Tax season is approaching, and the IRS is advising taxpayers to start preparing for filing their 2026 returns. 

Some key tips include setting up direct deposit for tax refunds, reviewing new tax law changes introduced in 2025, and exploring the new Trump Accounts for eligible children. 

Taxpayers should also report income from payment apps and online sales, as well as digital asset transactions, including cryptocurrency and NFTs. 

The IRS has not yet announced the start date for accepting tax returns in 2026.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690229574211.png" alt="IRS" />
                        <figcaption>IRS</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>By RYAN SKAITH</p><p>Tax season is approaching, and the IRS is advising taxpayers to start preparing for filing their 2026 returns. </p><p>Some key tips include setting up direct deposit for tax refunds, reviewing new tax law changes introduced in 2025, and exploring the new Trump Accounts for eligible children. </p><p>Taxpayers should also report income from payment apps and online sales, as well as digital asset transactions, including cryptocurrency and NFTs. </p><p>The IRS has not yet announced the start date for accepting tax returns in 2026.</p>

IRS tips for tax filing

LIVINGSTON COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just after 8p.m. Tuesday in Livingston County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2018 Hyundai Tucson driven by a 19-year-old Bethany woman was eastbound on MO 190 at Route U two miles east of Lock Springs. The SUV traveled off the north side of the road, struck a tree, became airborne, continued across a creek, struck the embankment and rolled.

Livingston County EMS transported the driver and a 1-year-old male passenger in Hedrick Medical Center. Both were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

<p>LIVINGSTON COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just after 8p.m. Tuesday in Livingston County.</p><p>The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2018 Hyundai Tucson driven by a 19-year-old Bethany woman was eastbound on MO 190 at Route U two miles east of Lock Springs. The SUV traveled off the north side of the road, struck a tree, became airborne, continued across a creek, struck the embankment and rolled.</p><p>Livingston County EMS transported the driver and a 1-year-old male passenger in Hedrick Medical Center. Both were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.</p>

Mo. woman, 1-year-old hospitalized after violent SUV crash

Students in the Harris-Lake Park School District will return to classrooms Wednesday following a significant boiler failure that shuttered the district’s elementary school just weeks before its scheduled closure.

The weekend malfunction at the 1970s-era elementary building caused extensive steam, water, and electrical damage throughout the facility. The damage was severe enough to keep students in all grade levels home for the first two days of the week while administrators scrambled to find alternative instructional spaces.

Starting Wednesday, the district will utilize a split-campus approach to finish the winter term. Preschool and kindergarten classes have been relocated to the Presbyterian Church in Lake Park. Meanwhile, all students in grades 1 through 12 will be consolidated into the district’s existing middle and high school building.

School officials noted that the elementary building was already nearing the end of its lifespan, as it lacked modern air conditioning and relied on a failing boiler system that required constant maintenance. A new, modern elementary school is currently under construction and is expected to open in approximately eight weeks.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746207302914.jpeg" alt="classroom desks teacher student pixabay.jpg" />
                        <figcaption>classroom desks teacher student pixabay.jpg</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>By RYAN SKAITH</p><p>Students in the Harris-Lake Park School District will return to classrooms Wednesday following a significant boiler failure that shuttered the district’s elementary school just weeks before its scheduled closure.</p><p>The weekend malfunction at the 1970s-era elementary building caused extensive steam, water, and electrical damage throughout the facility. The damage was severe enough to keep students in all grade levels home for the first two days of the week while administrators scrambled to find alternative instructional spaces.</p><p>Starting Wednesday, the district will utilize a split-campus approach to finish the winter term. Preschool and kindergarten classes have been relocated to the Presbyterian Church in Lake Park. Meanwhile, all students in grades 1 through 12 will be consolidated into the district’s existing middle and high school building.</p><p>School officials noted that the elementary building was already nearing the end of its lifespan, as it lacked modern air conditioning and relied on a failing boiler system that required constant maintenance. A new, modern elementary school is currently under construction and is expected to open in approximately eight weeks.</p>

Boiler failure shutters Iowa school; classes move to church, high school

BROWN COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on drug allegations.

Just after 5:30p.m. January 4, a sheriff's&nbsp;deputy on routine patrol stopped a vehicle for speeding 101 mph in a 65 mph zone in the vicinity of U.S. 75 and&nbsp; 160th, according to Brown County Sheriff&nbsp; John Merchant.

While making contact with the driver&nbsp; of the vehicle identified as 71-year-old Clarence Riley of Minot, North&nbsp; Dakota, an odor of burnt marijuana was detected&nbsp; coming from the vehicle.&nbsp; 

The deputy arrested Riley on requested charges ofPossession of Cocaine, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and No Drug Tax Stamp.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767652453060.png" alt="Riley photo Brown County" />
                        <figcaption>Riley photo Brown County</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>BROWN COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on drug allegations.</p><p>Just after 5:30p.m. January 4, a sheriff's&nbsp;deputy on routine patrol stopped a vehicle for speeding 101 mph in a 65 mph zone in the vicinity of U.S. 75 and&nbsp; 160th, according to Brown County Sheriff&nbsp; John Merchant.</p><p>While making contact with the driver&nbsp; of the vehicle identified as 71-year-old Clarence Riley of Minot, North&nbsp; Dakota, an odor of burnt marijuana was detected&nbsp; coming from the vehicle.&nbsp; </p><p>The deputy arrested Riley on requested charges ofPossession of Cocaine, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and No Drug Tax Stamp.</p>

Sheriff: Driver was transporting cocaine at 101mph on Kan. highway

The Missouri Department of Revenue has issued an advisory to correct inaccurate reports circulating through some media outlets regarding changes to state vehicle registration requirements.

The department noted the misinformation — which claims that Missouri no longer requires vehicle inspections and has expanded registration periods as of Jan. 1, 2026 — was likely generated by artificial intelligence sources.

State officials confirmed that Missouri law has not changed. Vehicle registration and safety inspection requirements remain the same.

While the department acknowledged that similar proposals have been introduced in recent legislative sessions, none have been signed into law.

For official information regarding vehicle licensing, residents should visit the Department of Revenue’s website.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755891155248.jpg" alt="car, bmw, steering wheel, interiors, dashboard, car interiors, luxury car, vehicle, car wallpapers, gps, auto, automobile, automotive, driving, route, interior, navigation, tachometer, speedometer" />
                        <figcaption>car, bmw, steering wheel, interiors, dashboard, car interiors, luxury car, vehicle, car wallpapers, gps, auto, automobile, automotive, driving, route, interior, navigation, tachometer, speedometer</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>By RYAN SKAITH</p><p>The Missouri Department of Revenue has issued an advisory to correct inaccurate reports circulating through some media outlets regarding changes to state vehicle registration requirements.</p><p>The department noted the misinformation — which claims that Missouri no longer requires vehicle inspections and has expanded registration periods as of Jan. 1, 2026 — was likely generated by artificial intelligence sources.</p><p>State officials confirmed that Missouri law has not changed. Vehicle registration and safety inspection requirements remain the same.</p><p>While the department acknowledged that similar proposals have been introduced in recent legislative sessions, none have been signed into law.</p><p>For official information regarding vehicle licensing, residents should visit the Department of Revenue’s website.</p>

Missouri Department of Revenue warns of AI-generated registration rumors

NODAWAY COUNTY —Three people avoided serious injury after an accident just before 7:30a.m. Tuesday in Nodaway County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2022 Ram 3500 driven by a 41-year-old Springfield man was westbound on U.S. 136 at Apollo Road three miles west of Burlington Junction. The driver lost control when the pickup struck a patch of black ice. The vehicle crossed the center line, traveled off the south side of the road, struck an embankment and overturned.

Nodaway County EMS check the driver and two passengers including a 34-year-old Roby man and a 25-year-old Galena man at the scene. All three refused transport for treatment. The 34-year-old was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

<p>NODAWAY COUNTY —Three people avoided serious injury after an accident just before 7:30a.m. Tuesday in Nodaway County.</p><p>The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2022 Ram 3500 driven by a 41-year-old Springfield man was westbound on U.S. 136 at Apollo Road three miles west of Burlington Junction. The driver lost control when the pickup struck a patch of black ice. The vehicle crossed the center line, traveled off the south side of the road, struck an embankment and overturned.</p><p>Nodaway County EMS check the driver and two passengers including a 34-year-old Roby man and a 25-year-old Galena man at the scene. All three refused transport for treatment. The 34-year-old was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.</p>

3 Mo. men avoid serious injury after vehicle struck black ice

Missouri Western State University has launched a regional Small Business Development Center to support small-business growth across northwest Missouri.

The university received a contract from the Small Business Administration to provide SBDC services to the region. Rebecca Lobina, Missouri Western’s director of workforce development, will lead the center.

The center will also offer students and faculty increased access to real-world learning opportunities.

Funded by the SBA with local matching funds, SBDCs provide free counseling and training to businesses with fewer than 500 employees. These services support both startups and the expansion of existing companies.

The center will work alongside the university's Craig School of Business, the Center for Workforce Development, and the Houlne Center for Convergent Technology to bolster the region’s economy.

Lobina, who joined the university in April, previously led the regional SBDC for nearly 20 years. She said she expects high demand for the center's services, which cover everything from initial business concepts to succession planning.

"St. Joseph and northwest Missouri has an active entrepreneurship community, and that community is hungry for the services that a local SBDC provides," Lobina said. She noted that the center has historically served up to 200 businesses annually. Services began Jan. 1.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767639408843.jpeg" alt="Missouri Western State University/ Photo by Justin Peacock" />
                        <figcaption>Missouri Western State University/ Photo by Justin Peacock</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>By RYAN SKAITH</p><p>Missouri Western State University has launched a regional Small Business Development Center to support small-business growth across northwest Missouri.</p><p>The university received a contract from the Small Business Administration to provide SBDC services to the region. Rebecca Lobina, Missouri Western’s director of workforce development, will lead the center.</p><p>The center will also offer students and faculty increased access to real-world learning opportunities.</p><p>Funded by the SBA with local matching funds, SBDCs provide free counseling and training to businesses with fewer than 500 employees. These services support both startups and the expansion of existing companies.</p><p>The center will work alongside the university's Craig School of Business, the Center for Workforce Development, and the Houlne Center for Convergent Technology to bolster the region’s economy.</p><p>Lobina, who joined the university in April, previously led the regional SBDC for nearly 20 years. She said she expects high demand for the center's services, which cover everything from initial business concepts to succession planning.</p><p>"St. Joseph and northwest Missouri has an active entrepreneurship community, and that community is hungry for the services that a local SBDC provides," Lobina said. She noted that the center has historically served up to 200 businesses annually. Services began Jan. 1.</p>

New SBDC at Missouri Western to provide consulting for area small businesses

 The leaders of the Senate Judiciary Committee issued a rare joint statement Tuesday blasting the Trump administration for excluding them from a briefing on the arrest of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.

Chairman Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, and the committee's top Democrat, Dick Durbin of Illinois, called the administration's refusal to include the panel in the Monday night briefing "unacceptable."

The senators argued that their committee maintains oversight jurisdiction over the three federal agencies involved in the operation.

Grassley, the longest-serving Republican in the Senate, and Durbin, the chamber's No. 2 Democrat who has served for 28 years, are among the most senior voices in Congress. Their unified pushback signals a significant bipartisan rift over the administration’s handling of congressional oversight regarding the high-profile arrest.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1652294852507.jpeg" alt="Chuck Grassley 2 (DB).jpg" />
                        <figcaption>Chuck Grassley 2 (DB).jpg</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>By RYAN SKAITH</p><p> The leaders of the Senate Judiciary Committee issued a rare joint statement Tuesday blasting the Trump administration for excluding them from a briefing on the arrest of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.</p><p>Chairman Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, and the committee's top Democrat, Dick Durbin of Illinois, called the administration's refusal to include the panel in the Monday night briefing "unacceptable."</p><p>The senators argued that their committee maintains oversight jurisdiction over the three federal agencies involved in the operation.</p><p>Grassley, the longest-serving Republican in the Senate, and Durbin, the chamber's No. 2 Democrat who has served for 28 years, are among the most senior voices in Congress. Their unified pushback signals a significant bipartisan rift over the administration’s handling of congressional oversight regarding the high-profile arrest.</p>

Senate Judiciary leaders condemn exclusion from Maduro briefing

A runaway juvenile from Elwood, KS has been confirmed alive.

The Elwood Police Department says Lynnaya Bullen was reported missing Dec. 30, 2025.

As of Jan. 5, law enforcement had received information confirming Bullen is alive, and officers are continuing to follow up on leads.

Due to the nature of the investigation and the age of the individual, no further information is being released. Anyone with credible information regarding the case is encouraged to contact local law enforcement.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767696743865.jpeg" alt="Elwood Police Dept" />
                        <figcaption>Elwood Police Dept</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>By RYAN SKAITH</p><p>A runaway juvenile from Elwood, KS has been confirmed alive.</p><p>The Elwood Police Department says Lynnaya Bullen was reported missing Dec. 30, 2025.</p><p>As of Jan. 5, law enforcement had received information confirming Bullen is alive, and officers are continuing to follow up on leads.</p><p>Due to the nature of the investigation and the age of the individual, no further information is being released. Anyone with credible information regarding the case is encouraged to contact local law enforcement.</p><p>The investigation is ongoing.</p>

Investigation continues into missing Elwood juvenile

On December 26, the Brown County Sheriff's Office, following up on an investigation, applied for and was granted a search warrant for a residence at 811 Cherokee in Hiawatha, according to Brown County Sheriff John Merchant.

At the conclusion of the warrant,&nbsp; deputies arrested 67-year-old Doug Tollefson on requested charges of Possession of Meth, Possession ofMarijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.&nbsp; Hiawatha Police assisted with the arrest.&nbsp;

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767652260875.png" alt="Tollefson photo Brown Co." />
                        <figcaption>Tollefson photo Brown Co.</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>BROWN COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on drug allegations.</p><p>On December 26, the Brown County Sheriff's Office, following up on an investigation, applied for and was granted a search warrant for a residence at 811 Cherokee in Hiawatha, according to Brown County Sheriff John Merchant.</p><p>At the conclusion of the warrant,&nbsp; deputies arrested 67-year-old Doug Tollefson on requested charges of Possession of Meth, Possession ofMarijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.&nbsp; Hiawatha Police assisted with the arrest.&nbsp;</p>

Deputies found meth and marijuana at Kansas man's home

According to preliminary statistics from the Missouri State Highway Patrol, five people were killed in traffic crashes over the 2026 New Year’s holiday counting period.

The counting period began at 6:00 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 31 and concluded at 11:59 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 4.

Troopers reported a total of 187 traffic crashes, resulting in 87 injuries and five fatalities. Additionally, the patrol made 112 arrests for driving while intoxicated.

There were no boating crashes or drownings reported during the holiday.

The 2026 death toll marks an increase from the previous year’s holiday. During the 2024-2025 New Year’s counting period, one person was killed and 118 were injured in 264 traffic crashes.

While the total number of crashes decreased this year, the number of fatalities rose.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755030378899.png" alt="MSHP" />
                        <figcaption>MSHP</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>By RYAN SKAITH</p><p>According to preliminary statistics from the Missouri State Highway Patrol, five people were killed in traffic crashes over the 2026 New Year’s holiday counting period.</p><p>The counting period began at 6:00 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 31 and concluded at 11:59 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 4.</p><p>Troopers reported a total of 187 traffic crashes, resulting in 87 injuries and five fatalities. Additionally, the patrol made 112 arrests for driving while intoxicated.</p><p>There were no boating crashes or drownings reported during the holiday.</p><p>The 2026 death toll marks an increase from the previous year’s holiday. During the 2024-2025 New Year’s counting period, one person was killed and 118 were injured in 264 traffic crashes.</p><p>While the total number of crashes decreased this year, the number of fatalities rose.</p>

MSHP: 5 killed in New Year’s traffic crashes

First responder agencies have until the end of next month to nominate heroic responders for the Missouri Public Safety Awards

The Department of Public Safety is accepting nominations for the State of Missouri’s highest awards honoring first responders who took heroic actions beyond the call of duty in 2025 until February 28th. 

The awards are the Red, White and Blue Heart Award, Missouri Medal of Valor, and Governor’s Medal. The department is also accepting nominations from Missouri public safety agencies for the Public Safety Civilian Partnership Award.  The awards will be presented during a statewide ceremony in Jefferson City later this year.

Nominations must come from the leader of the public safety agency.  Nomination forms can be found on the Department of Public Safety's website.  A  public safety officer is defined as a person serving a public agency, with or without compensation, such as a firefighter, law enforcement officer, or emergency personnel or emergency management personnel.

The four public awards that someone can be nominated for are:&nbsp;

The Red, White and Blue Heart Award may be presented to any Missouri peace officer, firefighter, paramedic, EMT or emergency first responder who under honorable circumstances is critically, seriously or fatally injured while performing official duties in the line of duty. It is conferred in recognition of first responders seriously injured and sustaining permanent impairment of health or death. The injury or condition must require long-term treatment by a medical professional and considerable loss of time from duty. In a fatality incident, the award will be presented to a family member.

The Missouri Medal of Valor recognizes heroic service by first responders in an effort to save a life. The Medal of Valor is Missouri’s highest award for public safety officers and is awarded to those who exhibit exceptional courage, decisiveness and swift action without regard for their own safety in their attempt to save a life. Law enforcement, fire and emergency medical services, state and local corrections officers, court officers and emergency management personnel are eligible.

The Governor’s Medal recognizes extraordinary actions by an organized or ad hoc team of first responders for brave actions above and beyond the call of normal duty during a critical situation in which their teamwork was essential to the successful resolution of the situation. Law enforcement, fire and emergency medical services, state and local corrections officers, court officers and emergency management personnel are eligible.

The Public Safety Civilian Partnership Award honors a civilian who has provided valuable or courageous assistance to first responders in an emergency situation, without regard for their own personal welfare. It may also be bestowed on a civilian or team of civilians who train public safety officers in life-saving techniques which are later utilized to save a life

<i>You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.</i>

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767646043487.jpeg" alt="On Sept. 23, 2025, Gov. Mike Kehoe presented Missouri Public Safety Awards to 32 first responders and six civilians for heroic acts they performed to protect others during critical incidents in 2024./ Photo courtesy of the Missouri Department of Public Safety" />
                        <figcaption>On Sept. 23, 2025, Gov. Mike Kehoe presented Missouri Public Safety Awards to 32 first responders and six civilians for heroic acts they performed to protect others during critical incidents in 2024./ Photo courtesy of the Missouri Department of Public Safety</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>By MATT PIKE</p><p>First responder agencies have until the end of next month to nominate heroic responders for the Missouri Public Safety Awards</p><p>The Department of Public Safety is accepting nominations for the State of Missouri’s highest awards honoring first responders who took heroic actions beyond the call of duty in 2025 until February 28th. </p><p>The awards are the Red, White and Blue Heart Award, Missouri Medal of Valor, and Governor’s Medal. The department is also accepting nominations from Missouri public safety agencies for the Public Safety Civilian Partnership Award.  The awards will be presented during a statewide ceremony in Jefferson City later this year.</p><p>Nominations must come from the leader of the public safety agency.  Nomination forms can be found on the Department of Public Safety's website.  A  public safety officer is defined as a person serving a public agency, with or without compensation, such as a firefighter, law enforcement officer, or emergency personnel or emergency management personnel.</p><p>The four public awards that someone can be nominated for are:&nbsp;</p><p>The Red, White and Blue Heart Award may be presented to any Missouri peace officer, firefighter, paramedic, EMT or emergency first responder who under honorable circumstances is critically, seriously or fatally injured while performing official duties in the line of duty. It is conferred in recognition of first responders seriously injured and sustaining permanent impairment of health or death. The injury or condition must require long-term treatment by a medical professional and considerable loss of time from duty. In a fatality incident, the award will be presented to a family member.</p><p>The Missouri Medal of Valor recognizes heroic service by first responders in an effort to save a life. The Medal of Valor is Missouri’s highest award for public safety officers and is awarded to those who exhibit exceptional courage, decisiveness and swift action without regard for their own safety in their attempt to save a life. Law enforcement, fire and emergency medical services, state and local corrections officers, court officers and emergency management personnel are eligible.</p><p>The Governor’s Medal recognizes extraordinary actions by an organized or ad hoc team of first responders for brave actions above and beyond the call of normal duty during a critical situation in which their teamwork was essential to the successful resolution of the situation. Law enforcement, fire and emergency medical services, state and local corrections officers, court officers and emergency management personnel are eligible.</p><p>The Public Safety Civilian Partnership Award honors a civilian who has provided valuable or courageous assistance to first responders in an emergency situation, without regard for their own personal welfare. It may also be bestowed on a civilian or team of civilians who train public safety officers in life-saving techniques which are later utilized to save a life</p><p><i>You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.</i></p>

Nominations being accepted for Missouri Public Safety awards

According to State Climatologist Justin Glisan, snowfall was the defining weather feature for Iowa this December. A broad swath stretching from the southeastern to the northwestern parts of the state received above-average totals, with accumulations ranging from four to eight inches.

In contrast, the corners of the state missed out on the heavier totals. Both the northeast and southwest regions recorded below-average snowfall for the month.

These snow-covered landscapes had a direct impact on regional temperatures. Glisan noted that December temperatures averaged about 1.7 degrees below normal.

Despite the notable snow, overall precipitation—which includes the liquid equivalent of frozen moisture—was slightly lacking. The state recorded approximately one inch of precipitation, which is about four-tenths of an inch below the monthly average. Ultimately, Glisan characterized the month as pretty ordinary on most accounts.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765562426861.jpg" alt="winter road, snow, snowy, nature, country, drive, woods" />
                        <figcaption>winter road, snow, snowy, nature, country, drive, woods</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>By RYAN SKAITH</p><p>According to State Climatologist Justin Glisan, snowfall was the defining weather feature for Iowa this December. A broad swath stretching from the southeastern to the northwestern parts of the state received above-average totals, with accumulations ranging from four to eight inches.</p><p>In contrast, the corners of the state missed out on the heavier totals. Both the northeast and southwest regions recorded below-average snowfall for the month.</p><p>These snow-covered landscapes had a direct impact on regional temperatures. Glisan noted that December temperatures averaged about 1.7 degrees below normal.</p><p>Despite the notable snow, overall precipitation—which includes the liquid equivalent of frozen moisture—was slightly lacking. The state recorded approximately one inch of precipitation, which is about four-tenths of an inch below the monthly average. Ultimately, Glisan characterized the month as pretty ordinary on most accounts.</p>

High snow, low temps: state climatologist recaps Iowa’s December weather

<b>By&nbsp;TIM CARPENTER</b><br><a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/12/18/kansas-board-of-regents-works-to-incorporate-critique-of-tenure-workforce-policy-changes/"><i>Kansas Reflector</i></a>

Dissenters point to ‘rigid’ post-tenure reviews, short timeline for making improvement

TOPEKA — The Kansas Board of Regents agreed to weigh feedback from professors, administrators and legislators before voting on systemwide faculty tenure and workload policies designed to bring accountability and transparency to academic personnel decisions at the state’s six public universities.

Since the Board of Regents released drafts of the policies in November, complaints surfaced that allowing the firing of university professors after two consecutive unsatisfactory annual evaluations was “overly rigid” and didn’t take into account “extenuating circumstances,” such as an employee’s personal crisis.

In addition, concern was expressed the workload policy conflicted with standards of the American Association of University Professors or with academic program accreditation guidelines.

Objections were raised about membership of post-tenure review committees and whether the university committee deciding to place a faculty member on a one-year improvement plan would be the same group that performed the follow-up evaluation. Another issue was that one year could be an unrealistic period of time for a faculty member to correct deficiencies in research productivity, officials said.

“We’re appreciative of that input because it is beneficial and helpful as we look at trying to stand up this policy,” said Board of Regents member Alysia Johnston, who has a background in community college administration.

She said the goal was implementation of umbrella policies applicable to the University of Kansas, Kansas State University, Wichita State University, Fort Hays State University, Pittsburg State University and Emporia State University.

The Board of Regents engaged in general discussion of the draft policies Wednesday and could take formal action on both in January.

During the past few years, members of the Legislature have taken greater interest in university workload and tenure decisions. In 2024, a Kansas House committee welcomed to the Capitol a tenured faculty member at Emporia State who recommended retroactive elimination of tenure at state universities. The idea was opposed by K-State president Richard Linton and KU chancellor Doug Girod.

Rusty Monhollon, vice president of academic affairs for the Board of Regents, said the systemwide tenure and workload policies were the result of persistent calls for greater transparency and accountability regarding faculty appointments.

“It’s my own sense that very few faculty would be opposed to greater accountability because the work they do is good. They are very productive and they would stand up under scrutiny,” he said.

Monhollon, a former executive director of the South Carolina Commission on Higher Education, said tenure was awarded to faculty following extensive vetting of each person’s teaching, research and service performance over a period of years. Tenure was mistakenly viewed by the public as a lifetime appointment, he said.

Academic freedom, a pivotal component of faculty tenure across the United States, was essential to success of colleges or universities, he said.

“Tenure is there to protect faculty to pursue research or to take on topics that are controversial,” Monhollon said. “If those protections aren’t in place for faculty, I think we lose that ability of faculty to take on difficult challenges, maybe pursue paths that are a bit unconventional, that many times bear the kind of results that really advance society and benefit all of us.”

Matt Crocker, a Manhattan businessman appointed to the Board of Regents in October, said changes to workload and tenure expectations at state universities should recognize the value in making certain taxpayers received proper return on public investments in higher education. He serves as CEO of SPS Companies, which includes Steel and Pipe Supply Co.

He said Monhollon’s comments about protecting academic freedom raised the question: “Protect them from whom?”

“If an individual’s not working in line with the mission of the university, I’m not sure that’s really something we want to protect,” Crocker said. “I don’t think we want to mix a lot of concepts together inadvertently as we look through these policies.”

Under the proposed reforms, the Board of Regents would adopt academic workload expectations and require post-tenure review of faculty at research-centered KU, WSU and K-State and the regional universities in Pittsburg, Emporia and Hays. The core obligation of all faculty in the system would be teaching, research and service, but instruction of students would be the most significant factor in assessments.

Faculty at K-State, WSU and KU would be expected to have teaching loads ranging from 40% to 55%. The three regional universities would have teaching loads of 60% to 75%. Research expectations for tenured professors would be specific to each discipline.

The faculty would have personalized work plans that were revised annually. Tenured faculty would be reviewed by a university committee every five years. Proponents of reform say collection of data on faculty would serve to better identify professors who excelled and those who fell short. The process could replace subjective elements of faculty evaluations with tangible evidence of research, teaching and service.

Each university would retain control of post-tenure faculty reviews and the provisions of self-improvement programs for faculty. Individuals could be placed in one-year remediation programs. The policy would enable universities to dismiss faculty who failed the follow-up review.

The universities would submit to the Board of Regents annual reports on tenure that included information on tenure awards and denials, the number of faculty placed on improvement plans as well as faculty resignations and dismissals. Biennial reports prepared for the Board of Regents would document faculty credit hour production, graduation rates, publications and research funding.

Johnston, who chairs the Board of Regents’ academic affairs committee, said she anticipated reports on tenure and workload to prove state universities in Kansas maintained high expectations of tenured faculty.

“I hope, with greater transparency, the data will prove just that,” she said. “I believe it will show that this is a rigorous process.”

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766432718726.jpeg" alt="Matt Crocker, a member of the Kansas Board of Regents, says faculty tenure and workforce policies under consideration for the state’s six public universities must take into account the necessity of guaranteeing the public receives proper return on investments in higher education. Photo by Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector" />
                        <figcaption>Matt Crocker, a member of the Kansas Board of Regents, says faculty tenure and workforce policies under consideration for the state’s six public universities must take into account the necessity of guaranteeing the public receives proper return on investments in higher education. Photo by Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector</figcaption>
                    </figure><p><b>By&nbsp;TIM CARPENTER</b><br><a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/12/18/kansas-board-of-regents-works-to-incorporate-critique-of-tenure-workforce-policy-changes/"><i>Kansas Reflector</i></a></p><h2>Dissenters point to ‘rigid’ post-tenure reviews, short timeline for making improvement</h2><p>TOPEKA — The Kansas Board of Regents agreed to weigh feedback from professors, administrators and legislators before voting on systemwide faculty tenure and workload policies designed to bring accountability and transparency to academic personnel decisions at the state’s six public universities.</p><p>Since the Board of Regents released drafts of the policies in November, complaints surfaced that allowing the firing of university professors after two consecutive unsatisfactory annual evaluations was “overly rigid” and didn’t take into account “extenuating circumstances,” such as an employee’s personal crisis.</p><p>In addition, concern was expressed the workload policy conflicted with standards of the American Association of University Professors or with academic program accreditation guidelines.</p><p>Objections were raised about membership of post-tenure review committees and whether the university committee deciding to place a faculty member on a one-year improvement plan would be the same group that performed the follow-up evaluation. Another issue was that one year could be an unrealistic period of time for a faculty member to correct deficiencies in research productivity, officials said.</p><p>“We’re appreciative of that input because it is beneficial and helpful as we look at trying to stand up this policy,” said Board of Regents member Alysia Johnston, who has a background in community college administration.</p><p>She said the goal was implementation of umbrella policies applicable to the University of Kansas, Kansas State University, Wichita State University, Fort Hays State University, Pittsburg State University and Emporia State University.</p><p>The Board of Regents engaged in general discussion of the draft policies Wednesday and could take formal action on both in January.</p><p>During the past few years, members of the Legislature have taken greater interest in university workload and tenure decisions. In 2024, a Kansas House committee welcomed to the Capitol a tenured faculty member at Emporia State who recommended retroactive elimination of tenure at state universities. The idea was opposed by K-State president Richard Linton and KU chancellor Doug Girod.</p><h2>Return on investment</h2><p>Rusty Monhollon, vice president of academic affairs for the Board of Regents, said the systemwide tenure and workload policies were the result of persistent calls for greater transparency and accountability regarding faculty appointments.</p><p>“It’s my own sense that very few faculty would be opposed to greater accountability because the work they do is good. They are very productive and they would stand up under scrutiny,” he said.</p><p>Monhollon, a former executive director of the South Carolina Commission on Higher Education, said tenure was awarded to faculty following extensive vetting of each person’s teaching, research and service performance over a period of years. Tenure was mistakenly viewed by the public as a lifetime appointment, he said.</p><p>Academic freedom, a pivotal component of faculty tenure across the United States, was essential to success of colleges or universities, he said.</p><p>“Tenure is there to protect faculty to pursue research or to take on topics that are controversial,” Monhollon said. “If those protections aren’t in place for faculty, I think we lose that ability of faculty to take on difficult challenges, maybe pursue paths that are a bit unconventional, that many times bear the kind of results that really advance society and benefit all of us.”</p><p>Matt Crocker, a Manhattan businessman appointed to the Board of Regents in October, said changes to workload and tenure expectations at state universities should recognize the value in making certain taxpayers received proper return on public investments in higher education. He serves as CEO of SPS Companies, which includes Steel and Pipe Supply Co.</p><p>He said Monhollon’s comments about protecting academic freedom raised the question: “Protect them from whom?”</p><p>“If an individual’s not working in line with the mission of the university, I’m not sure that’s really something we want to protect,” Crocker said. “I don’t think we want to mix a lot of concepts together inadvertently as we look through these policies.”</p><h2>Revised expectations</h2><p>Under the proposed reforms, the Board of Regents would adopt academic workload expectations and require post-tenure review of faculty at research-centered KU, WSU and K-State and the regional universities in Pittsburg, Emporia and Hays. The core obligation of all faculty in the system would be teaching, research and service, but instruction of students would be the most significant factor in assessments.</p><p>Faculty at K-State, WSU and KU would be expected to have teaching loads ranging from 40% to 55%. The three regional universities would have teaching loads of 60% to 75%. Research expectations for tenured professors would be specific to each discipline.</p><p>The faculty would have personalized work plans that were revised annually. Tenured faculty would be reviewed by a university committee every five years. Proponents of reform say collection of data on faculty would serve to better identify professors who excelled and those who fell short. The process could replace subjective elements of faculty evaluations with tangible evidence of research, teaching and service.</p><p>Each university would retain control of post-tenure faculty reviews and the provisions of self-improvement programs for faculty. Individuals could be placed in one-year remediation programs. The policy would enable universities to dismiss faculty who failed the follow-up review.</p><p>The universities would submit to the Board of Regents annual reports on tenure that included information on tenure awards and denials, the number of faculty placed on improvement plans as well as faculty resignations and dismissals. Biennial reports prepared for the Board of Regents would document faculty credit hour production, graduation rates, publications and research funding.</p><p>Johnston, who chairs the Board of Regents’ academic affairs committee, said she anticipated reports on tenure and workload to prove state universities in Kansas maintained high expectations of tenured faculty.</p><p>“I hope, with greater transparency, the data will prove just that,” she said. “I believe it will show that this is a rigorous process.”</p>

Kansas Board of Regents works to incorporate critique of tenure, workforce policy changes

WASHINGTON —&nbsp;The Department of the Treasury and the Internal Revenue Service today provided guidance on the “No Tax on Car Loan Interest” provision enacted under the One, Big, Beautiful Bill.

<a target="_blank" href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.federalregister.gov%2Fpublic-inspection%2F2025-24154%2Fcar-loan-interest-deduction/1/0100019b74d957c6-156be576-39fc-4344-85a0-c84a772c0b3f-000000/dB0mXREam7-XDhS7x6XI0t7I-AudUZncyTvQ62Gz3xU=438">The proposed regulations</a>&nbsp;issued today relate to a new deduction for interest paid on vehicle loans incurred after Dec. 31, 2024, to purchase new made-in-America vehicles for personal use. This new tax benefit applies to both taxpayers who take the standard deduction and those who itemize deductions.&nbsp;

Who can take a deduction for interest on car loans

To help taxpayers take advantage of this new tax benefit, today’s guidance addresses important eligibility criteria, including:

The IRS previously announced&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.irs.gov%2Fnewsroom%2Ftreasury-irs-provide-transition-relief-for-2025-for-businesses-reporting-car-loan-interest-under-the-one-big-beautiful-bill/1/0100019b74d957c6-156be576-39fc-4344-85a0-c84a772c0b3f-000000/Rzf5D9WG-l-HcgT3A0ewB_nBVIsuenf9DgMoglCBH1g=438">transition guidance</a>&nbsp;for certain lenders and other taxpayers receiving&nbsp;interest&nbsp;for vehicle loans in 2025. In general, those persons&nbsp;must file information returns with the IRS to report interest received during the tax year and other information related to the loan. These information returns enable taxpayers to claim the benefits of the vehicle loan interest deduction. To help lenders implement these information reporting requirements, the proposed regulations clarify:

Treasury and IRS invite comments from the public on these proposed regulations by Feb. 2, 2026. Comments can be submitted through&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.regulations.gov%2F/1/0100019b74d957c6-156be576-39fc-4344-85a0-c84a772c0b3f-000000/dIJJwTPdwsY8DD9x2R5dVqOZZBM0y19T5JMcphjkDQ8=438">Regulations.gov</a>&nbsp;and instructions can be found in the proposed regulations.

For more information, see&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.irs.gov%2Fnewsroom%2Fone-big-beautiful-bill-provisions/1/0100019b74d957c6-156be576-39fc-4344-85a0-c84a772c0b3f-000000/FP_nte4n1yCQiTPpk-AT8X3TXDzwOsolmrR7tmqrRp4=438">One, Big, Beautiful Bill provisions</a>&nbsp;on IRS.gov.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740609345748.png" alt="<br>" />
                        <figcaption><br></figcaption>
                    </figure><p><i>IRS</i></p><p>WASHINGTON —&nbsp;The Department of the Treasury and the Internal Revenue Service today provided guidance on the “No Tax on Car Loan Interest” provision enacted under the One, Big, Beautiful Bill.</p><p><a target="_blank" href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.federalregister.gov%2Fpublic-inspection%2F2025-24154%2Fcar-loan-interest-deduction/1/0100019b74d957c6-156be576-39fc-4344-85a0-c84a772c0b3f-000000/dB0mXREam7-XDhS7x6XI0t7I-AudUZncyTvQ62Gz3xU=438">The proposed regulations</a>&nbsp;issued today relate to a new deduction for interest paid on vehicle loans incurred after Dec. 31, 2024, to purchase new made-in-America vehicles for personal use. This new tax benefit applies to both taxpayers who take the standard deduction and those who itemize deductions.&nbsp;</p><h2>Who can take a deduction for interest on car loans</h2><p>To help taxpayers take advantage of this new tax benefit, today’s guidance addresses important eligibility criteria, including:</p><ul>
                        <li>Providing rules relating to new vehicles eligible for the deduction, including for determining if the final assembly of a vehicle occurred in the United States;</li><li>Providing rules for determining which vehicle loans qualify and the amount of interest paid on a loan that may be deductible;</li><li>Providing rules for determining if a new vehicle is purchased for personal use; and</li><li>Identifying taxpayers who can take the deduction and clarifying the $10,000 annual deduction limit.</li>
                    </ul><h2>What lenders need to know</h2><p>The IRS previously announced&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.irs.gov%2Fnewsroom%2Ftreasury-irs-provide-transition-relief-for-2025-for-businesses-reporting-car-loan-interest-under-the-one-big-beautiful-bill/1/0100019b74d957c6-156be576-39fc-4344-85a0-c84a772c0b3f-000000/Rzf5D9WG-l-HcgT3A0ewB_nBVIsuenf9DgMoglCBH1g=438">transition guidance</a>&nbsp;for certain lenders and other taxpayers receiving&nbsp;interest&nbsp;for vehicle loans in 2025. In general, those persons&nbsp;must file information returns with the IRS to report interest received during the tax year and other information related to the loan. These information returns enable taxpayers to claim the benefits of the vehicle loan interest deduction. To help lenders implement these information reporting requirements, the proposed regulations clarify:</p><ul>
                        <li>Which lenders and other interest recipients are required to report and the time and manner for this reporting; and</li><li>What information must be included on the form provided to&nbsp;the&nbsp;IRS and to taxpayers.</li>
                    </ul><h2>More information</h2><p>Treasury and IRS invite comments from the public on these proposed regulations by Feb. 2, 2026. Comments can be submitted through&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.regulations.gov%2F/1/0100019b74d957c6-156be576-39fc-4344-85a0-c84a772c0b3f-000000/dIJJwTPdwsY8DD9x2R5dVqOZZBM0y19T5JMcphjkDQ8=438">Regulations.gov</a>&nbsp;and instructions can be found in the proposed regulations.</p><p>For more information, see&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.irs.gov%2Fnewsroom%2Fone-big-beautiful-bill-provisions/1/0100019b74d957c6-156be576-39fc-4344-85a0-c84a772c0b3f-000000/FP_nte4n1yCQiTPpk-AT8X3TXDzwOsolmrR7tmqrRp4=438">One, Big, Beautiful Bill provisions</a>&nbsp;on IRS.gov.</p>

Treasury, IRS provide guidance on the new deduction for car loan interest

ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after a traffic stop.

Just before 10:30.m. on Saturday an officer on patrol stopped a Saturn Ion in the 600 block South 7th Street in Atchison for a traffic violation, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.

 During the stop the driver, 25-year-old Carly Helton, was found to be in possession of controlled substances.&nbsp; &nbsp;In addition to drug and traffic charges she was also accused of interference with law enforcement for providing false information as to her identity.

She was booked into the Atchison County Jail on requested charges of driving while suspended, misuse of state tag, interference with law enforcement, and possession of cocaine, marijuana, and drug paraphernalia.&nbsp;

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767572073926.png" alt="Helton photo Atchison County" />
                        <figcaption>Helton photo Atchison County</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after a traffic stop.</p><p>Just before 10:30.m. on Saturday an officer on patrol stopped a Saturn Ion in the 600 block South 7th Street in Atchison for a traffic violation, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.</p><p> During the stop the driver, 25-year-old Carly Helton, was found to be in possession of controlled substances.&nbsp; &nbsp;In addition to drug and traffic charges she was also accused of interference with law enforcement for providing false information as to her identity.</p><p>She was booked into the Atchison County Jail on requested charges of driving while suspended, misuse of state tag, interference with law enforcement, and possession of cocaine, marijuana, and drug paraphernalia.&nbsp;</p>

Police: Mo. drug suspect gave officers a fake name

CALDWELL COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 7p.m. Saturday in Caldwell County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a&nbsp; 2015 Chevy Impala driven by a 23-year-old Hamilton woman was eastbound on U.S. 36 just west of Center Road three miles east of Cameron.&nbsp; The driver was distracted by an electronic device. The car rear-ended a 1995 GMC Yukon driven b a 34-year-old Cameron man who was slowing to make left turn at the median crossover.

Cameron ambulance transported the 23-year-old driver to Cameron Regional Medical Center. The SUV driver was not wearing a seat belt but not injured, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

<p>CALDWELL COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 7p.m. Saturday in Caldwell County.</p><p>The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a&nbsp; 2015 Chevy Impala driven by a 23-year-old Hamilton woman was eastbound on U.S. 36 just west of Center Road three miles east of Cameron.&nbsp; The driver was distracted by an electronic device. The car rear-ended a 1995 GMC Yukon driven b a 34-year-old Cameron man who was slowing to make left turn at the median crossover.</p><p>Cameron ambulance transported the 23-year-old driver to Cameron Regional Medical Center. The SUV driver was not wearing a seat belt but not injured, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.</p>

MSHP: Distracted Mo. driver injured after rear-end crash

NODAWAY COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 5p.m. Saturday in Nodaway County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2011 Ford F150 pulling a small trailer and driven by 49-year-old Maryville man was southbound on Icon Road four miles north of Maryville. The pickup crossed the center of the road and the driver overcorrected. The vehicle crossed the center of the road three additional times and eventually traveled off the east side of the road. It struck an embankment, a tree and overturned. The trailer detached and came to rest off the east side of the road.

Nodaway County ambulance transported the driver to Mosaic in Maryville. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the mSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

<p>NODAWAY COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 5p.m. Saturday in Nodaway County.</p><p>The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2011 Ford F150 pulling a small trailer and driven by 49-year-old Maryville man was southbound on Icon Road four miles north of Maryville. The pickup crossed the center of the road and the driver overcorrected. The vehicle crossed the center of the road three additional times and eventually traveled off the east side of the road. It struck an embankment, a tree and overturned. The trailer detached and came to rest off the east side of the road.</p><p>Nodaway County ambulance transported the driver to Mosaic in Maryville. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the mSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.</p>

Mo. man hospitalized in Maryville after rollover accident

The United States successfully carried out a large scale strike against Venezuela and its leader, President Nicolas Maduro, who has been, along with his wife, captured and flown out of the Country, according to the White House. "This operation was done in conjunction with U.S. Law Enforcement. " Missouri lawmakers and other members of Congress are expressing opinions on the news.&nbsp;

<p>The United States successfully carried out a large scale strike against Venezuela and its leader, President Nicolas Maduro, who has been, along with his wife, captured and flown out of the Country, according to the White House. "This operation was done in conjunction with U.S. Law Enforcement. " Missouri lawmakers and other members of Congress are expressing opinions on the news.&nbsp;</p><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Nicolas Maduro, a ruthless Communist dictator, has been engaged in narco-terrorism for years, flooding our country with deadly drugs and killing our kids. Because of President Trump&#39;s decisive action, Maduro will finally face justice for his crimes. Thank you to our courageous…</p>&mdash; Rep. Sam Graves (@RepSamGraves) <a href="https://twitter.com/RepSamGraves/status/2007494422078898606?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">The president’s reckless decision to put our servicemembers in harm’s way by attacking a sovereign nation without a coherent rationale or approval from Congress is unconstitutional, destabilizing to the region, and deeply damaging to America’s reputation around the world.<br><br>My…</p>&mdash; Rep. Emanuel Cleaver (@repcleaver) <a href="https://twitter.com/repcleaver/status/2007514631879971186?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">We strongly support President Trump and the administration’s bold actions to take illegitimate Venezuelan President and narco terrorist Nicolas Maduro into U.S. custody.<br><br>Venezuelan drugs have poisoned our communities for far too long and we look forward to Maduro facing swift…</p>&mdash; Rep. Mark Alford (@RepMarkAlford) <a href="https://twitter.com/RepMarkAlford/status/2007468215635444039?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">President Trump did exactly what he said he was going to do — enhance our national security and defend America from bad actors.<br><br>Leaders around the world are finally understanding that those weren&#39;t empty promises. <a href="https://t.co/obD45JfjGy">pic.twitter.com/obD45JfjGy</a></p>&mdash; Senator Eric Schmitt (@SenEricSchmitt) <a href="https://twitter.com/SenEricSchmitt/status/2007301057303720422?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">President Trump made a promise to the American people that he would secure our borders from chaos and cut off threats to us and our children at the source. Venezuela ignored the call to stop running lethal drugs to the America.<br><br>Our children are safer at home because of bold…</p>&mdash; Dr. Roger Marshall (@RogerMarshallMD) <a href="https://twitter.com/RogerMarshallMD/status/2007453825255264758?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">There is no justification for the United States to be at war with Venezuela.<br><br>I lived through the consequences of an illegal war sold to the American people with lies. We swore we would never repeat those mistakes. Yet here we are again.<br><br>The American people did not ask for this,…</p>&mdash; Senator Ruben Gallego (@SenRubenGallego) <a href="https://twitter.com/SenRubenGallego/status/2007433155477717121?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Thank you, <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/SecRubio?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecRubio</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/SecWar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecWar</a>, and the brave members of our military who led the operation that successfully CAPTURED narco-terrorist Nicolás Maduro.<br><br>A new day is here for Venezuela and Latin America. The United States and our hemisphere are safer because of President… <a href="https://t.co/VL4bnsbGVZ">https://t.co/VL4bnsbGVZ</a></p>&mdash; Rick Scott (@SenRickScott) <a href="https://twitter.com/SenRickScott/status/2007399340457775262?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">The president offered multiple off ramps, but was very clear throughout this process: the drug trafficking must stop, and the stolen oil must be returned to the United States. Maduro is the newest person to find out that President Trump means what he says. <br><br>Kudos to our brave… <a href="https://t.co/b1fqkdbB4x">pic.twitter.com/b1fqkdbB4x</a></p>&mdash; JD Vance (@JDVance) <a href="https://twitter.com/JDVance/status/2007447083909841398?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">The White House is confirming U.S. military operations in Venezuela tonight. Let us be clear: these strikes are illegal. The President does not have the authority to declare war or undertake large-scale military operations without Congress. Congress must act to rein him in.… <a href="https://t.co/KsbxS6TbSp">pic.twitter.com/KsbxS6TbSp</a></p>&mdash; Rep. Melanie Stansbury (@Rep_Stansbury) <a href="https://twitter.com/Rep_Stansbury/status/2007385713818714191?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Without authorization from Congress, and with the vast majority of Americans opposed to military action, Trump just launched an unjustified, illegal strike on Venezuela.<br><br>He says we don’t have enough money for healthcare for Americans—but somehow we have unlimited funds for war??</p>&mdash; Rep. Jim McGovern (@RepMcGovern) <a href="https://twitter.com/RepMcGovern/status/2007381598912819213?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, have been indicted in the Southern District of New York. Nicolas Maduro has been charged with Narco-Terrorism Conspiracy, Cocaine Importation Conspiracy, Possession of Machineguns and Destructive Devices, and Conspiracy to Possess…</p>&mdash; Attorney General Pamela Bondi (@AGPamBondi) <a href="https://twitter.com/AGPamBondi/status/2007428087143686611?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Bold move by ⁦<a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a>⁩ taking out convicted NARCO TERRORIST and DICTATOR of Venezuela Maduro. <a href="https://t.co/JGFtpq5GG4">pic.twitter.com/JGFtpq5GG4</a></p>&mdash; Tim Burchett (@timburchett) <a href="https://twitter.com/timburchett/status/2007443476900671516?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">If this action were constitutionally sound, the Attorney General wouldn’t be tweeting that they’ve arrested the President of a sovereign country and his wife for possessing guns in violation of a 1934 U.S. firearm law.</p>&mdash; Thomas Massie (@RepThomasMassie) <a href="https://twitter.com/RepThomasMassie/status/2007469970364539092?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Maduro and his predecessor took Venezuela from the richest to the poorest country in South America, and destroyed its democracy. The operations last night are great for the future of Venezuelans and the region. My main concern is now Russia will use this to justify their illegal…</p>&mdash; Rep. Don Bacon 🇺🇸✈️🏍️⭐️🎖️ (@RepDonBacon) <a href="https://twitter.com/RepDonBacon/status/2007462335242289166?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">I have spoken in the last several hours with <a href="https://twitter.com/SecRubio?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecRubio</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/SecWar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecWar</a> Hegseth, and the nation will hear from <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> in his address at 11am ET.<br><br>Today’s military action in Venezuela was a decisive and justified operation that will protect American lives.<br><br>Nicolas Maduro is…</p>&mdash; Speaker Mike Johnson (@SpeakerJohnson) <a href="https://twitter.com/SpeakerJohnson/status/2007468765718384961?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

Mo. lawmakers react to U.S. capture of Venezuelan leader

ATCHISON COUNTY —Police are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after he fled a traffic stop.

Just before 11a.m. on New Year's Eve, an officer on patrol observed a Mazda pickup truck speeding in the 900 block Unity Street in Atchison, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson. 

The officer attempted to stop the vehicle. The driver failed to stop and fled from the officer until finally stopping at K-7 and Harper Drive. The 19-year-old driver&nbsp;Caden J. Hetherington of Roach, Missouri, was taken into custody on requested charges including fleeing and attempting to elude, speeding, interference with law enforcement, driving while suspended, violation of tinted windows, and no proof of vehicle insurance.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767366410036.png" alt="Hetherington photo Atchison Co." />
                        <figcaption>Hetherington photo Atchison Co.</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>ATCHISON COUNTY —Police are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after he fled a traffic stop.</p><p>Just before 11a.m. on New Year's Eve, an officer on patrol observed a Mazda pickup truck speeding in the 900 block Unity Street in Atchison, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson. </p><p>The officer attempted to stop the vehicle. The driver failed to stop and fled from the officer until finally stopping at K-7 and Harper Drive. The 19-year-old driver&nbsp;Caden J. Hetherington of Roach, Missouri, was taken into custody on requested charges including fleeing and attempting to elude, speeding, interference with law enforcement, driving while suspended, violation of tinted windows, and no proof of vehicle insurance.</p>

Missouri man jailed in Kansas after he fled traffic stop

Blood donations are needed in all parts of the country, and Executive Director of the American Red Cross of Greater Kansas City and Northwest Missouri, Joann Woody, says that donations slow down during the colder months, marking a need for increased support

"Whenever we move into the winter season, we see a dip in blood donations which puts a strain on the blood supply across the country."

Woody emphasizes that only three percent of the eligible population donates blood and that simply isn't enough to keep up with the demand. "We know that one in seven people who walks into a hospital is going to need a blood transfusion for something, whether its surgery, or treatment for cancer, or other chronic illness."

Area residents interested in donating blood are encouraged to find a nearby blood drive by downloading the American Red Cross app or visit the <a href="https://www.redcross.org/?srsltid=AfmBOoq6lpQPxlHRXReH-aCP3vuFoR-wju4BJgn6dq0KhOgUrCQNw1_p">Red Cross website</a>.

Anyone who donates blood between now and Jan. 5 will receive a free long-sleeve blood donor shirt. Woody notes that anyone who donates blood from Jan. 5 through Jan. 31 will be entered into a drawing to win two tickets to the Super Bowl.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687900222536.jpeg" alt="Image Courtesy American Red Cross of Greater Kansas" />
                        <figcaption>Image Courtesy American Red Cross of Greater Kansas</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>By RYAN SKAITH</p><p>Blood donations are needed in all parts of the country, and Executive Director of the American Red Cross of Greater Kansas City and Northwest Missouri, Joann Woody, says that donations slow down during the colder months, marking a need for increased support</p><p>"Whenever we move into the winter season, we see a dip in blood donations which puts a strain on the blood supply across the country."</p><p>Woody emphasizes that only three percent of the eligible population donates blood and that simply isn't enough to keep up with the demand. "We know that one in seven people who walks into a hospital is going to need a blood transfusion for something, whether its surgery, or treatment for cancer, or other chronic illness."</p><p>Area residents interested in donating blood are encouraged to find a nearby blood drive by downloading the American Red Cross app or visit the <a href="https://www.redcross.org/?srsltid=AfmBOoq6lpQPxlHRXReH-aCP3vuFoR-wju4BJgn6dq0KhOgUrCQNw1_p">Red Cross website</a>.</p><p>Anyone who donates blood between now and Jan. 5 will receive a free long-sleeve blood donor shirt. Woody notes that anyone who donates blood from Jan. 5 through Jan. 31 will be entered into a drawing to win two tickets to the Super Bowl.</p>

Red Cross in need of blood donations this winter

BROWN COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating alleged vandalism in Brown and asking the public for help to identify suspets.

Just after 2:30 p.m. December 27, two individuals were caught on surveillance camera vandalizing a vehicle belonging to USD #430 in Everest, according to Brown County Sheriff John Merchant.

The windshield was broken due to rock or objects being intentionally thrown at the vehicle as well as verbage scratched into the paint.&nbsp;

Sheriff Merchant is asking the public to help identify these individuals.&nbsp; If you are related to one or both of these individuals or if they are known to you,&nbsp; you are obligated to contact the Sheriff's office at once so this type of behavior doesn't escalate into something more serious. 

The sheriff office contact information is 785-742-7125

<p>BROWN COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating alleged vandalism in Brown and asking the public for help to identify suspets.</p><p>Just after 2:30 p.m. December 27, two individuals were caught on surveillance camera vandalizing a vehicle belonging to USD #430 in Everest, according to Brown County Sheriff John Merchant.</p><p>The windshield was broken due to rock or objects being intentionally thrown at the vehicle as well as verbage scratched into the paint.&nbsp;</p><p>Sheriff Merchant is asking the public to help identify these individuals.&nbsp; If you are related to one or both of these individuals or if they are known to you,&nbsp; you are obligated to contact the Sheriff's office at once so this type of behavior doesn't escalate into something more serious. </p><p>The sheriff office contact information is 785-742-7125</p>

Sheriff asks for help to ID suspects in school district vandalism

<i>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman talks to Ty Masterson, president of the Kansas Senate on the Chiefs relocation to Kansas.</i>

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/bMNfIwSIp7c?si=0dCZWycB8dBye4LE" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div><p><i>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman talks to Ty Masterson, president of the Kansas Senate on the Chiefs relocation to Kansas.</i></p>

🎙 Forward Ever: Kan. Senate president Ty Masterson on Chiefs move to Kansas

According to preliminary data from the Iowa Department of Transportation, traffic fatalities in 2025 reached their lowest level in a century. 

The state recorded a total of 260 deaths through December 31, representing a significant decline of 97 fatalities compared to the 2024 year-end figures.

While the current count is promising, the Iowa DOT waits 30 days after the close of the calendar year before certifying the final total. This grace period ensures that the data accounts for individuals who may succumb to injuries sustained in crashes that occurred during the final weeks of December.

The year ended on a notably safe note, with December recording only 10 deaths, the lowest monthly total of 2025. This marked a sharp decrease of 26 fatalities compared to December of the previous year. Conversely, August proved to be the deadliest month on Iowa roads with 36 fatalities—the only month in 2025 to exceed 30 deaths.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1764093500344.jpg" alt="interstate, highway, long, downhill straight away, road, pavement, divided highway, infrastructure, outdoors, nature, woods, forest, transportation, blue, sky, as halt, blacktop, street, blue sky, hill, mountains, lines, white, yellow, blue forest, blue road, blue street" />
                        <figcaption>interstate, highway, long, downhill straight away, road, pavement, divided highway, infrastructure, outdoors, nature, woods, forest, transportation, blue, sky, as halt, blacktop, street, blue sky, hill, mountains, lines, white, yellow, blue forest, blue road, blue street</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>By RYAN SKAITH</p><p>According to preliminary data from the Iowa Department of Transportation, traffic fatalities in 2025 reached their lowest level in a century. </p><p>The state recorded a total of 260 deaths through December 31, representing a significant decline of 97 fatalities compared to the 2024 year-end figures.</p><p>While the current count is promising, the Iowa DOT waits 30 days after the close of the calendar year before certifying the final total. This grace period ensures that the data accounts for individuals who may succumb to injuries sustained in crashes that occurred during the final weeks of December.</p><p>The year ended on a notably safe note, with December recording only 10 deaths, the lowest monthly total of 2025. This marked a sharp decrease of 26 fatalities compared to December of the previous year. Conversely, August proved to be the deadliest month on Iowa roads with 36 fatalities—the only month in 2025 to exceed 30 deaths.</p>

Iowa Traffic Deaths Hit 100-Year Low in 2025

&nbsp;The Wichita Police Department reported to the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) that 86-year-old Linda Holle was located in South Dakota, and is now safe.

The statewide silver alert is canceled.&nbsp;

The Kansas Bureau of Investigation issued a statewide silver alert for a missing Kansas woman.

The whereabouts of 86-year-old Linda Holle of Wichita are unknown, and public assistance is requested to help locate her, according to a media release from the KBI.

Holle is likely driving a blue 2007 Ford Expedition bearing Kansas tag 1054ADS.&nbsp; She was last believed to be in St. Joseph, Missouri on Dec. 31, at approximately 11:20 p.m.

Holle is a white female who is around 5-foot-3 inches tall and weighs approximately 170 pounds. She has blonde and gray hair, brown eyes and wears glasses.

If you see Holle, or her vehicle, please call 911 immediately. If you have other information about her whereabouts, please call the Wichita Police Department at (316) 268-4111.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767282639484.png" alt="Photo KBI" />
                        <figcaption>Photo KBI</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>&nbsp;The Wichita Police Department reported to the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) that 86-year-old Linda Holle was located in South Dakota, and is now safe.</p><p>The statewide silver alert is canceled.&nbsp;</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767284978010.png" alt="" />
                        <figcaption></figcaption>
                    </figure><p>---------------</p><p>The Kansas Bureau of Investigation issued a statewide silver alert for a missing Kansas woman.</p><p>The whereabouts of 86-year-old Linda Holle of Wichita are unknown, and public assistance is requested to help locate her, according to a media release from the KBI.</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767282624135.png" alt="Linda Holle photo KBI" />
                        <figcaption>Linda Holle photo KBI</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>Holle is likely driving a blue 2007 Ford Expedition bearing Kansas tag 1054ADS.&nbsp; She was last believed to be in St. Joseph, Missouri on Dec. 31, at approximately 11:20 p.m.</p><p>Holle is a white female who is around 5-foot-3 inches tall and weighs approximately 170 pounds. She has blonde and gray hair, brown eyes and wears glasses.</p><p>If you see Holle, or her vehicle, please call 911 immediately. If you have other information about her whereabouts, please call the Wichita Police Department at (316) 268-4111.</p>

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