Host of the recent Warrior Dash, the village of Butler offers opportunities for the community to get involved and have fun.
“There’s a lot going on in the community…you can find several summer activities available in the area,” stated Mayor Kevin Carr.
Whether it’s getting muddy at the Clear Fork Ski Resort’s Mud Run or taking a trip to Five Points Drive-In for ice cream, there are different entertainment options available in Butler.
To advertise the various events in town, Carr said that the Butler Area Merchants’ Association started hand-delivering free newsletters to the local businesses, churches, and other institutions. “We’re hoping to bring people together and to bring businesses back to what we once had,” stated the mayor. The newsletter, first released in April, continues to be sent out at the beginning of each month. It includes information not only about upcoming events, but also information about local businesses and residents.
Mayor Carr also reported a new business development. Hitchman’s Market, which had been in service for over 50 years, closed its doors about eight months ago. In its place will be a Dollar General. With the opening of this new store, the mayor stated, “Everyone down here is excited.” He noted the convenience of a local store, residents won’t have to drive far to shop.
“Demand will be there,” said Carr.
Butler also features Memorial Park. The park has undergone remodeling.
“This past April, a lot of local volunteers helped upgrade the park,” said Mayor Carr. “We got service flags installed, which had been donated by a local serviceman, and cannons re-scraped and re-painted. Everyone donated a little here and a little there.” Mayor Carr stated that he was pleased to see the community involved and have the park done before Memorial Day.
More re-modeling is yet to come with the sidewalks in town. The village of Butler was recently awarded a $450,000 grant for sidewalk improvement. In reference to earning this grant, Carr stated, “A lot of hard work was involved from our school, council members, and members of the community.”
Carr has a long history with Butler. He was raised in nearby Newville and later moved to Butler. His father and uncle opened an automotive repair shop in town in 1980. His father continues to work there alongside his brother. In 1988, Carr graduated from Clear Fork Valley High School. Five years after graduation, he returned to Clear Fork Schools and began working in the maintenance department and continues to work there today. Recently, he was honored with a 20-year service award.
Carr’s wife grew up just outside of town and their daughter recently graduated from Clear Fork Valley Schools. Even his family has a history with the town of Butler. “I love living here,” stated Carr, “I love the seasons, the great outdoors, the scenery. All my family is here. I never imagined leaving.”