed this as a really unique opportunity, especially in a tighter budget year, to find a space to create something that could not only be funded by this bill, but if created, then could accept grants and other funds,” Stinnett said.

Amid the buzz about potential funding sources, disability advocates and Missourians with disabilities at the Capitol this week emphasized the importance of services that help people play an active role in their communities.

Tierra Taylor, a direct support professional at United Cerebral Palsy in St. Louis, said day habilitation provides essential support to individuals with high needs.

“What other help would they have?” Taylor asked. “What other support would they have?”

Tosha Harper, a manager at Rainbow Abilities Center in Union, told The Independent that in addition to teaching life skills, the center lets clients have fun.

Outings are a highlight for Troy Kirk, who has been attending day habilitation at the center for seven years. He’s been to baseball games, a pickleball event center and the Anheuser-Busch Brewery in St. Louis. He said these experiences have been “fantastic.”

His message to lawmakers? “No cuts, no buts, buy me lunch!”

Missouri lawmakers explore options to restore disability services funding

On February 27, the Department of State authorized the departure of non-emergency U.S. government personnel and family members of U.S. government personnel from Mission Israel due to safety risks.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In response to security incidents and without advance notice, the U.S. Embassy may further restrict or prohibit U.S. government employees and their family members from traveling to certain areas of Israel, the Old City of Jerusalem, and the West Bank. Persons may wish to consider leaving Israel while commercial flights are available.

Country Summary:&nbsp;Terrorist groups, lone-actor terrorists and other violent extremists continue plotting possible attacks in Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza. Terrorists and violent extremists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities. The security environment is complex and can change quickly, and violence can occur in Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza without warning. Increased regional tensions can cause airlines to cancel and/or curtail flights into and out of Israel.

Some areas have increased risk. Read the&nbsp;<a href="https://mcas-proxyweb.mcas-gov.ms/certificate-checker?login=false&amp;originalUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com.mcas-gov.ms%2F%3Furl%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Flinks-2.govdelivery.com%252FCL0%252Fhttps%253A%25252F%25252Ftravel.state.gov%25252Fcontent%25252Ftravel%25252Fen%25252Finternational-travel%25252FInternational-Travel-Country-Information-Pages%25252FIsraeltheWestBankandGaza.html%252F1%252F0101019c9e328878-f8614486-ee74-479c-a2d5-30d64660914e-000000%252FAh2FYzHTLzqz7nPsda0poqOfEdN6BpRzR5XGiLnZW3c%253D446%26data%3D05%257C02%257CAlbelbeisiE%2540state.gov%257Ca5ffb6cc3a7a42802cc708de75dcfdce%257C66cf50745afe48d1a691a12b2121f44b%257C0%257C0%257C639077789170603338%257CUnknown%257CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%253D%253D%257C0%257C%257C%257C%26sdata%3Dyx1o17QzmpCQFyVTI%252FRkC2M6JBm7WumzEwrlhONt4NA%253D%26reserved%3D0%26McasTsid%3D20893&amp;McasCSRF=af70f2d6e5704a15882d352f35afde4c9eb324eb761bcdec8771c8624f62e229" target="_blank">country information page&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;for additional information on travel to Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza.

Visit the CDC page for the latest&nbsp;<a href="https://mcas-proxyweb.mcas-gov.ms/certificate-checker?login=false&amp;originalUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com.mcas-gov.ms%2F%3Furl%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Flinks-2.govdelivery.com%252FCL0%252Fhttps%253A%25252F%25252Fwwwnc.cdc.gov%25252Ftravel%25252Fdestinations%25252Ftraveler%25252Fnone%25252Fisrael%25253Fs_cid%253Dncezid-dgmq-travel-single-001%252F1%252F0101019c9e328878-f8614486-ee74-479c-a2d5-30d64660914e-000000%252FZkzxZMKzbhGrklHD4F4l6vPBvgKxOnBxzqtS8v-moDQ%253D446%26data%3D05%257C02%257CAlbelbeisiE%2540state.gov%257Ca5ffb6cc3a7a42802cc708de75dcfdce%257C66cf50745afe48d1a691a12b2121f44b%257C0%257C0%257C639077789170615806%257CUnknown%257CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%253D%253D%257C0%257C%257C%257C%26sdata%3DVCXcsKAmRUhojPQaQuN8wkY3Bnn4mor3Saxy93WPsBw%253D%26reserved%3D0%26McasTsid%3D20893&amp;McasCSRF=af70f2d6e5704a15882d352f35afde4c9eb324eb761bcdec8771c8624f62e229" target="_blank">Travel Health Information&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;related to your travel.

If you decide to travel to Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza:

Israel – Reconsider Travel (see below for additional information regarding areas near the Lebanese and Syrian borders)

Reconsider travel due to&nbsp;terrorism, and civil unrest.

The security situation in Israel, including Tel Aviv and Jerusalem is unpredictable, and U.S. citizens are reminded to remain vigilant and take appropriate steps to increase their security awareness as security incidents, including mortar and rocket fire and armed UAV intrusions and missiles, can take place without warning.

U.S. government employees in Israel under Chief of Mission security responsibility are currently restricted from personal travel to the following locations:

Any official travel of U.S. government personnel within these areas requires approval from the Embassy’s security office.

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