Local News

Be ready before the flames

Officials are encouraging residents to practice fire safety and to never be afraid to call 911 in an emergency as part of Fire Prevention Month. Chrisman Volunteer Fire Chief Mike Marvin shared …

Babysitter charged with murder

PARIS—Courtney Heath, 37, of Chrisman, has been charged with murder, a Class M felony, in connection with the Sept. 21 death of a Paris two-year-old.  Heath appeared in Edgar County court …

Fire departments battle afternoon blaze

Multiple fire departments responded to a residential fire in Paris last week. According to Paris Fire Chief Zach Janis, at roughly 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 7, the Paris Fire Department was …

First Neighbor Bank welcomes Mike Flack

First Neighbor Bank is pleased to announce that Mike Flack has joined the corporate team as Chief Information & Technology Officer. In this role, Flack will lead the bank's overall …

A place for family; Joe’s Pizza serves Paris and its families for over 50 years

When Joe and Pia Vitale started Joe’s Pizza in 1973, they wanted to bring authentic Italian cuisine to the area and welcome the community as part of their family. Over 50 years later, Joe and …

Paris firefighters promote free smoke alarm program

October is National Fire Prevention Month, and officials are urging the public to take steps to protect their homes, families, and themselves. On Thursday, Oct. 1, officials from the Illinois …

PCHS evacuated following bomb threat

Paris Cooperative High School was evacuated Thursday morning following a reported bomb threat, with all students and staff safely transported to the school’s designated alternate site. …

Horizon Health expands senior care services

Horizon Health is strengthening behavioral health services within its Senior Care program by adding Margo Poore, Licensed Social Worker, and advancing Casey Simpson to Licensed Clinical Social Worker …

The Four C Notes; Bringing the sound of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons to Paris

The sounds of one of the most legendary vocal groups in music history are coming to the Paris Center of Fine Arts on Saturday, Oct. 10, when The Four C Notes take the stage at 7 p.m. Created by …

Finding peace in the kitchen

For Sean Robison, cooking is about much more than what ends up on the plate. It is about slowing down. It is about connection. It is about creating something people can experience together. …

CASE CLOSED

Rheanna Satterfield, 35, was sentenced to 30 years in the Illinois Department of Corrections Friday after pleading guilty but mentally ill to first-degree murder in the April 2025 death of Dakota …

Chrisman considering replacing digital sign

CHRISMAN - Chrisman High School/Junior High is working to replace its digital sign. On Monday, Sept. 22, the Chrisman Board of Education held its regular meeting to discuss and approve a few …

Scare on the Square returns

Scare on the Square is back for the 2026 season. On Saturday, Oct. 31, Edgar County Monster Mash and the Paris Chamber of Commerce present Scare on the Square in Paris. Trick-or-treating …

Marshal Chamber announces candidates for board election

The Marshall Area Chamber of Commerce Nominating Committee announced the proposed slate of candidates for election to the board of directors for the upcoming term. These candidates are currently …

PERK kicks off another year of mentorships

People Encouraging Remarkable Kids (PERK) recently kicked off another year of mentorship with a celebration bringing mentors and students together for the start of the new program year. The PERK …

Lake Land College presents Adult Education program to Marshall

Marshall City Council heard from a local college representative about adult education. On Monday, Sept. 29, the Marshal City Council welcomed Lake Land College Director of Adult Education Dustyn …

McCullough held without pretrial release after alleged Kansas assault

KANSAS—Brody McCullough, of Kansas, will remain in custody after an Edgar County judge denied him pretrial release following a Sept. 25 court appearance on felony charges stemming from an alleged …

Heath, Beaver appear in court

This article features descriptions of a violent crime against a minor. Reader discretion is advised.  Two individuals accused of child endangerment causing death are staying in police …

Kansas purchases new Titan mascot costume

KANSAS – A local school is getting a costume of its mascot. On Wednesday, Sept. 16, the Kansas Board of Education approved purchasing a titan costume for students or faculty to wear at events. …

Potterfest flies into Paris for second year of events

PARIS—Accio excitement! The magic of the wizarding world is brewing right here in Paris as Potter Fest returns for another spellbinding celebration on Saturday, Oct. 3. Chief Deputy Jacob …

New bakery sets up shop in Paris in October

PARIS – A new bakery is coming to Paris. Henhouse Bakery & Books, formerly known as The Cackle Shack, is moving from its location in Marshall to its new home in Paris. Owner Hanna …

Chrisman swears in new Water Commissioner

Chrisman’s newest water commissioner took the oath of office Monday, Sept. 20, as the City Council welcomed Craig Martin to the commission during its regular meeting. Martin was formally sworn …

Satterfield trial set for Nov. 3

The murder case against Rheanna Satterfield, of Marshall,   is headed toward trial, with an Edgar County judge setting a Nov. 3 start date for the defendant’s jury trial during a Sept. 18 …

Edgar County & State authorities investigate child death

On Wednesday, Sept. 23, the Edgar County Coroner’s Office and Paris Police Department each issued a press release regarding the death of a 23-month-old in Paris. According to press releases, …

Honeybee pageant crowns two new queens

2026 Kiwanis Jr. Miss Honeybee Festival Queen - Kallie Stults People's Choice - Lanie Sallee Miss Congeniality - Lanie Sallee First Runner-Up - Kaydence Holloway 2026 Kiwanis Miss …

Roadwork to begin on Lower Terre Haute Road

The Edgar County Highway Department will begin a roadway improvement project on Lower Terre Haute Road (CH 4) later this month. The three-mile project will include hot mix asphalt resurfacing …

Bids for jail come with a condition

PARIS – Officials make progress in the sale of the Edgar County Jail. On Wednesday, Sept. 9, the Edgar County Board held its regular meeting and amended its authorization to seek bids for the …

District 95 votes on budget, school calendar

The Paris Union School District 95 Board of Education approved a budget projecting approximately $20 million in revenue and $30.5 million in expenditures. The board approved its fiscal year 2027 …

Marshall approves new multi-use path

MARSHALL – A community is getting a new multi-use path after accepting a grant. On Monday, Sept. 15, the Marshal City Council held a public meeting to discuss accepting an Illinois …

Expo for vets coming to Marshall

MARSHALL – Two people are teaming up to host a free, informational expo for veterans and families. Harlan Hall will host the inaugural Veterans Expo in Marshall on Thursday, Sept. 24, from 10 …

Dogs looking for a friend

PARIS – A local animal shelter needs more volunteers. Edgar County Animal Shelter, located at 1025 N High Street in Paris, needs more volunteers to help socialize the canines. “I need …

Meet the Editor: Noah Johnson

There’s a new face in the newsroom at The Prairie Press, and he’s bringing plenty of newspaper experience, a camera, a passion for sports and a whole lot of enthusiasm for his new community. …

Welcoming back the ambassadors

PARIS – Nearly 20 local business leaders and community members met at the Paris Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism on Thursday, Sept. 3 at 4:30 p.m. for its ambassador meeting. Executive …

Paris beats Marshall in Edgar County heat

Paris 34, Marshall 20 The Paris Tigers battled the Marshall Lions on a hot, humid night in Edgar County—on their way to a 34-20 victory. On Friday, Sept. 4, the Marshall High School …

U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Central District of Illinois warns about phone spoofing scam

SPRINGFIELD—The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Central District of Illinois is alerting the public to recent reports of fraudulent phone calls in which scammers spoof official office telephone …

American Legacy Run brings 20 years of tradition

Paris was treated to a very special spectacle last weekend as the 2026 American Legacy Run rode through the city on Wednesday, Aug. 26. This year marked the event’s 20 th anniversary. “For …

The showers stay open

The Living Room Program at HRC’s Life Center in Paris will close on Sept. 30. The showers will not. The program’s state grant funding was not renewed, and HRC was not able to secure a …

Marshall prepares for Autumn Fest

MARSHALL – The 2026 Marshall Autumn Fest is just around the corner, bringing a variety of activities and attractions. The Marshall Autumn Fest Committee presents the festival in partnership …

Chrisman considers second Flock

The Chrisman City Council will consider whether to accept a grant for another Flock camera after discussing the benefits and ongoing costs of the technology during its Sept. 8 meeting. The city …

Doric Products devastated by fire

MARSHALL – A hot day in Marshall got even hotter for first responders on Friday as a local business caught fire. On Friday, Sept. 4, at roughly 10:11 a.m., Marshall Fire Protection District …

Sycamore Pain & Wellness expands mental health services

PARIS—Chantelle Allen continues to strengthen healthcare in the Wabash Valley through her commitment to professional excellence, recently earning board certification as a Psychiatric-Mental Health …

Chaney honored for years of rural health service

PARIS—Horizon Health Chief Risk and Privacy Officer Eunice Chaney was recently honored by the Illinois Rural Health Association (IRHA) for her dedication and years of service to rural health. …

Sparta-Steeleville aerial attack takes down Marshall

  Sparta-Steeleville 36, Marshall 7 The Marshall High School football team went on the road to Pierce Field in Sparta to take on the Sparta-Steeleville Bulldogs in a non-conference …

Historic landmark Liberty Bell visits Paris in 1904

On Wednesday, Nov. 16, 1904, at noon, the Liberty Bell from Philadelphia was to leave St.  Louis, where it was viewed at the World's Fair, and start its return trip back to Philadelphia...

Third annual candlelight vigil honors lives lost to overdose

Members of the Edgar County community gathered Monday, Aug. 31, for an evening of remembrance during the third annual Candlelight Vigil for Overdose Awareness. Hosted by the Edgar County ROSC …

Historical Society launches carousel horse naming contest

The Edgar County Historical Society is seeking name suggestions for its little black carousel horse as part of a new community-wide naming contest. The contest is open to both youth and adults …

Chrisman rallies to restore local garden

CHRISMAN—Local volunteers and families are inviting residents to lend a helping hand this weekend at the Chrisman Community Garden Clean-Up Day, scheduled for 9 to 11 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 5. …

Park Board advances disc golf, playground, kayak rental projects

The park board met Aug. 25, 2026 to review the current finances and move forward on several major projects, including a new disc golf course, playground equipment upgrades and a proposed kayak rental …

Tingley Roofing acquisition

SEYMOUR, IND.—Royalty Roofing USA announced Aug. 31 its fourth acquisition of 2026 with the addition of Tingley Roofing, an experienced commercial and residential roofing contractor based out of …

New mural celebrates Paris

A splash of color now welcomes visitors to The Iron Pin bowling alley in Paris. On Saturday, Aug. 22, a new 8-by-20-foot mural was unveiled. The art celebrates the landmarks, organizations and …

Simply Patsy: A Season of Legends Begins

The Paris Center of Fine Arts will open its highly anticipated Season of Legends with an unforgettable afternoon celebrating one of country music’s most enduring voices: Patsy Cline. Simply …

Near missed opportunities hamper Titans as Storm hold on

Sangamon Valley 13, Tri-County 8 The start of a new era of Tri-County Titans high school football began on Friday, Aug. 21, in Niantic for the start of the 2026 IHSA season, beginning Lincoln …

Paris wins season opener against Chester

Paris 27, Chester 25 The 2026 football season started off on the right foot for the Paris Tigers as they opened the season with a victory against the Chester Yellowjackets. Both teams came …

District 95 revises 2026-27 calendar

Paris Union School District 95 will make several changes to its 2026-2027 school calendar following the delayed start of the school year, with the final student attendance day now scheduled for …

Marshall Public Library and Gaslight Art Colony to dedicate America 250 stained-glass windows

MARSHALL — Marshall Public Library and the Gaslight Art Colony will host a Grand Unveiling and Dedication Ceremony for three new stained-glass windows celebrating America’s 250th anniversary on …

Horizon Health looks to expand surgery area, services

Horizon Health is looking toward continued growth, with a major surgery expansion project among the hospital’s plans for the next 12 to 18 months. Horizon Health President and CEO Jay …

Horizon Health maintains national quality recognition, claims eight American Heart Association Awards

PARIS—For the second consecutive year, Horizon Health has earned the American Heart Association (AHA) Commitment to Quality Award, recognizing excellence in cardiovascular and stroke care. Horizon …

Sanders crowned Miss Illinois Festival Queen

For Emma Sanders, the road to becoming the 2026 Miss Illinois Festival Queen began years before she ever put on the crown. The 20-year-old Marshall native first entered the world of pageantry at …

Volunteers need for 2026 Special Olympics

MATTOON — The Special Olympics Family Festival (SOFF) volunteer committee is calling on big-hearted individuals to join the fun at the 43rd annual SOFF, happening Saturday, Sept. 19, on the grounds …

Wabash River Run proceeds to benefit Ernie Pyle & Veterans Memorial Park

The Wabash River Run plans to honor the memory of World War II correspondent Ernie Pyle during this year’s Aug. 29 race from Montezuma to Clinton. Proceeds from this year’s kayak, canoe and …

Titans come from behind for walk-off win in JH baseball opener against Blue Devils

Tri-County 4, Villa Grove 3 The cork opened on the 2026 junior high baseball season on a cloudy, warm day at Kansas High School as Head Coach Joe Morrisey and the Tri-County Titans hosted …

Hudson provides game-winning plays as Titans defeat Redbirds

Tri-County 4, Paris 3 After a 15-0 shutout win on Monday, Aug. 10, against Villa Grove, it was a 24-hour turnaround for the Tri-County Titans junior high softball team, hosting the second of a …

911 board, county clash, ultimately come to proposed agreement

PARIS — A months-long dispute over who pays for Edgar County’s emergency dispatch services and who has authority over the dispatchers boiled over during the latest Edgar County Emergency …

Eastern Illinois Foodbank announces “Foodmobile” food distribution in Edgar County

Eastern Illinois Foodbank (EIF) is distributing food to local families facing food insecurity. The Foodmobile will visit Edgar County on Sept. 14 to provide free groceries. For a full schedule, …

Care Close to Home: Nearly half of HRC’s mental health clients live in Clark County

Nearly half of the people who come to HRC for mental health care live in Clark County. In the agency’s most recent six-month reporting period, 386 people, or 48 percent of HRC’s outpatient mental …

More Than “Just Say No”: What HRC Actually Teaches in Local Classrooms

PARIS — Ask a room of sixth graders how many decisions they have made so far that day, and the answers come back all over the place. Some say two or three. Then another hand goes up: a …

911 director defends dispatchers amid criticism over emergency calls

PARIS — Behind every emergency call is a dispatcher making decisions in a matter of seconds, and Edgar County 911 Director Taylor Ray told the county's Emergency Telephone System Board that some of …

“It Made My Billfold Feel Good”

PARIS—Scott Tracy has lived in this town his entire life. He was born a block from the house he lives in now, and he bought that house from his sister after his mother passed away. He and his …

Jesse Kollman pleads guilty to mob action

PARIS — A jury trial scheduled for Sept. 14 for Jesse L. Kollman was vacated Thursday, Aug. 20, after the 25-year-old pleaded guilty to mob action in Edgar County Court and was sentenced to 3½ …

Kollman sentenced

PARIS — The scheduled jury trial for Jordan J. Kollman in connection with the April 3 White Oaks Park incident has been vacated after Kollman pleaded guilty to two felony counts and was sentenced …

EEOC sues North American Lighting

CHICAGO — Automotive lighting manufacturer North American Lighting, Inc. (NAL) violated federal law by discriminating against a class of pregnant employees since July 2023, the U.S. Equal …

Prospect Bank celebrates grand opening in Marshall

Marshall—The Marshall Area Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce the grand opening of Prospect Bank in Marshall, with a special ribbon-cutting ceremony and community open house planned for …

SBL Hospice Binga set for September 1

MATTOON—The Sarah Bush Lincoln Health Foundation will host its 19th annual SBL Hospice Binga on Tuesday, Sept. 1, at the Mattoon Eagles Club, 1917 Oak Avenue. Net proceeds support the SBL Willow …

A NEW YEAR, A FEW NEW FACES

PARIS—For 77 years, Church Women United has welcomed local educators back to the classroom with a simple message: the work they do matters. That tradition continued this week as Church Women …

Recovery events planned for late summer and fall

PARIS—The Edgar County Recovery-Oriented Systems of Care Council has announced a series of late summer and fall events aimed at supporting individuals in addiction recovery, collecting essential …

Paris residents pitch disc golf course at Twin Lakes

Paris residents William Broughton and James Parsley presented their vision for a disc golf course at Twin Lakes East to the Paris Park Board during its most recent meeting. Board member Casey …

Chrisman Area Community Club announces upcoming events

CHRISMAN—The Chrisman Area Community Club has announced several upcoming events aimed at bringing residents together, including a community cookout and bingo night, citywide yard sales and a …
Wolfe abruptly resigns from Chrisman council

Another one bites the dust

What began as a routine Chrisman City Council meeting on Monday, Aug. 3, ended with a surprise announcement that left those in attendance visibly caught off guard: Commissioner Rodney Wolfe was …

Glow float to light up Twin Lakes Aug. 15

Those looking for a unique summer evening will have the chance to take to the water under a glow of colorful lights when Be The Change hosts a free Glow Float at Twin Lakes Park on Saturday, Aug. 15. …

P95 construction updates

PARIS—With less than three weeks before students return to the classroom, Paris Union School District 95 officials say major summer construction projects remain on schedule, with crews working to …

Back to School Bang returns

PARIS—To help prepare children for the upcoming school year, Horizon Health will host its 12th annual “Back to School Bang” on Friday, August 7. This free, interactive health and wellness event …

City Council honors water department employees

PARIS — The Paris City Council recognized three Water Department employees for their quick actions during a dangerous animal incident. Mayor Craig Smith presented mayoral commendations to …

Call for artists at the Link Art Gallery

Calling all photographers! From quiet back roads to bustling town corners, we invite you to capture the spaces that shape the Heartland. If you have an eye for the moments and places in between, we …

Edgar County Board approves changes to solar ordinance

PARIS — The Edgar County Board approved amendments to its commercial solar energy ordinance during a special meeting held last week. Before taking up the scheduled business, Board Chairman Jeff …

Kollman brothers remain jailed as court denies requests

PARIS — Separate jury trials for brothers Jesse and Jordan Kollman remain on schedule after Judge Matt Sullivan denied motions during pretrial hearings held July 23 in Edgar County. Both men …

This is one of ours

For years, Jose Fiscal Belli has been known around Paris as the man who showed up. He coached Little League games, sponsored youth athletics, helped feed local teams, supported community …

EDGAR COUNTY FAIR 2026 - T&A Bucking Bulls Rodeo

EDGAR COUNTY FAIR 2026 - Harness Racing

EDGAR COUNTY FAIR 2026 - Dylan Scott & Blake Whiten Concert

EDGAR COUNTY FAIR 2026 - Ag Olympics

Community effort restores beloved lion fountain at Twin Lakes Park in Paris

One of Twin Lakes Park’s most recognizable landmarks is once again welcoming visitors after months of restoration, thanks to the generosity of donors with fond memories of the park. The …

Paris Athletic Hall of Fame seeking 2027 nominees

Nominations for the Paris High School Athletic Hall of Fame are now being accepted, according to HOF chairman Harry Hughes. This will be the fifth class to be inducted into the HOF, Hughes …

United Way of Edgar County completes campaign

United Way of Edgar County has just completed its annual campaign, providing financial support for 19 organizations that serve the needs of people in Edgar County. We thank you for your …

Kansas CUSD3 waives all school fees for 2026–2027 academic year

Kansas Community Unit School District 3 (CUSD3) has announced that all school fees will be waived for the upcoming 2026–2027 school year. This waiver applies to all standard academic fees, …

Bourbon raffle returns to support the REC Center

The REC Center in Paris is giving local bourbon enthusiasts and community supporters a chance to score rare, highly sought-after spirits while backing a local cause as tickets go on sale for its …

Edgar County establishes Joint Dispatch Committee

PARIS—Safety officials and local leaders gathered for the inaugural meeting of the newly formed Joint Dispatch Committee on Monday, July 20, taking a major step toward unifying public safety …

ECRTA awards three scholarships to current education students on July 15

On Wednesday, July 15, the Edgar County Retired Teachers Association presented its annual scholarships to three recipients. All awardees must be a present education student in their third or fourth …

Quick action by Paris firefighters saves home from early morning blaze

A quick, coordinated response by the Paris Fire Department saved a local home early Thursday morning, July 16, after a residential fire broke out on West Edgar Street, presenting responding crews …

Dooley sentenced to five years

PARIS—Emotions ran high in an Edgar County courtroom on July 16 as Robert G. Dooley pleaded for another chance, telling the court he was trying to rebuild his life for his children, while …