Wednesday, September 16, 2026

The Timeline continues of Papinville from 1951-2003

This will be the last time line story. The history walk way ends in 1997, but there has been a lot of history that has happened since . Some more stones need to be added and if you would like to sponsor a new stone let us know at the picnic.

Next year Papinville will be 180 years old and we are already planning for the big celebration. Some of the new stones will be: Museum, band stand, renovation of inside of school, bridge book printed, and Papinville sign. There will probably be more added.

July of 1951 was a year of the biggest flood in this area. If you lived in the area at this time you remember that 71 Highway, B Highway and N Highway were all flooded for a few weeks. Groceries had to be brought to people in boats. This happened again in 1886. This flood was four feet higher than 1951. Papinville was like an island both years. People out in Papinville know what to do in flood time. We all know about the flood stage and they prepare for what they need to do. People who live here love Papinville and they all help each other out. They wouldn’t live any place else. We need to keep the history going so the next generations will remember the history. If you are interested in the history and would like to keep the history going join our Papinville Historical and Cemetery Association. You are always welcome.

The beginning of the the time line will start:

1951- Big flood

1952 – Papinville school closes. Students go to Prairie City

1955- Telephone Office sold to KLM Telephone Company

1957-Rich Hill R-IV School District approved by voters

1960-Steeple removed from Methodist Church

1961- Aug. dial telephones came into use in Papinville

1970-“Three Mile Square” written by Mildred Marquardt was

published.

1971-Methodist Church was sold

1986 Biggest flood, four feet higher than 1951

1989-April- Papinville Historical and Cemetery Association

was organized

1990-April Methodist Church was burnt

1991 Sept.-Street signs were erected in Papinville Oct. Tour of Papinville and surrounding area for Bates County 150th celebration.

1991- Museum dedicated

1992-April 7- Prairie Township votes to deed the school over to the Papinville Historical Assoc.

1992- July First Papinville Picnic Fish fry at school

1993-School has new foundation, roof and flag pole

second annual picnic


1994- School has new paint job, bell and bell tower

Third annual picnic including the 3 other schools that were in the district seven: Prairie City, Mission Branch and Sillinger.

1995- Papinville one room school 100 years old. Education Through The Years” book was printed and sold at the fourth annual picnic. Picnic was a hog roast. Drainage Ditch Bridge floats away.

1996-May- Shelter house built. Dedicated at fifth annual picnic. New Bridge built at Papinville so a new bridge could be built on the Drainage Ditch that floated away. Old bridge deeded to the Historical Assoc. by Bates county court.

1997 April -Papinville 150 years old. Association prints book on the history of Papinville.

2000- Band stand built

2001- Stepping stones (set by Downy Fuouy)

MEMORY STONES: Paul Stangel (president from 1989-2002), Jim Coonce (Music director from 1991 to2002), Wilbur Zink ( Arthur and historian) and Mary and Ada Griffin (teachers).

The following is the schedule for the 34th annual Papinville Picnic on Sat. September 26 starting at 1:30. The music will begin at 1:30 with children’s games, (nice prizes given), wagon rides, silent auction (1:30 to 4:00), ,coloring contest(3 ages divisions (1st and 2nd prizes)and cake walk until all cakes are gone. Pie auction will begin at 4:00. All pies have to be at the registration table by 2:30. If you want a pie to be auction off and not judged tell the person in charge. There will be a 1st and 2nd place winner for Juniors (ages 15 and younger and adults 16 and older). No categories this year. All pies items for cake walk and dessert table please put in disposable pans.

The honor ceremony, 50/50 drawing and the quilt drawing will be after the pie and live auction. Tom Altenburg has donated a beautiful painting of the historical bridge for the live auction. The silent and live auction has many nice items. The meal of fish, chicken and brisket will be served at 5:30. There will be a number of side dishes. Free will donation. Bring your lawn chairs and enjoy the afternoon visiting with people and learning about the history of Papinville. Tickets for the quilt, T-shirts, hat’s and history books plus other items will be on sale at the information tent. Children’s games, cakewalk and wagon rides are free.

Directions to Papinville: from Rich Hill go east on B Highway to N South 2 miles to Papinville and follow the signs. Hope to see you at the picnic.

Activities directors can answer any questions you have at these phone numbers. Alisa Swarnes 816-602-3175 and Angela Stangel 417-296-5203

Submitted by Phyllis Stewart #MidAmericaLive

Obituary - Sherry Bishop


A celebration of life for Sherry Bishop will begin at 2 p.m. Saturday, September 19, 2026 at Tryst Falls Park, shelter 13 in Excelsior Springs, Missouri. Address is 25601 MO 92, Excelsior Springs, Missouri 64024. Arrangements under the direction of the Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel and Crematory (660-679-6555) in Butler, Missouri. Online condolences www.schowengerdtchapel.com.

Sherry Ann Roberts Bishop, 75 passed away at home on August 28, 2026. She was born June 24, 1951 in Atlantic, Iowa to Marion Leroy Roberts and Frankie Irene (Snow) Roberts.

Sherry married Michael Dean Bishop on December 30, 1989 and enjoyed many years together. Her life was marked by her love for her family, her determination and her strong work ethic–from her years working for aerospace, to more than two decades as an over the road truck driver alongside her beloved husband. Together, they traveled many miles across the country–sharing a life filled with memories, adventures and stories that became a treasured part of their family history.

Sherry is survived by three daughters, Tracy Ann Popejoy, Stacie Joe Stuart and Shelly Leann Popejoy: grandchildren, Nicole Vick, Dakota Harth, Shelby Harth, Clorrissa Holt, Paul Stuart IV and Destin Stuart; many great-grandchildren; and four siblings, Toni Dallas, Teresa Manns, Terry Roberts and Micheal Roberts. Sherry was preceded in death by her husband, Michael Dean Bishop; infant son, Shance Alan Popejoy; grandson, Shance Alan Spor; and four siblings, Lynn Robinson, Jackie Davis, Monte Roberts and Frankie (Lil) Roberts.

She leaves behind a family who will continue to carry her memory forward. The love, strength, stories and the life she shared with those around her will live on through generations. “Rest peacefully Sherry. May you be reunited with those you loved and lost. May your memory live forever in the hearts of those who love you.”

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Rich Hill students visit State Capitol this week


Rich Hill School Government classes went to the Missouri State Capitol on Monday. From the Dome to the first floor, we explored our working state government building and had a great learning experience. Lunch was provided by Representative Diehl's office and the students enjoyed the day. The students represented Rich Hill with decorum and respect and hopefully brought home some wonderful memories!


Courtesy Rich Hill Tiger Talk

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September like weather ahead


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Obituary - Mary Spall


Mary Elizabeth Spall (Ward), born February 13, 1949, passed away peacefully in her home on September 13, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and cherished member of her family.

Mary was born to Dorothy and James Ward and grew up in Howell, Michigan, alongside her siblings, Judy, Harold, Raymond, Keith, and Alan. She graduated from Howell High School and carried many cherished memories of growing up with her family and siblings.

After graduating, Mary moved to Sheldon, where she began the next chapter of her life. There, she married her husband, Rex Spall, and together they raised their two daughters, Tracey Hanson and Candi Belew.

Mary dedicated nearly 25 years of her life to Walmart before retiring. She was known for her hardworking nature and devotion to her family.

Mary found joy in growing flowers and gardening. She especially treasured spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, creating memories that will be cherished by her family for generations to come.

Mary is survived by her daughters, Tracey Hanson, married to Larry Hanson, and Candi Belew (Jimmie, who preceded her in death), along with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Tracey and Larry's family includes Shane Hanson and Kim, and their children Logan, Landon, and Kristen; Kylei Hanson and her husband, Landon Wilson, and their children Kaelynn and Lane Wilson; and Colten Hanson and Nicole, and their children Bentlyee, Taylen, and Clay Hanson.

Candi's family includes Briana Kalleck and Casey, and their children Alyson and Emma Kalleck; Taylor Belew and Tierra, and their son Dayton Belew; and Tyler Belew and Jaycee, and their sons Holden and Jimmie Belew.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents, Dorothy and James Ward; her beloved husband, Rex Spall; her brother, Harold Ward; and her sisters-in-law, Sue Ward and Kay Ward.

She will be deeply missed by her daughters, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, along with all of her family and friends who were blessed to know and love her.

Mary’s memory will live on through the family she loved so dearly, the gardens she lovingly tended, and the many lives she touched throughout her years.

Graveside services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, September 21, 2026 at Sheldon Cemetery in Sheldon, MO with Elvin Winans officiating.



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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 60th 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 rankinfarms@hotmail.com.

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.



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Little Apple news

Ellett Memorial Hospital will host its annual Community Block Party Saturday, September 26 starting at 9:00 a.m. at Ellett Memorial Hospital in AC. The Block Party will have little something for everyone.  Reduced-price lab draws will be available from 8:00-11:00 a.m.  Booths will be set up with health information on available services and resources.  Come shop the vendors! It’s never too early to start your Christmas Shopping and they have small business vendors on-site selling a wide range of products.  There will also be several activities for the kids to enjoy: bounce house, petting zoo, face painting, kid’s games, fire truck and ambulance. EMH will also be providing free snow cones, popcorn, and cotton candy. The St. Clair Co Sheriff’s Department will have K-9 demos. Bring the whole family for a fun day at the EMH Community Block Party! Check the EMH Community Block Party Facebook Page at https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=emh%20community%20block%20party for more information.


Stop by the EMH Community Block Party on September 26 and help our local students meet their fundraising goals! At the Block Party, the ACHS After-Prom Committee is doing a taco salad fundraiser. In addition to taco salads, they'll also have nachos & hot dogs available for purchase. Stop by their booth, get a filling and affordable lunch, and help support their fundraising for the after-prom celebration.


The A.C. Fall City Wide Garage Sale dates are set for September 25 & 26. Permits are $5 and can be purchased at City Hall through Tuesday, September 22. Permits to set up in the City Park are $25 for the pole shelter, $15 for the stage, $10 for lawn permits and these fees cover both days. Park permits can also be purchased at City Hall on a first come, first served basis and cannot be reserved by phone. Maps will be available at Food Fair, Casey's, Fika and Powell’s True Value on Thursday afternoon. House of Joy Ministries will no longer be at the City Park to collect donations. However, Growing in Grace Community Center will have a trailer at the back of their building for your donations. For questions, please contact Dianne Foster at 660-679-1125.



West Central Missouri Community Action Agency is seeking volunteers to help support the St. Clair County Food Pantry in Appleton City. Volunteers are needed to assist with a variety of activities that help the pantry serve local individuals and families. Volunteer opportunities include packing and preparing pantry bags for upcoming distributions, assisting on food distribution days, unloading and stocking food deliveries, organizing donated food and pantry shelves, helping with inventory management, and assisting with other pantry projects as needed. Food distribution days are typically held on the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month. Volunteers must be at least 18 years old and able to safely stand, walk, bend, and lift or carry up to 50 pounds. Whether someone is available to volunteer once a month or simply whenever their schedule allows, their time can make a meaningful difference for local individuals and families facing food insecurity. Those interested in volunteering or learning more may contact Dana at the West Central St. Clair County Food Pantry, 112 West 4
th Street, Appleton City, MO 64724. Call 660-476-2185 or text 660-466-2134. The St. Clair County Food Pantry is a proud partner of Ozarks Food Harvest. This project/program is funded 26% at $13,100 with federal funds received from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services provided by the Missouri Department of Social Services and 63% at $31,300 from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, and 11% at $5,600 by other non-federal sources.


In this, the 250th year of the independence that our first military fought and won for US, DbarJ Quilts etc, along with Marge Zink, will have 1 more drawing for quilts this year.  There is no cost to sign up.  You need to be a veteran and have a name and phone number.  You or a friend/family member can call Marge at 660-207-8063 or Joyce at 660-679-1809 or drop by DbarJ Quilts etc in Rockville, MO to give them your name.  

The drawings will be Veterans Day, November 11.


Ellett Memorial Hospital Appleton City offers outpatient specialist services for September and October. Call 660-476-2111 for appointments. Sept 16 - Upper GI, Colonoscopy-Dr. Namin,  Thursday, Sept 17 - Podiatry: Dr. Pace, Wednesday,   Sept 18- Dermatology- Dylan Timmerman, PA,  Tuesday, Sept 22 - Rheumatology- Dr. John,  Wednesday, Sept 23 - Orthopedic-Dr. Gray,   Wednesday, Sept 23 - Ophthalmology, Dr. Soni, Thursday, Sept 24 - Neurology- Dr. Shoaib,  Friday,  Sept 25 - Orthopedics- Laura Noble, FNP,  Monday, Sept 28 - Rheumatology- Dr. John, Thursday,  October 1 - OB/Gyn- Dr. Kallberg,   Friday, October 2 - Dermatology- Dylan Timmerman, PA,  Wednesday, October 7 - Upper GI, Colonoscopy-Dr. Namin,  Friday, October 9 - Orthopedic-Dr. Gray,  Tuesday,  October 13 - Rheumatology- Dr. John,  Thursday, October 15 - Podiatry: Dr. Pace, Friday, October 16 - Dermatology- Dylan Timmerman, PA,  Wednesday, October 21 - Upper GI, Colonoscopy-Dr. Namin,  Friday,       October 23 - Orthopedics- Laura Noble, FNP,  Tuesday, October 27 - Rheumatology- Dr. John,  Wednesday, October 28 - Orthopedic-Dr. Gray,  Wednesday,  October 28 - Ophthalmology, Dr. Soni,  Thursday, October 29 - Neurology- Dr.- Shoaib.


“The Little Apple” was started by the A. C. Economic Development as way of informing residents of news and events sponsored by area businesses and organizations.  Items of a clearly personal nature, such as birthdays, anniversaries, awards (not group sponsored), personal sales and the like are not accepted for publication. Items may be edited for accuracy, grammar or space restrictions. Please email articles for “The Little Apple” to dcp81@embarqmail.com by Tuesday evenings or bring them to Dr. Payton’s office to be included in that week’s edition. To receive "The Little Apple" free by e-mail, or to be removed from the email list, send your e-mail address to dcp81@embarqmail.com If you have changed your email address, please send the current address, so the list can be updated.


CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Sept 25-26    A.C. Fall City Wide Garage Sale

Sept 26         Ellett Memorial Hospital annual Community Block Party starting at 9:00 a.m. 




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Mayce McKim named Young Professional of the Month


Congratulations to Mayce McKim, CCC’s Rotary Club Young Professional of the Month for August! Mayce is a leader in our Adult Cass Career Center PN Program, and she exemplifies the Triple C Program through her kindness, preparation, dedication, strong work ethic, patience, and positive attitude, making her a dependable and respectful role model for her peers. We are so proud of you, Mayce! Sponsored by the Harrisonville Rotary Club.


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