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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Call for volunteers: United Way annual allocations process

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Missouri’s personal income tax is almost flat, with the top rate applying to taxable incomes greater than $9,436. There are significant exemptions from the tax, including&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/07/07/missouri-will-exempt-social-security-public-pension-payments-from-state-income-taxes/">all Social Security payments</a>, a share of retirement income and&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/04/07/missouri-lawmakers-set-to-pass-capital-gains-tax-cut-with-questions-about-its-total-cost/">capital gains</a>, which are the profits from the sale of property or other assets.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

KFEQ Morning Sports

HARRISON COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 5a.m. Wednesday in Harrison County.&nbsp;

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2023 Freightliner semi driven by a 28-year-old Cleveland, Tennessee, man was southbound on Interstate 35 five miles north of Pattonsburg. The semi travened into the median and the driver overcorrected.&nbsp; The vehicle returned to the road and overturned partially blocking the driving line.

North Missouri EMS transported the driver to Liberty Hospital. He was properly restrained, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

Driver hospitalized after semi overturns

The Missouri Small Business Development Center officially re opened in St. Joseph earlier this year on the campus of Missouri Western State University.  

After closing in March of last year, after being operated from Northwest Missouri State University, the Small Business Administration granted a contract to MoWest to launch the center, which opened in January.  

Entrepreneur Advisor Shelbie Wigington says since the center has returned there has been a very good response from business owners 

"A lot of people call and just ask simple questions that they weren’t able to before or just find resources around town,” Wigington says on the KFEQmunnity show.  “Just call and say hey I got this letter in the mail and says I need this, this, and this, I might not know the answer, but I can get them to the resources they need.” 

Wigington says the center helps owners answer many questions, some of the most common that are asked being about financing 

"A lot of people come in asking where to get funding from,” Wigington explains. “We educate entrepreneurs on the process, assist them with navigating that process, and then help them understand the best options for their particular situation, everyone’s situation is different, some people have really good credit, some people have no collateral, others vice versa, there are resources to help them improve their credit, financing, and we bring them in to get their full picture before so we can understand exactly what they need.” 

Wigington meets with business owners new and old to help guide them on what they need to help them succeed, with a unique perspective after helping start her own family business, Big Daddy and Sons Family Barbecue.  

Wigington says having helped in that venture helps her give owners tips on not just what they should do, but maybe some things she wishes they hadn't done along the way in starting the food truck 

"I can remember like getting an LLC and then 60 days later getting an EIN and then 90 days later saying oh crap we don’t even have a Missouri sales tax later, so a lot of it was just like, just come see me because you really don’t know all you need and I can help you make sure you have it all in line,” Wigington says. 

The Small Business Development Center is free to utilize for those looking to open a business, or those who already own a business.  You can contact the center to arrange an appointment. 

Renewed Small Business Development Center helping business owners thrive

Local families are invited to celebrate with first responders during the Hero Hunt Easter Egg Event on April 4. The festivities will take place behind City Hall from 2:00 - 4:00 p.m.

The main egg hunt is scheduled to begin at 2:30 p.m. and will be divided into three age categories:

The event offers children the opportunity to meet local police officers, firefighters, and EMS personnel while getting an up-close look at emergency vehicles. In addition to the hunt, the afternoon will feature a visit from the Easter Bunny, raffles, giveaways, and special prize eggs hidden throughout the grounds.

Organizers encourage attendees to bring their own baskets for the hunt. The event is free and open to the public, focusing on fostering community connections between residents and local emergency services.

St. Joseph to host ‘Hero Hunt’ Easter event with local first responders April 4

The Missouri Department of Public Safety has awarded St. Joseph the Missouri Blue Shield designation for 2026, recognizing the city’s commitment to law enforcement investment and community partnerships.

The program, established by Gov. Mike Kehoe in January 2025, honors Missouri municipalities that demonstrate measurable dedication to reducing crime and supporting police departments through training, equipment, and stakeholder collaboration.

“This designation is a reflection of the dedication and professionalism of the men and women of the St. Joseph Police Department,” said Police Chief Paul Luster. He credited the honor to the combined efforts of city leadership and community partners.

The designation makes St. Joseph eligible for a portion of $10 million in grant funding for law enforcement training and equipment, pending approval of the Governor’s State Fiscal Year 2027 budget by the General Assembly.

According to Mark James, Director of the Missouri Department of Public Safety, the program provided critical gear to over 200 communities last year, including:

To maintain the Blue Shield status, communities undergo an annual review to ensure they continue meeting public safety goals.

“We are incredibly proud,” said Mayor John Josendale. “This recognition reflects our steadfast support for the men and women of the St. Joseph Police Department. We will continue investing in the resources needed to keep our community safe.”

Gov. Kehoe noted that the initiative aims to highlight safer communities across the state, featuring participating towns on the Department of Public Safety website and executive social media channels.

St. Joseph earns Missouri ‘Blue Shield’ Designation for public safety

WATCH: St. Joseph Chamber hosts Board of Education nominee forum

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

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

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

Dairy Checkoff Launches “Dairy Does More”

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

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

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

Farmers Increasingly Rejecting Data Center Bids for Land

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

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

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

Fertilizer Prices Significantly Higher After Attack on Iran

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

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

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

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

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

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

Commodity markets daily recap

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

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

Farm machinery manufacturers facing headwinds

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

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

Farmer sentiment rebounds

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

USDA launches “One Farmer, One File” initiative

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

What Iran means for global fertilizer markets 

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

It should come as no shock headlines were dominated Monday with potential market implications to the spreading conflict in the Middle East which began over the weekend as the U.S. and Israel struck Iran and, in the process, killed Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and other leadership personnel. President Trump warned on Monday the operation could last a month if not longer, leaving investors and traders with simply more questions than answers at this point regarding the impact on energy trade in particular. The U.S. dollar surged higher on investor flight to safety, pressuring ag commodities as a result, particularly wheat which broke away from a recently strong tie to oil futures. Crude oil futures gapped higher to levels not seen since the first U.S. strike against Iran back in June of 2025. Normally, firm energy markets would be a reason to expect spillover bullishness in U.S. row crops, but the high degree of anxiety over several unknowns (notably how U.S.-China relations will hold up) was too much for prices to overcome.

<a href="https://dehayf5mhw1h7.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/356/2026/02/09204004/30001.mp3">Click HERE for Audio</a>

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

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

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

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

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

Properties Included In Transaction

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

Worlds of Fun sold as part of $342 million deal

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

&nbsp;The preliminary cause of the fire was determined to be an accidental electrical fire.&nbsp; Authorities released no additional details early Thursday.

One dead, 4 hospitalized after Kansas apartment fire

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

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

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

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

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

Aviation legend, former Cessna CEO has died

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


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

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

KIOWA COUNTY&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) arrested a Kiowa County Sheriff’s Office detention officer Monday afternoon for child sex crimes.

On Monday, March 2, at 2:00 p.m., KBI agents arrested Dustin Dean Chartier, 36, of Greensburg, at the Kiowa County Courthouse, according to a media release from the KBI.

 Chartier was arrested on requested charges of rape, aggravated sexual battery, indecent liberties with a child, lewd and lascivious behavior, and two counts of indecent solicitation of a child.

In December 2025, the Kiowa County Sheriff’s Office requested the KBI investigate allegations of sex abuse of a minor by a detention officer in 2021. Chartier was placed on administrative leave during the KBI investigation. While investigating the initial allegation, a second victim disclosed another sex abuse incident, prompting the KBI to open an additional investigation. The Kiowa County Sheriff’s Office was fully cooperative with the investigation.

Following his arrest Chartier was booked into the Reno County Correctional Facility.

Anyone with information related to this investigation is asked to call the KBI at 1-800-KS-CRIME. Anonymous tips can also be submitted online at www.kbi.ks.gov/sar.

KBI: Two child victims report sex abuse involving Kan. jail deputy 

The Department of War announced the death of two more Army Reserve Soldiers who was supporting Operation Epic Fury.

Chief Warrant Officer 3 Robert M. Marzan, 54, of Sacramento, Calif., was at the scene of the incident on March 1, 2026, in Port Shuaiba, Kuwait, and is believed to be the individual who perished at the scene, according to a statement from the DOW.

 Positive identification of Chief Warrant Officer 3 Marzan will be completed by the medical examiner.  The Soldier was assigned to the 103rd Sustainment Command, Des Moines, Iowa.

Maj. Jeffrey R. O'Brien, 45, of Indianola, Iowa, died on March 1, 2026, in Port Shuaiba, Kuwait, during an unmanned aircraft system attack. The Soldier was assigned to the 103rd Sustainment Command, Des Moines, Iowa.

Pentagon releases names of 2 more U.S. soldiers killed in Iran conflict

On their social media page the University of Notre Dame&nbsp; President Rev. Robert A. Dowd wrote, “Notre Dame mourns the loss of Lou Holtz, a legendary football coach, a beloved member of the Notre Dame family and devoted husband, father and grandfather.

"Among his many accomplishments, we will remember him above all as a teacher, leader and mentor who brought out the very best in his players, on and off the field, earning their respect and admiration for a lifetime. In the years since leaving the head football coach position, Lou, together with his beloved wife, Beth, supported Notre Dame in innumerable ways, among them making possible the refurbishment of four residence hall chapels and the construction of the Beth and Lou Holtz Grand Reading Room on the first floor of Hesburgh Library — tangible signs of their great love for their Catholic faith and the mission of Our Lady’s University. Whenever Notre Dame called to ask for his help, Lou answered with his characteristic generosity, and he will be sorely missed. The prayers of the entire Notre Dame community are with his family and many friends in this time of sorrow. May he rest in the peace and love of Christ.”

- University of Notre Dame President Rev. Robert A. Dowd, C.S.C.

Check the Post for additional details as they become available.

Legendary college football coach Lou Holtz dead at 89

JACKSON COUNTY, Kan.—Law enforcement are investigating two suspects on drug allegations.

Just after 11:30p.m. Feb. 28, a Sheriff’s Deputy conducted a traffic stop on U.S. Highway 75 at 102nd Road on a Toyota Tacoma, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.

A probable cause search of the vehicle was conducted. During the search of the vehicle, cocaine, marijuana and open alcohol containers were found.

Francisco Ventura-Cabrales, 50, of Topeka, was arrested and booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of possession of cocaine, possession of marijuana, driving while suspended, and transporting an open container.

Hector David Cerillo-Ventura, 29, of Topeka, was arrested and booked into the Jackson County Jail for transporting an open container.

Sheriff: Kan. men were driving with cocaine, open containers

BY&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/akaminski/">ANNA KAMINSKI</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/12/29/kansan-returns-to-the-catholic-church-as-the-states-first-woman-priest/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Kansas Supreme Court Justice Marla Luckert will retire later this month, an announcement from the court said.

Luckert&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/briefs/physicians-link-kansas-supreme-court-chief-justices-vehicle-accident-to-likely-stroke/">suffered a stroke</a>&nbsp;in October that led to a car accident. She relinquished public-facing duties before deciding in December to&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/12/19/kansas-supreme-court-chief-justice-to-retire-by-early-february/">step down from her position as chief justice</a>. She will abdicate her seat on the court on March 28.

“It has been my profound honor to serve the people of Kansas as a district court judge and Supreme Court justice the last 34 years,” Luckert said in a Tuesday press release. “Growing up in Goodland, I did not imagine I would one day serve on our state’s highest court, and I hope the blessings in my life inspire young women to reach for goals that may seem unattainable.”

Luckert spent 23 years on the Kansas Supreme Court. She previously was a Shawnee County district judge and the first woman in Kansas to be a chief district judge. Former Gov. Bill Graves appointed Luckert to the Supreme Court in 2003, and she became chief justice in 2019.

Under her guidance, the court prioritized collaboration among the three branches of government in addressing statewide issues such as&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/04/13/leaders-of-kansas-three-government-branches-coalesce-behind-quest-to-fix-mental-health-crisis/">mental health crises</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/08/22/kansas-supreme-court-plans-child-welfare-summit-to-forge-better-paths-forward/">child welfare</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/12/01/kansas-supreme-court-justice-tackles-states-severe-shortage-of-rural-attorneys/">rural attorney shortages</a>.

She saw the court through a pandemic,&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/briefs/computer-network-woes-force-kansas-courts-to-rely-on-old-school-methods-of-operation/">technology</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/01/10/kansas-chief-justice-blames-russian-ransomware-hackers-for-disabling-courts-electronic-systems/">woes</a>&nbsp;and a&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/11/21/kansas-court-officials-confirm-details-of-evil-criminal-international-cyberattack/">cyber attack</a>, and her court issued landmark decisions on&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/02/06/kansas-supreme-court-ends-five-year-hold-on-jurisdiction-of-public-school-funding-case/">education funding</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/02/20/kill-an-ant-with-an-atom-bomb-kansas-supreme-court-talks-election-case/">voting rights</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/07/05/kansas-supreme-court-strikes-down-state-law-banning-second-trimester-abortion-procedure/">abortion</a>&nbsp;and the&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/01/19/kansas-supreme-court-affirms-death-penalty-conviction-in-quadruple-murder-case/">death penalty</a>.

Justice Eric Rosen&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2026/01/08/kansas-supreme-court-justice-eric-rosen-sworn-in-as-chief-of-states-highest-court/">took her place as chief</a>&nbsp;in January.

Luckert is the second justice in the past year to leave the bench, following&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/briefs/kansas-supreme-court-justice-to-step-down-citing-lou-gehrigs-disease/">Justice Evelyn Wilson’s retirement</a>&nbsp;in July because of a Lou Gehrig’s disease diagnosis. Justice Larkin Walsh took her place ahead in September and was&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/11/21/newest-addition-to-kansas-supreme-court-promises-to-be-the-justice-all-kansans-deserve/">formally sworn in</a>&nbsp;two months later.

Luckert’s replacement could be outgoing Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly’s final appointment to the court before Kelly leaves office in early 2027. The governor has appointed four others to the court during her two terms.

The replacement process likely will precede&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/08/07/rivals-launch-fight-over-kansas-constitutional-amendment-to-elect-supreme-court-justices/">an August ballot question</a>&nbsp;that will ask voters if they want to change the Kansas Supreme Court justice selection process from&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/03/18/plan-to-elect-kansas-supreme-court-justices-scrutinized-by-critics-including-courts-former-chief/">a merit-based application, nomination and appointment method</a>&nbsp;to a campaign-driven popular vote approach.

Former Kansas Supreme Court chief justice to retire March 28

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

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

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

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

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

McDuffie is coming off a season in which he started 13 games with the Chiefs. He registered one interception, one sack and one forced fumble during the regular season.&nbsp; Through his career in Kansas City, McDuffie had just three interceptions, with 34 passes defended, five and a half sacks, and eight forced fumbles.

You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.

Chiefs gain more draft picks trading CB Trent McDuffie to Los Angeles Rams

The Kansas City Chiefs shocked the state of Missouri with the teams announcement of its move across the state line with a new stadium in 2031.  

While Kansas governor Laura Kelly and many top Kansas representatives praised the move, US Senator Roger Marshall seems a bit more apprehensive towards it, while still having excitement.  

Marshall says while the state will celebrate the move, financially he has his own concerns about the move 

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