The St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce opened the doors to show off a new space in downtown to help entrepreneurs get their business ideas off the ground.  

The Launch Pad opened officially at the beginning of this year, after a soft launch in December, giving business owners a co-working space in northwest Missouri.  

Chamber of Commerce President Natalie Hawn says there's already been successes, with the building nearly full, including with an exciting tech start up 

"That was really just officing out of what space he could find, if it was Parkway or a coffee shop or Smooth Endings, and we were able to really get him an office space,” Hawn tells reporters.  “And he’s already gone from one office space to three, plus additional cubicles, he's added three employees since he started here and he relocated one of those employees from Los Angeles.” 

Hawn says that type of synergy is exactly what is being looked for in the space downtown.  It also offers several resources to entrepreneurs to get their businesses started.  

Hawn says the space is available to all of northwest Missouri, and provides whatever business owners might be looking for 

"We’re having classes come up on how to prepare for World Cup, we just had a class on how to learn AI, how to code, how to make an app in a day,” Hawn explains.  “So, I think no matter where you are on that journey, we’ll have a resource for you.” 

Hawn says the space is also going to be adding several other resources for people, such as a podcast studio, to continue adding opportunities for people to be able to utilize the Launch Pad.  

Jamie Donaldson, co-owner of Juniper Lane in St. Joseph, says having the resources to know how to start a business in one space is convenient for entrepreneurs. 

"Instead of having to do all the Googling and being like well how am I supposed to start a business, you have one spot to go, you know you’re getting answers from somebody who understands running a business, operating a business, and can send you in the right direction without feeling like you’re having to do all that leg work yourself and then wondering if you found the right answers to begin with,” Donaldson says. 

Donaldson also points to the collaboration at the space being huge for business owners, with the space giving entrepreneurs the space to work together closely and become more of a unit. 

(You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.)

Launch Pad officially opens to help business owners get off the ground and running

The North Central Missouri College Foundation has officially opened its General Scholarship Application for the upcoming 2026–2027 academic year. 

Students planning to enroll full-time for the Fall 2026 semester are encouraged to submit their applications through the NCMC website. To receive priority consideration, applicants must submit their materials by Wed., April 1, 2026, at 4:30 p.m.

The foundation has a proven track record of easing the financial burden of higher education. During the previous 2025–2026 academic year, the NCMC Foundation awarded more than $360,000 to over 365 students. These scholarships are made possible by generous donors who are dedicated to making college more accessible for everyone.

The online application is designed for simplicity. By completing just one general application, incoming, returning, and transfer students are automatically matched with every scholarship for which they qualify. Selection criteria vary across different awards but generally include:

Students can apply directly at <a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncmissouri.edu/foundation/scholarship/">ncmissouri.edu/foundation/scholarship/</a>. Please note that eligibility requires full-time enrollment at any NCMC campus or through their online programs.

Those selected are also invited to attend the annual scholarship reception held each October to celebrate their achievements and connect with the foundation. For any questions regarding the process, contact Kristi Varner, Scholarship Coordinator, at (660) 357-6321 or&nbsp; kvarner@pirates.ncmissouri.edu.

NCMC Foundation opens 2026–2027 scholarship applications

The City of St. Joseph is reminding area residents that the last day to drop off live Christmas trees at the Drake Softball Complex disposal site is Saturday, Jan 31.

The drop off site is located at 22nd Street and Southwest Parkway. The trees will be removed and taken to be mulched. Be sure that all ornaments, tinsel and tree stands have been removed.

Jan. 31 is the last day to drop off Christmas trees at St. Joe disposal site

KFEQ News 01/29/2026

KFEQ Morning Sports

The Andrew County Sheriff's Dept and MSHP have reported that southbound Interstate 29 at the 56-mile marker is closed due to an overturned semi-truck completely blocking the highway at the 48 mile marker in Buchanan County. 

All traffic southbound is being diverted to Interstate 229. This also has the ramp from southbound U.S. 71 to Interstate 29 closed, and the ramp from Interstate 229 to southbound Interstate 29.

The ramp to go southbound at the 53 mile marker is also closed. 

At this time, Sgt. Shane Hux with the Missouri State Highway Patrol Troop H, says a passenger in the tractor-trailer suffered minor injuries.

Hux says the wrecker needs to safely remove the vehicle and cargo from the roadway. It is unknown when the highway will reopen.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol will post updates on social media.

Southbound lanes of I-29 closed due to wreck

A Dekalb County woman recently claimed a $100,000 top prize from a Missouri Lottery scratch-off ticket after a stroke of luck led her to double-check her results. 

The winning ticket was sold at SBJ Fuels, located at 1202 N. Walnut St. in Cameron.

The windfall was nearly missed, as the player did not initially notice a matching number while scratching the ticket. It was only after she used the Missouri Lottery app to scan the ticket that she realized she had actually won the game’s top prize.

The winner traveled to the Missouri Lottery regional office in Kansas City to officially claim her winnings on Jan. 20.

Cameron gas station sells $100,000 winning Missouri Lottery ticket

Authorities are investigating a fatal residential explosion and fire that occurred Wednesday evening in the 300 block of East Meadow Street in Smithville.

The Platte County Dispatch Center received reports of an explosion and structure fire at approximately 6:20 p.m. Reports indicate Smithville Police officers arrived on the scene within two minutes to find the residence fully engulfed in flames.

Fire crews from the Smithville Area Fire Protection District led the response, supported by mutual aid from the Kearney, Central Platte, Camden Point, and Edgerton-Trimble fire districts. The Northland Regional Ambulance District (NRAD) also provided assistance at the scene.

During the firefighting efforts, crews discovered one deceased individual inside the home. Officials stated that no other victims are believed to be involved at this time.

Utility providers Spire Gas and Evergy were called to the location to manage utility hazards. Firefighters remained on-site to extinguish remaining hot spots and secure the area.

The scene will be turned over to the Missouri State Fire Marshal’s Office for a formal investigation into the cause of the blast. No further details have been released at this time.

Fatal house fire reported in Smithville

WATCH: St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce hosts Mayor Candidate forum

Missouri Western State University Workforce Development is coming up with several new programs this year to help business owners and enhance workers.  

Director Rebecca Lobina says many of the programs announced this year come from the needs within the community in helping the ever-changing workforce.  

Lobina says one such program is this Friday as they will host a program about artificial intellegence, teaching people all its different uses as well as all the types of AI 

"What makes the most sense for you to use if you’re in graphic design, or if you’re in communications, or if you’re in advertising, or if you’re in manufacturing, or if you’re in healthcare, which AI app really will help the most for you?” Lobina says on the KFEQmunnity show.  “And then, the most important part of it I think, is just understanding the legalities behind AI.” 

Lobina adds this is designed as a beginner's course, so it's good for those possibly just starting a business as well.  The program is on Friday.  You can register online if spots are available. 

Programs range from this course on the uses of AI, to finances, to leadership training helping develop all different areas of need within the workforce in the region.  

Lobina says many of the trainings coming from listening to the needs within the community 

"We go out and we talk to the different industries that are out there and we say hey, what are you not getting, what do you need, what are the skill gaps that you’re seeing within your own workforce?” Lobina explains.  “Are they technical skills like AI are they soft skills like you need leadership, we have a leadership series, our next one comes up in March.” 

Lobina says the results of these trainings speak for themselves, but her department always seeks feedback from participants of the programs 

"We want to know that MoWest is providing quality trainings, quality education and that it's relevant, and the way that we find that out is just by directly asking those who are involved,” Lobina says.  “And so, we have done that, and we will continue to do that, and the feedback has been very positive, and we have had some information that has come back and said hey you know we think this course should be longer.” 

Lobina says that feedback often results in changes to programs, such as making them longer or shorter, or adding more.  

To view available trainings, you can visit MoWest Workforce Development online. 

(You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.)&nbsp;&nbsp;

New programs enhanced MoWest Workforce Development's efforts

March corn closed up 3 1/2 cents and May corn was up 3 1/4 cents. March soybeans closed up 7 3/4 cents and May soybeans were up 8 1/4 cents. March KC wheat closed up 9 1/2 cents, March Chicago wheat was up 12 3/4 cents, March Minneapolis wheat was up 2 1/4 cents.

Wheat futures again led the U.S. grain markets higher on Wednesday, putting in a double-digit move higher in Kansas City markets to the highest close in over two months. Corn and soybean futures were also higher, with corn futures catching an early burst of momentum following pro-E15 remarks by President Trump during his speech in Iowa on Tuesday, but eventually faded from daily highs amid a general lack of news to sustain prices. In outside markets, the U.S. dollar recovered after hitting four-year lows on Tuesday, but remains down sharply over the past week. Crude oil and other energy markets were firm as well and added a layer of support to ag markets at midweek.

The live cattle complex wasn't confident at the day's initial start, but the market had longer timeframe to trade, the complex grew stronger. The contracts pushed past the market's resistance and trending higher into the day's closing bell. It's somewhat questionable where traders were getting the additional support from this morning, as boxed beef prices were mixed and we've yet to see any trade in the fed cash cattle market. But maybe traders' confidence lies in the fact that they believe fed cash cattle prices will trade higher later this week and that Friday's Cattle Inventory report will be bullish. I hope all those claims come to fruit. At this point, no cash cattle trade has developed and both bids and asking prices remain elusive. Boxed beef prices are mixed: choice up $1.14 ($369.25) and select down $1.45 ($363.73) with a movement of 50 loads (31.60 loads of choice, 4.20 loads of select, 5.22 loads of trim and 8.48 loads of ground beef).

The feeder cattle complex was also trading higher into Wednesday's closing bell as the market finds it comforting to see the live cattle contracts trading in a positive manner. As long as the live cattle contracts maintain their upward momentum, it's likely that the feeder cattle contracts will as well.

The lean hog contracts were back to trading lower as the market seems to be facing some technical exhaustion after a significant rally over the last month. Thankfully, pork cutout values were still trading higher, so traders should find some support there, but for the meantime, the market's direction is lower.

<a href="https://dehayf5mhw1h7.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/356/2026/01/28143234/web-closing-markets.mp3">Click HERE for audio</a>

Commodity markets daily recap

Clean Fuels Alliance America sent a letter to President Donald Trump highlighting the biodiesel, renewable diesel, and sustainable aviation fuel industry’s contribution to U.S. energy security and rural prosperity. The President is embarking on visits across the country to highlight economic conditions. The letter emphasizes that the industry’s growth is at risk as farmers and fuel producers await regulatory rules, specifically the Renewable Fuel Standards for 2026 and 2027, and rules for the Section 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit that were due under the prior administration.

“Our industry has made substantial investments to meet America’s demand for energy security and rural economic prosperity,” CFA wrote. “Our progress is threatened by delays in policy decisions that should have been made in the previous administration, and we’re hopeful you will quickly finalize these policies and secure your promise as the most pro-biofuel president in history.” 

Clean Fuels Alliance wants 45Z rules finalized

Over 70 FFA student members serving as state officers in their respective states started the new year by exploring the history, culture, and agricultural practices of Spain through the National FFA’s International Leadership Seminar for State Officers. The Seminar is an annual program designed to develop awareness of global agriculture and enhance the cultural competency of student members. The traveling state officers help lead more than one million members in over 9,200 local FFA chapters in all 50 states, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. 

“During the trip, students had the opportunity to both demonstrate their knowledge and learn about diverse agriculture practices across the globe,” said Joe Martin, program specialist with the National FFA Organization. “These experiences overseas help state officers share the unique agriculture practices of Spain with members of their home state associations.” State officers on the trip came from Alaska, Delaware, Florida, Iowa, Missouri and multiple other states.  

FFA members travel to Spain for observation

March corn closed down 2 1/4 cents and May corn was down 2 cents. March soybeans closed down 6 cents and May soybeans were down 5 1/2 cents. March KC wheat closed down 11 cents, March Chicago wheat was down 7 cents, March Minneapolis wheat was down 5 1/4 cents.

Traders worked to remove weather related risk premium from U.S. wheat markets on Monday, with the severe cold event forecast to improve by midweek and decent snow cover across much of the U.S. leading to minimal crop damage thoughts for now. Meanwhile, corn and soybean markets also relaxed from firm closing prices on Friday, on a mix of negative influence from wheat as well as technical pressure. Outside markets were mixed with the story of the day being gold's record-breaking push over $5,000 per ounce for the first time ever on Monday. Investors continue to pour money into the commodity amid heightened geopolitical uncertainty, with markets now zeroing in on the possibility of another government shutdown with funding set to expire on Jan. 30.

Up until the last hour, the live cattle market was trading mostly mixed as traders seemed overwhelmed by the market's technical resistance. Lo and behold, as the noon hour neared, another gust of support seemed to overcome the live cattle complex. The market doesn't however seem confident in either direction as it's longing to see continued fundamental support to justify a higher trend. And it's not likely that enough support will develop until we see what happens in this week's fed cash cattle trade, which meant a teeter-totter like behavior today in the futures complex and the contracts finished softly lower. Still no trade has developed in the fed cash cattle complex and it's mostly likely that trade will be delayed until Thursday at the earliest and likely wait until Friday. It is assumed that prices will trend higher again this week as fed cash cattle supplies are tight, and packers can't afford to be short bought. Boxed beef prices are mixed: choice up $0.37 ($369.27) and select down $2.55 ($364.57) with a movement of 59 loads (42.36 loads of choice, 4.51 loads of select, zero loads of trim and 12.24 loads of ground beef).

The feeder cattle complex traded in the exact same manner as the live cattle complex is, as its market was taking more of a mixed approach into Tuesday's noon hour. More than anything, traders seem to want to keep the feeder cattle contracts aligned with the overall direction of the live cattle market. At the same time, traders know supplies are likely to remain thin in the near term and see that as a justification to keep the furthest deferred contracts trading higher, but the feeders likewise finished softly lower.

The lean hog complex traded fully higher into Tuesday's closing bell, although a couple of the nearby contacts are traded slightly lower for some of the session. More than anything, the market's uptick in consumer demand seems to be encouraging traders to continue to push the complex higher.

<a href="https://dehayf5mhw1h7.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/356/2026/01/27134519/web-closing-markets.mp3">Click HERE for audio</a>

Commodity market daily recap

House Ag Committee Ranking Member Angie Craig (MN) introduced the “Farm and Family Relief Act,” calling it a bill introduced to provide meaningful relief to family farmers. The bill would also help those getting crushed by inflation and higher costs caused by President Donald Trump’s tariffs and Republican cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. 

“Family farmers have been hit hard by tariffs and lost market opportunities,” Craig said when introducing the bill this month. “The Farm and Family Relief Act helps get America back on track by supporting farmers, foresters, and families together and putting an end to the president’s ill-conceived tariffs.” A new report from Joint Economic Committee Democrats said President Trump’s inflation cost the average family $1,625 in the past year. Fruit and vegetable prices are up 5.3 percent, while hardworking Americans paid $310 more for groceries in 2025 than the year before. 

House democrats introduce “Farm and Family Relief Act”

Deputy Agriculture Secretary Stephen Vaden said two companies have been working together to control the price of fertilizer in the U.S. by limiting supplies. Reports said Vaden’s collusion accusation against Mosaic and Nutrien could suggest the administration may take future steps to inject more competition into the markets, if it becomes necessary. During a webinar hosted by the National Agricultural Law Center, Vaden said, “This administration is going to do everything it can to ensure that farmers have the fertilizer they’ll need and at a price they can pay. We’re not going to permit these companies to do anything that might undermine that.” 

He also said Nutrien and Mosaic were responsible for over 90 percent of phosphate fertilizer and potash production in North America during 2024. Farm Action, an ag industry accountability group, said only seven companies control 70 percent of crop input sales, including Nutrien Ag Solutions, the retail business of Nutrien. 

Vaden accuses companies of fertilizer collusion

March corn closed down 2 1/4 cents and May corn was down 2 cents. March soybeans closed down 6 cents and May soybeans were down 5 1/2 cents. March KC wheat closed down 11 cents, March Chicago wheat was down 7 cents, March Minneapolis wheat was down 5 1/4 cents.

Last Friday was a whirlwind of developing factors for the live cattle market to note and keep track of, between the fed cash cattle that finally developed, and the monthly Cattle on Feed report that was released. Thankfully, the neutral to slightly bearish tone of the Cattle on Feed report was quickly overlooked by the strong developments in the fed cash cattle market, as traders elected to again push the live cattle contracts higher today. What will remain an obstacle for the market to manage this week is the technical resistance that's formed in the live cattle complex. There's an argument to be made that the market could potentially break through that barrier if fed cash cattle prices are higher again this week, but that's taking a fairly bullish look at the marketplace. Even if prices do trade higher again this week, there's a strong likelihood that traders won't want to challenge that threshold, especially considering that later this week, the highly anticipated Cattle Inventory report is set to be released. New showlists appear to be mixed, higher in Texas, but lower in Kansas, and Nebraska/Colorado.

Boxed beef prices are higher: choice up $0.33 ($369.25) and select up $3.58 ($365.97) with a movement of 50 loads (32.53 loads of choice, 3.84 loads of select, 4.95 loads of trim and 8.53 loads of ground beef).

The feeder cattle contracts were also trading higher as the market finds power and momentum in the fact that fed cash cattle prices continue to scale higher. So long as the live cattle contracts continue to trade higher, the feeder cattle complex will also likely do the same.

And last but not least, the lean hog contracts were also enjoying a mild rally into midday Monday. The market has seen steady support from consumers, which has helped encourage the contracts to continue to trade higher, although the market is continuing to drive to new contract highs when it does so.

<a href="https://dehayf5mhw1h7.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/356/2026/01/26140354/web-closing-markets.mp3">Click HERE for audio</a>

Growth Energy, the nation’s largest biofuel trade association, was very unhappy after it was announced that a legislative fix for year-round E15 was dropped from the January government funding bill. It was further incensed that Congress would instead form a “rural energy council” to formulate another compromise bill with petroleum interests, and with expectations for a vote in February. “What an incredible travesty as Congress picked refiners over American farmers and drivers today,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. 

“E15 delivers cost savings for consumers and generates long-term demand for American agriculture, facts that have been well-known for over a decade.” She also said the debate involves the simple act of allowing consumers the choice to buy a better value fuel year-round. This failure will lead to farmers missing out on a critical market during the worst farm crisis in four decades. “It’s imperative we get this over the finish line in an expedited manner,” Skor added.

Rural Energy Council is a “disgrace”

The Agriculture Council of America is proud to announce the celebration of National Ag Day on March 24, 2026. The annual event recognizes and celebrates the abundance provided by agriculture, acknowledging the essential role it plays in our daily lives. This year’s theme is “Agriculture: Together we grow: Celebrating 250 Years of Progress in Agriculture.” 

This year’s theme emphasizes the collaborative efforts of farmers, ranchers, and all stakeholders in the agricultural sector who work tirelessly to provide safe, abundant, and affordable products, and also recognizes 250 years of progress. A series of events is scheduled in Washington, D.C., and virtually, to mark the day, including an Ag Day Virtual Event. At 9:00 am, a livestream of events from the USDA will also be available. Ag Day at the USDA will run from 8:30 am to Noon at the USDA’s Whitten Patio, where attendees will hear from multiple speakers. 

National Ag Day activities announced

March corn closed up 6 1/2 cents and May corn was up 5 3/4 cents. March soybeans closed up 3 3/4 cents and May soybeans were up 3 1/4 cents. March KC wheat closed up 15 cents, March Chicago wheat was up 14 cents, March MIAX Minneapolis wheat was up 1 1/4 cents.

Friday was a generally positive close to a generally positive week for row-crop futures. Corn futures showed bullish life and vastly improved the technical situation for the March contract, thanks largely to a multi-year high for corn sold in the export market during the week ended Jan. 15. Meanwhile, wheat futures posted a double-digit gain on increased weather premium ahead of this weekend's winter storm, with the March KC contract posting its highest close since mid-November. Finally, soybeans also were positive on strong export sales as well but also on continued spillover strength from the soybean oil market.&nbsp;

The live cattle complex was trading sharply higher into midday Friday as traders have grown more confident, and some light cash cattle trade has developed. The feeder cattle complex also traded slightly higher, but its gusto this morning hasn't been as aggressive or notable as the live cattle market's, which could potentially be because demand in the countryside has been slightly off. &nbsp;The lean hog complex was trading mixed and ended in the red as the nearby contracts were trading a bit lower while the deferred months continue to scale higher.

<a href="https://dehayf5mhw1h7.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/356/2025/12/26205559/30001.mp3">Click HERE for Audio</a>

🎥 New videos show Alex Pretti scuffle with officers days before his death

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating the death of a child and have made two arrests.

Just before 6:30p.m. Tuesday, police t responded to a medical call in the 500 block of SW Buchanan Street in Topeka, according to a media release.

Upon arrival, Topeka Police Department officers located a 5-year-old girl who was transported by AMR to a local hospital with life-threatening injuries. She was pronounced deceased.

As a result of the investigation, 24-year-old Lia Corbin and 25-year-old Kyle Valle, both of Topeka, were transported to the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of First Degree Murder, Aggravated endangering of a child and Abuse of a child.

Kansas couple accused in abuse death of 5-year-old

DOUGLAS COUNTY — A group of four suspected scammers tried to make&nbsp; Walmart stores in Lawrence their next target, but the responding police officer called in the Kansas Highway Patrol to catch up with them and put an end to their travel plans, according to Lawrence Police.

A Kansas Highway Patrol Trooper, at the request of a Lawrence police, pulled the group over on Interstate 70 just west of Bonner Springs about 10:30 Tuesday night.&nbsp;

 Lawrence Officers then traveled to the scene and found suspected stolen merchandise, more than $6,000 in cash, numerous potentially fraudulent receipts, and evidence that the spree spread through the Kansas City metro area.

It began when officers were dispatched to Walmart on 33rd&nbsp;and Iowa in Lawrence about 9:30pm.&nbsp; The store’s alert asset manager told the officer he knew something was suspicious and had knowledge of similar scams.&nbsp;

We will detail the suspected deception here hoping it arms retailers with information to combat the elaborate scam.

Here’s how it works:&nbsp;The purchaser uses a fake card with specific instructions on the back.&nbsp; One of the cards in this case read, “ATTENTION: If cardholder exceeds daily limit for future transactions cashier must follow 2 step verification: SCAN ALL items, Input EXACT AMOUNT + ENTER to complete transaction.”&nbsp; It is our understanding that the purchaser then only partially slides the card into the payment device and when the cashier presses cash, the drawer opens and a receipt is printed.&nbsp; The cashier then believes the transaction is successful.&nbsp;Several variations of the scam likely exist -- all intended to intimidate and fool cashiers.

During Tuesday night’s interaction, four men approached a variety of cashiers with separate purchases and with returns including receipts. Some purchases were completed and some were not.&nbsp; As cashiers became suspicious, they contacted the asset manager. The manager got a description of the vehicle the men left in and called dispatch.

In total, the group left with about $4,400 worth of cash and merchandise.

The responding officer immediately alerted his fellow Lawrence officers and the Highway Patrol to be on the lookout for the vehicle. Officers ultimately learned that the men were in a car they rented in Michigan. They also recovered receipts worth thousands of dollars from various stores around Kansas City and another Lawarence Walmart.&nbsp; LKPD is in contact with the corresponding police departments and the investigation continues.

Police detail elaborate scam uncovered at Kansas retailer

WASHINGTON&nbsp;– U.S. Senator Jerry Moran on Wednesday spoke on the Senate floor to honor the victims of the January 29th, 2025, tragedy that occurred nearly a year ago when Flight 5342, originating from Wichita, Kansas, collided with a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter near Reagan National Airport (DCA), resulting in the loss of 67 lives.

“A year later, the memory of this tragedy, the deadliest aviation incident that America has witnessed in nearly 25 years, is as painful as it was when we first heard the news,”&nbsp;said Sen. Moran.&nbsp;“The victims were husbands and wives, fathers and mothers, sons and daughters, friends and coworkers.”“I can’t imagine the pain each of the families of the victims has experienced every day since January 29th,”&nbsp;concluded Sen. Moran.&nbsp;

“This week, their loss must feel especially hard as they face the anniversary of the plane crash. Today, we resolve to honor their legacy, work to make our skies safer and cherish their memories.”

Sen. Moran’s full remarks as prepared:

“Mr. President, I rise today to recognize and honor the 67 lives we lost nearly one year ago on January 29th, 2025.“On that night, Flight 5342 took off from Wichita, Kansas and flew toward our nation’s capital with 64 on board.“In Washington, D.C., a Black Hawk helicopter with three Army soldiers would soon be in the air as well.“Flight 5342 was just minutes away from a safe landing at Reagan National Airport, when the plane and Army helicopter collided over the Potomac River.

“Shortly after 9:00 pm, I received a call with the news that a flight from Kansas was involved in an accident in our nation’s capital. As I made my way to Reagan National Airport that night, the banks of the Potomac River were illuminated with lights from emergency responders who were searching the icy water of a crash site.

“At the airport, I was joined by local leaders and newly sworn in Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy. Our conversation that night was one of many that would span the course of the following year trying to understand how an accident like this could occur and how to prevent it from happening again.

“At the airport we learned the tragic news that there were no survivors. Of those who perished, seven were Kansans:“Kiah Duggins – a civil rights attorney and Wichita native – was set to begin teaching at Howard University School of Law.“Lindsey Fields – a professor at Butler Community College and the president-elect of the National Association of Biology Teachers – was traveling to our nation’s capital to advocate for the issues that mattered to her.“Bob and Lori Schrock – farmers from Kiowa, Kansas – were on their way to visit their daughter at college in Pennsylvania.

“Grace Maxwell – an engineering student from Wichita – was returning to college after attending her grandfather’s funeral in Kansas.

“Dustin Miller, an IT professional who grew up in El Dorado and was a lifelong Chiefs fan, told his mom he was going to try to make it back in time to watch his team play in the Super Bowl.“P.J. Diaz, of Wichita, was described by his loved ones as a world traveler who had been to 49 states. He especially loved cruises and had an extra-long cruise planned for later in the year.

“Sadly, 28 members of the U.S. Figure Skating community also lost their lives – young athletes traveling back from a National Development Camp in Wichita with their coaches and family members.“Maxim Naumov, a 24-year-old U.S. figure skater, lost both his parents, in the accident.

“In the wake of this tragedy, Maxim used his love of skating to overcome immense loss and now heads to the 2026 Olympic games, just weeks away, to achieve the lifelong dream he had shared with his parents. We all will be cheering him on.

“A year later, the memory of this night, the deadliest aviation incident that America has witnessed in nearly 25 years, is as painful as it was when we first heard the news. The victims were husbands and wives, fathers and mothers, sons and daughters, friends and coworkers.

“As we mourn the victims, we also remember the heroism, solidarity and love displayed that night. Hundreds of first responders worked tirelessly through the night and into the coming days. Strangers offered comfort, and people checked on their neighbors.

“Since January 29th, the families of the victims have tried to find meaning and purpose after the death of their loved ones and worked to eliminate the likelihood of an accident like this ever happening again.

“One family in particular, Tim and Sheri Lilley, lost their son, Sam, a co-pilot for Flight 5342. Following the tragic accident, the Lilley family have used their voice to become advocates for safer skies in honor of their son, Sam.

“I’m grateful for the advocacy of the families of the victims over the last year as they worked to advocate for changes at FAA and congressional legislation like the ROTOR Act.

“Thanks to their support, the Senate advanced this critical legislation last year. This was an important step, but our progress has been stalled in the House. The National Transportation Safety Board’s hearing just yesterday further confirmed that this legislation could have made a difference on January 29th.

“We cannot afford to waste any more time. I urgently insist the House of Representative quickly pass this legislation or amend it and pass it so we can find consensus.

“I want to commend the NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy and her team on their thorough investigation into the crash. Their report will guide Congress in the coming weeks in our efforts to ensure the safety of our skies.

“In addition to passing and implementing ROTOR Act, Congress must hold a hearing after the NTSB releases its final written report to review the findings and recommendations of the NTSB, determine what, if any, congressional action is necessary to implement these recommendations and make certain the FAA and Army are making the recommended changes, provide funding for further modernization of our aviation system, advance new technology at the FAA and train and support air traffic controllers.

“We cannot miss the moment to act and ensure lasting change.

“I cannot imagine the pain each of the families of the victims has experienced every day since January 29th. This week, their loss must be felt especially hard as they face the anniversary of the plane crash.&nbsp;

“Tonight, I want to remember those who perished. Sixty-seven lives that ended too soon.

“Today, we resolve to honor their legacy, work to make our skies safer and remember those we loved who lost their lives.”

🎥 Senator Moran honors victims of Flight 5342 one year after DCA tragedy

The Missouri House held the first hearing on a proposed constitutional amendment to expand the state sales tax. The breadth of that expansion, House Speaker Jon Patterson said, will be decided by future lawmakers

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>

During Wednesday’s hearing on Gov. Mike Kehoe’s plan to replace Missouri’s individual income tax with an expanded sales tax, the key word was trust.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HJR174&amp;year=2026&amp;code=R" target="_blank">proposed constitutional amendment</a>&nbsp;giving the legislature three years to overhaul state tax policies is open-ended —- it allows lawmakers to impose sales tax on any financial transaction exchanging goods or services.

In his&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2026/01/13/gov-mike-kehoe-wants-voters-to-decide-whether-missouri-should-eliminate-its-income-tax/">State of the State address</a>, the only parts of the economy Kehoe put off-limits was agriculture, health care and real estate. And as he presented the proposal to the House Commerce Committee, House Speaker Jon Patterson said everything else was up to lawmakers.

The state’s revenue needs will be protected by revenue triggers — at levels unstated in the proposed amendment — as the individual income tax is reduced and finally eliminated, Patterson said.

“It will be up to you to decide what trigger do we want, and make sure that it’s done in a responsible way, so that we don’t have things that have happened in other states,” Patterson said.

“So we’re asking the people to trust the legislature to raise their sales tax, to raise any other taxes that they see fit and to trust politicians to make those responsible decisions,” said state Rep. Nick Kimble, a Kansas City Democrat.&nbsp;

“Well, not any more than they trust you now,” Patterson said, triggering a round of laughter in the packed committee room.

The proposal, as written, puts nothing off limits. It includes a three-year exemption to the Missouri Constitution’s requirements that tax increases&nbsp;<a href="https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=X++++18(e)&amp;bid=32055&amp;constit=y" target="_blank">win voter approval</a>&nbsp;and that any tax “upon or measured by fuel used for propelling highway motor vehicles” be&nbsp;<a href="https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=IV++++30(a)&amp;bid=31846&amp;constit=y" target="_blank">earmarked for road needs</a>.

Patterson’s proposal seeks to end the personal income tax as early as Jan. 1, 2031. Income taxes on businesses and trusts would continue.

The committee did not vote on Wednesday. The next regularly scheduled meeting is next Wednesday and a vote could be held at that time.

If the measure is approved in both the House and Senate, it could be on a ballot as early as August.

The push to replace Missouri’s individual income tax is an effort to modernize the state’s tax structure, Patterson said. The individual income tax was first enacted in 1917 and a sales tax began in 1937.

The income tax is a drag on the state’s economy compared to states that have no personal income tax, he said. And the sales tax, which mainly applies to physical goods, is outdated because services, such as online streaming services, are exempt, he added.

“This is the first step in a long, methodical process that will take place if the citizens so choose to modernize our tax system and give people fairness in the tax system that we have,” Patterson said.

To bolster his arguments, proponents brought Aaron Hedlund, chief economist at White House Council of Economic Advisers, and Grover Norquist, founder of Americans for Tax Reform.

Hedlund is a former University of Missouri professor who now teaches at Purdue University.&nbsp;

About 25 years ago, Hedlund said, Missouri generated about 2% of the U.S. economy, while the share now is 1.5%.

“I’m sick of Missouri losing,” he said. “For 25 years, we’ve oftentimes been in the bottom 10 of economic growth. Prior to the income tax reductions that started about a decade ago, we were oftentimes in the bottom five at economic growth. People are voting with their feet, and they’re not choosing Missouri.”

Democratic members of the committee were skeptical of whether the tax proposal was the way to solve that problem. House Minority Leader Ashley Aune, a Kansas City Democrat, noted that Republicans have dominated Missouri politics for the past 25 years.

The GOP has controlled the state Senate since 2001, the Missouri House since 2003 and held the governor’s office for 14 of the past 26 years.

“I want to make the point that what we have been doing is not working,” Aune said. “I would posit that this is not the solution.”

Missouri’s personal income tax is almost flat, with a top rate of 4.7% on taxable incomes&nbsp;<a href="https://dor.mo.gov/forms/Withholding%20Formula_2026.pdf" target="_blank">greater than $9,436</a>. 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 is profits from the sale of property or other assets.

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

Sales tax is more complicated because local governments have a variety of levies they can put on the ballot. The basic state rate is 4.225%, with 3% dedicated to general revenue and the rest earmarked for public schools, conservation, state parks and soil conservation.

There are&nbsp;<a href="https://dor.mo.gov/pdf/rates/2026/jan2026.pdf" target="_blank">more than 50 locations</a>&nbsp;in the state where the total sales tax is 11% or higher after adding local option taxes.

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

One of the main focuses of testimony during Wednesday’s hearing was who would bear the greatest burden under an expanded sales tax. Opponents of the measure said wealthier Missourians would see their taxes decrease substantially while people of limited means will pay more in taxes.

After deductions, a married couple with a total income of about $36,000 pays no state income tax. The sales tax, however, would hit every purchase they make, opponents said.

Figures from the left-leaning Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy show that people in the lowest 20% of income pay about one-third more of their income in sales and other taxes in Tennessee, Texas and Florida than the same group in Missouri, said Jeremy LaFaver, a lobbyist for the Missouri Budget Project.

The top 1% of income earners in Missouri pay 5.7%, he said, while the same group in Florida pays 2.7%.

“They rely largely on consumer based taxes that impact low income, fixed income people,” LaFaver said.&nbsp;

For one lawmaker, reducing the burden on high-income earners is a benefit of the plan.

Wealthy individuals run the businesses that employ Missourians, said state Rep. Brian Seitz, a Republican from Branson.

“The wealthy pay way more in taxes,” he said. “The percentage may look smaller, but they actually paid quite a bit more, and they are the foundation of our state’s tax base.”

Dennis Ganahl, founder of Mo Tax Relief Now, said the transactions that would be taxed are those used by wealthier people.

“The people with the lower incomes are just buying goods,” Granahl said. “They aren’t buying CPAs or masseuses or dog walkers or hair stylists or pedicurists or manicurists. All those are services that are used by wealthier people.”

Lower income Missourians use services that would be taxed, Aune responded.

“That is one of the wildest things I’ve heard in this building, if I’m being honest,” she said. “And I’ve heard some crazy stuff.”

The Missouri Constitution currently bans sales taxes on&nbsp;<a href="https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=X++++25&amp;bid=32062&amp;constit=y" target="_blank">real estate transactions</a>&nbsp;and any&nbsp;<a href="https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=X++++26&amp;bid=36205&amp;constit=y" target="_blank">transactions not currently taxed</a>. Both were added to the constitution after initiative petition campaigns organized by the Missouri Association of Realtors.

The campaigns cost $4.3 million to protect real estate sales from taxation in 2010 and $5.6 million to add protections against sales taxes on services.

Jason Zamkus, a lobbyist for the realtors, reminded the committee in his testimony that voters approved both measures by wide margins. Kehoe’s statements that he wants to exempt real estate are not included in the proposal, he noted.

“While we appreciate the governor’s statement in the State of the State that it’s his intent not to impact the real estate industry, unfortunately, the proposals that are pending before you currently are silent on that issue,” Zamkus said.&nbsp;

The Realtors could be one of the most important opposition groups if the measure doesn’t include the protections for real estate sales.&nbsp;

“If we were willing to spend that much a decade ago,” he said after testifying, “we are certainly going to fight to protect it.”

Missouri GOP backs income tax repeal as critics warn sales taxes hit poor hardest

KANSAS CITY— A Kansas City man pleaded guilty in federal court for robbing a local bank with the use of a firearm.

Richie E. Manley, 50, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Stephen R. Bough, to one count of aiding and abetting bank robbery, along with one count of carrying a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, according to the United State's Attorney.

On Oct. 3, 2024, at approximately 10:43 a.m., Richie E. Manley&nbsp;entered a bank in Kansas City, Missouri.&nbsp; While speaking to a bank teller, Manley&nbsp;pulled out a handgun, later determined to be a Smith and Wesson, Model SD, .40 caliber pistol, and told the tellers “give me your money.” While pointing the pistol at the tellers, Manley told the tellers to give him the “hundreds.” The tellers provided the money from the bank drawers and Manley&nbsp;took the money and fled the bank. The bank reported an estimated loss of $2,155 from the robbery. The bank was federally insured by the FDIC.

Under federal statutes, Manley is subject to a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years in prison, up to life in federal prison without parole. The minimum and maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.

Armed suspect told KC bank teller to give me the “hundreds”

SALINE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after a chase in central Kansas.

&nbsp;On Tuesday evening, police were dispatched to&nbsp;Salina Regional Health Center for the report of a stolen vehicle, according to Salina Police&nbsp;Police Lt. Andrew Zeigler.

&nbsp;A silver&nbsp;2018 Ford Edge (valued at $20,000)&nbsp;was missing from the hospital's parking garage.&nbsp;A debit card and checkbook had also been left in the vehicle.&nbsp; It was determined the cards had been used at a couple of convenience stores in Salina.

Officers investigated the store and collected surveillance footage, as they spotted the vehicle in the&nbsp;1000 block of Park Street in Salina. When law enforcement arrived to the location, the vehicle fled and a pursuit ensued.

The vehicle traveled through several yards in the 1100 and 1200 blocks of Park Street and ended in an alleyway nearby. The driver, identified as 45-year-old Brent Corwin of Salina, then fled on foot and officers followed. A K9 was released and apprehended Corwin in the backyard of a residence on West Ash Street. Police booked Corwin into the Saline County Jail on requested charges of Theft, Obstruction and more.

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