Columnists | The Prairie Press

Grandmas have, for centuries, earned a commendable stereotype reputation. Sometimes you encounter a person who for whatever reason, never knew their grandmother, usually because she had … more

By Allen Engebright | 10/2/23

200 years of change

I have been researching the last year or so about what has changed in our county the last 200 years. First of all, the westward movement began in earnest around 1800 as the Revolutionary War was … more

By Roger Stanley | 9/25/23

Out of the Past

Here is a compilation of stories appearing in the September 1924 issues of the Paris Beacon-News. The September 1923 volume is misplaced so Out of the Past is 99 years instead of a century ago. … more

By Callie Baber | 9/25/23

Independent living skills for adults with disabilities

Living independently is a fundamental aspect of a fulfilling life, but for adults with disabilities, it can be a daunting challenge. Independence is not only about living on one's own, but also … more

By Jonathan Burns | 9/25/23

Are we alone? Recent findings spark discussion

Last week social media exploded with posts relating to the Mexican Government hearing on UFOs where two tiny mummies were presented as evidence. The scientific community is split but consensus … more

By Terry Sullivan | 9/25/23

Small compromises, big disasters

Gary was a gifted musician who had been raised in church. As his talent matured, Gary was repeatedly invited to extend his influence by singing and playing in local bars and clubs. He wanted the … more

By Rick Cook | 9/25/23

Bible Belt still strong

Kentucky has always been characterized by rugged forested, scenic hills. So much so that Western Kentucky University chose the name Hilltoppers for their mascot. When Daniel Boone earned … more

By Allen Englebright | 9/25/23

Just for fun brings adventure

Just for the fun of it, we bought our first camper in 1965. Our family got aboard with the idea since we were farmers, and didn’t have a lot of livestock, to do a two-week vacation starting the … more

By Roger Stanley | 9/17/23

Out of the Past

Here is a compilation of stories appearing in the September 1924 issues of the Paris Beacon-News. The September 1923 volume is misplaced so Out of the Past is 99 years instead of a century ago. … more

By Callie Baber | 9/17/23

McLeansboro's Spoon River Anthology

This month Nancy and I traveled for one day and visited four cemeteries in southern Illinois. The first was Springer Cemetery in remote Hamilton County where my mother’s parents are … more

By Allen Englebright | 9/17/23

Learning to cleanup is essential

Steve loved to make his favorite concoction — Chili-N-Fries Surprise. As a bachelor in his late 20s, Steve made Chili-N-Fries as often as he could. Sure, it was a messy clean up but totally … more

By Rick Cook | 9/17/23

Ornamental corn offers a key to understanding cancer

We are entering the fall festival season with traditional decorations using sunflowers, pumpkins and ornamental corn. That multicolor corn was traditionally called Indian corn in reference to … more

By Terry Sullivan | 9/17/23

Fairy rings are full of lore

The rains of August brought not only green lawns, but the appearance of fairy circles or rings. They usually grow in an arc or full circle if old enough. I’ve written before about how … more

By Jan Phipps | 9/15/23

Remembering waiting in line

I think about all the times my family waited in line and all the people waiting in line with us. The first time my brother and I waited in line was for a showing of “Bambi.” My mom … more

By Roger Stanley | 9/15/23

Addiction recovery is a challenge

I grew up with parents who were also addicts. In those days, we didn’t call people addicted to nicotine through cigarettes addicts. They were just family members or neighbors. The … more

By Rick Cook | 9/15/23

The day Fred bought a new camera

Throughout his life my friend Fred was a dedicated tightwad. He beamed with pride at all the money he’d saved by being a cheapskate. Now and then, however, he loosened his purse … more

By Allen Englebright | 9/15/23

Out of the Past

Here is a compilation of stories appearing in the September 1924 issues of the Paris Beacon-News. The September 1923 volume is misplaced so Out of the Past is 99 years instead of a century … more

By Callie Baber | 9/14/23

There is more to teeth than a brilliant smile

Data reveals 47% of us have braces at some point in our lives. Braces are most commonly associated with the teenage years, but there is no age limit for their use. Some choose to improve their smiles … more

By Terry Sullivan | 9/13/23

Fear is often a barrier to seeking treatment

Addiction is a complex and chronic disease that affects millions of people worldwide. It can have serious physical, mental and emotional consequences, and can make it difficult for individuals to … more

By Jonathan Burns | 9/9/23

Training help builds independence

Individuals with developmental disabilities often face challenges in gaining independence and living independently. Life skills training can help these individuals with developmental disabilities … more

By Jonathan Burns | 9/6/23