During Severe Weather Preparedness week this week, along with being sure to have a plan to keep yourself safe, make sure you know how to take care of your pets. 

Melanie Barnes with Friends of the Animal Shelter says in the event of severe weather, be sure to know what your pet needs and how it behaves 

"In the event of stress and severe weather, they may go hide, so knowing where their hiding spots are, knowing where their stress spots are, so if you have to find them in the event of an emergency you know where to look, cat, dog, whatever inside your house,” Barness says on the KFEQmunnity show.  “Maybe they don’t, maybe they respond very well and come right to you, and that’s wonderful.” 

Barnes says it's also important during severe weather instances to know what to do for your pets if you become displaced from your home 

“If your pet is on medications or needs specific care, having equipment also ready to go,” Barnes explains.  “We talk about for people having a meeting spot, having food and water and any additional supplies, same thing goes for your pet, is knowing have a leash close by or a crate close by, knowing what that equipment that will be needed ti evacuate your pet  very quickly and where it is and located very quickly, so equipment and medication.” 

Barnes also stresses the importance of making sure your pets are microchipped in the case that it gets off its leash or escapes a crate in the case you have to evacuate your home or are travelling during the spring. 

"You can’t control everything, if you have to evacuate your house or evacuate your car and your pet is with you and you don’t have a good leash or a good crate and your pet gets loose, make sure they are microchipped,” Barnes says.  “We do not want them having to spend time in a shelter not knowing who their owner is, so keeping your pet microchipped and keeping that information up to date, people don’t realize when you move, when you change phone numbers, that information needs to stay up to date and that’s something the owners have to do.” 

Barnes also says in the instances of severe weather, if you have an outdoor pet, like with the colder weather it's important to make sure to bring them inside or keep them in a safe space outside. 

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

As you prepare for severe weather, make sure your pets are prepared as well

CALDWELL COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 1:30p.m. Monday in Caldwell County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2023 Ram Transit van driven by a 23-year-old Lee's Summit woman was northbound on a private driver two miles west of Cameron. The van turned west onto old U.S. 36 and into the path of an eastbound 2008 Ram 2500 driven by a 40-year-old Kidder man. The pickup struck the van in the eastbound lane. After impact the pickup traveled off the south side of the road and overturned.&nbsp;

The pickup driver was pronounced dead at the scene. The van driver was not injured. The pikup driver was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP. The patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

Missouri man killed after pickup, van crash

ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on drug allegations&nbsp;

On the evening of April 25, 2025 an officer on patrol stopped a vehicle for a traffic violation in the 200 block North 4th Street, according to Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson. The driver, 29-year-old Adrian Duran, was taken into custody for giving the officer false information on his identity. He was subsequently found to be in possession of fentanyl.

On Feb. 28, police arrested Duran in the 700 block North 10th Street on a District Court warrant for possession of fentanyl, interference with law enforcement and defective tail lamps.&nbsp;

Kansas man caught with fentanyl gave police a fake name

Missouri Western State University is shifting several graduate programs to an accelerated format to better accommodate working professionals. 

Starting as early as March 9, 2026, multiple master’s degrees will transition to seven-week course structures with up to six start dates per year.

The initiative aligns with the university’s new strategic plan to improve regional quality of life through increased educational attainment.

“These changes will allow recent college graduates and current working professionals to complete a master’s degree program in 12 to 18 months,” said Dr. Elizabeth Kennedy, MoWest president. She noted that the accelerated pace helps students gain skills to increase earning power while providing immediate benefits to employers.

Five programs will launch the new seven-week calendar on March 9. All five are available entirely online, though some require in-person internships or field experiences. These initial accelerated programs include:

Dr. Jay Johnson, provost and vice president for academic affairs, credited faculty and staff for the transition, stating the goal was to provide greater access and remain competitive while maintaining academic excellence.

Dr. Andy Otto, vice president for enrollment management and marketing, emphasized that the new frequency allows students to start "when the time is right." Applications for each term remain open until one week after classes begin. The start dates for the remainder of 2026 are:

Beyond the initial five, the Master of Applied Science in Forensic Investigation will adopt the seven-week format this fall, offering two start dates at the beginning of the fall and spring semesters.

Conversely, the Master of Social Work program will remain on a traditional semester schedule. The application deadline for its fall cohort is March 31.

MoWest accelerates graduate degrees with seven-week courses and multiple start dates

Persisterhood-St. Joseph is inviting the community to participate in a "Give to Gain" donation drive-thru and petition signing event Saturday, March 7. 

The event will take place from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. in the parking lot on 10th Street, next to First Christian Church at the corner of 10th and Faraon.

Volunteers will be on-site to collect essential items, including diapers, infant hygiene products, and women’s menstrual products. Beyond the donation drive, organizers will also be available to provide information and collect signatures for the “Respect MOVoters” petition drive.

The local effort is part of a national initiative featuring over 350 "Give to Gain" events scheduled across the country on March 7 and 8. The events coincide with the 115th International Women’s Day, a global celebration focused on women's rights and community support.

Donations collected during the drive will benefit two local organizations. Diapers and infant supplies will be delivered to the AFL-CIO’s Community Services Diaper Depot. 

Women’s hygiene products will be donated to Sparkle Peach, a St. Joseph-nonprofit founded in 2019. Ann Irvin, the founder of Sparkle Peach, will be present at the drive-thru to assist with the collection efforts.

Persisterhood-St. Joseph to host donation drive-thru and petition event for International Women’s Day

The Buchanan County intersection improvement project at U.S. Route 169 and Southeast Riverside Terrace, located south of St. Joseph, has been delayed until Monday, March 9. 

Contractors from Hoy Excavating, LLC, in coordination with the Missouri Department of Transportation, originally planned to close the roadway and begin construction today, March 2. However, the project start was pushed back by one week due to unfavorable weather conditions.

As a result of this work, traffic impacts will begin at approximately 9:00 a.m. on Monday, March 9. Route 169 will be fully closed between Route AC and Southeast 70th Street. 

To assist travelers, a signed detour will be in place to guide motorists from Route 169 to Missouri Route 31, continuing to U.S. Route 36 and Interstate 29, before looping back to Route 169. The roadway is currently expected to remain closed until the project's completion in July 2026.

The scope of this safety project involves shifting the U.S. Route 169 roadway slightly north between Summerhill Drive and the area just east of Southeast Riverside Terrace. Additionally, crews will realign both the north and south entrances of Southeast Riverside Terrace at the Route 169 intersection to significantly improve sight distance for drivers.

MoDOT emphasizes that all construction schedules are weather-permitting and subject to further changes. Drivers are encouraged to prioritize safety in work zones by buckling up, avoiding phone use, and slowing down as they navigate the area.

Weather delays Route 169 Intersection improvements near St. Joseph

The St. Joseph community gathered in force for the 40th Annual Heart of America Chili Challenge at Civic Arena on Sunday, turning a day of competitive cooking into a massive win for United Cerebral Palsy (UCP). 

Organizers announced that this year’s milestone event raised more than $100,000, all of which will directly fund programs and services for local children and adults living with disabilities.

UCP serves approximately 400 children and adults in the St. Joseph area.

The fundraising was headlined by a staggering performance in the People’s Choice Division. Team Purina took home first place after raising an incredible $41,000, followed by Sisters Three in second place with over $10,000 in donations. These contributions play a vital role in UCP’s mission to provide resources that empower individuals to lead more independent and fulfilling lives.

In the highly anticipated Missouri State Champion category, the competition was fierce. Auto Pride secured the top spot for Best Chili, with Clarios DC and Van Girls taking second and third place, respectively. The event also saw impressive debuts and steady performances in the Amateur Division, where the St. Joseph Firefighters claimed 4th place in their inaugural year, and American Family Insurance followed closely in 5th.

Beyond the trophies and the exceptional chili, organizers emphasized that the true impact of the day lies in the community's generosity. The funds raised will provide essential support and opportunities for UCP clients throughout the year. 

Heartfelt thanks were extended to the participating teams, sponsors, vendors, and volunteers whose dedication made the 40th anniversary of the challenge a remarkable success.

40th Annual Heart of America Chili Challenge raises over $100,000

KFEQ Morning Sports

Here is a list of general highway maintenance and construction work the Missouri Department of Transportation has planned in the Northwest region of Missouri for the week of March 2 - 8.

There may be moving operations throughout the region, in addition to the work mentioned below. Inclement weather may cause schedule changes in some of the planned work.

U.S. Route 169 – Shoulder work from County Line Road to Route D, March 3-6.

U.S. Route 136 – Shoulder work from Route M to the Nodaway County line, March 2-6.

I-29 – Pavement repair, northbound at the 110 mile marker, March 4-5. The roadway will be narrowed to one lane with a 14-foot width restriction, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily.

Gene Field Road Bridge –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a bridge replacement project through July 2026.

U.S. Route 59/Route 752/Route U – Intersection improvement project through spring 2027.

U.S. Route 169 (Belt Highway) – Traffic signal upgrade project at Messanie Street, through March 8.

U.S. Route 169 –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for an intersection improvement project at Southeast Riverside Terrace through mid-July 2026.

Route 759 – Shoulder work from Cedar Street to Lower Lake Road, March 2-6.

Route 10 – Pavement repair and resurfacing project from Route FF to Route C in Ray County, March 2-May 15. The road will be narrowed to one lane with flaggers guiding motorists through the work zone.

Route PP –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;at the Mid-Fork Chariton River Overflow Bridge for replacement projects through the Northwest Bridge Bundle through March 2026.

Route KK –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;at the Puzzle Creek Bridge for a replacement project through the Northwest Bridge Bundle through mid-March 2026.

Route O –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;at the Bee Creek Bridge for a replacement project through the Northwest Bridge Bundle through April 2026.

Route KK –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;at the Little Chariton River Bridge for a deck replacement project through March 2026.

Route 11 –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;at the Badger Creek Bridge, north of New Boston, for a bridge replacement project through the Northwest Bridge Bundle through May 2026.

Route 139 -&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;at the Parson Creek Bridge, north of Meadville, for a bridge replacement project through the Northwest Bridge Bundle through May 2026.

Route U –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;at the Long Branch Bridge, northwest of Bucklin, beginning March 2-early May for a deck replacement project.

Route K –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;at the North Fork Crooked Creek Bridge for a bridge replacement project through the Northwest Bridge Bundle through April 2026.

Route JJ –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;at the West Honey Creek Bridge for a deck replacement project through early April 2026.

Route E –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;at the West Honey Creek Bridge for a bridge replacement project through the Northwest Bridge Bundle through July 2026.

Route EE –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a culvert replacement from 190th Street to 200th Street, March 2, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Route EE –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a culvert replacement from 205th Street to 210th Street, March 3, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Route EE –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a culvert replacement from 210th Street to 220th Street, March 4, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Route EE –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a culvert replacement from 220th Street to 230th Street, March 5-6, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily.

Route PP –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;at the West Locust Creek Bridge through June 2026, for a bridge replacement project through the Northwest Bridge Bundle through April 2026.

Route T –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;at the East Locust Creek bridge due to deterioration. The bridge is scheduled to be replaced in the spring of 2026 through the Northwest Bridge Bundle.

Route 46 –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;at Marlowe Branch Creek for a bridge replacement project through May 2026.

Planned roadwork for Northwest Missouri, March 2 - 8

HARRISON COUNTY —A Missouri man was injured and later arrested after an accident just after 8p.m. Sunday in Harrison County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2008 Ford F150 driven by&nbsp; Stephan D. Elliot, 48,&nbsp; Trenton, was eastbound at a high rate of speed on MO 146 five miles east of Gilman City.&nbsp; The driver failed to negotiate a curve and overcorrected. The pickup crossed the center of the road, traveled off the north side of the road and rolled onto its roof.

EMS transported to Elliot to Harrison County Community Hospital. He was arrested on requested charges of felony driving while revoked or suspended, operating vehicle in careless, imprudent manner, for no insurance and not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

Missouri man arrested after pickup rollover accident

LIVINGSTON COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 7:30p.m. Sunday in Livingston County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2017 Nissan Rogue driven by a 37-year-old Brokefield woman was eastbound on U.S. 36 at Grand River Bridge three miles west of Chillicothe.&nbsp;The vehicle slid on the road and struck a guardrail.&nbsp;

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

Missouri woman injured after SUV strikes a guardrail

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>

Commodity markets daily recap

The USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service released the 2024 Census of Horticultural Specialties Report, the only source of detailed production and sales data for floriculture, nursery, and specialty crops in 2024. Horticulture sales in 2024, compared to 2019, all show an increase in sales and number of operations due to the addition of mushroom and hemp grown under protection in the latest Census of Horticultural Specialties. The number of horticulture operations in the U.S. totaled 23,060. 

“The horticulture census provides data on sectors for which there are no other comprehensive data sources,” said NASS Administrator Joseph Parsons. “It’s a valuable tool to highlight the contribution horticulture growers bring to our local, state, and national economies, as well as changes in the industry during the past five years.” Family or individual-owned businesses make up the largest number of operations at 56 percent.

U.S. Horticulture Operations Report $18.3 Billion in Sales

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service finalized the removal of the Northern and Southern Distinct Population Segments of the lesser prairie chicken from the Endangered Species Act list. The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association and the Public Lands Council filed litigation to remove the listing when the lesser prairie chicken was first listed in 2022 due to the protections being both legally and scientifically flawed. 

“The ESA listing of the lesser prairie chicken, coupled with the designation of critical habitat across cattle country, created an unnecessary and unlawful burden for ranchers,” said NCBA President Gene Copenhaver. “Established science has repeatedly proven that healthy rangelands maintained by cattle grazing are exactly where the lesser prairie chicken thrives.” 

He also said grazing creates robust, sustainable habitat for the bird, and by removing this listing, the Trump administration is helping ranchers continue that stewardship.

Lesser Prairie Chicken Delisted from the ESA

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

USDA relocation plans moving forward

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

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

Fertilizer Institute applauds Farm Bill 2.0 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

February Rural Mainstreet Index falls below growth neutral

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

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

Beef, most fertilizers exempt from new tariffs

The U.S. Department of State urges Americans to depart now from the countries below using available commercial transportation, due to serious safety risks. 

Americans who need State Department assistance arranging to depart via commercial means, CALL US 24/7 at +1-202-501-4444 (from abroad) and +1-888-407-4747 (from the U.S. and Canada). ENROLL in <a href="https://t.co/tn90vcTuHc" target="_blank">http://step.state.gov</a> to get the latest security updates from the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.

Americans urged to leave more than a dozen Middle Eastern countries

🎥 Under oath: Bill and Hillary Clinton's testimony on Jeffrey Epstein

On Monday, President Trump at a White House ceremony&nbsp;presented the Congressional Medal of Honor to&nbsp;three U.S. Army soldiers for extraordinary valor.

Among the honorees was Command Sergeant Major (Ret.) Terry P. Richardson of Fort Riley, who was awarded the nation’s highest military decoration for his heroic actions during the Vietnam War on September 14, 1968. On that day, his courage and decisive leadership under enemy fire saved the lives of 85 fellow soldiers.

🎥Fort Riley’s 39th Medal of Honor recipient recognized at White House

WASHINGTON – As of 4 pm ET, March 2, six U.S. service members have been killed in action, according to a statement from the U.S. Central Command.

 U.S. forces recently recovered the remains of two previously unaccounted for service members from a facility that was struck during Iran's initial attacks in the region.  

Major combat operations continue. The identities of the fallen are being withheld until 24 hours after next of kin notification.

US military: Death toll from Iran operation has risen to 6

🎥President Trump updates timeline of Iran campaign 

KANSAS CITY– A Kansas City, Missouri woman pleaded guilty to attempted bank fraud last week for altering and depositing stolen checks into her bank account. At the time of the fraud, she was employed by the United States Postal Service, according to the United State's Attorney.

Shawneasha L. Watson, 30, participated in a scheme to defraud a credit union by allowing the use of her account to deposit stolen checks. She provided both her debit card and her PIN to another individual to facilitate the deposit. In June 2023, the individual deposited checks that had been altered to show her name in the payee line and were endorsed with a signature bearing her name. The credit union flagged the deposits as fraudulent and froze the account before any withdrawals or transfers could be made. The victims all stated they had placed these checks into United States Postal Service blue collection boxes for mailing. The checks were originally intended to pay various bills including one intended for medical expenses and another for a monthly mortgage payment.

Investigators also discovered that Watson obtained a Pandemic Paycheck Protection loan under false pretenses in 2021 in the amount of $20,832.50. The loan application stated she was the sole proprietor of a men’s clothing business, and she needed the money to cover her payroll expenses. She later admitted that was false and she spent the money on herself. That loan was ultimately forgiven by the Small Business Administration.

Under federal statutes, Watson is subject to a sentence of up to 30 years in federal prison without parole. The 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.

Former KC postal worker admits to stolen checks fraud scheme 

The Kansas State Fair announced rising country music star Russell Dickerson as the latest addition to its 2026 grandstand concert lineup.

Dickerson is scheduled to perform Friday, Sept. 18, at the Kansas Star Casino Grandstand in Hutchinson. Fair officials said they are still working to secure an opening act.

Dickerson, known for hits including “Yours,” “Every Little Thing,” “Love You Like I Used To” and “God Gave Me a Girl,” has emerged as one of country music’s fast-rising performers. He is preparing to launch a European tour this spring, with stops in Scotland and Northern Ireland.

Fair General Manager Bryan Schulz said the booking reflects an effort to blend established favorites with newer artists gaining national and international attention.

Tickets for the Sept. 18 concert range from $35 for general admission grandstand seating to $110 for VIP deck standing room, which includes two beverages and hors d’oeuvres. Reserved VIP tables for six are available for $835. Track seating is priced at $85, and reserved grandstand seats are $55.

Presale access begins Thursday for customers who have signed up for the fair’s email list. Tickets go on sale to the general public Friday morning at kansasstatefair.gov or through the fair’s ticket office at 2000 N. Poplar in Hutchinson.

Officials urged buyers to purchase tickets only through the fair’s official website or ticket office to avoid third-party resellers and potential scams. Gate admission is included in the ticket price.

Rising country music star to appear at Kansas State Fair

U.S. embassies in the Middle East updated security advisories for Americans traveling and residing in these regions to exercise caution amid the ongoing Iran conflict, according to the&nbsp;Department of State Consular Affairs.

The U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs provides detailed destination-specific travel and risk information to allow U.S. citizens to make informed international travel decisions. U.S. embassies and consulates across the globe provide services that support the welfare and protection of U.S. citizens abroad.

<a href="https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel.html">Click here</a> to get the latest updates and enroll to receive alerts directly at <a href="https://t.co/tn90vcSWRE" target="_blank">http://step.state.gov</a>. Americans who need consular help can reach help 24/7 by phone: +1-202-501-4444 (from abroad) and +1-888-407-4747 (from the U.S. and Canada).

3 countries designated with a ‘Do Not Travel For Any Reason’ warning

🎥Pentagon officials answer questions on Iran strikes

WASHINGTON. – As of 7:30 am ET, March 2, four U.S. service members have been killed in action, according to a statement from the U.S. Central Command.

 The fourth service member, who was seriously wounded during Iran’s initial attacks, eventually succumbed to their injuries. 

Major combat operations continue and our response effort is ongoing.

The identities of the fallen are being withheld until 24 hours after next of kin notification.

Fourth US soldier dies in Operation Epic Fury

With hopes to win a championship this season, after a third place finish last year, the Troy Lady Trojans controlled the game from the very tip against the Goessel Bluebirds in a dominant 91-37 victory in the sub state semifinals for the Trojans final home game of the season on Monday.&nbsp;

"Well it's a lot of fun when the ball goes in the hole, and the ball was going in the hole tonight, that doesn't happen very often we shoot the ball like that, everybody hit and we had five girls in double figures," Head Coach Derek Jasper told KFEQ/St. Joseph Post after the game.&nbsp; "Everybody knows about Harper (Whetstine), but man what a great night for our two other seniors on their last night here."&nbsp;

The Trojans pressured the Bluebirds all through the first half, capitalizing on points off of turnovers, along with their shots falling, holding a 31-12 lead at the end of the first quarter, before adding 25 more points in the second quarter, extending their lead to 56-21 at the halftime break after Nicole Judd hit a three point shot as time expired.

With 11 days rest coming into this game, that pressure defense was a point of emphasis for the Trojans senior Alyson Grable says

"Coach always says that defense wins games so we knew if we wanted to win we had to play good defense but also score," Grable says.&nbsp;

Jasper says with 11 days off they could have looked rusty, or they could have looked rested.

"And we looked rested tonight," Jasper explains.&nbsp; "Shooting the ball, we looked rested with our energy on defense, and really great performance to off that long and to come out but crowd helped us and to be on our home court helped us, our energy was really good and we'll need that again."

The lead continued to extend through the remainder of the game, the Trojans ending the third quarter up 81-28, the clock running through the fourth quarter as Jasper pulled many of his starters, with the rest of the team adding the final 10 points in the 91-37 win.&nbsp;

The goal for the Trojans remains to make it back to Dodge City, Kansas and go one step farther than last year, Whetstine says that goal is what's helped push the team throughout the season

"Coach has talked about it a couple of times, but we just want to get back to that spot and hopefully do even better," Whetstine says.&nbsp;

Out of the five Trojans that scored in double figures, Whetstine led the way with 21 points.&nbsp; Grable added 20 points.&nbsp; Hailey Groff chipped in 17 points while Nicole Judd scored 15 points.&nbsp; Kyler Luedke rounded out the double digit scoring with 10 points.&nbsp;

Troy now faces a tough test to move on from sub state into the state quarterfinals, taking on the top seed Wabaunsee on Saturday.&nbsp; The Chargers hold a 21-2 record, and rank as one of the top teams in the state.&nbsp; Jasper says it will be a challenge because Wabaunsee has size on the Trojans.

"We're small, so we'll have to do a good job on the boards, Wabaunsee has a couple of six footers, but as long as we have a chance, and if the ball goes in the hole like it did tonight we could beat anybody in the state," Jasper says.&nbsp; "But we know that's not going to happen, so when that doesn't happen really got to buckle down on defense, so we'll get ready for Wabaunsee here in the next four days and go see what happens Saturday night."

Troy and Wabaunsee tipoff time is still to be determined for Saturday at&nbsp; Clifton-Clyde High School.&nbsp;

Troy puts up dominant 91-37 victory over Goessel to advance to sub state championship

St. Joseph Christian alum and Oklahoma Sooner Lexi McDaniel had an outstanding weekend on the diamond, and was honored by the Southeastern Conference, being named the SEC softball Freshman of the Week.

Through five games, where the Sooners put up a blistering 116 runs and 30 home runs, McDaniel was red hot at the plate&nbsp;hitting .769 with four home runs, 11 runs, 12 RBIs and a 1.769 slugging percentage. She had four multi-hit games, including a 4-for-4 game against Alabama State on February 27th in which she homered twice. She also hit a grand slam February 28th as the Sooners set a program record with 21 runs in the same inning. Teammate Abby Dayton also hit a grand slam in the same inning, tying an NCAA record for grand slams in an inning.

McDaniel leads Oklahoma with a .556 batting average, while adding five home runs and 17 RBIs. She also hit a pivotal pinch-hit home run in a 13-3 win against Sam Houston State, also on February 27th, her second pinch hit home run of the season.&nbsp; McDaniel is the second Sooners freshman to earn the honor this season,&nbsp; Kai Minor also being honored for Oklahoma.

From the top recruiting class of 2025, which including McDaniel as the nations top recruit and Minor,&nbsp;Sooner freshmen have combined for 32 of OU's 86 home runs this season between McDaniel, Minor, Allyssa Parker and Kendall Wells.

St. Joseph Christian alum Lexi McDaniel named SEC softball Freshman of the Week 

The Kansas City Chiefs informed right tackle Jawaan Taylor that he will be released before the start of the NFL's new league year, barring a trade to help free cap space as free agency opens next week.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sources told ESPN's Adam Schefter the Chiefs informed Taylor of the move, which will&nbsp;will save the Chiefs $20 million against the salary cap and will allow them to be under the cap when the league year starts March 11.&nbsp;&nbsp; The Chiefs entered the offseason more than $57 million over the cap, but have made moves over the past months including&nbsp;releasing veteran defensive end Mike Danna and restructuring quarterback Patrick Mahomes' contract.

The 28 year old offensive lineman&nbsp;Taylor had one year remaining on a four-year, $80 million deal. He joined the Chiefs in 2023 as a free agent and helped stabilize the offensive line as Kansas City won the Super Bowl that season to become the NFL's first repeat champion in 20 years.&nbsp;&nbsp;While Taylor was a productive pass blocker, he struggled with penalties, committing 49, 41 which were accepted, in 45 games with the Chiefs, the most of any lineman during that span.

Kansas City still could create even more cap space by releasing linebacker Drue Tranquill and tight end Noah Gray while also restructuring the contracts of pass rusher Chris Jones and center Creed Humphrey.&nbsp;&nbsp;Jaylon Moore, who signed a two-year contract worth $30 million before last season, is expected to be the starting right tackle for the upcoming season.

You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.

Barring trade, Chiefs plan to cut OL Jawaan Taylor ahead of new league year

The North Platte Panthers overcame a slow start in the first half, storming back in the second half against the Mid-Buchanan Dragons and narrowly winning a 77-76 matchup at Bishop LeBlond High School, winning their first district title since 2011 in the Class 3 District 15 championship game.&nbsp;

It was another classic Kemper versus Kemper matchup, as Bryce Kemper led the Dragons against his son Bradyn Kemper and the Panthers for the third time this season.&nbsp; Both teams had won a matchup previously, Mid-Buchanan narrowly winning the regular season matchup 55-51, before North Platte earned a win in the&nbsp;North Platte Invitational Basketball Tournament 65-62.

For Bradyn, this matchup ranked right at the top of his coaching career thus far.&nbsp;

"It's not even close, as far as he (Bryce) goes he runs a tremendous program obviously, been one of the powerhouses in the area, a lot of the things that we do are some of the things that they've done and have been built on and I hated having to play this early in the postseason," Kemper told reporters after the game.&nbsp; "Two of the top public schools in the state matching up this early almost wasn't fair, but somebody had to lose and unfortunately their season ends, but I was happy it was them and not us and I'm happy our guys kept hitting shots."

Mid-Buchanan held control through the first half.&nbsp; After narrowly outscoring North Platte in the first quarter, leading 17-12, the Dragons pulled away in the second quarter, capitalizing on stifling defense and missed shots from the Panthers to take a 19 point lead into the halftime break, leading 44-25.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The message at halftime was a phrase the team has had all season Kemper says

"Don't be butter, that expression comes from butter in the microwave starts to melt when things get hot, and I said we were butter that first half," Kemper explains.&nbsp; "We were complaining about fouls, we were worried about us driving and not getting anything, and I thought the second half we calmed down, we played strong, we played together, and took it at the rim hard and didn't worry about a foul."&nbsp;

Senior Brenden Matt echoes that message from Kemper during the halftime break.&nbsp;

"He kind of came in there and reamed us a little bit, told us that we weren't playing the way we should and looked a little scared out there, and he was right," Matt says.&nbsp; "And that's what we needed to do, we needed to come out there and play hard, and that's what he said."

North Platte took the message from Kemper to heart, outscoring Mid-Buchanan 38-16 in the third quarter, and taking 63-60 lead.&nbsp; In the third quarter alone, both teams combined 10 of the 26 total three point shots that were made in the game between the Panthers and the Dragons.&nbsp; Four of those came from Matt, as he put up 14 points in the quarter alone, after scoring nine points through the first half.

Mid-Buchanan wasn't done though, as the game continued to go back and forth.&nbsp; Through the early parts of the fourth quarter, the Dragons never let North Platte pull away, exchanging blows.&nbsp; Eventually&nbsp; though, the Panthers began holding possessions as long as they could before taking shots, working down the clock, and continued answering every Mid-Buchanan bucket on way to the 77-76 victory.&nbsp;

It's been a long road for North Platte, for a long time sitting at the bottom of the district.&nbsp; Prior to the 2023-2024 season under Kemper, the Panthers hadn't had a winning season since the 2015-2016 season, just narrowly sitting above .500 at 14-13. In the last three years, Kemper has led North Platte to an 18-8 record, a 20-8 record, and so far this season a 24-4 record.

Kemper credits the kids he's had as part of the program that have helped him build it to what it's become.

"Each step of the way, my first group only won nine games, but it was one of my most fun groups I've had because they set the foundation, they were always there, they were always working," Kemper says.&nbsp; "We've always had good kids that keep working hard and this groups no different, some of these kids have been working since they were two years old and its starting to show, you've got to have good players, you've got to have players that work hard, and I've had here and that's really helped, they bought into it, they trusted me and they bought into it."

Matt led North Platte with 28 points.&nbsp; Jase Smith added 24 points while both Isaac Wright and Hunter Palmer each chipped in 10 points.&nbsp; For Mid-Buchanan it was Raife Smith leading the way with 28 points.&nbsp; Ian Campbell added 17 points while Chris Kowalewycz chipped in 13 points.&nbsp;

North Platte will face the South Harrison Bulldogs on Tuesday in St. Joseph at St. Joseph Christian for sectionals in the state tournament.&nbsp; Tipoff will be at 6pm

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