🇩🇪A Harvest Festival, Reducing Inflammation, and Oktoberfest

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It’s hump day, neighbor. Princeton is ready to burst with activity and excitement as we march towards the holiday season. This town is the best — so much to do!

Let’s go.

—Justin Bullington

📬IN THIS ISSUE

💡What You Should Know
✅For Your To-Do List
🚂At the Fairgrounds
☀️Princeton Weather
⛽️Princeton Gas Prices
🏆PHS Students of the Month
👷‍♂️Princeton Job Opportunity
💼Princeton Businesses
🏠Princeton Homes for Sale
📍Outside City Limits
🏛️From the Chamber of Commerce
🎄A Holiday Market

💡WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

• Happy Birthday Gerald King! 🎂

• PHS football (4-0) will play Monmouth-Roseville (4-0) at Monmouth-Roseville Friday, at 7pm.

• Join Princeton Christian Academy at Culver's on Monday, September 30, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM for their "Donate While You Dine" fundraiser. Enjoy a delicious meal while supporting a great cause, as part of the proceeds will go to the school.

• The Prairie Arts Council is calling for entries for their Holiday Card Design Contest, with submissions due by October 13. The winning design will be featured in card packs and receive a $100 prize. The contest is open to all ages, with the gallery show running from November 1 to November 24.

• The MomCo of Bureau County, also known as the "Mom Community," is a group for moms to connect, receive encouragement, and share the journey of motherhood. They meet at 24 N. Main St. in Princeton from 6–8 pm on the following dates for the 2024-2025 season: October 8th, November 5th, December 3rd, January 7th, February 4th, March 4th, April 1st, and May 6th. The group offers dinner, childcare, and parenting tips, and encourages moms to follow them on Facebook for updates.

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✅FOR YOUR TO-DO LIST

🧹Join DIY Floral Brooms today from 5 PM to 7 PM at 5 S Pleasant St. Create dried floral brooms, perfect for fall decor. Tickets are $25 each, with a special buy 3, get 1 free offer available.

🖌️Spooky Kitty Paint Night will be hosted today at 6 PM at the Downtown Pub in Princeton. For $35, create a Halloween-themed painting with all materials and instruction included. Teens are welcome with an adult, and space is limited.

🎨Learn 10 Watercolor Techniques I Wish I Knew Before at the Princeton Public Library today from 5 PM to 8 PM. This $30 class is for beginners and those wanting to improve their skills with watercolor, covering materials and instruction.

🍿The Wild Robot PJ Premiere will take place at the Apollo Theater in Princeton on Thursday, September 26, at 6 PM. Come in your pajamas to enjoy the first showing of this book-based film and receive a free mini popcorn.

📓The Bureau County Genealogical Society will host a free program titled "The Role of the Stagecoach in Northwestern Illinois" on Thursday at 7 PM. This event will explore the historical significance of the stagecoach in the region. Everyone is welcome to attend and learn more about local history.

🧺Support the Dementia Friendly Princeton group by attending their "Lunch in the Park" on Friday, from 11 AM to 1 PM at Soldiers and Sailors Park. Enjoy walking tacos for $7 and soda or water for $1. All proceeds benefit the group’s community efforts, so stop by and grab a bite before they sell out.

🥁Don't miss Hollywood & Vine on Sunday, September 29, at 6 PM in Hollowayville, featuring live music from Brushville. Known for their high-energy performances, this experience promises an unforgettable night of music.

🎸On Sunday, at 3 PM, enjoy a free concert at Soldiers and Sailors Park featuring "The Generic's Goodies Band," sponsored by GES Sound. Come to sing, dance, or simply listen to the nostalgic tunes. Bring a lawn chair, and feel free to dress in vintage attire for a fun, weather-permitting afternoon.

🏠PRINCETON HOME FOR SALE

Ranch style home at 830 Bruce Lane, Princeton, IL 61356, Bureau County. Located in Greencroft, a desirable subdivision on the west side of Princeton.

A spacious single story home built in 1981. This home offers 1878 +/- sq. ft. which includes an eat-in kitchen, dining room w/gas fireplace, living room, family room and 3 bedrooms (1 currently a laundry room). There is a partial basement, 19' x 22' garage and a new driveway in 2020. All appliances will be included.

The home has vinyl siding, asphalt shingle roof, gas forced air heat and central air conditioning. Lot size is 76.75 x 159.37 x 142.65 x 153.73 (.4 acres). The backyard opens up to 7 acres of open meadow owned by the city.

Tax ID # is #16-17-452-020, 2023 taxes paid in 2024 were $3,685.38.

Asking price - PRICE REDUCTION: $209,000

Open House: Sunday September 29th.

This property is being sold as is.

For further information please contact Rick Rediger 815-866-4486.

🚂AT THE FAIRGROUNDS

A Huge Winter Garage Sale will be held at the Bureau County Fairgrounds on Saturday, November 9th, from 8 AM to 2 PM. Vendor spaces are available for $35 for a 10x10 space with 3 tables. Admission is free, but attendees are encouraged to bring a donation for the food pantry. For more information, contact Kathy at 815-866-3606 after 5 PM or email [email protected].

The Model Train Fair & Farm Toy Show is scheduled for the following Saturday, November 16th, from 9 AM to 2 PM, also at the Bureau County Fairgrounds. The event will feature HO, N, O, & G scale trains, farm toys, and various collectibles. Admission is $5, with vendor spaces starting at $35 for a 10x10 space with 3 tables. Larger spaces are available upon request. For details, visit www.bureaucountyfair.com or contact Kathy at the same number and email as above.

☀️PRINCETON WEATHER

☀️Today: Sunny skies with a high of 77°F and light, variable winds. Humidity will be around 63%. The evening will be partly cloudy with a low of 51°F. Winds remain light, and humidity will increase to 81%.

☀️Thursday: Expect mainly sunny skies with a few afternoon clouds and a high of 78°F. Winds will be from the south-southwest at 5 to 10 mph, with humidity at 70%. The night will be partly cloudy with a low of 57°F and light, variable winds. Overnight humidity will rise to 91%.

🌤️Friday: A mix of sunshine and clouds, with a high near 78°F. Winds will blow from the west-southwest at 10 to 15 mph, and humidity will be low at 69%. The night will be cloudy with occasional showers and a low of 59°F. Winds will shift to the northeast at 10 to 15 mph, with a 40% chance of rain and humidity at 90%.

☁️Saturday: Cloudy skies with occasional showers throughout the day, with a high of 77°F. Winds will come from the east-northeast at 5 to 10 mph, with a 30% chance of rain and humidity at 62%. The evening will be overcast with scattered showers possible, with a low of 60°F. Winds will be light and variable, and humidity will rise to 80%.

⛽️Princeton Gas Prices

Regular

Amoco, 720 N Main St: $3.39
Sullivan’s Foods: $3.45
Casey’s West/North: $3.49
Beck’s West/North: $3.49
Road Ranger, N Main St: $3.49
Shell, 2225 N Main St: $3.49

🏆PHS STUDENTS OF THE MONTH

Lydia Johnson  (Jr) – Mr. Olson

• Lydia is a consistently positive presence in my class and in my extracurriculars. Lydia inspires the people around her with her patience, friendliness, and dedication. She goes above and beyond to help others and to help me, and in addition, she executes her own work at a very high level.

Zoie Eubanks-Spoonmore (Jr) – Mrs. Smith

• Zoie has made tremendous gains over the last year and this year. She has drastically improved her attendance. She wants to improve her GPA and has been working hard to get her work turned in and make test corrections when needed. She has taken the initiative to communicate with teachers about missing work and/or test corrections.

Daphnie Grant (Fr) – Mrs. Kuhne

• Daphnie has committed to making high school a fresh start and that shows through her words and actions. She is a natural leader and can do anything that she puts her heart and soul into. Keep working hard!

Maegan Du Preez (So) – Ms. Sayler

• Meagan has been a huge help to another student in health class this semester. The student that Meagan helps speaks English as a second language. Meagan is more than willing to partner with this student and is patient and willing to assist in any way to make sure the other student understands. Meagan has shown great leadership skills by helping this student and has been a positive example to her peers in class.

Hanna Claiborne (So) – Mr. Anderson

• Hanna is an extremely driven and hard working individual. She is always striving to improve herself inside and outside the classroom. Her natural leadership abilities, communication skills, and drive makes her a strong student. Her leadership abilities not only translate well inside the classroom, but outside the classroom as she is involved in many different programs at PHS making her a well rounded student.

Owen Schultz (S0) – Mrs. Nichols

• Owen has started the year off very strong. He is working very hard in Biology. He participates in class, asks good questions, and is always willing to help a classmate.

👷‍♂️PRINCETON JOB OPPORTUNITY

• Sophisticuts Salon is hiring full-time and part-time cosmetologists, offering a positive, clean, and fun workplace. They are looking for shiny, happy people who love coloring hair and styling cuts for men, women, and children, including special occasion styles. This is a great opportunity for Illinois licensed cosmetologists seeking a stable, friendly, and long-term work environment. The salon provides guaranteed hourly pay, training, and paid vacation, with wages up to $25 per hour. Applicants can email their resume to [email protected] or call 815-579-6993.

• In Home Care Connection Hospice Services is actively seeking compassionate individuals dedicated to hospice care for the role of a Certified Nursing Assistant. This part-time position offers a pay rate of $19.00 per hour, with benefits including a flexible schedule and travel reimbursement. Applicants must have been in their previous job for at least one year to qualify for a matching 401(k) program. The required qualifications include a CNA certification and a driver's license, and candidates must possess reliable transportation. Interested parties are encouraged to apply if they are looking for a meaningful and rewarding opportunity in hospice care.

• KS Lawn and Snow LLC is looking to hire a part-time worker for the remainder of the year to work on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, approximately 20 hours per week. Experience is preferred, and pay is based on experience. Interested candidates should call or text (815) 878-6126 for more details.

🏠PRINCETON HOMES FOR SALE

• A multi-family home at 25 E Lasalle St is listed for $139,500. Built in 1891, the property includes four bedrooms, two bathrooms, and offers a great investment opportunity for expanding a rental portfolio. The home features two units that are currently vacant and ready to be occupied, with thermal windows, recent exterior painting, and fresh interior paint. The main level has a spacious kitchen, a breakfast bar, and laundry hookups, while both units have new window A/C units. The home is competitively priced with great potential for cash flow, and there is also a possibility of purchasing a smaller adjacent home.

• A charming 4-bedroom, 2-bath farmhouse at 23779 1480 North Avenue is listed for $325,000. This home, built in 1878, offers 2,528 sq ft of living space and combines historic charm with modern conveniences, including updated plumbing, a new well pressure tank, and a new furnace. Additional features include a sun porch and an open porch, perfect for enjoying the tranquil surroundings. Recent updates in 2024 ensure the home is move-in ready with new central air, electrical service, and a water softener.

• A home located at 1133 W Clark St is available for $219,000. This property features four bedrooms, two and a half bathrooms, and 1,800 square feet of living space with a two-car garage. Built in 1972, the home has undergone recent updates, including stainless steel kitchen appliances, new patio doors, and a reworked family room with a gas fireplace in 2023. The roof was replaced in 2020, and newer appliances like the stove, refrigerator, and dishwasher were added between 2020-2024. Additionally, the home comes equipped with a Generac generator, installed in 2022.

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💼PRINCETON BUSINESSES

• Wild Honey Boutique is now offering dry cleaning services by Sanitary Cleaners. Drop-off and pick-up are available during regular store hours, with payments accepted by cash or check only at this time. Visit Monday to Friday from 10 AM to 5:30 PM, Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM, or Sunday from 12 PM to 4 PM.

• Scooter’s Coffee is offering any size brewed coffee, hot or iced, for just $1 all month when you order ahead or pay through their app. Whether you like it hot or their new iced option, it's the perfect deal to get your caffeine fix. Please note that cold foam is available for an additional charge.

• Tossed & Found Resale + Consignment has an incredible collection of purses and wallets from top brands like Coach, Kate Spade, and Michael Kors at unbeatable prices. Elevate your style with these must-have accessories without breaking the bank. Don't miss out on these fashionable finds—perfect for any wardrobe!

• It's officially soup weather, and Optimal Health is stocked with Rao’s slow-simmered soups, including favorites like Chicken & Gnocchi, Chicken Noodle, and Pasta & Fagioli. Now’s the perfect time to grab a few jars to keep cozy this season. Visit Optimal Health and enjoy these hearty, flavorful soups.

• Second Story Teen Center is offering after-school tutoring every Monday and Wednesday from 3 PM to 5 PM at 1033 N Main St. Students can get help with homework or schedule additional study times by appointment. Contact Asriella Jameson at 815-876-7130 for more information.

• Golden Rice Authentic Thai Food will be open this week from Wednesday, September 25, through Friday, September 27. Lunch hours are from 10:30 AM to 2:00 PM, and dinner hours are from 4:00 PM to 6:30 PM, with extended hours until 7:00 PM on Friday.

• Four Seasons is excited to introduce their new vendor, Staccato, featuring contemporary fall sweaters. Shop now to save 27% on Staccato items using code FALL before the offer expires on September 29.

• Sean Philip Bridals is hosting a Fall Sale with 40% off all in-stock homecoming dresses. Hurry in while supplies last and find your perfect dress just in time for the dance. Visit their store soon and take advantage of this limited-time offer.

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📍OUTSIDE CITY LIMITS

• The Gold Star Mission’s 8th annual Gold Star 500 bicycle event will pass through Bureau County this Friday. This 500-mile ride honors fallen military members and their families. Gold Star Families, whose loved ones died in the line of duty, will be recognized for their sacrifices, and the community is encouraged to show support along the route by cheering, making signs, and bringing noise makers. There will be a scheduled stop at Hodge Park in Bradford at 3:25 PM and another at Wyanet VFW Post #6634 at 5:04 PM. Make plans to line the route and pay your respects as they ride by, helping to honor the memory of those who served.

• Visit Parlor Coffee & Cream Co. in Sheffield on Sunday, September 29th, from 8 AM to 3 PM and enjoy their special drink of the day, "The Chelsea." This unique beverage is a Pomegranate Lemonade with Pink Lotus and a Sweet Peach Cream topper, available for only $5! Chelsea will be there from Noon to 3 PM, so don’t miss the chance to meet her and enjoy this refreshing drink.

• The Ottawa Illinois Visitors Center has several upcoming events from October to December. In October, Smoketober Fest will take place on the 12th from 12 PM to 5 PM, the Out of the Darkness Suicide Prevention Walk is on the 12th, and a Downtown Halloween Parade and Trick-or-Treating will happen on the 26th from 10 AM to 12 PM. November events include Holiday Open Houses on the 8th from 4 PM to 9 PM, and the Festival of Lights Parade and Deck the Parks on the 29th from 6 PM to 7:30 PM. The Chris Kringle Market kicks off on November 29th and will continue every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday through December 22nd, with hours on Fridays from 4 PM to 8 PM, Saturdays from 11 AM to 7 PM, and Sundays from 11 AM to 4 PM. These events provide full days of activities for visitors to enjoy in Ottawa.

🏛️FROM THE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Monster Mash Balloon Bash Announcement

Tickets for tethered balloon rides are now on sale. Spots are limited, so grab your tickets early and experience the thrill of floating high under the Halloween sky!

🎟️ For tickets and more info, visit here.

The spooky fun is almost here! Mark your calendars and gather the family for a day filled with Halloween magic at the Monster Mash Balloon Bash on Saturday, October 12th. Here’s the lineup of all the fun you won’t want to miss all weekend long:

🕒 Schedule of Events:

📍 Soldiers & Sailors Park

8:30 AM - 1:00 PM – Princeton Farmers Market

10:00 AM - 2:00 PM – Freedom House Fall Family Fun Fest

4:00 PM – Costume Contest - For all ages & pets!

5:00 PM – Halloween Parade (Route: Soldiers & Sailors Park heading North to City Hall > Central Avenue to Bureau County Fairgrounds)

📍 Main Street

Check out the Chamber’s 12th Annual Scarecrow Contest with over 35 entries!

1:00 - 3:00PM – Trick-or-Treating at Main Street Businesses

📍 Bureau County Fairgrounds

4:30 PM - 7:30 PM – Tethered Hot Air Balloon Rides (get your tickets using the link above — walk-up tickets available after 7:30PM)

5:00 - 10:00 PM – Mummies Cafe open for service!

5:00 - 9:00 PM – Food Trucks (Farmer Smoked BBQ, Marichuy's Taco Truck, and Wild Ginger Bistro)

6:00 PM – Hocus Pocus Hags Performance

6:00 - 8:00 PM – Hot Air Balloon Glow, Trunk-or-Treat, Petting Zoo & Fall Fun

7:00 - 10:00 PM – The Nightmare Haunted Attraction (Lights-On-Haunt Experience 6:30-7:00 PM)

7:00PM – Cake Walk

7:30 - 9:00 PM – Hocus Pocus Outdoor Movie (bring your lawn chairs and blankets!)

🎄A HOLIDAY MARKET ON NOVEMBER 23RD

The Elowen Room is excited to host its very first Holiday Market on November 23rd and 24th from 10 AM to 4 PM, just in time for Princeton’s Christmas Walk Weekend. This market will showcase 8 to 10 local artists and makers, offering unique, handcrafted items perfect for holiday gifts and festive home décor. The market is committed to supporting local talent, with no commercial or tiered marketing items allowed, ensuring that shoppers find high-quality, original products. Artists and makers from the area will have the opportunity to display their work and contribute to the vibrant holiday shopping experience.

Located on the north end of Main Street, The Elowen Room is conveniently near the trolley stop, making it an easy and enjoyable part of your holiday festivities. Visitors can expect a cozy atmosphere complete with holiday music and a charming coffee bar where they can take a break and enjoy seasonal drinks while shopping. Vendors will have the chance to set up their booths in advance, ensuring that everything is ready for a smooth and festive weekend. The market aims to bring more shopping opportunities to Princeton’s Main Street while enhancing the artistic presence of the community’s Art District.

If you know any talented local artists or makers, this is a great opportunity to share with them. Keep an eye out for announcements about the participating vendors, and be sure to plan your visit to The Elowen Room’s Holiday Market for a warm, festive shopping experience.

Want to advertise? Email: [email protected].