What began as a birthday cake has blossomed into a heartfelt nod to family legacy, small-town charm and the companionship of a beloved dog. On Friday, July 4, Paris will welcome a unique new addition …
At the Paris Park Board meeting on Wednesday, June 25, the board opened with a public comment period, during which time Matt Jackson of Tech Doc’s Depot pitched his services for installing …
Members of the Edgar County ROSC (Recovery-Oriented Systems of Care) Council gathered on Tuesday, June 24, at Horizon Health and via Zoom to review a year of accomplishments, discuss organizational …
Residents weigh pros and cons of proposed energy center
A proposed 200-megawatt solar energy and battery storage facility in eastern Edgar County is generating both optimism and concern as residents weigh the potential economic and environmental impacts …
On June 28 and 29, Paris Cooperative High School became home to a Remote Area Medical (RAM) clinic. The gymnasium and classrooms were transformed into temporary dental offices, medical stations and …
At the Paws for a Purpose event on Saturday, June 28, the Edgar County Animal Shelter brought two trailers worth of dogs to the Legion on N Main Street, so the residents of Paris could meet their …
The smell of sizzling pork chops filled the air last weekend. On June 28-29, Edgar County 4-H brought the community together once again for one of its most cherished traditions. Held at the Edgar …
A recent initiative launched by the City of Paris in April, the “Beautify Paris Project,” has been so successful that its creator, City Commissioner Doug Hasler, has requested additional …
Crestwood plans innovative, inclusive playground
Crestwood School is taking a significant step toward creating a more inclusive and welcoming environment for all students with the launch of a new, fully accessible playground—an initiative …
HUME —The CUSD #1 District administrators are celebrating significant improvements for their students, following the results of the Five Essentials Survey.
The newest survey …
This September, students at Paris Cooperative High School will participate in a powerful cultural awareness program designed to break down social barriers and foster understanding. Challenge Day, …
For Becky Ogle, what began as a tearful moment in a hammock overlooking the turquoise waves of Jamaica has finally become a published children’s book nearly two decades later. “Seven Days …
In a heartfelt ceremony during the City Council meeting on Monday, June 23, the City of Paris honored retired Fire Captain Mentor Reynold’s 26 years of service to Edgar County.
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In a small town like Paris, it’s not unusual to see people rally around a new business, especially when that business is owned by two locals with deep roots, hard-earned skills and a whole lot …
Beginning this fall, students at Paris Cooperative High School (PCHS) will no longer be permitted to carry cellphones on their person during school hours. The decision to change the school’s …
A stolen Wonder Bread truck, a swerving route across county lines and a rear lift gate hanging wide open might sound like the start of a joke, but for Shawn Bolton, it was the beginning of a legal …
PARIS—At the most recent meeting of the District 95 Board of Education, Superintendent Mary Morgan Ryan delivered a wide-ranging report on the district’s current status and …
In 2023, Dr. Cam Elmore opened Elite Spine and Sport in Clinton, Ind. Now, he is investing back into the community that helped raise and support him by expanding his clinic to Paris, right on the …
After months of revisions, legal review and public input, the Edgar County Board officially passed an ordinance regulating Commercial Solar Energy Facilities during its meeting on Wednesday, June 11.
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The Paris-Union 95 District has announced the selection of a new board member.
“We are delighted to announce the appointment of Ms. Ashley Hemrich to the Paris Union School District 95 …
The 2025 Edgar County Eiffel Tower Triathlon was a huge success on Saturday, June 14. The event included participants from five different states. Despite mid-morning rain, all of the competing …
Recently, the team at The Prairie Press was honored with several awards from the Illinois Press Association. The nominations, awards and recognitions are for the coverage we provided during 2024.
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Lake Land College awards Dyke Barkley for more than 25 years as a leader in innovation
In his more than 25 years of service, Dyke Barkley has played an instrumental role in the growth, faculty development and student success at Lake Land College
As the Horticulture …
For the first time in his career as Mayor of the City of Paris, Craig Smith presented keys to the city to four teenagers. The distribution accompanied a proclamation made during a city council …
Residents of Edgar County and surrounding areas will have access to free medical, dental and vision services later this month, thanks to a partnership between Remote Area Medical (RAM), Longview Bank …
First responders tackle two accidents in one hour
Monday, June 9, proved to be both manic and miraculous for first responders in the city of Paris. In the midst of traffic stops, lift assists and calls for help, first responders were directed to the …
Paris-Union 95 launches new search for missing tax funds
A multi-year shortfall in property tax revenue, totaling nearly three-quarters of a million dollars, has prompted the Paris 95 district to initiate an ongoing investigation involving legal, financial …
Horizon Health celebrates local cancer survivors with luncheon
PARIS— On Friday, May 30, community members came together at Horizon Health to celebrate themselves and/or their loved ones at the annual National Cancer Survivors Day luncheon. The event …
On Tuesday, June 3, several members of the Paris-Union 95 District Board of Education met for a public policy committee meeting. The meeting reviewed mandatory Press 118 and Title IX updates, as well …
The Edgar County Recovery-Oriented System of Care (ROSC), established on July 1, 2022, is dedicated to building and empowering communities of recovery through collaboration, education and compassion …
CHRISMAN—At the June 2 Chrisman City meeting, Police Chief Tom Dolan announced he has recently achieved an important milestone in his law enforcement career. Dolan studied and earned his …
The Edgar County Shrine Weekend is coming up soon, and local residents can look forward to familiar events and faces as the Edgar County Shrine Club raises money for the Shrine Kids.
Events of …
After a sixth case of measles was reported in the state of Illinois in early May, Health Department officials confirmed that the number of reported cases in the United States is now above 25.
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Paris Union School District 95 will begin providing daily and extracurricular transportation for students next year. The Board of Education is supporting a phased plan to provide transportation for …
From a young age, Tessa Stine knew there was a divine calling on her life. Even as a middle schooler, the quiet stirrings of faith were already taking root in her heart and life.
At just 13 …
Edgar County Health Department navigates challenges to prioritize community care
At the recent Edgar County Public Health Department (ECPHD) board meeting, Administrator Kim Ross provided a comprehensive report covering facility upgrades, grant updates, community programs and …
The Shiloh CUSD #1 board of education covered a variety of topics during a short, monthly meeting on Monday, May 19. Discussion included the announcement of bathroom renovations and maintenance …
The Paris City Council convened for its regular meeting on May 27, beginning with a moment of gratitude. Opening with a prayer, the board paid tribute to the brave service members who gave their …
City of Paris recognizes, remembers soldiers during Memorial Day presentation
PARIS—On Memorial Day, under open skies and in the presence of neighbors, veterans, families, and first responders, a solemn tribute was paid to the heroes who gave their lives in service to …
During a re-scheduled board of education meeting for the Paris-Union 95 School District on Wednesday, May 21, more than three dozen individuals joined the newly formed school board to address an …
The Paris-Union 95 school district announced they are in search of a new board member on Friday, May 30, following the resignation of former board president Kevin Knoepfel.
No reason for …
PARIS—Horizon Health congratulates the recent graduates of its first responder certification course.
Eight community members completed the 10-week course. This special training allows them …
The bathroom facilities at the Twin Lakes Park are slated for a major renovation following the approval of a contract with Midwest Restoration. The project, awarded at a bid of $302,882, was …
Horizon Health is offering a new program for high school students who are interested in healthcare careers.
Operation: H.E.A.L. (Healthcare Education And Leadership) is a three-day, interactive …
In the heart of Paris, where rural roots and community ties run deep, a local veterinary clinic is making big strides in pet care, combining compassion with cutting-edge diagnostics to better serve …
During the Chrisman city council meeting on May 19, commissioners discussed long-standing tree removal concerns and updates in animal permit regulations.
Mayor Moore and Commissioners Haddox, …
During its monthly meeting on Wednesday, May 14, the Edgar County Board passed multiple resolutions appointing community members to various roles. The board also a greenlit the next steps for several …
Paris High School AP Chemistry sets sail at the 25th Annual Boat Regatta
On a picture-perfect sunny day at Twin Lakes in Paris, laughter echoed across the water, cardboard dreams set sail and AP Chemistry students proved that science really can float, or at least sink, …
The Paris man who set fire to a home over text messages has pleaded guilty to arson.
Michael Fitzsimmons, 27, appeared at the Edgar County Courthouse, in the custody of the Edgar County …
Four years of waiting, one day of justice, 12 years of prison
In a case described as an “unusual, devastating and crazy situation that is very unique” by Vermilion County Judge Charles Mockbee IV, Stefanie Sanders Gilbert was sentenced to 12 years …
On Saturday, May 10, a car show at the Lake Ridge Christian Church was held to support Christmas for Kids. With the sun shining bright, cars from all areas of time stood present. From (ss chavells) …
The PIO Community Clean up was a two-day event focused on beautifying public spaces across Paris with the help of over 65 enthusiastic volunteers.
Organized through a collaborative effort …
Four members of the CUSD #4 board of education renewed their commitment to Crestwood School during the board’s Wednesday, May 7, meeting.
Following April 1’s consolidated election, …
Criminal court cases were heard on April 12
On Monday, April 12, multiple criminal cases were called before a judge at the Edgar County courthouse.
—Michael A. Lowery, 54, who currently faces three counts of criminal sexual assault …
Annual event at Horizon Health celebrates and pays tribute during National Nurses Week
In 2025, National Nurses Week concluded on Monday, May 12, a date recognized as Florence Nightingale’s birthday and National Nurses Day. To honor the lives of fallen nurses across Edgar County, …
Local schools present annual awards to students
Principals from several Edgar County schools, teachers, parents and a handful of students gathered at the Paris Family Restaurant early on the morning of Wednesday, May 8, to celebrate and …
At the Paris City Council meeting on Monday, May 12, the council opened with a proclamation, designating May 23 and 24 Poppy Days, honoring veterans and reminding Paris that the American Legion …
During the May 12 Village of Hume board meeting, several key developments took place, including the swearing-in of new trustees and the approval of a bid to begin much-needed gravel and alley …
According to 911 Director Taylor Ray, the delay in constructing the new Edgar Public Safety Center (ECPSC) is allowing 911 dispatchers to refresh their hardware.
Ray explained that equipment …
The Edgar County Highway Department has announced scheduled roadway maintenance projects on Vermilion Road (CH 1) from US 150 to Sulphur Springs Road and Clinton Road (County Highway 2) from One …
Community baby shower offers support for new, expecting mothers
PARIS—The Edgar County Public Health Department (ECPHD), in partnership with Blue Cross Blue Shield, hosted a heartwarming and impactful Community Baby Shower that brought together over 100 …
A new initiative aimed at helping residents clean up and improve their properties was introduced last month by City Commissioner Doug Hasler.
The initiative, called the Beautify Paris Project , …
The Paris Improvement Organization (PIO) is set to launch a new community event this summer that promises fun, food and live music for the whole family. Union Street Market and Music will debut …
Spring has arrived in Edgar County, and Bee Well is ready to launch its community garden at Schwartz Park. The garden hopes to bring together people of all ages and backgrounds to learn how to grow …
CHRISMAN—At the May 5 Chrisman city council meeting, officials voted to amend a longstanding ordinance regarding water meter readings with the hopes of reducing resident confusion and …
Community members gather in rain and reverence to honor organ donors and recipients
“Organ, eye and tissue donation is an act of profound compassion. It brings healing to those in need, and provides families of donors with something deeply meaningful in the midst of grief, the …
The Paris Improvement Organization (PIO) is seeking tasks, jobs and projects around the city of Paris for its annual Paris Community Clean-Up days next weekend, on May 9 and 10.
“We have …
Battery energy storage systems, also known as BESS, and commercial solar energy facility ordinances continue to be a hot topic for members of the Edgar County Board. At the board’s study …
On Sunday, April 27, the Link Art Gallery in Paris hosted its annual Edgar County Student Art Show for the community’s enjoyment. There were many different pieces on display from Paris …
On Wednesday, April 22, Mayor Craig Smith declared May 1 as “A Day of Liberation.” Smith’s pronouncement was made as part of a proclamation during a city council pre-agenda meeting …
By Victoria leitch
vleitch@prairiepress.net
PARIS—A leadership transition took place during the April 28 special meeting of the Paris Union School District 95 Board of Education. The …
After an investigation into a hit-and-run incident, resulting in the death of 34-year-old Dakota Gibson, on East 1200th Road in Paris, deputies of the Edgar County Sheriff’s Office arrested …
CHRISMAN—If you’re looking for a fun night out and a chance to support some truly inspiring students, mark your calendars for May 3rd at 6:30 p.m. Chrisman FBLA is bringing the community …
PARIS—The halls of Mayo Middle School are buzzing with excitement as students prepare for their much-anticipated Spring Band Concert, set for Sunday, May 5. With over 130 students …
The results from the April 1 consolidated election in Edgar County have been finalized, according to Edgar County Clerk and Recorder August Griffin. As expected, the official results did not change …
At the April 21 Chrisman city council meeting, community leaders gathered to address a range of important topics, from routine approvals to larger infrastructure and public safety concerns. Although …
Halls of Madness Haunted Attraction is bringing back its fan-favorite off-season event, Madness in May, for another year of spine-tingling fun.
Created as a “halfway to Halloween” …
CUSD #1 board of education prepares for multiple changes
During the monthly CUSD #1 Board of Education meeting on Monday, April 21, board members discussed several adjustments coming to the school’s campus, including the need to rearrange the …
In a world where stories of grit, dreams and destiny intersect, few tales are as heartwarming and inspiring as that of Griffin Johnson and his beloved racehorse, Sandman. What started as a chance …
On Friday, April 18, the Paris Health and Rehab Center put on its fifth annual Easter egg hunt for the Paris community. The event included an egg hunt, bicycle raffle winners, cookies and …
Probable cause found during preliminary hearing for former Kansas teacher
(Publisher’s Note: The following article contains references to sexual misconduct involving a minor and an authority figure. Reader discretion is advised.)
On Monday, April 21, former …
After a vigilant investigation into a hit-and-run incident on East 1200th Road in Paris, deputies of the Edgar County Sheriff’s Office have arrested a suspect.
The April 18 incident …
The Edgar County Sheriff’s Office issued a statement regarding a hit-and-run incident on East 1200th Road in Paris on Friday, April 18.
“From the initiation of the …
The Hampton Inn in Paris is ushering in a new chapter of leadership. On Monday, Heather Williams passed the title of general manager to Amy Highsmith.
Williams has led the hotel since it opened …
The Edgar County Public Health Department (ECPHD) has a busy and impactful season ahead, with several significant public health initiatives and events underway.
One of the most anticipated …
Three Paris parks are getting upgrades this spring thanks to a generous donation.
During last month’s Paris Park Board meeting, Casey Redman announced that the city of Paris had received a …
Trio of local coaches honored for building champions on and off the court
For three local basketball coaches, the 2024–25 season wasn’t just about wins and losses — it was about grit, growth and guiding young athletes toward something greater.
Adam …
At the April 14 Hume meeting, local officials and community members gathered to discuss a variety of practical and procedural matters ranging from water pressure complaints to alleyway maintenance …
District 95 unpacks financial fixes and recovers grant funds
On Monday, April 7, Paris-Union 95 district superintendent Mary Morgan Ryan shared a variety of financial updates with the school board and a small audience.
According to Morgan Ryan, two …
PARIS—As National Telecommunications Week is observed across the country April 13-19, the Paris Police Department is taking time to recognize the vital and tireless efforts of its …
One hundred years ago, in 1925, Helen Keller addressed Lions Club members at the International Convention in Cedar Point, Ohio. She challenged the group to become “knights of the blind in the …
At the latest Chrisman City Council meeting on Monday, April 7, commissioners tackled a variety of issues affecting the community.
Building/demo permits
The council approved several …
During school board meetings on Monday, April 7, the Paris-Union 95 board and the Paris Cooperative High School board of education passed matching resolutions to solve a recently discovered …
Local bank and soup kitchen partner together to feed Paris
For two weeks, First Mid Bank and Trust on N. Central Street did more than handle deposits and loans — it became a hub of generosity and compassion, organizing a food drive that filled 13 totes …
