Local News

One repair at a time

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 …

Paris Cooperative High School votes no to phones

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 …

Bread truck thief apprehended in Edgar County

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 …

District 95 reviews strategic plan, approves budget and policies for 2025-26 school yea

  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 …

Straightening spines & raising standards

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 …

County gets current

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. …

Paris-Union 95 announces new school board member

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 …

2025 Edgar County Shrine Parade

Paris holds 2025 Eiffel Tower Triathlon

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 …

The Prairie Press collects multiple state awards

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. …
Lake Land College awards Dyke Barkley for more than 25 years as a leader in innovation

Paris native receives College Faculty Award

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 …

Captain Reynolds retires from the Paris fire department after 21 years of service

PCHS students sail away with keys to the city

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 …

Free medical care coming to Paris

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

Manic Monday

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

More missing money?

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

Celebrating strength

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 …

Percussion policies & District 95

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 …

Edgar County ROSC leads with compassion and connection

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 City recognizes good samaritans, Dolan earns certificate

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 …

Edgar County preps for 2025 Shrine weekend

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 …

Outbreak spikes concern

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. …

Paris-Union 95 school registration

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 …

Paris Nazarene church welcomes new pastor

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 …

EMS Kids Night

Edgar County Health Department navigates challenges to prioritize community care

Facility fixes, grant shifts, budget cuts

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 …

CUSD #1 adjusts budget, policies

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 …

Paris City approves Fourth of July fireworks contract

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

Honoring the fallen

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 …

District 95 policy scrutinized

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 …

Knoepfel resigns from District 95 school board

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 …

Horizon Health congratulates first responder graduates

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 …

Park upgrades continue in Paris

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 launches H.E.A.L. program

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 …

Wags & Whiskers receives new diagnostic equipment

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 …

Chrisman City discusses ordinances

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, …

Edgar County Board searches for candidates

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

Making waves

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, …

Arsonist receives 10 years

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

Sanders sentenced to 12 years in Illinois Department of Corrections

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 …

Christmas for Kids Car Show

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) …

PIO community clean up

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 Crestwood school board of education renew terms

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

Stalking, assault, murder

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

Twilight Walk honors fallen nurses

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

Strong 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 …

Paris City declares May 23-24 Poppy Days

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 …

Hume welcomes new board members

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 …

Dispatcher debacle sparks debate

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 …

Highway Department announces road maintenance projects beginning May 14

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

A shower of support

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 …

Paris launches Beautify Project to support property cleanups

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 , …

Union Street transforms for monthly market, live music

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 …

Bee Well garden blossoms

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 water meter changes

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

Hope lives on

“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 …

PCHS 99th Annual May Fete

PIO looks for projects

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 …

Board debates solar scenarios

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 …

Young artists shine at Link student art show

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 …

'Day of Liberation' declared in 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 …

New Paris District 95 board members

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 …

Hit-and-run suspect denied pre-trial release

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 FBLA hosts Bingo night

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 …

Mayo Middle School prepares for Spring Concert

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 …

Local results finalized

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 …

Chrisman City addresses water, city dump and playground issues

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 opens for Memorial Day Weekend

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

Adjustments & amendments

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 …

Paris native Griffin Johnson makes Kentucky Derby debut

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 …

‘Hopping’ into community activities

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

Former teacher returns to court for assault charges

(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 …

Suspect arrested in hit-and-run

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 …

New details released in Paris hit-and-run 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 …

Leadership transition at Paris Hampton Inn

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 …

Edgar County Public Health Department prepares for upcoming events

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 …

New additions coming to Paris parks

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

More than a game

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 …

Hume tackles water pressure, alley repairs

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

Red ink and relief

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 Police Department honors dispatchers during National Telecommunications Week

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 …

Tootsie Pop Days returns to the City of Paris

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 …

2025 Paris Chamber of Commerce Celebration

Chrisman City imposes new fees

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 …

Paris schools sign debt forgiveness resolutions

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

Banking on kindness

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 …

Officer involved shooting investigation closes

The Edgar County State’s Attorney Office has released a statement concluding its review of an officer-related investigation performed by the Illinois State Police. The investigation was …

National grant funding cuts hit Edgar County

The Trump Administration notified the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) on March 24, 2025, that it was terminating federal grants nationwide in the Epidemiology and Laboratory Capacity for …

Shiloh Road closing Tuesday, April 15

The Edgar County Highway Department announced a partial closure of Shiloh Road (County Highway 11) from Horace-Brocton Road (CH 8) to 1500th Road, will begin at 7 a.m. on April 15. The roadway …

Katie Inn closes for safety

Paris fire chief Chad Crampton issued a public statement on Wednesday, April 9, stating the Katie Inn, located at 118 E. Court Street in Paris, has been closed due to significant health and safety …

Sass pleads guilty to felony charge

Danielle Sass, 39, appeared in Edgar County Court Monday, March 31, where she pled guilty to a single Class 4 felony charge related to driving with a revoked license as part of a negotiated plea …

Loco raises $1,330 for HRC

In a powerful show of community support and creativity, Loco Estilo Ink hosted a special fundraiser April 4-6, raising an impressive $1,330 for the HRC Council. The three-day event welcomed more than …

Rotary swings into action

A collaboration between Rotary and the Paris Park Board resulted in three new pieces of equipment at Sylvian Park last summer. This spring, Rotary is continuing its mission to better the community by …

Public Health Department expands harm reduction efforts in Edgar County

Kim Ross, administrator of the Edgar County Public Health Department, recently introduced the community to an essential harm reduction program aimed at mitigating health risks associated with …
Local tattoo shop partners with HRC for fundraiser

Inking for a cause

Juan and Belinda Hernandez, owners of Loco Estilo Ink in Paris, have decided to use their business to promote community involvement and compassion. On April 4, 5 and 6, Loco Estilo Ink will be …

Creating a "Bridge to Recovery"

Joe Trotter, Harm Reduction Program Coordinator at Champaign-Urbana Public Health District, traveled to Paris to be the keynote speaker during a recent Bridge to Recovery event at First Baptist …

Park board discusses dog parks and disc golf projects

During the Wednesday, March 26 Paris Park Board meeting, members discussed multiple concerns and projects that have been recently brought to their attention, and the lack of available funding to make …

Paris offers city-wide beautification service

The city of Paris and Ingrum’s Waste Disposal are pleased to announce their joint participation in the effort to assist local residents with the disposal of excess and unwanted items that has …

Former Edgar County teacher arrested on sexual assault charges

(Publisher’s Note: The following article contains references to sexual misconduct involving a minor and an authority figure. Reader discretion is advised.) On March 18, 2025, the Kansas …