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Happy Friday morning, Princeton. Get ready for tail-wagging fun at Paws on Park Avenue tomorrow from 9 AM to 2 PM at Greenfield Retirement Home! Don’t miss the dog parade at 10:30 AM, plus enjoy shopping from local vendors, tasty BBQ, and more. Bring your pup, your friends, and your best leash-walking skills—it’s going to be a paws-itively awesome day!

Let’s go!

—Justin Bullington

📬IN THIS ISSUE

💡What You Should Know
👑Future Fair Queens
🗓️Upcoming in Princeton
🏠Homes for Sale
🎗️Help Scott Fight Cancer
☀️Princeton Weather
⛽️Princeton Gas Prices
📱Fake DMV Scam
💼Princeton Businesses
🏋️At the Metro Center
📍Outside City Limits
🐴Wonder Junction

💡WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

• Happy Birthday, Scott Wallis 🎂!

• The Bureau County Farm Bureau, in collaboration with Princeton Culvers, is hosting a showing of the film Green and Gold on Monday, June 23 at 6:30 p.m. The event will take place at the Apollo Theater.

• RMN: Camp 56 Princeton Youth Summer Theatre Adventure Registration Deadline June 30, 2025

• BCR: Princeton Christian Academy had four graduates each in the junior high and high school classes. The Class of 2025 from the high school are Brylee Campbell, Ava Clausen, Brooke Clausen and Josiah Gale.

• Drs. Richard and Barbara Swalve Everett have been selected by the Bureau County Homestead Festival Committee to serve as the grand marshals for the 54th annual Homestead Festival in 2025.

• OSF HealthCare Saint Clare Medical Center in Princeton honored registered nurse Biatris Escatel with the 2025 DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses, recognizing her compassionate care and quiet, supportive presence on the medical/surgical acute unit.

• Lunch in the Park returns Friday, May 30th from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Soldiers & Sailors Park, hosted by the Bureau County Senior Center. The menu includes ribeye sandwiches, pork chops, hot dogs, chips, and drinks, with a bake sale by the Bureau County Republican Women. Join the Princeton Area Chamber of Commerce every Friday through September for lunch and community connection.

• The Princeton Farmers Market kicks off this Saturday, May 31st at Soldiers & Sailors Park and will run weekly through October 25th from 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Shoppers can look forward to a wide array of returning vendors and exciting new additions. Follow the Princeton Area Chamber of Commerce for updates and vendor announcements throughout the season.

• The 4th annual ShrimpFest & Brew Hullabaloo is Saturday, June 7, from 11 AM to 9 PM at Rotary Park, featuring food, drinks, and live music. Performers include Al Brown, Brass from the Past, and Beatles tribute band American English, with a kid-friendly “Shrimply Fun Zone” open from 11–5; details at www.princetonshrimpfest.com.

• The “More on 34” Father’s Day Weekend Garage Sales are set for June 13–14, 2025, across Bureau and Henry counties. To list your garage sale or highlight a local event like a food stand or car show, email [email protected] by June 4. Sale listings will be printed and distributed regionally.

👑CALLING ALL FUTURE FAIR QUEENS

The Bureau County Fair Queen Pageants are now seeking candidates for 2025 — and it’s a special one!

This year marks the 170th Bureau County Fair, one of the longest running fairs in Illinois. The 2025 Queens and their courts will reign over an unforgettable week filled with awards, grandstand events, and fun for the whole community.

Interested? Request an application by emailing [email protected] — the deadline is July 1st!

Age divisions:

• Miss: 16–21

• Jr: 12–14

• Little: 6–8

🏋️AT THE METRO CENTER

Junior High Strength and Conditioning Clinic

The Bureau County Metro Center is offering a Junior High Strength & Conditioning clinic from July 14th to July 17th. This one-week program is designed to help junior high athletes in Bureau County improve physically and build foundational strength. The camp targets students entering 5th through 8th grade, with separate time slots: 5th & 6th graders will meet from 10:30–11:15 AM, and 7th & 8th graders from 11:30 AM–12:15 PM. The fee is tiered at $40, $45, or $50 depending on registration timing or other factors. Classes will be capped at 8 participants to ensure more individualized instruction.

Participants will benefit from continued development, better agility, stronger self-esteem, increased skill, a strong base for gaining strength, and safety through strength development. Other benefits include promoting teamwork and encouraging a strong work ethic. The program teaches proper warmups, stretching, exercise techniques, and sport-specific training. It’s an excellent opportunity for youth to gain confidence and compete at a higher level.

To register, visit the Metro Center in person, call 815-872-0840, or sign up online. Early registration is encouraged due to limited spots.

Group Swim Lessons

Group swim lessons are returning to Alexander Pool this summer for kids ages 4 and up. The sessions will run on two sets of dates: June 9th–12th and June 16th–19th. Each class takes place from 11:00 to 11:45 a.m. Participants will get the chance to sharpen existing skills, learn new techniques, and have fun in a supportive environment. The program is open to both members and non-members. The cost is $50 for members, $55 for residents, and $65 for non-residents. To register, visit the Metro Center in person, call 815-872-0840, or register online.

Adult Dodgeball Tournament

The Adult Dodgeball Tournament is coming to the BCMC Gym on Saturday, July 19th. Open to participants ages 21 and up, this event features 5-player teams competing in a double elimination format. Each matchup consists of three 10-minute games, with the winner determined by the last team standing or the team with the most players remaining. Matches begin at 6:00 PM, but all players must arrive by 5:30 PM for a rules explanation. The cost is $100 per team.

Attendees can enjoy a cash bar and free pizza while supplies last. This high-energy evening promises fun competition and great social interaction. To register, stop by the Metro Center in person, call 815-872-0840, or sign up online. Spots are limited, so early registration is encouraged.

🗓️UPCOMING IN PRINCETON

🦊 Fox! — One of Princeton’s most popular events returns Saturday, June 1, from 12–3 PM at 419 S Main. Chris Dixon brings live fox kits for interactive fun and education. Kids under 10 get a free Sisler’s Ice Cream coupon. Enjoy the Farmer’s Market, a showing of Lilo & Stitch at the Apollo Theater, and hop on the downtown trolley.

🐾 Paws on Park Avenue – Dog Parade & Vendor Fair – Bring your pup for a dog parade and vendor fair at Greenfield Retirement Home on Saturday, May 31 from 9 AM–2 PM. Parade starts at 10:30 AM; vendors, BBQ, and more.

🦐 4th Annual ShrimpFest & Brew Hullabaloo – A full day of food, drinks, and music on Saturday, June 7, from 11 AM–9 PM at Rotary Park. Performers include Al Brown, Brass from the Past, and Beatles tribute band American English. “Shrimply Fun Zone” for kids runs from 11 AM–5 PM. Details at www.princetonshrimpfest.com.

🚴‍♂️ Bike & Walk Princeton – Join the City of Princeton and Bike & Walk Princeton for a Bicycle Scavenger Hunt in celebration of National Bike Month. Solve location riddles, bike to each site, and snap a photo. Submit pictures and contact info to [email protected] by Thursday, June 13, for a chance to win prizes. More info at facebook.com/bikewalkprincetonil.

🌳 Homestead Lawn Event – A community event at Owen Lovejoy Homestead on Saturday, June 14, from 5-7 PM to raise funds and celebrate local traditions.

🎉 Grand Opening of Pupper’s Run – Celebrate the grand opening of Pupper’s Run Homemade Crafts and Pies on Tuesday, June 17, from 12–7 PM at 640 S Main. Featuring 17 vendors, homemade crafts, and the return of fan-favorite pies!

🍑 Georgia Peach Stop Event – Tree-Ripe Fruit Co. brings fresh Georgia peaches to the Princeton Moose Lodge (1338 N Euclid Ave) on Monday, June 23, from 3–4:30 PM. Less than 24 hours from harvest to your hands. More info at www.tree-ripe.com.

🏠 Annual Covenant Children’s Home Reunion – A gathering for past residents, staff, and volunteers at Simon Conference Center on Saturday, June 28, from 10 AM-4 PM. Donations welcome.

🤼‍♂️ Micro Wrestling at The Hawg House – A 21+ night of body slams, suplexes, and mayhem on Friday, August 1, from 8–10 PM at Hawg House Saloon. Featuring multiple matches and nonstop action under 5 feet tall.

🥿 Walk a Mile for Freedom House – A one-mile walk in downtown Princeton to support DV and SV survivors on Saturday, August 2 at 9 AM. Activities, teams, and prizes.

🎤 Trace Adkins with Brushville – Bureau County Fair – Country star Trace Adkins performs with special guest Brushville on Thursday, August 21 at 7:30 PM at the Bureau County Fair. Tickets available at bureaucountyfair.com.

🏠HOMES FOR SALE

• Listed at $84,000, this home at 220 N 1st St in Princeton, IL offers 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, and 840 square feet of living space. The property features a living room, family room, dining room, and a laundry room, with the potential to convert into a 3-bedroom layout. Although there is no garage, there is ample space in the back for a carport or off-alley parking. The listing is presented by Jori Mcrae of River Country Properties and has been on the market for just one day.

• Priced at $149,900 after a $10,000 price drop, this 3-bedroom, 1-bath home at 616 N Pleasant St in Princeton, IL offers 1,520 square feet of updated living space. The home features historic woodwork, two enclosed porches, a formal dining room, and a large kitchen with custom epoxy countertops and included appliances. Numerous updates have been completed, including new vinyl windows, fresh paint, new electrical, and a modern steam heating system. A two-car garage with a second-story bonus room, a clean basement, and a garden-ready yard round out the appeal of this charming two-story home.

• Located just outside of Princeton, this 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home sits on a scenic 5.53-acre lot and offers 2,112 square feet of living space. The property includes a 3+ car garage, three large outbuildings, and a drive capable of supporting heavy equipment loads. Recent updates include new windows, drywall, plumbing, electrical service, and central air, making the home move-in ready. The beautifully landscaped yard features mature trees, perennials, a gazebo for entertaining, and a shed suitable for animals—ideal for those seeking a versatile country lifestyle within the Princeton school district.

🎗️HELP SCOTT FIGHT CANCER AGAIN

From the GoFundMe Page: Hello, my husband Scott was diagnosed with lung cancer in 2021. He underwent chemotherapy followed by the removal of the bottom two lobes of his right lung.

In 2023, his cancer had returned to the remaining bronchial tube, which led to the removal of the entire lung. We thought we had finally beaten it.

Following the removal, we faced a massive infection in the lung cavity that left Scott in the hospital for six weeks with multiple surgeries.

In September of 2024, Scott's cancer had returned, and he underwent radiation. In May, we found yet again his cancer had returned. Scott is undergoing radiation, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy for the next six weeks at the Mayo Clinic.

We have traveled to the Mayo Clinic for the last five years, and because of the multiple appointments daily, Scott will have to stay in the area. We are asking for help to aid in the cost for accommodations for travel and lodging. We are not ones to look for handouts and have really just exhausted all avenues to fight this horrible disease.

Scott is a resident of Tiskilwa, Illinois. He has three beautiful daughters and would give the shirt off his back to help anyone. He has been inspiration during this battle and always has looked light during dark times.

Thank you for any donation; it is greatly appreciated. We have such a great village of supporters. Thank you for reading.

☀️PRINCETON WEATHER

⛅️Today: Expect a mix of sunshine and clouds throughout the day, with temperatures rising to a warm 81°F. Winds will blow from the west-northwest at 10 to 20 mph, making it feel breezy but pleasant. Friday night will be partly cloudy with mild conditions. The low will settle near 57°F, with light winds from the west-southwest at 10 to 15 mph and humidity climbing slightly.

⛅️Saturday: Skies will feature a blend of sun and clouds, and there’s a slight chance of a stray afternoon shower. The high will reach 83°F, with winds from the northwest at 5 to 10 mph and UV levels remaining very high. Saturday night will be mostly clear and comfortable. Temperatures will fall to around 55°F with light westerly winds at 10 to 15 mph, and overnight humidity near 67%.

☀️Sunday: A mostly sunny and warmer day is expected with a high near 86°F. Winds will be light from the west at 5 to 10 mph, making it feel like early summer. Sunday night will stay mostly clear, offering good visibility and a calm evening. Expect a low around 62°F, with southwest winds at 5 to 10 mph.

☀️Monday: Expect intervals of sunshine and clouds, with a high soaring to 88°F. Winds from the south-southwest at 10 to 15 mph will bring in warmer air and keep conditions dry. Monday night will be partly cloudy and mild. The temperature will dip to 65°F, with persistent south-southwest breezes at 10 to 15 mph and humidity near 66%.

☀️Tuesday: Another hot day with highs around 88°F, featuring periods of sun and occasional cloud cover. Winds will be from the south at 10 to 15 mph, and UV exposure will remain very high. Tuesday night will be partly to mostly cloudy, remaining warm with a low near 67°F. Winds from the south-southeast at 10 to 15 mph will keep the air moving through the night.

⛈️Wednesday: Showers are possible in the morning, with scattered thunderstorms developing later in the day. The high will top out around 83°F, and winds will increase from the southwest at 10 to 15 mph. Wednesday night will remain cloudy with periods of rain showers. The low will be near 59°F, and west-northwest winds at 10 to 15 mph will accompany a 50% chance of continued precipitation.

⛽️PRINCETON GAS PRICES

Regular

Amoco, 720 N Main St: $3.09
Sullivan’s Foods: $3.12
Casey’s West/North: $3.15
Beck’s West/North: $3.15
Road Ranger, N Main St: $3.15
Shell, 2225 N Main St: $3.15

📱FAKE DMV SCAM

What You Need to Know to Stay Safe

Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias is urging residents across the state to be on high alert for a new wave of phishing scams. These schemes involve fraudulent text messages that falsely claim to be from the “Illinois State Department of Motor Vehicles.” The messages often warn of urgent issues like suspended vehicle registration or revoked driving privileges, and they typically include links designed to steal sensitive personal or financial information.

What’s the Scam?

These messages are not legitimate. The Illinois Secretary of State’s office has made it clear: they do not send texts about license status, registration suspensions, or driving privileges. The only legitimate communications from their office via text are appointment reminders—never anything involving urgent threats or requiring immediate action.

What to Do if You Get One

If you receive a suspicious message like this:

• Do not click any links.

• Do not reply, even if it looks official.

• Do not provide any personal or financial information.

Instead, take a screenshot of the message and report it directly to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at reportfraud.ftc.gov. You may also contact the Illinois Secretary of State’s office or local law enforcement for further guidance.

How to Recognize a Phishing Text

Phishing texts often:

• Create a false sense of urgency (“Your license will be suspended today!”).

• Include unfamiliar links or short URLs.

• Use poor grammar or suspicious sender addresses.

• Ask for sensitive information like your Social Security number, credit card details, or passwords.

How to Protect Yourself

• Use two-factor authentication (2FA) whenever available on your accounts.

• Keep your phone and apps updated to patch security vulnerabilities.

• Install trusted anti-spam or security apps that filter suspicious texts.

• Educate family members, especially older adults, who are often targeted in these scams.

• Review your credit report regularly for signs of fraud at AnnualCreditReport.com.

A Message from the Secretary of State

“Phishing scams are unfortunately an increasingly prevalent threat in our modern society,” Giannoulias said. “They target unsuspecting individuals, aiming to cheat them out of personal information and their hard-earned money. We encourage all Illinoisans to remain vigilant. Stay skeptical of unsolicited messages and report suspicious activity right away.”

Bottom Line:

No government agency will ever ask for sensitive information through text messages. If something feels off, trust your instincts—delete it, report it, and move on.

💼PRINCETON BUSINESSES

• Wild Honey Boutique is embracing the sunshine with fresh summer colors now available in-store and online. From breezy dresses to vibrant tops and denim, their new arrivals bring seasonal style to life. Visit Thursday before 5:30 p.m. or shop anytime at wildhoneyboutique815.com.

• Wyaton Hills Golf Course is hosting Junior Golf Camp sessions for ages 5–11 and 12–18 throughout June and July. Each session runs from 8–10 a.m. and costs $20, with clubs available if needed. For full details and registration, contact (815) 872-2641 or email [email protected].

• Optimal Health now offers a natural solution for those struggling with indigestion or heartburn. Their new Acid Reflux Relief herbal extract is designed to ease occasional digestive discomfort. Stop in to learn more about this product and how it supports your wellness goals.

• Early Beginnings Parents As Teachers invites dads and their kids to celebrate Father’s Day with “Dad’s & Donuts” at Zearing Park. The event will be held Saturday, June 14 from 10–11 a.m. and includes donuts and outdoor fun hosted by a local dad. It’s a great chance to make memories together.

• Myrtle’s Pies is open Thursday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and Sundays starting at 9 a.m. for discount pies until sold out. Today’s offerings include cinnamon rolls with a variety of gourmet icings, cookies, flourless chocolate cake, and a wide selection of unique pies like s’mores and lemon blueberry. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy these homemade treats while they last.

• Corner Chair Market encourages shoppers to prepare early for Father’s Day with a wide selection of thoughtful gifts. Items include books, puzzles, mugs, tools, and handcrafted furniture pieces ideal for the men in your life. Visit soon to find something special and unique.

• Psycho Silo Saloon is hosting Captain Geech & The Shrimp Shack Shooters this Saturday, May 31st. This high-energy retro show from the Midwest comes with no cover charge and promises a night of legendary music and fun. Get ready to enjoy the atmosphere and live entertainment.

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🏋️AT THE METRO CENTER

Junior High Strength and Conditioning Clinic

The Bureau County Metro Center is offering a Junior High Strength & Conditioning clinic from July 14th to July 17th. This one-week program is designed to help junior high athletes in Bureau County improve physically and build foundational strength. The camp targets students entering 5th through 8th grade, with separate time slots: 5th & 6th graders will meet from 10:30–11:15 AM, and 7th & 8th graders from 11:30 AM–12:15 PM. The fee is tiered at $40, $45, or $50 depending on registration timing or other factors. Classes will be capped at 8 participants to ensure more individualized instruction.

Participants will benefit from continued development, better agility, stronger self-esteem, increased skill, a strong base for gaining strength, and safety through strength development. Other benefits include promoting teamwork and encouraging a strong work ethic. The program teaches proper warmups, stretching, exercise techniques, and sport-specific training. It’s an excellent opportunity for youth to gain confidence and compete at a higher level.

To register, visit the Metro Center in person, call 815-872-0840, or sign up online. Early registration is encouraged due to limited spots.

Group Swim Lessons

Group swim lessons are returning to Alexander Pool this summer for kids ages 4 and up. The sessions will run on two sets of dates: June 9th–12th and June 16th–19th. Each class takes place from 11:00 to 11:45 a.m. Participants will get the chance to sharpen existing skills, learn new techniques, and have fun in a supportive environment. The program is open to both members and non-members. The cost is $50 for members, $55 for residents, and $65 for non-residents. To register, visit the Metro Center in person, call 815-872-0840, or register online.

Adult Dodgeball Tournament

The Adult Dodgeball Tournament is coming to the BCMC Gym on Saturday, July 19th. Open to participants ages 21 and up, this event features 5-player teams competing in a double elimination format. Each matchup consists of three 10-minute games, with the winner determined by the last team standing or the team with the most players remaining. Matches begin at 6:00 PM, but all players must arrive by 5:30 PM for a rules explanation. The cost is $100 per team.

Attendees can enjoy a cash bar and free pizza while supplies last. This high-energy evening promises fun competition and great social interaction. To register, stop by the Metro Center in person, call 815-872-0840, or sign up online. Spots are limited, so early registration is encouraged.

📍OUTSIDE CITY LIMITS

• The Tiskilwa Historical Society is hosting "Jazz in June" by John Cooper, a musician and professor from WIU. This free concert will take place on Friday, June 6th at 7PM in the Community Room of the Museum on Main, 110 E. Main Street, Tiskilwa. Please come and join us to enjoy the music and history of America's Treasure - Jazz!

• A Vacation Bible School is coming to Wyanet Community Bible Church at 215 S Locust Street! Join us July 16–18 from 10–11:30 a.m. for Wonder Junction by Answers in Genesis, with a free meal following for kids and families. Sunday School for all ages is at 9 a.m., followed by our worship service at 10. Register online at Answers in Genesis – Wyanet Community Bible Church or contact Pastor Kevin at [email protected]—walk-in registration is also welcome!

• Illinois Residents Face Significant Electricity Rate Hikes in June

• Closing Arguments Set For Late June In Bureau County Murder Case

• Kids with a knack for crafts, baking, or services like dog walking or lawn care are invited to participate in the 3rd annual Children’s Business Fair. The event will take place on Wednesday, July 2nd, 2025, from 5 to 7 PM at Liberty Square. It’s a fun opportunity for young entrepreneurs to sell their products or promote their services. For questions, contact the Walnut Public Library at (815) 379-2159.

• An end of life program helps participants take a proactive approach to end-of-life planning, covering legal documents, healthcare wishes, and financial arrangements. It will be held at the Walnut Public Library on Saturday, June 21st, from 9 AM to 12 PM, and features presentations from local professionals in law, hospice, funeral homes, finance, and banking. Presenters include Jacob J. Frost (Attorney), Kris Reinbeck, RN (HCC), Beth Baker (Grant-Johnson Funeral Homes), Tyler Hansen (Country Financial), and Pam Turner (Community State Bank). You must register for the event—call the library at (815) 379-2159.

• The Walnut Public Library is hosting themed reading sessions for Pre-K through High School students from June 9th to July 16th, with activities ranging from crafts and STEM to gardening and cooking. Sessions are divided by grade: Pre-K & K meet Wednesdays 2:30–3:30 PM, 1st–5th Grade Wednesdays 1–2 PM, and Jr. High & High School Mondays 1–2:30 PM. Activities take place at the library and The Rock, including stories, crafts, nature walks, and cooking. Registration is required—call the library at (815) 379-2159 for assistance.

🐴WONDER JUNCTION VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL

Wonder Junction Vacation Bible School will be held at Princeton Bible Church from Sunday, June 8 to Thursday, June 12, 2025, running nightly from 6:00 to 8:30 p.m. The program is open to children ages 4 (fully potty trained) through 6th grade. The VBS theme is “Marvel at Jesus, Live for His Glory,” aiming to help kids know who Jesus is and what He has done for them. Activities include energetic assemblies with music, wacky intros, and a mission moment, followed by rotation through five fun stations. Registration is free, and a themed music CD is available for $2.50 at the registration table each evening. The event promises a joyful, Christ-centered experience for kids to grow in faith and wonder.

Register here

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