"No Travel" Advisory in Effect for Missouri

JEFFERSON CITY, MO - Another major winter storm is making its way into Missouri, bringing heavy snowfall and strong winds across much of the state on Feb. 25-26. Due to expected hazardous conditions, the Missouri Department of Transportation has issued a "no travel advisory" for the duration of the event.

This storm will affect western, northern and central portions of the state. The highest accumulations are expected north of U.S. 54, including Interstate 70 from Kansas City to Kingdom City, I-35 and I-29. Kansas City, Columbia and Kirksville could see 8-13 inches of snow. 

"For your safety and the safety of our crews, we ask everyone to avoid travel once this storm begins, unless it is a dire emergency," said Elizabeth Wright, MoDOT state maintenance engineer. "This will be different from last week's storm. Strong winds will blow the snow around, creating a whiteout effect that makes travel extremely hazardous."

The high rate of snowfall, coupled with 30 mph winds, can create drifts that will seriously challenge even four-wheel drive vehicles.

"Blowing snow and high winds make it very difficult for MoDOT crews to clear roads," said Wright. "If there are no other vehicles on the roadways, we have a much better chance of making progress so traffic can get moving again."

Should you attempt to travel, bring your mobile phones and winter survival supplies If you do become stranded, stay with your vehicle and call 911. Be aware that emergency responders may have difficulty reaching you.

Stay informed about Missouri road conditions by using MoDOT's Traveler Information Map, available online at www.modot.org, or through MoDOT's new smartphone app, available for iPhone and Android phones. The map offers current views of road conditions for Missouri interstates and highways. You can zoom in to a particular location, check live weather radar, and view images from MoDOT's traffic cameras and message boards.

MoDOT also provides road condition information through our Customer Service Center. Dial 888-ASK-MODOT (888-275-6636) to speak with a customer service representative 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Library Closed

The Butler Public Library will be closed on Tues. Feb. 26th. Weather

permitting we will reopen on Wed. Feb. 27th. If you need books renewed

please call the library at 660-679-4321 and leave us a message. THANKS

MoDOT/Southwest Travel Advisory: For Monday Afternoon into Tuesday, Feb. 25-26‏

Southwest District Office (417) 895-7600   February 25, 2013   MoDOT/Southwest Travel Advisory: For Monday Afternoon into Tuesday, Feb. 25-26   * Travel is DISCOURAGED north of Route 54, including areas in Vernon, Bates, Henry, Benton, northern Cedar, St. Clair and Hickory counties, Monday night through Tuesday because of expected blizzard-like conditions. * Drivers also are urged to stay off roads in Kansas City/St. Joseph area and wide portions of central and northern Missouri because of heavy snow and high winds. Weather Conditions: In southwest Missouri, rain is expected to change to snow beginning mid-afternoon Monday roughly north of Route 54. Significant snowfall amounts are expected in Vernon, northern Cedar, Bates, Henry, Benton, St. Clair and Hickory counties. During the overnight hours, counties south of Route 54 will see rain change to snow, although lesser accumulations are predicted south of a line from Joplin to Bolivar to Buffalo. The winter storm will impact wide areas of central and northern Missouri. Travel Conditions: Drivers are being discouraged traveling across much of Missouri north of Route 54 overnight and in the morning because of the potential for deep snow and winds reaching 30 mph. Less traffic and fewer stranded vehicles on the roads will make it safer and easier for snowplows to keep roads open and quicker to clear once the storm has ended. Road Clearing: During the storm, MoDOT crews will focus their efforts on keeping major roads driveable. That includes roads like I-49, Route 54, Route 13, Route 7 and Route 65. As they can, crews will make a pass along lesser-traveled routes to keep at least one lane passable. When the storm moves out of the area, crews will focus efforts on clearing the heaviest traveled roads first and then the lesser traveled roads. Please be patient: This is shaping up to be a major winter storm. Drivers are asked to be patient. MoDOT crews will work to clear major and secondary roads as quickly as possible. Winter Weather Driving Tips: * Buckle up. * Adjust your speed to conditions. * Stay at least 100 feet behind a truck plowing/salting the road. * Keep your windshield and other windows clear to help you see. * Be alert for road conditions that may change as you drive. * Don't tailgate. * Focus on driving and avoid distractions. * Allow for extra travel time if you must travel. Road Condition Information: * MoDOT Customer Service: 1-888-275-6636 * MoDOT Traveler Information map: http://maps.modot.mo.gov/timi/ Follow MoDOT/Southwest: * facebook.com/MoDOT.Southwest * twitter.com/MoDOT_Southwest

Cold Brief 2-25-13 - Snow Shoveling fatalities‏

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) makes several recommendations to help you stay safe while clearing snow.

·                                 Check with your doctor. Because this activity places high stress on the heart, speak with your physician first. If you have a medical condition or do not exercise regularly, consider hiring someone to remove the snow.

·                                 Dress appropriately. Light, layered, water-repellent clothing provides both ventilation and insulation. It is also important to wear the appropriate head coverings, as well as mittens or gloves and thick, warm socks. Take a break if you feel yourself getting too hot or too cold.

·                                 See what you are shoveling/snow blowing. Make sure that your hat or scarf does not block your vision. Watch for ice patches and uneven surfaces. Avoid falls by wearing shoes or boots that have slip-resistant soles.

·                                 Clear snow early and often. Begin when a light covering of snow is on the ground to avoid trying to clear packed, heavy snow.

When shoveling:

·                                 Warm up your muscles. Shoveling can be a vigorous activity. Before you begin, warm up your muscles for 10 minutes with light exercise.

·                                 Pace yourself. Take frequent breaks and replenish fluids to prevent dehydration. If you experience chest pain, shortness of breath or other signs of a heart attack, seek emergency care.

·                                 Use a shovel that is comfortable for your height and strength. Do not use a shovel that is too heavy or too long for you. Consider buying a shovel that is specially designed to prevent too much stooping. Space your hands on the tool grip to increase your leverage.

·                                 When possible, push the snow instead of lifting it. If you must lift, take small amounts of snow, and lift it with your legs: Squat with your legs apart, knees bent and back straight. Lift by straightening your legs, without bending at the waist. Then walk to where you want to dump the snow; holding a shovelful of snow with your arms outstretched puts too much weight on your spine.

·                                 Do not throw the snow over your shoulder or to the side. This requires a twisting motion that stresses your back.

When snowblowing:

·                                 Never stick your hands or feet in the snow blower. If snow becomes too impacted, stop the engine and wait at least five seconds. Use a solid object to clear wet snow or debris from the chute. Beware of the recoil of the motor and blades after the machine has been turned off.

·                                 Do not leave the snow blower unattended when it is running. Shut off the engine if you must walk away from the machine.

·                                 Watch the snow blower cord. If you are operating an electric snow blower, be aware of where the power cord is at all times, so you do not trip and fall.

·                                 Add fuel before starting the snow blower. Never add fuel when the engine is running or hot. Do not operate the machine in an enclosed area.

·                                 Read the instruction manual. Prior to using a snow blower, read the instruction manual for specific safety hazards, unfamiliar features, and whenever attempting to repair or maintain the snow blower

Visit http://www.orthoinfo.org/ for more tips on snow shoveling safety

School Closed Tomorrow

Miami R-1 has canceled classes on TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2013 due to incoming snow storm.  Please be safe.

Advisory Message: winter weather‏

Update on winter weather advisory heavy snow impact areas could get 12 to 15 inches. If travel is necessary please use caution. Don't travel unless you have too


Courtesy of Bates County Sheriff Office

Obituary - Maxine Castle

Funeral services for Maxine Castle will be 10:30 a.m. Thursday, February 28, 2013 at the Amoret Christian Church in Amoret, Missouri with Minister Charles King officiating and Kevin Berry assisting. Visitation will be Wednesday evening from 6-7 p.m. at Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel (660-679-6555) in Butler, Missouri. Burial in Benjamin Cemetery, Amoret, Missouri. Contributions to Amoret Christian Church or American Diabetes Association

Bertha Maxine Castle, age 80 of Butler, Missouri died Sunday, February 24, 2013 in Butler. She was born March 3, 1932 to Raymond and Juanita Jessie Lingenfelter Warren in Amoret, Missouri.

Maxine is survived by four daughters, Vickie Wackerman and husband Jim of Butler, Missouri, Paula Reed and husband Mike of Adrian, Missouri, Diana Lovelady and husband Wayne of Belton, Missouri and Amy Schulz and husband Scott of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; one brother, William Warren of Pleasanton, Kansas; two sisters, Lucille Platt of Butler, Missouri and Jean Malone and husband Ted of Amoret, Missouri; two grandchildren, Brooke Ashbury and husband Seth and Brandon Wackerman and wife Jenny; and two great-grandchildren, Alina Wackerman and Evan Wackerman. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband Paul Pat Castle; and infant son, Paul Wayne Castle.

Year Book Purchase

Butler Parents:

The last day to purchase a Butlerite High School Yearbook at $55 is this Friday, March 1 or online through March 2 with a credit card. On March 3, yearbooks will be $65. The last date to order a yearbook will be March 29, 2013.

If you are interested in a Senior/Friend ad, the last date to order is March 15, 2013. Space is limited; first come, first served!!

For more information on either, you can email carmen.behringer@butler.k12.mo.us.