A disagreement on the oversight of federal immigration officers and arguments over changes to how agencies are funded has led to an ongoing partial government shutdown, pausing funding of the Department of Homeland Security.  

Eastern Kansas Congressman, Derek Schmidt says the biggest problem is that the pause in funding is not affecting those agencies such as ICE or Customs Borders and Protections, which were fully funded back in July.  

Schmidt says what is affected is everything else that is supposed to be funded through DHS 

“So it’s the Secret Service, it’s FEMA, it’s the Transportation Security Administration, TSA, the folks that keep us safe when we get on airplanes, it’s the Coast Guard, those are the agencies that aren’t getting funded right now, and they’re the agencies nobody’s mad at,” Schmidt tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.  “So, it’s this strange Washington dynamic that it’s really unfortunate, and I’m hoping we can get it ended very quickly before it disrupts people’s lives anymore.” 

Schmidt says that's frustrating because agencies such as those have not done anything wrong and have just been doing their jobs each and every day  

“And they’ve been caught up in this broader dispute about immigration enforcement and removal operations, and so I’m hopeful we can get past this quickly,” Schmidt explains.  “The negotiations are ongoing, Senator (Chuck) Schumer and his folks, Hakeem Jeffries and his House Democrats, the White House and obviously the Republican leadership in congress they’re continuing to talk every day, offers are being sent back and forth and eventually agreement will be reached, but I hope it’s sooner rather than later, this isn’t doing anybody any good and so it really needs to end.” 

Schmidt says the situation is incredibly frustrating and believes it's no way government should be run, adding most of the ongoing problems stemmed from headlines out of Minnesota 

“We had a bipartisan agreement with Republicans and Democrats, House and Senate, and the White House on funding the Department of Homeland Security, we passed it in the house, they were prepared to pass it in the Senate, then the situation in Minnesota happened and then Senator Schumer pulled the plug on it and so here we are,” Schmidt says.  “I just don’t think holding these other agencies hostage does anybody any good, I don’t think it’s the right thing to do, and I’d like to get it ended as quickly as possible, I hope that’s going to happen.” 

The shooting deaths of Alex Pretti and Renee Nicole Good by DHS immigration agents during protests in Minneapolis last month prompted Senate Democrats to demand reforms in exchange for their support of the package. 

Schmidt says talks appear to be creeping towards meeting somewhere in the middle on an agreement to get funding back to those departments, however other reports say discussions remain pretty far apart still.

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

Kanas Congressman Schmidt hopes partial government shutdown ends 'sooner rather than later'

The 40th Annual Heart of America Chili Challenge is returning to the St. Joseph Civic Arena this Sunday, March 1 to benefit United Cerebral Palsy (UCP).

The milestone event promises a flavor-packed day for the whole family, featuring sixty professional and amateur cooks battling for the prestigious title of Missouri State Chili Champion.

UCP Director, Teresa Gagliano, says, "We serve children and adults with developmental disabilities. This is our only special event of the year."

The festivities kick off when doors open at 11:00 a.m. Guests can enjoy live music from The Michael Shaun Brown Band starting at noon, browse a diverse Vendor and Craft Fair, and place bids in a massive Silent Auction that runs until 3:30 p.m. The main event arrives at 2:00 p.m., when attendees can sample all 60 unique chili recipes for free. Gagliano says, "People can go booth to booth and try all the different chilis."

Beyond the competition, this event serves a vital purpose. All proceeds benefit UCP, supporting children and adults with developmental disabilities throughout Northwest Missouri. Over the past 39 years, this challenge has raised more than $2.6 million for the cause, making this 40th anniversary a true community celebration.

Gagliano says the goal is to raise $150,000 this at the chili challenge to help serve the greater St. Joseph area. UCP serves about 400 children and adults.

Don’t miss out on the fun, the flavor, and the chance to make a difference in Northwest Missouri.

The Heart of America Chili Challenge returns to St. Joseph to benefit UCP

(Radio Iowa) - The governor's call to raise state taxes on cigarettes and other tobacco products and impose a new tax on vaping products and consumable hemp products has narrowly failed in a Senate Committee. 

Governor Reynolds says Iowa continues to have one of the highest lung cancer rates in the country and a higher tax on these products could prompt some Iowans to quit smoking cigarettes or vaping. The bill considered in the Senate Health and Human Resources Committee would have diverted the new sales taxes on vapes and consumable hemp products into a state fund that would be used next year to assist victims of human trafficking and plug a million dollars into Iowa's Double Up Food Bucks program that helps low income Iowans buy more fresh fruits and vegetables. 

The bill wound up getting nine votes -- one short of the 10 necessary to win committee approval.

Tax hike on tobacco, vaping products fails in Iowa Senate committee

Northwest Missouri State University, in coordination with the National Weather Service and the Missouri State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), will conduct a series of tornado drills this March. These exercises are designed to test the university’s indoor emergency operations and the Bearcat Alert texting system ahead of the spring severe weather season.

The primary drills are scheduled for 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, March 4, and Wednesday, March 11. In the event that actual inclement weather occurs on those dates, a backup drill has been scheduled for 11 a.m. on Wednesday, March 18. University Police Chief Amanda Cullin emphasized that consistent practice is vital for ensuring the campus community can react effectively during a real emergency.

In addition to the drills, the University Police Department and Wellness Services will host the annual Bobby Palooza from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 26. Held at the J.W. Jones Student Union’s east pavilion, the event offers students free burgers and hot dogs along with essential safety tips as they prepare for Spring Break.

The campus activities align with Missouri Severe Weather Preparedness Week, which runs from March 2–6. This statewide initiative encourages residents to utilize resources like the "Storm Aware" website, which provides instructional videos on seeking shelter in various building types, from mobile homes to schools.

University officials remind students and staff that while Northwest tests its warning system every Wednesday at 11 a.m., any siren heard outside of that window should be treated as an immediate, life-threatening emergency. Detailed procedures are posted in every campus building and are available via the HazAdapt mobile app.

The university advises following specific protocols depending on the type of alert issued:

Safety experts warn against seeking shelter in large open spaces like gyms or cafeterias due to the risk of roof collapse. If caught driving, individuals should find a sturdy building or, in rural areas, seek cover in a roadside ditch while remaining alert for flash flooding.

Northwest Missouri State University announces severe weather drills and safety events

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 Feb. 23 - March 1.

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.

Route 46 – Pothole patching from Route HH to Route EE, Feb. 27.

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, Feb. 16 - March 8.

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 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 Feb. 16 through early April.

Route EE –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a culvert replacement from 190th Street to 200th Street, Feb. 24 - 25, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily.

U.S. Route 71 – Pothole patching from Route AB to Route FF, Feb. 25 - 26.

Route EE –&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;for a culvert replacement from Route NN to 180th Street, Feb. 26, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Route 46 – Pothole patching from Route HH to Route 113, Feb. 27.

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.

Planned roadwork for Northwest Missouri, Feb. 23 - March 1

The security alert continues across Mexico. Missouri Congressman&nbsp; Mark Alford reminded Missourians his office is available to help.

"My team and I are horrified by the situation that has developed in Mexico. We stand ready to assist any Missourians who may be traveling in the impacted areas."

"Any U.S. Citizens in Jalisco, Tamaulipas, Michoacán, Guerrero, and Nuevo León have been advised by the <a href="https://x.com/StateDept">@StateDept</a> to shelter in place until notified otherwise. 

Americans abroad should follow this guidance and should monitor all official alerts from the U.S. Embassy and local authorities. 

If you or someone you know is in need of immediate assistance, U.S. citizens can contact the State Department: 

State Dept: <a href="https://t.co/bXJsSQe5rA" target="_blank">http://travel.state.gov</a>

From MX: (55) 8526-2561

U.S.: 1-844-528-6611

Consular: 1-888-407-4747"

According to the alert from the U.S. State Deparatment, Broad areas, including the state of Jalisco (including Puerto Vallarta, Chapala, and Guadalajara), the state of Baja California (including Tijuana, Tecate, and Ensenada), the state of Quintana Roo (including Cancún, Cozumel, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum), the state of Nayarit (including the Nuevo Nayarit/Nuevo Vallarta area near Puerto Vallarta), Sinaloa (including Mazatlán), and areas of the states of Colima, Guanajuato, Guerrero, Estado de México, Michoacán, Nuevo León, Oaxaca, Puebla, Querétaro, San Luis Potosí, Tamaulipas, Veracruz, and Zacatecas. 

Event: Due to ongoing security operations and resulting road blockages and criminal activity, U.S. citizens located in various locations across Mexico are advised to shelter in place. U.S. government personnel in Guadalajara (Jalisco), Puerto Vallarta (Jalisco/Nayarit), Ciudad Guzmán (Jalisco), Cancún (Quintana Roo), Playa del Carmen (Quintana Roo), Cozumel (Quintana Roo), Reynosa (Tamaulipas), Tijuana (Baja California), and Michoacán will shelter in place and work remotely on Monday, February 23, and U.S. citizens should do the same.

All U.S. government personnel at the U.S. Consulate General in Monterrey have been instructed to remain within the Monterrey metropolitan area, and U.S. government personnel have been ordered not to travel to Mazatlán until Wednesday, February 25. Although no airports have been closed, road blockages have impacted airline operations, and the majority of domestic and international flights have been canceled in both Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta.

All transportation services in Puerto Vallarta have been suspended. Some businesses have suspended operations. Mexican authorities announced on the afternoon of February 22 that toll highway operations in Puebla, Guerrero, Tamaulipas, Nayarit, San Luis Potosí, Tijuana, Querétaro, Veracruz, and Mazatlán will be temporarily restricted due to blockages affecting motorists. Actions to take: - Seek shelter and minimize unnecessary travel. - Avoid areas near police activity. - Check&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/CAPUFE">@CAPUFE</a>&nbsp;on X for updates on road closures. - Monitor local media for updated information. - Follow the instructions of local authorities and, in case of emergency, call 911. - Keep family and friends informed of your location and well-being through phone calls, text messages, and social media.

Cartel violence: Congressman's office assisting Missourians in Mexico

CALDWELL COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 11:30p.m. Saturday in Caldwell County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2015 Chevy Silverado driven by a 49-year-old St. Joseph man was stopped in the crossover on westbound U.S. 36 at NE Nettleton Road four miles east of Hamilton. The driver started across the eastbound lanes and traveled into the path of a 2014 Freightliner semi driven by a 35-year-old Illinois man. The semi struck the pickup on the passenger side front fender.&nbsp;

Caldwell County EMS transported the pickup driver to Cameron Regional Medical Center. The semi driver was not injured. The pickup driver was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

St. Joe man injured in semi, pickup crash

BUCHANAN COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 11a.m. Saturday in Buchanan County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2015 Subaru Forester driven by a 28-year-old Smithville man was eastbound on Route H three miles west of Gower. The SUV traveled off the south side of the road and overturned.

Tri-County Ambulance transported the driver and a 27-year-old passenger to Mosaic. The passenger was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

2 Mo. men hospitalized after SUV overturns

By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jason-hancock/">Jason Hancock</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>

A Republican judge in Cole County on Thursday ruled that the ballot summary must be rewritten for a proposed constitutional amendment that would make it much harder for Missourians to amend the constitution through citizen initiative petitions.

Cole County Circuit Judge Daniel Green ordered the first three bullet points of the summary voters will see on the ballot to be removed, saying they were misleading because they tout provisions already in state law — such as a ban on foreign campaign contributions and penalties for signature fraud.&nbsp;

It isn’t until the fourth bullet point that voters learn the proposal’s main purpose, which is to require constitutional amendments put on the ballot by voters to obtain both a simple majority statewide and a majority in all eight congressional districts to pass. Currently, constitutional amendments only require a simple majority statewide.&nbsp;

Scott Charton, spokesman for Missourians for Fair Governance, the political arm of the organization that filed the lawsuit, the Missouri Association of Realtors, called the quick decision by Green to remove misleading “ballot candy” a total victory.

“We are grateful the court agreed with our arguments and is stripping the misleading, unfair and prejudicial ballot candy from this bad measure,” Charton said. “Missourians deserve clarity in what they are voting on, especially when they are being asked by lawmakers to give up their citizen initiative power, a constitutional right they reserved for themselves more than a century ago.”

Passed by lawmakers during a special session last fall convened to enact a gerrymandered congressional map, the proposed amendment would allow a small percentage of the state’s voters to defeat any citizen initiative petition.&nbsp;

During the 2024 general election, 311,915 votes were cast in the 1st District out of the state’s 2,960,266 votes. So 156,000 voters — or about 5.3% of the statewide vote — could prevent a measure from passing.

Only citizen-led initiative petitions would be affected. Amendments placed on the ballot by state lawmakers are not included in the change.&nbsp;

Missouri is one of 24 states that allows citizen initiative petitions. They can be used to either amend the constitution or change state law, though the path to successfully doing so is often arduous and expensive, requiring tens of thousands of signatures to even land on the ballot.&nbsp;

Through recent ballot measures, Missourians have legalized abortion and recreational use of marijuana and voted to increase the minimum wage and mandate paid-sick leave.&nbsp;

In 2024, the abortion-rights amendment passed with just shy of 52% of the vote with large support from the state’s urban, more-populated areas. Voters in all but eight of Missouri’s 115 counties opposed the amendment.

Judge strips ‘ballot candy’ from plan to make it harder to amend Missouri Constitution 

GRUNDY COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just afater 8a.m. Friday in Grundy County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2013 Nissan Rogue driven by an 80-year-old Harris woman was southbound on MO 146 approaching MO 6 two miles west of Trenton. The driver failed to stop at at the stop sign at the intersection. The Nissan struck the passenger side of a westbound 2013 Chrysler Town and Country driven by a 78-year-old Trenton man.

A private vehicle transported the van driver to Wright Memorial Hospital. The Nissan driver was not wearing a seat belt and not injured, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

Missouri man injured after SUV, van crash

The Saint Joseph Symphony has announced its upcoming Women’s March concert, scheduled for Saturday, March 28 at 7:00 p.m. 

The performance, hosted at the historic Missouri Theater, aims to celebrate the artistic achievements and creative voices of women in classical music. The program is designed to honor both the trailblazing composers of the past and the dynamic leaders shaping the industry today.

The repertoire features a diverse selection of orchestral works, including pieces by historic figures Louise Farrenc and Marianna Martines, as well as contemporary composers Florence Price and Jessie Montgomery. Sponsored by Dr. Helyn Strickland, the event highlights a legacy of resilience and brilliance. Executive Director Nancy Brunson emphasized the historical weight of the evening, noting that women’s voices were largely ignored in the concert hall until the last several decades.

“We are proud to present a program during Women’s History Month that uplifts lesser-known extraordinary composers and reflects our ongoing commitment to musical awareness, education, and artistic excellence,” Brunson said. She further noted that these specific works have never been performed on the Missouri Theater stage, making the event a significant milestone for the local arts community.

Beyond the music, the Symphony is using the month of March to recognize local women-owned businesses and community leaders. Through social media promotional partnerships and features on the history of St. Joseph, the organization seeks to empower women both on and off the stage. The Symphony also plans to highlight its own talented female principal musicians throughout the month to showcase the leadership currently present within the ensemble.

The evening is intended to be an immersive experience, beginning with a pre-concert wine reception when doors open at 6:00 p.m. Brunson expressed her enthusiasm for the upcoming gathering, stating, “The Women’s March concert is both a musical celebration and a meaningful statement.” She added that the organization is particularly hoping the women of St. Joseph will join in what she describes as an unforgettable celebration of music and leadership.

Tickets are currently available through the <a href="https://saintjosephsymphony.org/concerts/purchase-tickets.html#/seatingchart-tickets">Saint Joseph Symphony website</a> or by contacting the box office during weekday hours. Because the concert is expected to be a popular draw for the community, organizers are encouraging supporters to secure their seats early.

Saint Joseph Symphony announces upcoming Women’s March Concert

House Ag Committee Chair GT Thompson recently released the text of Farm Bill 2.0, or the “Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026.” Groups like the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association welcomed the provisions that strengthen the agriculture measures included in the One Big, Beautiful Bill. “We appreciate the Chairman’s leadership and diligent work to provide legislative answers to the ongoing needs of cattle producers,” said Gene Copenhaver, president of the NCBA. 

“The bill provides important provisions to streamline voluntary conservation programs, protect grazing as a land management tool, address the critical shortage of rural veterinarians, and establish an important pilot program to safely explore better options for direct-to-consumer sales of locally-raised beef.” Among the improvements, Farm Bill 2.0 expands access to credit and increases outdated agricultural loan limits, amends veterinary grant programs to relieve ongoing rural veterinary shortages, and clarifies animal disease traceability eligibility. 

Farm Bill 2.0 provides additional certainty

The Supreme Court turned the U.S. trade landscape upside down with a decision on Friday striking down the centerpiece of President Donald Trump’s tariff program. Just over one year into the President’s second term, the 6-3 ruling in “Learning Resources, Inc. v Trump” comes after Supreme Court justices showed skepticism in questioning during oral arguments last November. Reports said the ruling appears to halt a massive section of Trump’s tariffs that he announced last year on what he referred to as “Liberation Day". 

Trump said a 1977 law called the International Emergency Economic Powers Act gave the president the ability to declare an economic emergency and take action, but it doesn’t specific tariffs as a specific remedy to the emergency. “IEEPA doesn’t authorize the President to impose tariffs,” read the decision by Chief Justice John Roberts. The Court’s decision doesn’t appear to address the question of eligibility for tariff refunds, which is likely to lead to a complex legal process for companies.

Supreme Court strikes down Trump tariffs

March corn closed down 1 1/4 cents and May corn was down 1/2 cent. March soybeans closed up 7 1/2 cents and May soybeans were up 7 cents. March KC wheat closed up 14 1/2 cents, March Chicago wheat was up 12 1/2 cents, March Minneapolis wheat was up 8 1/2 cents.

Row-crop futures were mixed Thursday with wheat and soybeans higher while corn futures remained sluggish. USDA's early forecasts for 2026-27 were largely as traders anticipated, featuring a switch from corn acres to soybean acres expected to occur this spring. Otherwise, there was very little news Thursday to break markets out of their weekly trends. Outside markets continue to reflect increased risk surrounding tensions between the U.S. and Iran, with crude oil futures hitting their highest mark since early August. Meanwhile, the U.S. Dollar Index has strung together positive sessions this week to climb from four-year lows hit in late January. The index has been resistant at 98 through February, however.

The live cattle complex traded mixed into Thursday's close, as the market is currently seeing its nearby contracts trading higher while the deferred months scale lower. It would appear as though the nearby contracts are trading higher, although no trade has developed yet in the fed cash cattle market, as traders know that supplies of market-ready cattle are going to be thin through the first quarter and potentially partway through the second quarter, which may be part of the reason why the February through June contracts were higher. Absolutely nothing has developed yet in the fed cash cattle market, and there's a chance that trade could be delayed until after Friday's Cattle on Feed report. Boxed beef prices are higher: choice up $1.30 ($365.10) and select up $0.05 ($360.68) with a movement of 54 loads (36.97 loads of choice, 9.47 loads of select, zero loads of trim and 7.16 loads of ground beef).

The feeder cattle contracts weren't as bullish, as traders yearn to see continued fundamental support before they'll likely push the contracts much higher. And another part of the market's cautiousness could be stemming from the fact that traders are holding a slightly more cautious position ahead of the Cattle on Feed report.

The lean hog complex was trading mostly higher into Thursday's closing bell, as once again, trades aren't feeling pressured by any resistance thresholds following the past week's sharp downturn. Pork cutout values were up slightly, but not enough to make any impactful difference for traders.

<a href="https://dehayf5mhw1h7.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/356/2026/02/19140859/web-closing-markets-1.mp3">Click HERE for audio</a>

Commodity markets daily recap

Farmers are always interested in growing more resilient crops that can survive tough conditions. Researchers at the University of Missouri may have literally gotten to the root of the challenge. Researchers have discovered how a specific protein known as SRFR1 plays a critical role in how deeply plant roots grow underground. What’s even more promising is that they unlocked a way to manipulate this protein to encourage longer root growth, which is a trait that can potentially help plants better withstand drought. 

This breakthrough could pave the way for genetically engineered seeds that produce more resilient crops. “Depending on the environment, plants sometimes need a longer or shorter root, and we discovered the protein that helps regulate the outcome,” said Walter Gassman of the Missouri College of Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources. ‘Now that we have learned what this protein does, we can manipulate it to help the plant thrive in various environments.” 

Mizzou researchers uncover key to growing more resilient crops

Over one million FFA members, alumni, and supporters will celebrate National FFA Week from February 21 to February 28. It’s an annual tradition coordinated by the National FFA Organization to share the real value of FFA and the impact it has on members every day. “National FFA Week is a time when we showcase the collective impact of FFA nationwide,” said National FFA Advisor, Dr. Travis Park. “Throughout FFA, we see our members stepping up as leaders, innovators, and advocates for agriculture.”

 Park also said this happens through the dedication of agriculture teachers, FFA Alumni, and Supporters. The six National FFA Officers will travel across the country to connect with members during the week, leading workshops, delivering keynote talks, and interacting with students on a more personal level. Trey Myers, National FFA President said, “I’m really looking forward to being in North Carolina and seeing FFA show up in so many different ways.” 

National FFA Week brings students, communities, and agriculture together

March corn closed up 3/4 cent and May corn was up 1 cent. March soybeans closed down 1/2 cent and May soybeans were up 1/4 cent. March KC wheat closed up 12 1/4 cents, March Chicago wheat was up 9 1/4 cents, March Minneapolis wheat was up 5 3/4 cents.

U.S. crop markets traded almost uniformly higher overnight before turning mixed through the day session Wednesday. Two-sided trade was especially prevalent in the soybean market with futures technically overbought and feeling top heavy ahead of the USDA Ag Outlook Forum (with balance sheets unveiled early Thursday), which is expected to show higher soybean area to be planted in 2026. Wheat futures held to a nice recovery after an ugly session on Tuesday, while corn futures were stagnant and caught between influences from wheat and soybean markets. Outside markets for Wednesday were mixed with the U.S. Dollar Index moving higher for the third straight session and five of the past six. Crude oil futures have surged higher at midweek, back among the highest levels of 2026 thus far amid risk with negotiations between the U.S. and Iran ongoing but thus far reportedly yielding little in the way of a clear nuclear deal.

After rallying to highs not seen since October, the live cattle complex ended the session trading mixed to mostly lower as traders look for reassurance from the market's fundamentals. The cash cattle market remains absolutely silent, with no bids or asking prices having been noted yet. It's most likely that trade will be delayed until Friday again this week, and it is assumed that fed cash cattle prices will be higher again this week. Boxed beef prices are mixed: choice down $1.26 ($363.50) and select up $0.99 ($361.21) with a movement of 58 loads (43.87 loads of choice, 6.35 loads of select, zero loads of trim and 8.12 loads of ground beef).

The feeder cattle complex traded slightly more optimistically into midday Wednesday than the live cattle complex, and its contracts end the session mixed. Helping keep the feeder cattle contracts elevated is the strong demand in the countryside, as buyers know that supplies are going to remain thin and that if they want to fill their orders, they have to buy aggressively.

The lean hog complex was trading fully higher into Wednesday's closing bell as the market is pleased to have found some technical support after its straining downturn over the last week. Fundamental support remains lagging, and traders will eventually desire to see more support in pork demand.

<a href="https://dehayf5mhw1h7.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/356/2026/02/18142504/web-closing-markets-1.mp3">Click HERE for audio</a>

The National FFA Organization said it will cooperate with a congressional inquiry examining one of its corporate sponsors, while emphasizing its nonpartisan mission and independence from donor influence. 

At question is FFA’s alleged ties to the Chinese Communist Party through a partnership with Chinese-owned Syngenta Group. FFA declined to provide additional details, citing the ongoing nature of the investigation. The inquiry comes amid heightened scrutiny from some members of Congress over partnerships between U.S.-based nonprofits and companies with foreign ownership ties.

The youth agricultural education group released a statement exclusively to the NAFB News Service that included: "While FFA accepts support from generous donors and sponsors throughout the agricultural and agri-business community, it does not and cannot advocate the views for any donor or sponsor. FFA has received a Congressional inquiry about one of our sponsors, and it intends to cooperate fully."

FFA says it will cooperate with congressional inquiry

The number of farms in the United States fell by 15,000 in 2025, continuing a long-term decline in the nation’s agricultural landscape, the U.S. Department of Agriculture reported. According to USDA’s annual Land in Farms report, the total number of farms dropped to about 1.865 million last year, down from roughly 1.88 million in 2024. The decline spanned nearly all size and sales categories, with smaller operations — particularly those reporting $1,000 to $9,999 in annual sales — posting the largest losses, USDA data showed. 

Only operations with annual sales above $1 million saw a slight increase of about 50 farms. Total land in farms also edged lower, decreasing about 0.3% to 873.9 million acres, even as average farm size ticked upward, reflecting a consolidation trend. Analysts said economic pressures, including slim profit margins, rising costs and generational turnover, continue to challenge smaller producers and reshape the structure of U.S. agriculture.

U.S. farm numbers decline for second straight year

March corn closed down 5 1/2 cents and May corn was down 6 1/4 cents. March soybeans closed up 1 cents and May soybeans were up 1/4 cent. March KC wheat closed down 3 3/4 cents, March Chicago wheat was down 11 cents, March Minneapolis wheat was down 3 1/2 cents.

It was a day of mostly lower price action for row-crop futures with soybeans standing alone on the positive side of the fence. Corn futures were lower and posted a poor close from a technical standpoint despite relatively little in the way of news Tuesday. Most of the bearish pressure for corn came via wheat, with Chicago futures falling sharply just two sessions removed from hitting three-month highs on upward revisions to forecasts for Russia's 2026 crop. Outside markets leaned bearish to ag futures on Tuesday, with a firm U.S. dollar trading counter to continued selling pressure in precious metals. Crude oil (and other energy futures) was lower as well Tuesday, despite early reports of Iran's "partial and temporary" closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial waterway for world oil trade. Risks in this regard were seemingly offset in the eyes of traders by positive feedback following the latest round of nuclear negotiations between the U.S. and Iran in Switzerland on Tuesday.

It's was a solidly successful day for the live cattle complex as the market is seeing immense support from traders, which is helped the contracts scale well over $1.00 higher into Tuesday's closing bell. More than anything, the robust fundamental support from last week's cash cattle market, mixed with the bullish long-term trajectory, seemed to have traders' full attention this morning. New showlists appear to be mixed, higher in Nebraska/Colorado, about steady in Kansas, and lower in Texas. Boxed beef prices are mixed: choice up $0.86 ($366.91) and select up $0.14 ($361.37) with a movement of 62 loads (45.85 loads of choice, 5.50 loads of select, 3.48 loads of trim and 6.86 loads of ground beef).

Upon noting the strength of last week's fed cash cattle trade and seeing how traders are energetically supporting the live cattle contracts, it's been an easy decision for traders to push the feeder cattle contracts higher. So long as the live cattle complex continues to trade higher, the feeder cattle contracts will likely follow in the same direction.

After a tumultuous downturn over the last seven trading days, the lean hog complex finally found some technical support as traders potentially believe that the contracts have created enough space from the contract highs scored in early February. Pork cutout values were a tick lower this morning, but that did not seem to be affecting traders through today's session.

<a href="https://dehayf5mhw1h7.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/356/2026/02/17135609/web-closing-markets-1.mp3">Click HERE for audio</a>

The National FFA Organization is proud to announce a new way for people to support the next generation for this year’s Give FFA Day. It’s called ChapterBoost. The ChapterBoost program showcases local FFA chapters and their goals for hands-on learning, leadership development, and agricultural education, giving donors the opportunity to make an immediate impact by selecting a project to support directly through crowdfunding for an individual chapter. 

The annual Give FFA Day will be held on Thursday, February 26, during National FFA Week. “We’re setting our most ambitious goal yet to raise $1.75 million on Give FFA Day,” said Kimberly Coveney, senior manager of individual giving for the National FFA Foundation. “Every dollar donated helps open doors for our more than one million members by funding programs, leadership development, and experiences that prepare them for careers in agriculture and beyond.” 

A new way to give back on 'National Give FFA Day'

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after an arrest.

Just after 9a.m.&nbsp; February 20, police arrested 27-year-old Tyrea Stewart of Junction City in the 100 block of Courthouse Plaza in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report. 

Stewart is being without bond for two Riley County District Court warrants for probation violation. The arrest stems from original charges of endangering a child, driving under the influence, improper child passenger safety restraint and transportation of liquor in an open container.&nbsp;

Police: Kan. man accused of DUI with child in the car

HARVEY COUNTY —The Harvey County Sheriff’s Office has released the name of the man who died in a farming accident in Harvey County over the weekend.

Mark Klaassen, 37, of Newton, was shifting soybeans Saturday inside a grain bin on a farm in the 2100 block of South Spencer Road, according to a media release from the sheriff's office. The contents suddenly shifted, trapping and injuring Klaassen.

Emergency responders were dispatched to the incident at 2:30 p.m. Klaassen was pronounced dead at the scene. Two other men were working alongside Klaassen. They did not request medical treatment. The death was ruled accidental.

Sheriff IDs Kansas man who died in grain bin accident

SHAWNEE COUNTY —A man wanted in connection with the November shooting death of a 16-year-old Kansas boy is in custody. Just before 9p.m. Sunday, police booked 20-year-old&nbsp; Nassir Tiriq Gill into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections, according to online jail records.&nbsp; Police have not released details on the circumstances of his arrest.

On Friday, police asked the public for help to locate him in connection with the November killing of 16-year-old Kingston Scott.

Just before 1a.m. November 22, 2025,&nbsp; police responded to several reports of gunshots around SE 37th Street and SE Adams Street in Topeka. While officers were investigating that area, they received information on a subject arriving at a local hospital by private vehicle with apparent gunshot wounds. The victim later identified as Kingston Scott of Topeka was pronounced deceased.&nbsp;

As a result of the investigation police have already arrested two 16-year-old boys from Topeka on&nbsp;&nbsp;charges including murder, Criminal discharge of firearm; Occupied vehicle with great bodily harm and Aggravated Assault; Use of a deadly weapon.

&nbsp;Gill is being held on requested charges of&nbsp; Murder in the 1st degree; Intentional and premeditated, Murder in the 1st degree; In the commission of a felony. Murder in the 1st degree; Intentional and premeditated, Criminal discharge of firearm; Occupied vehicle w great bodily harm, Criminal discharge of firearm; Recklessly at occupied dwelling and Criminal damage to property; Without consent value &lt; $1000, according to online jail records.

Suspect in murder of 16-year-old Kan. boy is in custody

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement are investigating a weekend homicide in Kansas City, Missouri.

&nbsp;just before 10:15p.m. Saturday, police were dispatched to a shooting in the 4900 block of College Avenue, according to KCPD Officer&nbsp;Alayna Gonzalez.

When officers arrived, they located a juvenile male victim later identified as 17-year-old Santino Gonzalez suffering from apparent gunshot trauma and unresponsive. 

Officers performed life-saving measures until EMS could respond and transport the boy to an area hospital for treatment. Officers on scene were advised that he had been pronounced deceased. 

Three additional victims, one adult female and two juvenile teens, were located at the scene all suffering from varying gunshot trauma. An additional two victims, one adult female and one juvenile teen, arrived at area hospitals by private conveyance all suffering from gunshot wounds.

Preliminary investigation indicates there was a gathering occurring at a residence in the 4900 block of College when an altercation between unknown individuals transpired inside of the residence. That altercation escalated into shots being fired, and resulted in two adult females, two juvenile teen males, and two juvenile teen females being struck. At this time, we do not have a person of interest identified and we do not have anyone in custody.

Homicide detectives and crime scene personnel responded to the scene to begin collecting evidence and gathering witness statements.

This incident is being investigated as a homicide. Police have not released suspect details or the name of the victim.

Mass Shooting: Teen killed, 5 others injured at Kansas City home

WASHINGTON —The Mexican army killed the leader of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mexico-jalisco-cartel-us-sanctions-8e40e7da8ce88c4feb45e61f3a2e00a3">Jalisco New Generation Cartel</a>, Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, "El Mencho," on Sunday, decapitating what had become Mexico's&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/el-mencho-justice-department-drug-cartels-cjng-73b539b8029c793fbd995a357b57f25f">most powerful drug cartel</a>&nbsp;and thrusting swaths of the nation into chaos.

According to a social media report late Sunday from White House spokesperson Karaoline Leavitt, " The United States provided intelligence support to the Mexican government in order to assist with an operation in Talpalpa, Jalisco, Mexico, in which Nemesio ‘El Mencho’ Oseguera Cervantes, an infamous drug lord and leader within the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, was eliminated. 

‘El Mencho’ was a was a top target for the Mexican and United States government as one of the top traffickers of fentanyl into our homeland. Last year, President Trump rightfully designated the Jalisco New Generation Cartel as a Foreign Terrorist Organization — because that’s exactly what it is. In this operation, three additional cartel members were killed, three were wounded, and two were arrested.

"President Trump has been very clear — the United States will ensure narcoterrorists sending deadly drugs to our homeland are forced to face the wrath of justice they have long deserved."

"The Trump Administration also commends and thanks the Mexican military for their cooperation and successful execution of this operation."

The drug lord was the Mexican government's biggest prize yet to show the Trump administration in its efforts to crack down on the cartels, and his death was met with a forceful reaction from the cartel, known by its Spanish initials CJNG.

White House: U.S. helped Mexican army kill powerful drug lord

OSAGE COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating two suspects on multiple allegations after

Just after 6a.m. January 18, a sheriff's deputy conducted a narcotic search warrant in the 1100 block of Laing Street in Osage City., according to Sheriff Chris Wells.

As a result, two subjects were taken into custody and transported to the Osage County Jail Facility.&nbsp; Gabriel A. Kennedy, 37, of Osage City is being held on requested charges of&nbsp;Possession of methamphetamine, Possession of marijuana, Possession of drug paraphernalia and Interference with law enforcement

Christopher W. Hibbs, 39, of Osage City is being held on requested charges of&nbsp; Violation of the registered offender act, 2nd offense and Aggravated violation of the registered offender act. He has been listed as a registered sex offender since a conviction in 2006 for attempted aggravated indecent liberties w/ child; Intercourse w child 14-16 years of age, according to the KBI Offender Registry.

Wanted Kan. sex offender caught during drug bust

Click below to listen to the Palm Beach County Sheriff and Secret Service update on the fatal shooting at President Trump's Mar-a-Lago club.

New details: Armed man shot, killed at Mar-a-Lago 

Locations:&nbsp;Widespread, including&nbsp;Jalisco&nbsp;State (including Puerto Vallarta, Chapala, and Guadalajara), Baja California State (including Tijuana, Tecate, and Ensenada), Quintana Roo State (including Cancun, Cozumel, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum), and areas of Guanajuato, Guerrero, Michoacan, Oaxaca, Nuevo Leon, and Tamaulipas States

Event:&nbsp;Due to ongoing security&nbsp;operations and&nbsp;related&nbsp;road blockages and criminal activity,&nbsp;U.S. citizens&nbsp;in the named locations&nbsp;should shelter in&nbsp;place&nbsp;until further notice.

All U.S. government staff at Consulate General Tijuana and all U.S. government staff in Guerrero, Michoacan, and Quintana Roo states have been directed to shelter in place.&nbsp; All U.S. government staff at Consulate General Monterrey have been directed to remain in the Monterrey metropolitan area.

While no airports have been closed, roadblocks have impacted airline operations, with some domestic and international flights cancelled in both Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta.&nbsp; All taxis and ride shares are suspended in Puerto Vallarta. &nbsp;Some businesses have suspended operations.

<a href="https://mx.usembassy.gov/contact/" target="_blank">Contact Form</a><a href="https://mx.usembassy.gov/" target="_blank">U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Mexico</a>From Mexico: (55) 8526 2561From the United States: &nbsp;+1-844-528-6611Department of State – Consular Affairs:  +1-888-407-4747 or +1-202-501-4444

Links:<a href="https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/travel-advisories/mexico.html" target="_blank">Mexico International Travel information&nbsp;</a><a href="https://mx.usembassy.gov/receive-embassy-alerts-on-whatsapp/" target="_blank">U.S. Citizens in Mexico WhatsApp Channel</a><a href="https://mx.usembassy.gov/passports/" target="_blank">U.S. Passports</a><a href="https://mytravel.state.gov/s/step" target="_blank">Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)&nbsp;</a>Department of State on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/travelgov" target="_blank">Facebook&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/travelgov" target="_blank">X&nbsp;</a>

Security Alert: Ongoing security operations – U.S. Mission Mexico

KANSAS CITY—Kansas City , Missouri police know some heroes have four legs.&nbsp;

Earlier this month, police responded to a call for a toddler found wandering barefoot on the street, according to a social media report from KCMO Police.. While trying to figure out the toddler’s identity and family, a dog kept nudging at the officers.

To officers, the dog was trying to tell them something. When the dog walked away, the officers followed their instincts and the dog.

The dog led officers to a house. That house was the toddler’s home.

The toddler was reunited with family, though there is an investigation as to what happened.

🎥Dog helps Kansas City police find wandering toddler's home 

By:<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/kevinhardy/">Kevin Hardy</a>

Outrage erupted last month when Oklahoma City residents learned of plans to convert a vacant warehouse into an immigration processing facility.

Making&nbsp;<a href="https://oklahomavoice.com/2026/01/27/oklahomans-denounce-potential-ice-processing-center-at-okc-city-council-meeting/" target="_blank">matters worse</a>&nbsp;was the secrecy of the federal government: City leaders received no communication from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement aside from a mandated&nbsp;<a href="https://www.okc.gov/files/assets/city/v/1/city-manager/ltr-from-dhs-to-okc-about-okc-detention-center.pdf" target="_blank">disclosure</a>&nbsp;related to historic preservation.

Planning a major development without city input is antithetical to the in-depth, sometimes arcane permitting, planning and zoning process in Oklahoma City. Mayor David Holt, a former Republican state senator, said those land use decisions are among the most crucial of any municipal government.

“For any entity to be able to open a detention center in our communities, potentially next to neighborhoods or schools, regardless of your views on immigration policy or enforcement, is very challenging, because that’s a very high-impact use, and that’s the kind of thing that we would expect to talk about,” he told Stateline.

Communities across the country are facing similar prospects as ICE undertakes a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.npr.org/2026/01/21/nx-s1-5674887/ice-budget-funding-congress-trump" target="_blank">massive expansion</a>&nbsp;fueled in large part by the record $45 billion approved for increased immigration detention by Congress last summer.

During President Donald Trump’s second term, ICE is holding a record number of detainees —&nbsp;<a href="https://stateline.org/2026/02/05/immigration-detention-passed-70000-in-january/" target="_blank">more than 70,000</a>&nbsp;as of January — across its own facilities as well as in contracted local jails and private prisons. ICE<a href="https://www.governor.nh.gov/sites/g/files/ehbemt971/files/inline-documents/merrimack-detention-reengineering-initiative.pdf" target="_blank">&nbsp;documents</a>&nbsp;from last week show plans for acquiring and renovating 16 processing sites that hold up to 1,500 people each and eight detention centers that hold up to 10,000 each, for a total capacity of 92,600 beds. The agency also has plans for some 150 new leases and office expansions across the country,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wired.com/story/ice-expansion-across-us-at-heres-where-its-going-next/?utm_source=firefox-newtab-en-us" target="_blank">Wired reported</a>.

But ICE’s plans to convert industrial buildings — often warehouses — into new detention facilities have recently faced fierce opposition over humanitarian and economic concerns. From Utah to Texas to Georgia, local governments have sought to block these massive facilities. But with limited legal authority, city and state officials have turned to the court of public opinion to deter private developers and the federal government.

Holt, who is the president of the U.S. Conference of Mayors, a nonpartisan organization representing the more than 1,400 leaders of cities with populations of 30,000 or more, said cities have little legal recourse over the ICE facilities.

“We all have a clear, unified position that really crosses party lines,” he said, “and then we also have a clear understanding of how limited our options are.”

Local leaders often cite the U.S. Constitution’s&nbsp;<a href="https://constitution.congress.gov/browse/essay/artVI-C2-1/ALDE_00013395/" target="_blank">supremacy clause</a>, which says federal laws supersede conflicting state laws. That leaves cities with limited influence over projects that could take industrial space off tax rolls, cause new strains on city services and raise serious humanitarian concerns given the Trump administration’s aggressive immigration enforcement, including the high-profile killings of two Americans in Minnesota.

Facing bipartisan opposition, the out-of-state owner of the Oklahoma City warehouse ultimately decided to&nbsp;<a href="https://oklahomavoice.com/briefs/proposed-oklahoma-city-ice-facility-is-off-the-table/" target="_blank">end talks</a>&nbsp;of selling or leasing its warehouse to the federal government.

Similar public pressure has proved effective in reversing plans in several other cities: In late January, a Canadian firm said it would not proceed with a planned sale of a Virginia warehouse after it faced&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2026/02/01/us/politics/ice-warehouse-detention-canada.html" target="_blank">calls for a boycott</a>&nbsp;from Canadian politicians and businesses. In Mississippi, U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker announced the federal government would&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/SenatorWicker/status/2019820750900002820" target="_blank">“look elsewhere”</a>&nbsp;after he spoke with Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, who oversees ICE. Wicker, a Republican who said he supports immigration enforcement, echoed local&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2026/2/wicker-proposed-ice-facility-threatens-byhalia-mississippi-economy-and-infrastructure" target="_blank">economic concerns</a>&nbsp;of a project planned in Byhalia.

Some officials have welcomed the new facilities: Missouri Republican U.S. Rep. Mark Alford has&nbsp;<a href="https://alford.house.gov/uploadedfiles/1.16.2026_ice_facility_letter.pdf" target="_blank">lobbied</a>&nbsp;to land a detention and processing center in his district. And last week, a Maryland county approved a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wbaltv.com/article/washington-county-dhs-ice-resolution-hagerstown-detention-center/70300009" target="_blank">resolution</a>&nbsp;expressing its “full support” for ICE, which is considering purchasing a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.washco-md.net/news/washington-county-statement-on-u-s-department-of-homeland-security-notice-concerning-proposed-ice-facility/" target="_blank">warehouse</a>&nbsp;there, despite local protests. But most communities have fought them.

Neither DHS nor ICE responded to Stateline’s questions.

Holt said the discussion resembles other local development concerns where NIMBY — short for Not in My Backyard — is a common description of opponents.

“There are plenty of people who are very law-and-order and supporters of law enforcement who don’t want a jail next to their house,” he said. “That’s why it’s got such broad opposition: NIMBYism is the most powerful force sometimes in American politics and nobody wants a detention center next to their home, their business or their school.”

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