JAMES ED HARRIS, 86 DREXEL

 

James “Ed” Harris, 86 of Drexel, Missouri passed away on September 19^th, 2026.  A visitation will be held Saturday, September 26, 2026 from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm at Mullinax Funeral Home, Drexel (816-657-4400).  Funeral services will follow on Saturday at 2:00 pm, also at the funeral home with burial in Sharon Cemetery, Drexel.  Memorial contributions may be made to the Drexel School Foundation.  Messages of condolence may be left for family and friends at www.mullinaxfuneralhome.com. 

Ed was born in Amsterdam, New York on August 4^th, 1940 to Chester Clay and Frances Bolling Harris. The Harris family moved to Drexel when he was 14 months old.  He grew up with two older sisters and one brother He was often spoiled rotten by his sister Lucille and often had great sibling fights with his other sister Renee. This however did not keep them from all being close and getting together every chance they could. Getting together often meant an aggressive game of Wahoo, where Lucille and Ed would whip up on you.  Ed could roll six’s back-to-back, often being accused of having loaded the dice. Ed grew up in Drexel and graduated from Drexel High School in 1955.  He was drafted into the US Army in May of 1963, and stationed in Fort Leonard Wood, where he was discharged with a honorable medical discharge.  Ed never classified himself as a veteran because he felt like he didn’t serve his country to the level that others had.  He said others gave their life and you can’t compare that to what I did.

Ed worked at a glass company and shortly after almost cutting off his fingers, and standing up Kay for their first date, he was united in marriage to Katherine Louise Cummins on September 24^th 1965.  They made their long-term home in Drexel where they raised two children, Jim and Sheryl.  Ed spent many years at the Drexel Elevator going through three ownerships.  He drove a bulk truck and semi-truck for the majority of those years. Ed retired in 2013 from the elevator after making long-term friendships with many people along the way.  

Ed was blessed with five grandsons, Stephan Ogden, Christopher Harris, Ethan Harris, Andrew Gilbert, and Adam Gilbert.  He received an extra blessing when he was blessed with three great-granddaughters; Brylynn, Maelynn and Blakely.

Ed was proceeded in death by his wife Kay Harris, parents; Chester and Frances Harris, and his brother Windy Harris.

He is survived by his son Jim Harris, daughter Sheryl (Darrell) Gilbert, sisters, Dorothy “Lucille” Tucker, Renee Cooper, and sisters-in-law Rosalee Demott and Sue (Rick) Neubauerand along with grandsons; Stephan Ogden, Andrew (Britney) Gilbert, Christiopher Harris, Adam (Makenna) Gilbert, Ethan Harris. As well as his great-granddaughters; Brylynn, Maelynn and Blakely and many nieces and nephews that he adored.

Read More

Health Fair

 BCMH Health Fair Offers Low-Cost Labs, Free Screenings and More October 6

Bates County Memorial Hospital will host its 2026 Health Fair from 3 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, October 6, at the BCMH Education Center, 615 W. Nursery Street in Butler.

The community is invited to stop by for affordable health testing, free screenings, hands-on activities, and a chance to meet members of the BCMH healthcare team and other local healthcare providers.

One of the Health Fair's featured offerings is a five-test lab panel for $20, including A1C, cholesterol, Vitamin D, TSH and glucose. Men over age 50 can add a PSA test for $2.50. Testosterone will also be available as a $10 add-on.

A carotid artery ultrasound will be available for $60, giving people another affordable way to check on their health.

Free health screenings will include blood pressure, oxygen level and carpal tunnel screening with an occupational therapist. BCMH will also offer hands-on CPR training, health information and demonstrations.

The Health Fair will include a Meet and Greet with Dr. Ethan Weeks from 5 to 6 p.m. Weeks, a Bates County native and family medicine physician, recently joined the BCMH Family Care Clinics.

Several local healthcare providers and clinics will also be on hand to share information about the care they provide in the community.

The Missouri Lions Eye Mission Foundation and Butler Lions Club will provide free vision screenings and eyeglass assistance, with Dr. David Miller, a local optometrist in Butler, participating in the event.

Other participating organizations include Bates County Health Center, local hospice providers, LifeFlight Eagle, Narcan Education with Breathe for Bre, Giving Fore Living, Grief Support Group, Dr. Adam Dains, dentist, and Weight Loss Warriors (formerly TOPS).

More participating organizations and activities will be added to the hospital's website as details are confirmed.

The Health Fair will also feature the gallery from BCMH's 2026 Show Us Bates County Community Photo Contest. The gallery will include the contest's winning photographs, and visitors can vote for the People's Choice Award from the eligible photos.

The BCMH Health Fair is open to the community.

BCMH Health Fair
Tuesday, October 6 | 3–7 p.m.
BCMH Education Center
615 W. Nursery Street, Butler

For complete details and updates, visit bcmhospital.com/2026-health-fair/.

 

 

Read More

City of Butler Hiring

The City of Butler  accepting applicationsfull-time maintenance position in the Public Works Departments for a Street Maintenance Worker. fully paid medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and  retirement package .must have a high school diploma or GED ,combination of education and experience, and a valid driver’s license  able to obtain a Class A CDL.  Salary is dependent upon qualifications. Pre-employment and random post-employment drug testing required. Applications available at Butler City Hall, 22 West Ohio Street, Butler, or  cityofbutlermo.com. The City of Butler is an equal opportunity employer. Position is open until it is filled.

Read More

Benefit for Child

 Dear Community Members,

I am writing to announce a Community Unity benefit event in support of the Adam Scott family following the tragic loss of their seven-month-old adopted son.

We are currently seeking sponsors, silent auction item donations, and local performers or bands willing to contribute their time and talent to this cause.

If you would like to donate items for the silent auction (such as gift certificates or physical goods), please deliver them to:

Tom's Bar and Grill
12949 E Hwy 40
Independence, MO 64055

Please ensure all dropped-off items are photographed prior to delivery and clearly labeled "Benefit for the Adam Scott Family."

For additional information or to offer support, please visit the event's GoFundMe page: https://gofund.me/a027eb823

Whether through a donation, sponsorship, performance, or by sharing this message, your support is deeply appreciated.

Sincerely,

Christopher Pemberton
[email protected]
816-506-2555

Read More

Cass County Rodeo

 5th Annual Cass County Sheriff’s Rodeo Set for October 2, 3

 

The 5th annual Cass County Sheriff’s Rodeo presented by the Cass County Sheriff’s Auxiliary will be held Friday, October 2 and Saturday, October 3, at 8 p.m. both nights.

 

Gates will open at 5:30 p.m. and sign-ups for mutton busting begin at 6 p.m.

 

This year, the rodeo will be across from the Harrisonville Community Center at 2101 S. Jefferson Pkwy.

 

Entertainment for the entire family returns in the arena with everything from barrel racing to bull riding.

 

Food trucks with diverse options will also be on site.

 

Before Friday night’s festivities, barrelman/funnyman Tex Holiday will host members of the Special Olympics and CASCO Area Workshop along with their plus-ones at the Harrisonville Community Center.

 

New this year, Tex will host the Exceptional Rodeo at 5:45 p.m. in the gym. This will consist of a Grand Entry, the National Anthem and rodeo/western games.

 

Dinner will follow this new event, then members will have a chance to socialize, listen to music and dance before walking across the street to watch the rodeo at 8 p.m.

 

Tickets are available online through SimpleTix. Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children, with ages 3 and under getting in free.

 

Read More

Ken Beard, 79 of Kansas City

 A Celebration of Life and Military Honors for Kenneth "Ken" Beard will be 11 a.m. Monday September 21, 2026 at the Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel (660-679-6555) in Butler, Missouri. Visitation 10 - 11 a.m. Monday prior to the service at the Schowengerdt Chapel.  Inurnment at a later date. Contributions to a VFW of your choice. Online condolences www.schowengerdtchapel.com.

Kenneth “Ken” Don Beard, age 79 of Kansas City, Missouri died Friday, September 11, 2026 at Delmar Gardens in Lenexa, Kansas. He was born March 9, 1947 to Donald Dwight and Beulah Marie Chapin Beard in Appleton City, Missouri.

Ken, one of four children, grew up in the Pleasant Ridge Community in rural Bates County, Missouri. He attended elementary school at the Hudson School and graduated from Appleton City High School (Appleton City, Missouri) in 1965. In 1967 he joined the army and was stationed in Cu Chi Vietnam with the HHT ¾ Calvary, 25th Infantry Division. After discharge Ken returned to Butler, living there many years before moving to Kansas City, Missouri.

Ken and Marge Mount were classmates who were later reunited. After they found each other again, Ken would travel to California to see Marge and she traveled to Kansas City to see him–growing their relationship. They were married on March 25, 2002. Ken was a longtime barber at the Southside Barber Shop in Butler, then in Kansas City. He was a member of the VFW.

Ken was an honest and hard working man who made many friendships–not only through his time as a barber, but also as a member of the VFW. He had an uncanny ability to bring a smile or a laugh to anyone, regardless of how bad a day they were having. Ken loved to travel with Marge to National Parks where they could watch the animals or a beautiful sunset. A hobby of Ken’s was perfecting his BBQ recipes. He was always up for a lunch date with Marge and Angie to Jack Stack BBQ. As he got older, Ken enjoyed sitting in the garage with a cold drink, watching the cars go by and visiting with anyone who would stop by. Ken will be remembered with affection and gratitude by all those who knew and loved him.

Ken is survived by his wife, Marge Beard of Kansas City, Missouri; daughter, Angie Kauffman and husband Kermit of Butler, Missouri; two grandchildren, Kaleb Kauffman and wife Ceceily of Butler, Missouri and Lanie Kauffman and fiancé Lucas Vert of Republic, Missouri; one great-granddaughter, Dakota of Butler, Missouri; two sisters, Edna Fenimore and husband Darrell of Weatherford, Texas and Kathryn Landers and husband Dale of Omaha, Nebraska; one stepson, Brandon Bowles (Beth); six step-grandchildren, Ella Bowles, Sophie Bowles and Lily Bowles all of California, Kenzie Mitchell and Zach Mitchell (Ally) all of Kansas City, Missouri and Breanna Mitchell of California. Kenneth was preceded in death by his parents; one daughter, Leslie Beard; one sister, Joan Davis; and one stepdaughter, Angela Bowles.

A Celebration of Life and Military Honors for Kenneth "Ken" Beard will be 11 a.m. Monday September 21, 2026 at the Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel (660-679-6555) in Butler, Missouri. Visitation 10 - 11 a.m. Monday prior to the service at the Schowengerdt Chapel.  Inurnment at a later date. Contributions to a VFW of your choice. Online condolences www.schowengerdtchapel.com.

Kenneth “Ken” Don Beard, age 79 of Kansas City, Missouri died Friday, September 11, 2026 at Delmar Gardens in Lenexa, Kansas. He was born March 9, 1947 to Donald Dwight and Beulah Marie Chapin Beard in Appleton City, Missouri.

Ken, one of four children, grew up in the Pleasant Ridge Community in rural Bates County, Missouri. He attended elementary school at the Hudson School and graduated from Appleton City High School (Appleton City, Missouri) in 1965. In 1967 he joined the army and was stationed in Cu Chi Vietnam with the HHT ¾ Calvary, 25th Infantry Division. After discharge Ken returned to Butler, living there many years before moving to Kansas City, Missouri.

Ken and Marge Mount were classmates who were later reunited. After they found each other again, Ken would travel to California to see Marge and she traveled to Kansas City to see him–growing their relationship. They were married on March 25, 2002. Ken was a longtime barber at the Southside Barber Shop in Butler, then in Kansas City. He was a member of the VFW.

Ken was an honest and hard working man who made many friendships–not only through his time as a barber, but also as a member of the VFW. He had an uncanny ability to bring a smile or a laugh to anyone, regardless of how bad a day they were having. Ken loved to travel with Marge to National Parks where they could watch the animals or a beautiful sunset. A hobby of Ken’s was perfecting his BBQ recipes. He was always up for a lunch date with Marge and Angie to Jack Stack BBQ. As he got older, Ken enjoyed sitting in the garage with a cold drink, watching the cars go by and visiting with anyone who would stop by. Ken will be remembered with affection and gratitude by all those who knew and loved him.

Ken is survived by his wife, Marge Beard of Kansas City, Missouri; daughter, Angie Kauffman and husband Kermit of Butler, Missouri; two grandchildren, Kaleb Kauffman and wife Ceceily of Butler, Missouri and Lanie Kauffman and fiancé Lucas Vert of Republic, Missouri; one great-granddaughter, Dakota of Butler, Missouri; two sisters, Edna Fenimore and husband Darrell of Weatherford, Texas and Kathryn Landers and husband Dale of Omaha, Nebraska; one stepson, Brandon Bowles (Beth); six step-grandchildren, Ella Bowles, Sophie Bowles and Lily Bowles all of California, Kenzie Mitchell and Zach Mitchell (Ally) all of Kansas City, Missouri and Breanna Mitchell of California. Kenneth was preceded in death by his parents; one daughter, Leslie Beard; one sister, Joan Davis; and one stepdaughter, Angela Bowles.

Read More

Darla Cunningham, 56, of Drexel, MO

 

Darla Cunningham, 56, of Drexel, MO, passed away on September 8, 2026 at her home. Services are pending at this time and will be announced at a later date.  Arrangements entrusted to Mullinax Funeral Home, Drexel (816-657-4400).  Messages of condolence may be left for the family and friends at www.mullinaxfuneralhome.com.

 

Darla Kay Cunningham was born on December 19, 1969 at Baptist Memorial Hospital in Oklahoma City, OK. She was the daughter of Billy Wayne and Carrol Sue Burrow Cunningham.

 

Darla absolutely loved her family with her whole heart and was very proud of being a mother and grandmother. She loved to laugh and always had a great sense of humor. She had a great love for nature and animals. Darla also had several hobbies including writing and drawing, listening to music, cooking, going on walks in nature and spending time with her family. She had a huge heart and always wanted to help anyone she could. She was strong, determined, funny and had a great heart of gold. She will be greatly missed but always loved.

 

Darla was proceeded in death by her parents, Bill and Carrol Cunningham. She is survived by her daughter Dayla Cunningham, grandson Jedidiah, her sister Anissia Cunningham and brothers Billy and Scotty Cunningham. Including many nieces and nephews, extended family members and friends.

 

Read More

A family needs our support

 

Adam Scott & Traci Class Family Benefit Sometimes, a community is at its best when a family needs it most. On October 17th, The Tom’s Bar and Grill is opening its doors from 5 to 11 PM for a benefit for Adam Scott and Traci Class and their family of Independence. After the heartbreaking loss of their infant child in early September, the family is facing unexpected funeral and medical expenses. You can help by attending the benefit, making a cash donation, or donating an item or gift certificate for the silent auction. And volunteers are needed to help make this special evening possible. Come out October 17th, from 5 to 11, at The Tom’s Bar and Grill, and show the Class family that they are not alone. When tragedy strikes, it’s neighbors helping neighbors that make a difference. Tom’s Bar and Grill 2949 East Highway 40 Independence.

Read More

American Auto Now Open in Butler

 American Auto of Butler is now open offering Mechanic services to our community. Owned and operated by Joseph Smiley, this 2022 Butler Graduate has opening his business to serve the community he loves. Open 9 till 6 Monday through Friday offering basic mechanic repairs such as brakes, oil changes, transmissions, light tire repair, all drive line and suspension to include diagnostics and all motor work. Pick up and delivery in the city limits of Butler. Call today to schedule your appointment. American Auto of Butler now open at 18 South Orange Street at the Stoplight. 660-464-9389 that number again 660-464-9389.

Read More

Revised Information: McGennis Youth BBQ and Auction Sept 27th

 McGennis Youth Center Barbecue and Auction Set for Sunday, September 27

 

This year’s annual McGennis Youth Center Barbecue and Auction are set for Sunday, September 27.

2026 marks the 60^th anniversary of the McGennis Youth Center. To mark this milestone, several things have been added to the barbecue along with all the traditional events.

This year there will be special demonstrations of blacksmithing and quilting, plus an historical reenactment of Betsy Ross. Youth Center board members will also be available to provide history of the Center and its founder, Mary McGennis.

As he has for a number of years, Harry Byram will be on hand to give horse and wagon rides starting at 12:30. Harry will also be available to answer questions and talk about his team and wagon.

In conjunction with the barbecue this year will be the Tenth Annual Car and Truck Show. Car show registration is from 12 to 1 p.m. For more information on the car show contact Jared Rankin at 417-448-4903 or [email protected].

Children’s games will start at 12:30 p.m.

Serving for the barbecue is at 1 p.m., with barbecued beef, pork and chicken, along with beans, cheesy potatoes, coleslaw and bread. A wide variety of cakes will be available for dessert. Everyone is invited to bring a cake for the dessert table, if they’d like to. The meal is catered by Food Fair of Rich Hill.

The auction will start about 1:45. Larry Hacker will be our auctioneer this year.

A popular part of the auction will again be featured this year. The Mad Hatter features ten McGennis Youth Center caps donated by Pony Keg. These caps, each numbered, will be auctioned off. At the end of the auction one of these numbers will be drawn. That winning number will win this year’s gun donated by Bell Farms.

In the same vein, Bob Schlyer has donated a beautiful diamond ring. Numbered envelopes will be auctioned off and a lucky winner drawn at the end of the auction.

For more information about the auction or to donate an item call Marc or Alison Bell at 660-832-4196. The generosity of those who donate and those who bid has made the auction a major revenue source for the Youth Center.

Admission to the barbecue is $13 for adults and $7 for children (ages 6-12). Tickets are for the meal and are not required for the auction.

From Rich Hill, the McGennis Youth Center is located five miles west on A Highway and four miles south on WW Highway.

 

Read More

L AND L GUTTER HIRING

 

Seamless Gutter Installers Wanted

L&L Gutter, located in Rich Hill, MO, is looking for experienced seamless gutter installers. L&L Gutter installs 5” and 6” seamless K-style gutter throughout Southwest Missouri and Eastern Kansas. This is a part-time position with work available seven days a week, allowing for a flexible schedule. Pay is $35.00 per hour.

 Experience with seamless gutter installation is preferred. Experience installing soffit, fascia and siding is a plus. Must be dependable and able to produce quality work. For more information call: L&L Gutter at 417-667-7010

Read More

Mormon Fork Creek Bridge Closed

 The Northbound I-49 bridge over Mormon Fork creek will be closed beginning October 1, 2026. A median crossover will be in place to allow traffic to continue northbound, which will be reduced to one lane to allow both northbound and southbound traffic on the southbound bridge.

 

Plan on slowing down and using caution when traveling through the area. The northbound bridge will be closed for an undisclosed amount of time.

Once again… that’s the Mormon Fork Creek Closed October 1^st to traffic 

Read More

BCMH Reunion

 A reunion is planned for anyone that has ever been employed at Bates County Memorial Hospital… from Candy Stripers to CEO’s.

It’s all for fun and reminiscing of the, “Good Ole Days” at Bates County Memorial Hospital. Past and present employees are encouraged to bring pictures and memorabilia to share with the group.

The Bates County Memorial Hospital employee reunion will meet at the Butler City Park, located on  Parkview Street on October 6^TH   at 11:00 am.

This is a yearly event, held in October. This year everyone will need to bring their own lunch to enjoy with at the park.  

You do not have to RSVP to attend the yearly Bates County Memorial Hospital Past and Present Employee Reunion to be held October 6^TH   at 11: am at the Butler City Park .

 

Read More

Havens Helping Hand

 

Winter is coming… and now is the time to get your home and yard ready! Leaves piling up? Need those gutters cleaned, the yard raked, or landscaping cleaned up before the cold weather arrives? Maybe you have outdoor furniture or other items that need to be moved and stored, storm windows put in, or those last-minute jobs around the house that need to be checked off your list. Haven's Helping Hand can help! Tyler Havens is ready to tackle those seasonal chores and odd jobs that can become difficult or time-consuming — so you don't have to do it all yourself. Get your home winter-ready before the temperatures drop! Call Tyler at 660-464-0895. 660-464-0895 Haven's Helping Hand — getting your home ready for winter, one job at a time!

Read More

Betty Fink age 79

 Betty Fink, 79 of Amsterdam, Missouri passed away Thursday, September 10, 2026 surround by family at Kansas City Hospice House in Kansas City, Missouri.  A visitation will be held from 10:00 am to 11:00 am Tuesday, September 15, 2026 at Mullinax Funeral Home, Butler (660-679-0009).  Funeral services will follow at 11:00 am Tuesday, also at the funeral home.  Burial will take place in Crescent Hill Cemetery, PO box 23, Adrian, Missouri.  Memorial contributions may be made, in lieu of flowers, to Crescent Hill Cemetery.  Messages of condolence may be left for the family at www.mullinaxfuneralhome.com.

 

Betty was born on January 6, 1947, in Butler, Missouri, the daughter of Carl Blaser and Lela (Ruddell) Blaser. She attended and graduated school in Adrian, Missouri. On April 4, 1965, she was united in marriage to Charles Edward Fink in Adrian, Missouri. To this union, two children were born.

 

Betty’s life was deeply rooted in her family and the farm. She embraced farm life and could often be found helping in the fields or preparing meals for her family. She also worked at Bass Busters in Amsterdam, Missouri, and later enjoyed her time cooking at Head Start in Adrian. Betty loved sewing and crafting and took great joy in creating things for her family and others.

 

She attended Amsterdam Word of Life Church and enjoyed spending time with friends through book clubs and exercise groups. She cherished the friendships and connections she made along the way.

 

Later in life, she and her companion, Clay Lindsay, enjoyed traveling by car, boat, and airplane, sharing new experiences together.

 

Betty was preceded in death by her husband of 45 years, Charles; her parents; and her siblings, Patsy Blaser, Harold “Bud” Blaser and Dorothy Bybee. 

 

She is survived by her son, Allen Fink (JoDee) of Amsterdam, Missouri, and daughter, Brenda Minor (Troy) of Butler, Missouri; grandchildren, Samantha Maddick (Zach), Madison Minor (Raina), Natoshia Diehl (Dirk), and Dylan Fink (September); and great-grandchildren, Zachary Fink, Elijah Fink, Maverick Fink, Ryker Diehl, Roselyn Diehl, Jayden Minor, and Grayson Minor.

 

She is also survived by her sister, Sandy Clifton (Danny); sister-in-law, Mary Lou Gifford; along with many nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

 

 

Read More