Butler's oldest business set to close soon

We are saddened to learn that LeNeve's TV and Appliance will be closing their doors permanently in the near future. We wish Don and Tommy the best with many thanks for 70 years of your commitment to our community.

This would be an EXCELLENT time to get a great deal as inventory liquidation has begun!

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A little pride wouldn't hurt...

This photo taken by a concerned Amsterdam resident of discarded trash is a sure sign that we need to renew pride in our communities.

Yes, it could have been an accident- but wouldn't one notice it was  missing upon arrival at their destination?


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Bates County real estate transfers and marriage licenses

Wainscott, Kody D to DKJB Str 1-39-31 //Nw

Bolin, Megan M to Elmer, Hayden Lt 25 Mills, C. L. Addn+

Buffon, Mary P to Wilkin, Matthew D Lt 10 Country North Subd

SFC Building, LLC to Rhyno Empire, LLC Str 10-40-31 //Sw

D & S Concrete to CJRE Str 33-42-31 //Sw

Herman, Peggy to Hoover-Vires, Debra Lt 12 Gilham's Addn+

Laughlin, David M to Wainscott Family Trust 2-07-2013 Str 14-40-32+

Rodgers, Carl E. II to Rodgers, Carl Edward II Str 22-42-31 //Sw

Jackson, Terry to Jackson, Terry & Kathleen Trust 02-06-2026 Str 22-41-29+

Diehl, Lawrence R to Diehl Trust 11-05-2013 Lt 8 Bl 42 Town Company's First Addn+

On Point Home Design & Contracting, LLC to See, Carl Lt 119 Town Company's First Addn+

Wepener, Verne to Wepener, Verne & Angelia Trust 02-12-2026 Str 7-38-33 //Sw

Flint, Peggy to Flint, Peggy Lt 13 Bl 3 Atkison Park Addn P3/10+

Clayton, Chris to Bates, Cassie M Bl 17 Couch's Addn

Irvin Racing, LLC to Gridiron Construction, LLC Lt 273 Adrian, Original Town Of+

Nitsche, Kevin Lee to Miller, Heather Str 5-40-31 //Se

Davis, Nathan to Davis, Nathan Lt 53 Town Company's First Addn+

Keating, Sandra to Reclamation Properties LLC Bl 122 Walnut Nka Foster+

Flint, Jayson L to Flint, Peggy Lt 13 Bl 3 Atkison Park Addn P3/10+

Velazquez, Kristin May to Prentice, Tyler Lt 1 Bl 1 Reese's Second Addn+

Smith, Wanda L. Trust 09-03-2004 to Countywide Investments Lt 24 Bl 2 Gilbert Heights+

Bolser, Ronald O. & Janice R. Trust 05-07-1996 to Smith, Clifford E Lt 10 Bl 34 Rich Hill, Original Town Of+

Wainscott Family Trust 2-07-2013 to Wainscott, Kody D Str 7-40-31 //Sw+

Byrd, Mary Ann (Trustee) to Bays, Cynthia A. (Trustee) Str 17-40-32+

Marriage license

Ramirez, Roddy Alan Lester and Robinson, Keagen Elaine

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Bates County Court news

Judge Julie Highley-Keutzer presiding

Fines do not include added court costs

City of Butler v Ronnie McElwain- expired plates, fine $47.50

St v Candice Summy- fail to register vehicle, fine $50.50

St v Judith Scheer- speeding, fine $80.50

St v Jarrod Ratliff- no license plate lamp, fine $50.50

St v Maryn Keal- stopped in prohibited area, fine $144.00

St v Jack Roberts- stopped in prohibited area, fine $200.00

City of Rich Hill v Brenda Wethington- expired plates, fine $50.50

St v Heath Maxwell- no working tail lamps, fine $50.50

St v Heath Maxwell- improper towing, fine $50.50

City of Butler v Austin Howard- expired plates, fine $50.50

St v Laura Black- take deer without permit, fine $149.50

St v Noah Breckenridge- speeding, fine $120.50

St v Mirsadeez Griffin- operating vehicle while using electronic device, fine $132.50

St v Jesse Elmer- speeding, fine $428.50

St v Makayla Brown- fail to register vehicle, fine $50.50

City of Butler v Samantha Westmoreland- expired plates, fine $47.50

St v Noah Breckenridge- no tail lamps, fine $50.50

St v Austin Black- attempt to take deer with artificial light, fine $157.50

St v Alton Ludolph- following too closely, fine $130.50

City of Butler v Stephen Knotts II- fail to register vehicle, fine $47.50

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What's Up by LeRoy Cook

Your Ice Runway Has Been Busy

The weekend’s chill took the appeal out of recreational aviation last week, but some nice days earlier, and the promise of more, encouraged flying. Last Friday’s balmy morning gave way to steadily dropping temperatures as a dry cold front blew through with 30-knot winds in the afternoon. Flight plans got hurriedly rearranged. 

Among the week’s visiting aircraft were an Oklahoma-based Cirrus SR-22 and a Cessna 172. Even the regular stops by Piper Archer trainers from Kansas City were at a low ebb. Some military traffic was observed overhead, such as B-2 Stealth flyovers and Army Guard Black Hawk helicopters. Most of the local fleet stayed grounded.

This coming Saturday morning, the last day of the month, marks the usual timing of the Fliar’s Club flyout, so if anyone’s desirous of assembling at 0730 hours on the Butler airport ramp to determine breakfast plans, let’s get together. The days are getting longer, so getting up is less of a burden now.

The Red Bull fleet of stunt flying airplanes, primarily in Europe, is running out of daredevil feats to perform, but an Italian Red Bull pilot flying a Zivko Edge aerobatic plane set a first by landing on a moving train last week. The trick was done on a straight stretch of track in Turkey, where the short train could hit 70 mph. The pilot matched speed to land atop a freight container then took off again.

You know it’s deep winter when the annual announcement of New Hampshire’s ice-runway airport on Lake Winnipesaukee hits the news. The tradition of plowing the snow off the ice at the big lake goes back 60-some years, and this year set a new record for numbers of planes visiting; 774 aircraft have landed there thus far. At cold temperatures there’s enough traction on the ice to easily slow to a stop, as we experienced here a few years ago after an ice storm coated Butler’s aerodrome.

As if pilots of low-flying aircraft didn’t have enough hazards to worry about, what with the rush to embrace drone traffic, the Iowa House of Representatives recently had a bill introduced to turn off those annoying flashing warning lights on wind turbines. Aimed at cutting down light pollution in night skies, the lights would only come on if radar detected an aircraft in the area. Wind turbine blades stick up as much as 400 feet.

Last week’s trivia question was, “Did Anthony Fokker make any German military planes during World War II?” Nope, Dutchman Tony Fokker only worked for the Germans during WW-One; he died in 1939, although his company continued into the 1950s. For next time, what would be the radio call sign used for a civilian airplane that happened to be carrying the US. President, since it’s not Air Force One? You can send your answers to kochhaus1@gmail.com.

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Windy and warmer

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Weather outlook this week

Good evening all! Here's what I think we'll be talking about weather-wise this week.

Cool Start: ***WIND CHILLS approach zero TOMORROW morning.*** The attached image shows the forecast. Five degrees (wind chill) in KC tomorrow morning. Coldest air is over northern and central / west central Missouri.

Warming Up: Warmer Air (60's) arrives Tuesday, lasting through the end of the week.

Precipitation? Yes, I think so: Wednesday night after midnight -> Thursday morning. Rain.

-Greg@660weather

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Slight delay regarding opening of new Hertzog Meat location in Butler

The much touted new Hertzog Meat retail and processing location is nearing completion on west 52 highway in Butler. Per a recent announcement, the Hertzog's noted that while a grand opening was slated for this month, it has been moved to late April to insure that all details are covered.

In the meantime, the owners are asking the public what items are shoppers desiring in the store as well as feedback regarding what other things would keep you coming back. Feedback may be left on their Facebook page.

More details coming soon.

#MidAmericaLive

Fulfilling an unseen need: Taking It To The Streets

Founder and CEO Scott Lamaster (left) with Kerry Fulton of
Taking It To The Streets of Greenwood, MO 

A much needed resource was on hand as the Adrian Fire Department and other first responders battled a house fire on N. Houston street Friday afternoon while the Taking It To The Streets crew worked behind the scenes to help those who were busy helping others

When there is an emergency response such as a structure fire or other disaster, we see those on the front lines battling the blaze, doing triage and even rescues however, it's what we don't actively see that helps insure that the needs of everyone on scene are met- and that's where the Taking It To The Streets crews step in.

The organization hails from Greenwood, Mo. and head out on a moment's notice to provide firefighters, police and other first responders much needed 'extras' such as hydration, snacks and even a restroom, according to Scott Lamaster, founder and CEO of Taking It To The Streets.

"A lot of folks don't realize the implications of what happens behind the scenes" he said. "For example, there are a lot of situations that happen in rural areas where a restroom might be some distance away. That's one of the many services we offer."

As in the case of the fire in Adrian, Lamaster received a call from the Bates County Sheriff's Office requesting their presence and he, with partner Kerry Fulton made the fast trek south in one of their mobile units, a former ambulance outfitted with everything needed. 

Lamaster and Fulton both come from corporate/financial backgrounds and have used their business savvy to keep their not-for-profit organization running smoothly while providing this much needed resource. In all, they oversee the implementation and operation of two command vehicles and several trailers that are used depending on the situation.

"It's a personal thing for me" added Lamaster who decided to organize Taking It To The Streets following the loss of his brother who was killed in the line of duty. "It's our mission. And very fulfilling to see that we can help others when they need it."

And it appears their mission extends even beyond overseeing the 200 or so volunteers in their organization as the group regularly prepares Christmas meals for first responders and other charitable contributions. To date, they've helped provide over 40,000 meals and show no signs of slowing down.

While Taking It To The Streets primarily stays within a few hundred miles of Greenwood, it's not out of the ordinary to go even further, such as Houston TX following the most recent hurricane to assist with FEMA operations.

"We're ready to go wherever we're needed" said Lamaster "Any time, any place."

Taking It To The Streets was organized in 2002 and became organized as a not-for-profit in 2012; donations are greatly welcomed and will help insure Lamaster and Fulton can continue to fill the void. 

"Our mission is to bring hope, help, and healing to those in need with the goal to equip people to serve in their communities in order to make a positive impact for generations to come" according to the mission statement on their website https://2thestreets.org/ where you'll find more information on how to donate along with other pertinent information.

Adrian Fire Chief Gary Dizney extended kudos to Lamaster and Fulton while offering a sincere "Thank you" as the Houston street fire presented several unforeseen challenges that required additional time on site.

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Busy session for Butler city council

All members present for the February 17 Butler city council meeting

Mayor Jim Henry and the Butler city council worked through a rather full agenda on Tuesday night which included a request for a zoning change in west Butler. Corey Cantrell, representing Vision Development Group LLC, is looking to build a housing development along West street, and asked the city for a zoning change from R2 to R4. The basic difference between the two is that R4 allows for smaller lots, that in time would result in more homes available within the same footprint.

While Vision Development plans to offer a variety of homes ranging in size, their goal is to provide housing for those who need just the basics to multi-family dwellings that are affordable. Cantrell stated that the average monthly rental would run in the $1,200 range for about 1,000 square feet. It was noted that none of the homes will be for sale; rentals only. 

The entire project won't happen overnight- Cantrell said that likely 10 or so units would be built first with more, depending on occupancy, to be constructed over the next 20 years or so. The overall project could include just over 100 lots. 

Following a lengthy debate, the council voted to make the change to R4 however, there is still much to do in terms of engineering which includes the need to possibly construct a retainage pond to control flooding that has plagued the area over the years (Bear Stop area).

Another hot topic was the fact that Butler residents are going to see what will hopefully be a small spike for most in their electric bill in the upcoming billing cycle. The severe cold snap a few weeks back resulted in a higher bill from MPUA to the city of Butler which ultimately must be passed on to consumers. Good news, Mid America Live spoke to the utility billing department at city hall and it appears that for those with one electric meter, the spike should be as low as $40 up to maybe $250 in some cases. The council agreed to an extension for those who cannot pay the full amount- to take advantage of the offer, 1/2 of the bill must be paid up front and patrons will have 30 days to pay the balance.

Butler Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Samantha Stump appeared before the council to request permission for this year's events including the June car show, Huckster's Day, Trunk or Treat and the Christmas parade. Granted.

Tiffany Blaser submitted a Special Event application on behalf of the Bates County Museum for "Old Settler's Day" in commemoration of our country's 250th anniversary this Summer. Approved as submitted with more details in coming days.

Councilwoman Doncella Liggins reported that the Student Advisory Committee met and prepared Valentines for residents of Medicalodge and hand delivered them. Future plans will include residents of Butler Center as well.

Kevin Zirjacks submitted a request to hold a special event at the Butler city lake for their 4th annual Spring Social. The group will participate in a catch-and-release event which was approved by the council.

There will be a meeting on March 2nd regarding city owned facilities which will include discussion of what the future holds for the old Butler high school. The building is in dire need of structural repair and money to do so is scarce- unfortunately it likely would cost about the same to tear it down versus fixing it. Hopefully a plan can be formulated in the upcoming meeting.

MoDot and the railroad will be rebuilding the rail crossing at Mill street which has become quite bumpy as of late. This will include new lighting and crossarms with no cost to the city other than painting necessary markings on the street.

The intersection of Main and Fort Scott street has become somewhat of a 'blind spot' as parking close to the intersection results in limited visibility for those approaching especially on Fort Scott. To better the situation several ideas have been tossed out including making it a four way stop; Police Chief Jarrett Wheatley suggested a smoother version of a speed bump to slow those coming off the square. More about this will be discussed in upcoming sessions.

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Adrian home heavily damaged in Friday fire

The Adrian Fire Department was called to 617 N. Houston street yesterday on a report of what was initially thought to be an outdoor fire, but that was not the case as firefighters found smoke and flames coming from the upper eaves of the home.

Multiple agencies assisted to help bring the fire under control and no injuries were reported; the Red Cross was called to the scene to assist the family.

The exact cause remains under investigation.


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A Community Effort: Bates County Responds to Interstate 49 Accident

BUTLER, MO – What could have been a tragic afternoon on Interstate 49 turned into a heartwarming display of teamwork and compassion this afternoon. Thanks to the quick thinking of the Bates County Sheriff’s Office and local first responders, a frightening accident resulted in a "miracle" outcome for one lucky horse and its owner.

The incident occurred south of Butler when a truck hauling a horse trailer experienced a mechanical failure. The trailer became unhooked, crossed the median, and entered the southbound lanes. After digging into the soft dirt of the median, the trailer struck a passenger vehicle before overturning and coming to a halt.

A Narrow Escape;

The impact caused the horse inside the trailer to be ejected. The animal eventually came to rest tangled under a highway guardrail—a scenario that often leads to devastating injuries. However, in a show of incredible resilience, the owner was able to successfully free the horse and guide it back to its feet.

Specialized Care on the Scene;

Recognizing the unique needs of the situation, the Bates County Sheriff’s Office called in members of their Mounted Patrol. These specialized deputies joined regular patrol units, Bates County EMS, Missouri State Highway Patrol and the Butler Fire Department to secure the area and ensure the safety of both the human and animal victims.

While the car involved sustained enough damage to be towed by Douty’s, the horse miraculously escaped with only relatively minor injuries.

Going the Extra Mile;

The compassion of the Bates County deputies didn't end with the cleanup. To ensure the horse’s safety and well-being:

* Emergency Transport: The Sheriff’s Office deployed its own horse trailer to the scene.

* Safe Loading: Mounted Patrol deputies used their expertise to calmly load the horse for transport.

* Coordinated Delivery: Deputies worked closely with the owner to make official arrangements to deliver the horse directly to the owner’s property in Kansas City, Kansas.

"It’s not every day you see this level of coordination for a four-legged traveler," said Sheriff Anderson. "The way the deputies stepped up to help get that horse home was truly something special."

The trailer was moved to a nearby location in Butler by the owner, and the Missouri State Highway Patrol is currently conducting a standard investigation into the cause of the accident.

In a world of "what-ifs," the Bates County community is celebrating a "what-went-right," proving once again that when first responders and deputies work together, even the toughest days can end on a high note. -Courtesy Bates County Sheriff's Office

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Friday basketball scores

Boys

Hogan Prep 64

Adrian 85

Clinton 61

Appleton City 53

Rich Hill 58

Archie 63

Nevada 50

Cassville 32

Green Ridge 49

Cole Camp 36

Center 41

Harrisonville 51

Girls 

Clinton 38

Appleton City 53

Jasper 22

Archie 57

Nevada 54

Cassville 40

Green Ridge 53

Cole Camp 22

Center 27

Harrisonville 74

Butler 43

Walnut Grove 54

#MidAmericaLive

Structure fire in Adrian

The Adrian Fire Department is currently on the scene of a structure fire at 617 N. Houston street and mutual aid has been called from neighboring fire departments. Please use caution if traveling in the area.

Updates will be provided accordingly.


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State Farm Athlete of the Week

We are excited to announce this week’s C & S Graphics and State Farm athlete of the week, from Butler, Junior, Kylee Dubray. Kylee was nominated by her head coach, Lacey Cook. Coach Cook nominated Kylee after an outstanding performance against El Dorado Springs with 31 points as well as hitting her 1000th career point in the 3rd quarter that night. She stated “Kylee is a selfless player who will take it to the rim when needed, and is also a great passer to our guards outside when she is double and sometimes triple teamed down low.” We asked Kylee what she is most excited about at this point in the season and she stated “she is excited about districts and hopefully making a run there.” Kylee is on the team with her sister Kiersten, who is a freshman, and we asked her what that has been like for her, and she stated,”we both push each other to get better every single day. And if I didn’t have her on the team this year I feel like this season would be a lot different.” We asked Kylee what advice she would give to younger athletes and she stated “definitely put in the extra time especially during the summer. And always have fun, don’t take it too serious. You don’t get these years back.” Kylee is a four sport athlete at Butler. She is just a junior and not decided yet what she wants to do post graduation. The Lady Bears travel to Walnut Grove tonight for their last regular season game. They then will enter the district tournament at El Dorado Springs next week.

We wish them the best of luck tonight and in post season play!

Pictured left to right: Cody Morris, C&S Graphics; Junior, Kylee Dubray, daughter of Kyle and Erin Dubray; Head Coach Lacey Cook; Kellie Davidson, State Farm

-photo credit on custom graphic to Lela Nordyke Photography

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Former Butler City Administrator sentenced on Thursday

Corey Snead appeared with Counsel Scott Friedrich in the Bates County Circuit Court Thursday morning and was sentenced as follows: 

Assault- 4th Degree - Pursuant To Subdivision (6) {Misdemeanor C RSMo: 565.056}  SIS, 1 year unsupervised probation, to pay CVC judgment in the amount of $10.00 plus court costs.


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All Aboard! Frontier Village in Adrian prepares for a new addition

The Metz Depot as it appeared in the early 1960's

A  walk through Frontier Village is akin to touring an expansive, outdoor museum as it showcases steam engines, vintage farm equipment, several old time stores, a schoolhouse, a sawmill, a blacksmith shop, outdoor small scale railway, windmills and much more making this one of the area's largest family attractions 

The village also offers an indoor O scale model railroad setup that would make old man Lionel himself jealous. But a step outside would leave one to realize something is missing as quite visible from I-49 highway is a brightly painted caboose that sits adjacent to the  railroad tracks. You'll also see other railroad memorabilia nearby. 

But... no train depot. At the moment anyway.

For some time now, volunteers have had their eye on one (if not the last) area train depots still standing and available- located near the southern edge of Bates County in Metz, Mo. 

Upon discovery of the depot, which was relocated about a mile from its original home by the railroad tracks in Metz, members of the Western Missouri Antique Tractor & Machinery Association have made several trips to the site to assess its overall condition to determine if the antiquated timbers could withstand the 40 or so mile journey to Frontier Village. 

The ultimate conclusion was reached recently- that would a an affirmative 'Yes sir'!

Now, time to get busy. Over the past few weeks, volunteers made additional treks to the depot to remove and clean up the unit as over the years it had become a storage area and workshop. The decades of accumulation revealed a healthy pile of dumpster filler but a few key mementos as well- including the original sign that once greeted rail passengers in the town of Metz.

According to WMATAMA member Ronnie Fritts, who is helping to spearhead the project, from this point forward everyone is on a 'fast track' (pun intended) to get the building to its new home as soon as possible. Cooperation with Osage Valley Electric Coop to raise power lines along the way has already been procured, as well as other needed logistics. 

Upon arrival at Frontier Village work will commence setting it on a foundation then rebuilding the depot to its original sheen thus making it ready to weather decades to come with a goal of completion by the annual Hot Chocolate Night celebration this December.

In the meantime donations are needed, both monetary and decorative. To fully outfit the structure 'as it was' will require at least a pot belly stove, a railroad clock, a telegraph setup, antique two wheeler, baggage scales, lanterns, lighting, and similar. 

Monetary donations may be sent c/o Ronnie Fritts, PO Box 63, Adrian Mo 64720. For other donations or questions, call him at 816-830-2626. Note the Western Missouri Antique Tractor and Machinery Association is a 501c3 organization.

A hearty thank-you goes to Countywide Disposal their donation that  helped with cleanup, it is greatly appreciated.

Mid America Live will provide progress updates accordingly.

A TREASURE IN THE RUBBLE located in back is the original Metz Depot sign

An approximate rendering of how the depot will appear at Frontier Village

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Flurries possible tonight, colder weekend ahead

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Thursday basketball scores

Boys

Drexel 73

Jasper 42

Butler 47

Miami 53

Osceola 52

Midway 39

Chilhowee 41

Sherwood 49

Girls

Pleasanton 52

Bronaugh  36

Drexel 35

Jasper 45

Butler 1

Miami 0 forfeit

Osceola 58

Midway 36

Chilhowee 33

Sherwood 62

#MidAmericaLive

Important notice from Citizens Bank

Scammers are spoofing Shazam’s legitimate phone number and contacting customers under the impersonation of Shazam’s debit card fraud department. These calls and texts look authentic as the caller ID displays Shazam’s real number, and the messages sound professional. Their goal is to convince customers that their card has been hacked and pressure them into sharing account details or making purchases or Apple Cash transfers.

Shazam will never direct you to make purchases, withdrawals, or cash transfers as a way to “fix” an issue. If something feels off, hang up immediately and call your bank directly

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