Kind gesture does not go unnoticed

Cass County, I want to brag on someone.

This is Cheyenne, who works at Casey’s. She told me she tries to do one good deed every day.

Today that good deed happened to be for me. I grabbed two pieces of older pizza because I hate seeing food wasted, and the bakery lady offered me fresh ones. I told them to save the fresh ones for someone else. Cheyenne smiled and let me take the older ones.

It was a small gesture… but nobody really does things like that anymore, and it meant a lot.

So Cass County, if you see Cheyenne at Casey’s, tell her thanks. Better yet… let’s send a few good deeds back her direction the next few days.

Kindness deserves kindness.

Sincerely, Tim Fields

#MidAmericaLive

Paddlefish season starts March 15th

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – Missouri’s official state aquatic animal is a giant, prehistoric fish whose ancestors swam during the time of dinosaurs. Thousands of snaggers look forward to encountering this ancient sport fish during Missouri’s annual spring paddlefish season.

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) reminds anglers the season for the major paddlefish waters – Lake of the Ozarks, Harry S. Truman Reservoir, and Table Rock Lake – along with most other waters in Missouri runs March 15 through April 30. The season for the Mississippi River is March 15 through May 15 with a fall season of Sept. 15 through Dec. 15.

Paddlefish, named for their large, paddle-shaped snouts, can grow to seven feet and weight more than 100 pounds. Paddlefish swim slowly with their mouths wide open, collecting tiny crustaceans and insects in their elaborate, closely-set gill rakers. The paddle-shaped snout functions as an electrosensory organ that allows it to sense plankton as it swims through water.

Because the giant fish eat crustaceans and insects, they do not bite on traditional fishing hooks. They are usually caught through the practice of snagging, where anglers drag large, triple-sided hooks through the water to “snag” a fish in the body with the hooks.

SNAG A TAG, GET A REWARD

MDC has been tagging paddlefish at Table Rock Lake, Truman Lake, and Lake of the Ozarks to monitor numbers and improve species management. There are multiple tags in the system: a “no reward” tag used for continuous monitoring, a $25 tag, and a $75 “high reward” tag. Snaggers can report their tagged fish by calling 573-579-6825 with the information listed on the tag.

During the upcoming snagging season, MDC staff will be collecting information on paddlefish at reservoir boat ramps, interviewing anglers, and taking measurements of harvested paddlefish.

SNAGGING REGULATIONS

A fishing permit is required for snagging and other allowed methods, unless exempt. The daily limit is two paddlefish, and the possession limit is four. No person shall continue to snag after taking a daily limit of two paddlefish.

The statewide minimum length limit is 32 inches – measured from eye to fork of tail – with a minimum length limit of 34 inches for Lake of the Ozarks, Table Rock Lake, Harry S. Truman Reservoir, and their tributaries.

All paddlefish under the legal minimum length must be returned to the water unharmed immediately after being caught. All legal-sized paddlefish must be kept. MDC offers these tips for returning undersized fish:

• Use landing nets, not gaffs, which can kill young fish.
• Wet hands before handling fish and avoid excessive handling.
• Never put fingers in the gills or eyes.
• Remove hooks carefully and get undersized fish back into the water as quickly as possible.

Cleaning paddlefish while on the water, dumping carcasses overboard, and returning to shore with fillets and/or eggs is illegal. Extracted paddlefish eggs may not be possessed while on waters of the state or adjacent banks and may not be transported. Paddlefish eggs may not be bought, sold, or offered for sale. These regulations are necessary to confirm length-limit requirements and to address the illegal caviar trade.

Snaggers and others are allowed to haul paddlefish carcasses out by boat to deeper water for disposal under the following conditions:

• The head, tail, etc. must remain intact so the fish could be measured if contacted by a conservation agent.
• Extracted eggs must remain where the fish is cleaned and cannot be transported to deeper water for disposal.
• Paddlefish fillets cannot be possessed or transported on the water.

For more information on paddlefish season, visit MDC online at mdc.mo.gov/fishing/species/paddlefish.

#MidAmericaLive

Tornado season is upon us

Severe Weather Preparedness Week may be over, but severe weather season isn’t. We’re extending the conversation because tornado safety should stay top of mind all spring.

In an average year, 800 tornadoes are reported nationwide, resulting in 80 deaths and more than 1,500 injuries. Preparation saves lives, and now is the time to make sure you and your family are ready.

Now is a great time to review your family’s plan, update your emergency kit and make sure you know where to take shelter.

Get clear guidance on what to do before, during and after a tornado and learn the difference between a watch and a warning:

https://brnw.ch/21x0AmV.

Stay alert, stay prepared and help others do the same by sharing these resources.

#MidAmericaLive

Storm risk tomorrow

#MidAmericaLive

Rain chances increase tomorrow

2/5 slight risk covers all of the area for tomorrow. This deals with the evening hours and overnight into Wednesday.

-Greg @ 660 Weather Spot


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Weekly reports from the Bates County Commission

February 18, 2026 The Bates County Commission met with Presiding Commissioner Jim Wheatley, Northern Commissioner John Gray and Southern Commissioner Trent Nelson present.

At 9:27 a.m. John Gray made the motion to go into closed session to discuss personnel with Bill Stephan pursuant to RSMo 610.021(3). Trent Nelson seconded the motion. All were in favor. Motion carried.

At 10:20 a.m. John Gray made the motion to go back into open session. Trent Nelson seconded the motion. All were in favor. Motion carried.

USI called the Commission and they spoke over the phone about the Employee Benefits that they offer and what could potentially save the county money. The Commission explained they are more than happy with Cooks Insurance and the services they provide but USI is confident that they can team up with Cooks and work alongside them. USI has made another appointment for March 4th with the Commission so they can further discuss a plan if they want to move forward.

Kacie Robey sat down with the Commissioners and discussed an issue that was not the County nor the individual’s fault. The individual bought property in October and there was an interference with the previous landowners Mortgage Company. They requested the bill for the period the previous landowners were in possession; therefore, the individual did not receive the bill himself in December. Due to this mishap, he has been charged with penalties and interest on what he owes for the remainder of the year when he took ownership, that he feels he should not have to pay. The reason this came to light was because of the courtesy letter that Kacie sent out in January to remind individuals that the Collector had not received a payment.

Trent made a motion to wave the penalties and interest for January due to the individual not receiving his bill. Jim seconded the motion. John reclused his vote. All were in favor. Motion carried. No opposition.

Kacie also asked about Senate Bill 3. She wondered if it was on the ballot, when it was going into effect, how it was worded on the ballot. She also asked about the penny going away.

February 23, 2026 The Bates County Commission met with Presiding Commissioner Jim Wheatley, Northern Commissioner John Gray and Southern Commissioner Trent Nelson present.

Melissa Stong and Mikayla Neil, with the Extension Office, sat down with the Commission and discussed their Annual Report. They updated the Commission on all the projects underway and thanked them for their ongoing support. Jim was more than happy to give his support, as he feels this is something that really helps shape the youth. John was pleased to see there were 206 members and 280 projects, proving that there are 206 members involved with more than one project.

The Bates County 2025 Annual Report booklet that they gave the Commission showed Faculty, Staff, Council Members and County Executives who make this mission possible as well as their Unique Funding Partnership for Local Support. It shows the Missouri 4H Program and how ages eight to eighteen can be involved and shape themselves in ways you may not even realize. The Local Impact showed that there were forty-one dedicated volunteers that helped them transition into respectable individuals that strive to give back to their community. It also shows statewide programs within the Health and Human Sciences that are beneficial for all ages.

February 25, 2026 The Bates County Commission met with Presiding Commissioner Jim Wheatley, Northern Commissioner John Gray and Southern Commissioner Trent Nelson present.

Attending CCAM

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Obituary - Charles "Chuckie" Gaylon Steele III,

Charles "Chuckie" Gaylon Steele III, 33, of Nevada, Missouri, passed away on March 7, 2026, in Nevada.

Chuckie was born on April 11, 1992, in Nevada, Missouri, to Chuck Steele Jr. and Pam Bishop. Chuckie graduated from Nevada High School in 2011 and worked as a general laborer at various jobs. He owned CGS3 Mowing. He was a true Denver Broncos fan, enjoyed hanging out with friends and was known as the life of the party. Above all, his children were the most important part of his world.

Chuckie is survived by his children, Truley Steele and LucyMae Jeffery; his father, Chuck Steele Jr. of Nevada; his mother, Pam Bozworth and her husband Rick of Nevada; his brother, Cory Steele and his wife Kelci of Milo; his niece, Maci Steele; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends, including his best friend Matt Cooper of Nevada.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Chuck Steele Sr. and Deanna Vandenburg-Robbins, Floyd and Barbara Stepp, and Richard Bozworth Sr. Additionally he was preceded by two good friends Hunter Koenig and Cody Jenkins.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, at Ferry Funeral Home in Nevada.

Funeral services will be at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, March 12, 2026, at Ferry Funeral Home, with Steve Russ officiating. Interment will follow at Newton Burial Park.

Pallbearers will be Cory Steele, Matt Cooper, Andrew Fritts, True Beisly, John Winters, and Mikey Robinson. Honorary pallbearers are Jehu Benezette and Jason Lindsey.

Memorial contributions may be made to the family for expenses with the funeral home serving as custodian.

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Obituary - Ronald “Kim” Eye

Ronald “Kim” Eye was born on May 28, 1957, in Clinton, MO to Fred J. Eye and Dortha E. (Mitchell) Eye.  Following a courageous battle with cancer, Kim departed this life on March 8, 2026, at KC Hospice House, surrounded by his loving family.

     Kim attended grade school in Montrose before his family moved to Appleton City where he started 4th grade.  He graduated from Appleton City High school on 1975.  After graduation, Kim joined his father and brother in operating the family farm.  On March 2, 1984, he married his sweetheart, Carla (Cook) Eye.  Together they built a beautiful life and celebrated 42 years of marriage.  God blessed their union with two daughters, Lauren Elise (Eye) Morgan and Morgan Anne (Eye) Scott.

     Kim had a deep love for farming.  Like many farmers, it wasn’t just a job to him – it was a way of life.   He was patient and steady, accepting the highs and lows that each season brought.  He praised God for the bountiful years and prayed for God’s mercy and guidance during the lean ones.  Kim also raised cattle and took great joy in seeing the new calves each spring.  He was proud of his small farming operation and grateful to be part of a community where friends and neighbors could always be counted on.

     Kim loved sports and was an avid fan of the Mizzou Tigers – especially the women’s basketball team – the Kansas City Chiefs, the Kansas City Royals, the Montrose Bluejays and the Appleton City bulldogs.  To him, nothing was better than a cold beer and a good game.  Another favorite pastime for Kim and Carla was taking “ranger rides” around the farm on Sunday evenings, surveying the fields and enjoying the beauty of the setting sun.  

    Kim cherished time spent visiting with family and friends and was known for his quick wit.  He loved keeping track of birthdays and updated his calendar each year – long before Facebook existed – just in case he ran into someone on their special day.

    Above all, Kim believed his greatest blessings were his children and grandchildren.  He took immense pride in watching his daughters grow into strong, caring, and capable wives and mothers.  The joy in his eyes when he looked at his daughters and grandkids said everything; they were the very best part of life.

    Kim will be remembered for his constant love, his sense of humor, his calm in every storm, his patience and kindness, and his unbelievable strength throughout his battle with cancer.  He never complained and accepted God’s will with grace when his fight was complete.

    Kim Is survived by his wife, Carla, his daughter Lauren (Dan) Moran of Lowry City, MO, his daughter Morgan (Mike) Scott of Columbia MO, and his grandchildren Renzy, Roric, Reese, Ruth, Jalyn and Baby Scott, due in March 2026; brother, Dennie (Lori) Eye; sisters-in-law, Vicki (Doug) Strope of Brownington, MO, Cheryl (Kyle) Parks of Cowgill, MO, Janet (Russell) Bracher and Carolyn (Kent) Hart, both of Montrose, MO, Colleen (BC) LeDoux of Las Vegan, NV; brother-in-law, Jamie (Sheri) Cook of Eagle Roc, MO.  Kim leaves behind many nieces and nephews whom he loved dearly.  

    Kim was preceded in death by his parents; brother-in-law, Lynn Eye; father-in-law, Norman Cook; mother-in-law, Jackie Cook and brother-in-law, Vernon Cook.

 Kim’s legacy of faith, love, and quiet strength will live on in all who knew him.

MEMORIAL to St. Mary's School or Montrose FFA

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