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Good Saturday morning, Princeton friends. Dogs at the park, electronics recycling, summer drama camp registration, youth fundraisers, and spring businesses waking up across town. Between rising fieldwork, rising gas prices, and a long list of local events, this issue feels like late April doing exactly what late April does—getting busy fast.

—Justin Bullington

📬IN THIS ISSUE

💡What You Should Know
🏠 Princeton Homes For Sale
🌽 Ag Updates
☀️ Princeton Weather
⛽️ Princeton Gas Prices
💼 Princeton Businesses
🗓️ Upcoming in Princeton
👷‍♂️ Local Job Opportunities
🚙Letter From Lori

💡WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

• Bureau County residents can drop off up to seven electronics items for free recycling from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, April 25, at the Bureau County Highway Department, 595 Elm Place, Princeton.

• May 9th marks the 33rd anniversary of the Stamp Out Hunger food drive – sponsored by the National Association of Letter Carriers.

• BCR: Firefighters responded to a residential fire on April 22, 2026, in the 800 block of North Mercer Street, where crews worked to contain the blaze at a home on Princeton’s north side.

• Central Bank in Princeton is considering expanding its South Main Street location to bring its operations into one building, citing limited space and inefficiencies from being split across two sites.

• Tiger Pride Golf Scramble announced its fundraiser for Princeton High School athletics and Scholastic Bowl will be held Saturday, May 30 at Chapel Hill Golf and Event Center, with registration at 9 a.m. and shotgun start at 10 a.m.

• Princeton Tourism is hosting a “Pups and Cups” event at Zearing Park on April 25 at 9 AM, featuring a dog-friendly walk and complimentary coffee and treats. The event encourages community participation and outdoor engagement with pets.

• Festival 56 has another event coming up at the Grace Theater in Princeton — a chamber music concert "Intimate Songs" on April 25, with tickets at $25 available at festival56.com.

📍Outside City Limits

• An ambulance was called to Mendota High School Wednesday afternoon for 15-year-old Greyson Lane, who had been injured.

• Mendota police say a person is in custody following a shooting early Friday morning.

• Two years after skeletal remains were discovered in a field near the Whispering Oaks subdivision in rural Kewanee, their identity remains unknown, according to the Henry County Sheriff’s Office.

🎭REGISTER FOR THE CHILDREN’S SUMMER DRAMA CAMP

Registration is underway for the Annual Children’s Summer Drama Camp at the Prairie Arts Center for children entering 2nd-9th grades. Camp will run Monday-Friday, June 15-26, from 2-5 PM. The camp cost is $110 with special rates for siblings. Need-based scholarships are also available upon request for those who meet the criteria.

Drama Camp at the PAC culminates at 5:30 PM on June 26 in a performance of an original play written specifically for the campers and, to a large extent, tailored to the needs and abilities of the campers. Campers name their own production. Children get the hands-on experience of creating a show, from set and light work to costuming to performing. Past theater-learning topics have included theatrical accents, sets, Shakespeare, costuming, stage make-up, mime, choreography for the stage, stage lighting and design, musical theater, and opera. Camp activities also include theater and improvisational games like one might see on the television show "Whose Line Is It Anyway?".

Children’s theater programming at PAC has always been about more than just theater skills. We strive to offer a safe, wholesome environment in which children can learn, grow, and have fun. Over the many years that we have run the summer drama camps as well as other children’s drama programming, we have been privileged to witness the transformation of many of our children from ducklings to beautiful, talented swans. Fostering the growth of our community’s children is the greatest benefit of PAC children’s theater programming.

To register, contact camp director Rachel Gorenz-Johnson at:
815-876-6284 or [email protected]

As space is limited, please make sure you communicate with the director prior to turning in registration materials to ensure there are still spots available. Payment is expected by June 1. Please make checks payable to Rachel Gorenz-Johnson. Checks and registration forms can be returned to:

Rachel Gorenz-Johnson,
3 South 5th Street
Princeton, IL 61356

🏠PRINCETON HOMES FOR SALE

• This listing at 712 N. 1st Street in Princeton is currently off market and shown as a single-family home with 3 bedrooms, 1.5 bathrooms, 1,282 square feet, and a 0.44-acre lot. Built in 1881, the property also includes a two-car garage and was last sold for $150,000 in 2023. Realtor.com currently displays an estimated value of $161,300 for the home, reflecting its position within the local market. The available public listing data is limited, but it presents the property as a historic residential home on a notably large in-town lot.

• This listing at 16606 Backbone Road W in Princeton is a newly listed $379,900 single-family farmhouse offering 4 bedrooms, 1.5 bathrooms, 2,272 square feet, 4 acres, and garage space for up to 6 vehicles. The home combines rural character with practical updates, including a remodeled kitchen completed in 2020, hardwood and laminate flooring throughout, updated windows, a newer septic system, a 2022 pressure tank, a 2021 water heater, and a new roof scheduled to be installed before closing. Interior features include a wraparound porch, a main-floor laundry room, a bonus room, and a full unfinished basement, while heating and cooling are provided by natural gas forced air and central air. The property also stands out for its multiple outbuildings, including a large machine shed, barn, corn crib, and cattle shed, making it well suited for storage, hobby farming, or other country-living uses.

• This listing at 708 E. Thompson Street in Princeton is a $395,000 single-family home offering 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, 2,792 square feet, and a 0.53-acre lot. Built in 1963, the home features a spacious layout with nine rooms, a lower-level family room with a wood-burning fireplace, a heated enclosed porch, hardwood flooring, and a partial unfinished basement. Recent updates include a new furnace and new carpet installed in 2025, and the seller is also offering a 14-month home warranty. A major highlight is the large fenced backyard with an additional 26-by-34 barn or workshop built in 2007, along with a two-car attached garage that allows drive-through access to the outbuilding.

🌽AG UPDATES

Illinois Corn and Soybean Planting Accelerates. Farmers across Illinois are making strong progress as favorable weather allows more fieldwork, with both corn and soybean planting moving ahead of last year’s pace in many areas. Soil conditions have improved, helping growers cover more acres quickly. Read more about planting progress.

Input Costs Still Pressuring Farm Profitability. Agricultural economists continue to warn that high fertilizer, fuel, and equipment costs are squeezing margins despite decent crop prices. Many farmers are carefully managing expenses heading deeper into the 2026 growing season. Read more about farm costs.

USDA Reports Strong Early Season Crop Conditions. The USDA says early crop conditions across the Corn Belt are generally positive, with good soil moisture and emergence rates in key growing areas. Early indicators suggest a solid start to the season if weather remains stable. Read more about crop conditions.

Export Demand Remains Key Concern for Farmers. Grain analysts say export demand—especially from China—will be a major factor in determining prices this year. Trade relationships and global competition continue to create uncertainty for U.S. producers. Read more about grain demand.

Spring Weather Boosts Fieldwork but Raises Dryness Concerns. Warm temperatures have helped farmers stay active in the fields, but some regions are beginning to show signs of dryness. Agronomists are watching rainfall patterns closely as crops begin early growth stages. Read more about weather conditions.

🧢BENEFIT FOR THE COMER FAMILY

We have a family in our district (the Comer family) who recently lost their home and all of their belongings in a fire. As a PES community, we would like to come together to support and stand alongside the Comer family during this incredibly difficult time.

On Wednesday, April 29, Logan Jr High will be hosting a “Hat and Gum Day” as a fundraiser to benefit the Comer family. Students may participate by donating $1 to chew gum, $1 to wear a hat, or $2 to do both. Additional donations are welcomed and greatly appreciated. Please know that 100% of all funds collected will go directly to the family. We invite you to join us in supporting the Comer family!

☀️PRINCETON WEATHER

🌤️Saturday: Mostly sunny and comfortable. High near 72°F with east winds 5–10 mph. Saturday night turns partly cloudy with a low around 47°F.

🌥️Sunday: Partly cloudy and mild. High around 75°F with SE winds 10–20 mph. Sunday night stays mostly cloudy with a low near 58°F.

🌧️Monday: Unsettled with scattered thunderstorms, some potentially strong. High near 73°F with SSE winds 15–25 mph. Rain chance around 70%. Monday night continues with a few showers and lingering clouds, low around 49°F.

🌩️Tuesday: Cooler with scattered showers early, then partial clearing. High near 63°F with SSW winds around 10–20 mph. Tuesday night has a slight chance of showers, low around 45°F.

🌥️Wednesday: Drier and cooler with a mix of sun and clouds. High near 62°F with WNW winds 10–15 mph. Wednesday night is partly cloudy with a low around 43°F.

⛽️PRINCETON GAS PRICES

Regular

Amoco, 720 N Main St: $4.09
Sullivan’s Foods: $4.15
Casey’s West/North: $4.17
Beck’s West/North: $4.17
Road Ranger, N Main St: $4.12
Shell, 2225 N Main St: $4.17

💼PRINCETON BUSINESSES #SHOPLOCAL

• Pin Splitter Lanes is organizing a Tacos & Tequila Summer League and has already secured six teams for participation. Individuals or partial teams are encouraged to sign up, with assistance available to complete team placements.

• Sisler’s Ice Cream is offering limited-edition merchandise available by preorder only, with a deadline of May 9. Customers who wear the merch to the 5-year anniversary celebration on June 20 will receive a discount, with pickup scheduled for early June.

• Tossed & Found Resale + Consignment has delayed its opening due to a recent family emergency, announcing a new opening date of May 1. The owner expressed appreciation for the community’s patience and support during the setback.

• Princeton Christian Academy High School shared its vision for a future dedicated high school facility, highlighting its long-standing impact since 1981 and the success of its graduates. The goal is to begin construction in September 2028, with ongoing fundraising efforts supporting the project.

• Coal Creek Brewing Company is offering magnets and taking preorders for t-shirts tied to its Street Concert promotion. The post encourages those who missed the reveal event to still participate through merchandise purchases.

• Psycho Silo Saloon is promoting a 21+ concert event featuring Jamey Johnson on June 12, with tickets already on sale. The event is positioned as a major upcoming live music attraction.

• Neighborhood Ace Hardware is advertising a sale on Bug Stop insect control, now priced at $4.99. The product is positioned as a seasonal solution for pest control with promotional savings.

• Apollo POP is promoting a “Nutty Professor” themed caramel popcorn flavor with pecan pieces, using a playful comparison to well-known entertainers. The post highlights the product as a standout menu item.

• ProLine Exterior Services is encouraging homeowners to schedule pressure washing services to remove buildup from winter. The company emphasizes both aesthetic improvements and long-term surface protection, offering free quotes.

• Corner Chair Market is showcasing a multi-drawer storage piece designed for versatile household use. The item is presented as a functional and unique furniture option.

• Hornbaker Gardens is promoting a weekend visit with new seasonal inventory, including plants, produce, and aquatics. The garden center also highlights recent layout improvements and invites customers to explore the updated space.

• Princeton Moose Lodge is coordinating an online basket raffle to support a local family who recently lost their home and belongings. Community members are invited to donate items or contribute baskets to assist with fundraising efforts.

• Downtown Liquidation is promoting a wide selection of throw pillows currently in stock at discounted prices. The store emphasizes limited availability and provides updated weekend operating hours for shoppers.

• Finders Keepers Resale Store is fully stocked with new inventory and encourages customers to visit during its weekly business hours. The store also highlights its ongoing support of the local animal shelter through purchases and donations.

• Z Tour Bike Ride is promoting its 2026 event, themed “Pedal for Play,” to support the Zearing Child Enrichment Center and a new playground project. Participants can register, volunteer, or sponsor the event ahead of the July 18 ride date.

• The Princeton Closet is celebrating Volunteer Appreciation Week by recognizing its contributors and highlighting new merchandise now available in-store. The organization also shared updated store and donation center hours along with seasonal inventory offerings.

• Myrtle’s Pies is open Thursday through Saturday and is offering a wide variety of pie flavors, including seasonal and specialty options. Customers can visit during limited hours to purchase from the current selection.

• The Knack is hosting a Mother’s Day event on May 10, inviting families to create art while enjoying complimentary refreshments. The event encourages participation from all ages and offers a relaxed, reservation-optional experience.

• Dreadfully Yours is seeking vendors for its September 26, 2026 event at the Bureau County Fairgrounds, offering 10x10 spaces with setup and show hours provided. The indoor event includes heated exhibit halls, concessions, and nearby lodging options.

• Princeton Moose Lodge is hosting a Bridgerton-themed Blacklight Bingo event today, featuring a chicken buffet followed by bingo. Attendees are encouraged to wear costumes, though participation is optional.

• Paisano’s Ristorante is promoting its Pineapple Express pizza along with several featured menu items, including dessert tacos and lasagna. Customers are encouraged to dine in, carry out, or use delivery within a 10-mile radius.

• Wyaton Hills Golf Course is hosting a Junior Golf Camp with sessions for ages 5–18 on select June and July dates. The camp provides morning instruction and additional access to clubs for participants.

• Second Story Teen Center announced scholarship fund applications are now being accepted and invited donations designated to the SS Scholarship Fund to help support teens.

• Cafe Grace promoted a private reservation-only culinary art and wine pairing event with Beetz Me! today at 6 p.m. featuring a five-course chef’s tasting experience.

🗓️️UPCOMING IN PRINCETON

🐶Saturday, April 25: Pups & Cups at Zearing Park — A 9:00 AM community dog walk and social featuring coffee, donuts, photos with your pup, and a group walk to Barkley Dog Park.

🥯 Saturday, April 25: Camp Aramoni Bagel Truck at Hornbaker Gardens — A 10:00 AM–2:00 PM stop for artisan bagels and elevated spreads, perfect for a quick bite while exploring the gardens.

🦴 Saturday, April 25: I See Dead Things at 419 S Main Street — A 12:00 PM–3:00 PM display of ethically sourced specimens including bones, wet specimens, and taxidermy for those interested in the unusual.

🌸 Sunday, May 3: May Day Festival at Rotary Park — A 10:00 AM–4:00 PM community spring festival hosted by the Princeton Art District with handmade goods, live music, family-friendly fun, and a celebration of spring.

🔥 Tuesday, May 5: Fuego Sculpt at 1001 N Main Street — A Cinco de Mayo–themed fitness experience blending yoga-inspired flow, controlled strength work, and a Latin-inspired playlist for a challenging, restorative workout.

🐝 Saturday, May 16: Five Points Apiculture – Inside the Hive at Hornbaker Gardens — A 10:00 AM workshop exploring beekeeping, pollination, and honey production, offering insight into the life of honeybees and their role in nature.

🎸 Sunday, May 24: Hawg House Saloon presents Jasmine Cain at Hawg House Saloon — A 4:00 PM live music event featuring rock and roll energy, a lively atmosphere, and no cover charge.

👷‍♂️LOCAL JOB OPPORTUNITIES

The Princeton Police Department is accepting applications for new hires and has outlined the hiring process, benefits, and career opportunities available. Interested applicants can obtain forms through the department or by contacting them via email.

Patient Access Associate — OSF HealthCare: This is a part-time Princeton opening with pay listed at $18.80 to $22.12 per hour. The posting indicates 20 hours per week and points to front-end healthcare support work such as patient access and registration functions. It is a verified direct job page for a current Princeton opening.

Cashier - Beck’s West Princeton - Part-time Drive Thru 2nd Shift — Beck Oil Company: This Princeton position is listed at $16.00 to $16.50 per hour and is a part-time customer service and sales role. The job page specifically identifies the location as 605 West Peru Street, Princeton, IL 61356 and includes benefits such as health insurance, 401(k), and paid time off. It is an exact direct link to the posting.

Kitchen Associate - Beck’s Princeton West — Beck Oil Company: This Princeton opening is listed at $16 an hour and focuses on food preparation, sanitation, and kitchen support in a fast-paced convenience-store setting. The posting also notes benefits including health insurance, 401(k) matching, paid time off, and fuel discounts. This is a verified direct posting page tied to the Princeton location.

Stocking Team Supervisor — Walmart: This full-time Walmart opening in Princeton is listed at $20 to $33 per hour. The direct posting identifies the location as 2111 Claude Bailey Parkway, Princeton, IL 61356 and describes it as a store stocking leadership role with benefits including health insurance, 401(k), paid time off, and parental leave. It is an exact direct job link.

Membership Sales Representative — NFIB: This Princeton-based full-time sales position is listed at $80,000 to $200,000 per year. The direct posting describes it as a W-2 role with commission-based compensation, paid training, mileage reimbursement, and benefits after 30 days. It is a verified direct posting page for a Princeton opening.

🚙LETTER FROM LORI

As a recovering PIG (Princess In Garbage), I have often tried to rationalize the messiness of my surroundings. My excuses have ranged from a lack of technical knowledge—“I don’t know how to run that contraption!”—to the psychological defense—“My mommy never taught me how to clean. I worked outside.”—to sheer laziness—“I don’t feel like it.”—to busyness—“I’m working 90 hours a week and don’t have time!”—to finger-pointing—“The house would be clean if it weren’t for those darn animals!” No matter the reason, the result was the same… chaos.

I don’t have dust bunnies. I have dust camels. They lumber menacingly across the floor, gallumping with their huge, growing masses on their backs. Dust snakes leap from the ceiling fan blades when it is turned on after being stationary for a while. My laundry has actually sprouted legs and tried to climb into the washing machine, begging someone to pull the knob and start the water. Dishes have grown their own life forms and have needed to be disposed of. I’m not bragging—although the accomplishment of such filth takes time and a lack of effort—I’m just stating some sad facts.

Like I said, I am recovering. There are a few misguided individuals who have actually complimented me on the cleanliness of my home now. I’m doing much better, but it’s kind of like the former “fat girl” who still has that extra 10 pounds around her middle, even though she used to tip the scales. I’m not ever quite sure I believe them when they say it, and I always wonder how bad it actually was.

As humans, we can rationalize anything, and my rationalization for the filth is this: at least you know there was a life lived in my house. My mess is proof of life. As I trip over Rescue Heroes and curse the Legos, I know there are 3- and 4-year-olds, dear to my heart, who occupied that floor. When I see the pile of bills on my desk, I know that I have had the finances to pay those bills and the blessing to live in a land of abundance. The dust on my shelves means I was too busy running my grand nerds to all kinds of fun activities and providing them with a wealth of experiences to carry with them in life. The mountain of laundry is proof that I’ve been clothed. The dishes mean I’ve been fed. The messy floors mean I didn’t have time to sweep because I was busy doing projects at the kitchen table.

I know I owe this all to God. I know I can look upon my mess and count my blessings. I know that “all I have needed, His hand has provided.”

…OUCH. Did we really need that Matchbox car?

Lori owns the Book-el-ZOO in Princeton. It’s not just a pet shop — it’s an experience!

Want to advertise? Email: [email protected].