💰A Multi-Million Dollar Grant, Lobsters, and a Jeep Wrangler

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Good morning, Princeton. Last night I had the pleasure of watching the Freshman boys basketball team defeat the Kewanee Boilermakers. After a rough start in the first quarter — turning the ball over numerous times and getting down by double-digits — the boys pulled it together, came back and won. Great job, Coach Rabe and the boys!

Here. We. Go!

—Justin Bullington

📬IN THIS ISSUE

💡What You Should Know
🩸Volunteers Needed
☀️Princeton Weather
⛽️Princeton Gas Prices
👷‍♂️Princeton Job Opportunities
💼Princeton Businesses
📍Outside City Limits
🚗Local Vehicles for Sale
🍼Help Baby Zane

💡WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

• Happy Birthday, Marty Kiser! 🍰 

• The Rotary Club of Princeton is accepting applications for the “Love Our Community” grant until January 31. Ten grants of $1,000 each will be awarded to selected local nonprofits by April 30.

• The Bureau County Senior Center is selling tickets for a chili dinner fundraiser on February 13. Tickets cost $7 and are available on-site.

• SRM: Princeton's Arukah Institute Of Healing Picked For Multi-Million Dollar Grant

• Tigers Boys Varsity Basketball defeated Kewanee 60-21.

• “At the Monday night Princeton City Council meeting, the members approved the adoption of updated building life safety, mechanical, maintenance and fire codes.  These updates are to keep the city compliant with state mandates.  The last time updated codes were adopted was in 2003.”

• BCR: After several years, Cub Scout Pack 4151 is back in Princeton, with 27 children, including more than 20 registered members, attending its first meeting at the Masonic Lodge. The pack, open to boys and girls in kindergarten through fifth grade, meets on Mondays and is led by Cubmaster Justina Chlum and Assistant Cubmaster Carrie Smith; for more information or to join, contact Justina at [email protected].

• The Bureau County Fairgrounds is offering rental opportunities for events in 2025. Interested parties can contact the facility (815-303-3905) for details and scheduling. Registration is open for the Model Train Fair and Farm Toy Show which takes place February 15, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

• Princeton Youth Baseball & Softball League registration begins January 13 online and January 29 and February 1 in person at the Prouty Building. Visit www.pybsl.org for details.

• Chelsea Sanchez of Chelsea Gives Back is organizing the “$5 Challenge” to raise funds for a 2025 graduating senior, inviting community members to donate $5 by January 11 through Venmo (@csancheezy7), Facebook Pay, PayPal ([email protected]), CashApp ($csancheezy7), or by mailing donations to Chelsea Sanchez, 1010 North Plum Street, Princeton, IL 61356. Participating seniors are asked to write a letter by April 5 describing their community service hours, favorite experience, and future plans for serving their community. The best letter will be awarded the collected funds, which can be used for necessities like food, gas, or tuition. The winner will be announced on May 1, with hopes for this initiative to grow into a scholarship program in the future.

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🩸VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

The American Red Cross is urging individuals to become volunteers as disaster responses have nearly doubled over the past decade. Interim CEO Catherine Rabenstine highlighted the critical need for more volunteers due to the rising number of disasters nationwide. The Red Crossprovides essential services such as disaster relief, blood donation, and support for military families. Interested parties can visit redcross.org/volunteertoday to learn more about volunteer opportunities.

“We’re seeing both the frequency and intensity of disasters increase across the country and the Red Cross is responding to nearly twice as many large disasters as we did a decade ago to help people. This uptick in responses means we need more volunteers. The need to help has never been greater,” said Catherine Rabenstine, Interim CEO of the Illinois Red Cross.

DISASTER VOLUNTEERS ─ Some of our most needed disaster-related volunteer roles include:

• Disaster Action Team: Most of the 60,000 emergenciesthat the Red Cross responds to each year are smaller disasters like home fires, and these are no less devastating to the families affected. As a

• Disaster Action Team volunteer, you can help comfort and support people in your community by meeting any immediate needs, such as food, shelter, clothing, or supplies, and connecting them to long-term recovery services. We supply all the training you need.

• Disaster Recovery Care: Casework volunteers provide support to people after disasters to help them get back on their feet. This can include providing referrals to other organizations, serving as an advocate, and issuing financial assistance through a special online system. Volunteers are needed to help both virtually and onsite after disasters.

• Disaster Mental Health: Disaster Mental Health volunteers provide mental health support to those impacted by a disaster. To be qualified, you must hold a master’s degree and a current, unencumbered license as a social worker, psychologist, professional counselor, marriage and family therapist, psychiatrist, school psychologist, or school counselor. Current psychiatric nurses with state licenses as registered nurses and at least two years of experience in a psychiatric setting are also qualified, as are retired mental health professionals who were licensed and maintained a license or certification in good standing upon retirement.

BIOMEDICAL SERVICES ─ The Red Cross helps to supply about 40% of the nation’s blood, and we depend on volunteers to help ensure patients have access to this lifesaving gift.

• Blood Donor Ambassador: Volunteer Blood Donor Ambassadors ensure that blood donors have a pleasant and fulfilling experience, from the moment they arrive to the moment they leave. They greet donors, answer questions, and thank them for their donations.

• Blood Transportation Specialist: Volunteer Transportation Specialists deliver life-saving blood products from Red Cross distribution facilities to hospitals using a Red Cross-owned vehicle. Typical shifts are about 4 hours. We ask for a commitment of 2-4 shifts per month (or more if you can).

☀️PRINCETON WEATHER

🌤️Today: The day will feature a few clouds at times with a high of 24°F. Winds will come from the NW at 10 to 15 mph, keeping conditions brisk. During the night, skies will remain clear to partly cloudy with a low of 11°F. Winds will shift slightly to the WSW at 5 to 10 mph.

🌤️Thursday: Partly cloudy skies will dominate the day, with a high temperature of 26°F. Winds from the NW at 10 to 15 mph will maintain a chilly atmosphere. The night will also feature partly cloudy skies, with lows dipping to 20°F. A few clouds will pass occasionally, and winds will stay gentle at 5 to 10 mph.

🌨️Friday: Expect a mix of light snow showers in the morning, followed by extensive cloud cover. The high will be around 30°F, with WSW winds at 5 to 10 mph. At night, skies will clear up a bit, leaving a few clouds and a low of 17°F. NW winds will persist at 5 to 10 mph.

☁️Saturday: Mostly cloudy skies will define the day, with temperatures peaking at 28°F. Winds will come from the WSW at 5 to 10 mph. The night will remain mostly cloudy, with a low of 20°F. Winds will stay light, continuing from the WSW at 5 to 10 mph.

⛽️PRINCETON GAS PRICES

Regular

Amoco, 720 N Main St: $3.11
Sullivan’s Foods: $3.14
Casey’s West/North: $3.19
Beck’s West/North: $3.19
Road Ranger, N Main St: $3.19
Shell, 2225 N Main St: $3.19

👷‍♂️PRINCETON JOB OPPORTUNITIES

Ace Hardware - Warehouse Specialist

A full-time Warehouse Specialist role offers a pay range of $19.00–$21.50 per hour, with weekly bonuses. Benefits include store discounts, paid holidays, health and dental insurance, 401(k), tuition reimbursement, and paid time off. The position requires five years of experience and includes entry-level opportunities. Candidates will assist with warehouse tasks, ensuring smooth operations. Paid sick leave and disability insurance are also included.

Freedom House - Preventionist

This full-time Preventionist position starts at $43,680 per year, focusing on the Sexual Violence Program. Benefits include health savings accounts, paid holidays, retirement plans, and flexible scheduling. Candidates need a high school diploma or GED, three years of experience, a valid driver’s license, and proficiency in Microsoft Office. Responsibilities involve education and outreach on prevention strategies. The role is ideal for those with a bachelor’s or associate’s degree in a related field.

Corteva Agriscience - Production Technician

The Production Technician position offers an estimated salary range of $36.5K–$46.3K annually. Benefits include health insurance, parental leave, tuition reimbursement, and a retirement plan. Applicants need a high school diploma or GED, two years of experience, and skills in Microsoft Office and lean manufacturing. Responsibilities include operating machinery and maintaining production standards. This entry-level role values communication and time management skills.

Gateway Services - Accounting Assistant

The Accounting Assistant role has a salary range of $32.9K–$41.7K annually and focuses on maintaining accurate financial records. Applicants must be proficient in accounting software and capable of creating spreadsheets for data analysis. The position involves handling accounts payable and receivable, payroll duties, and administrative tasks. Benefits include paid time off and health insurance. This entry-level job requires excellent organizational skills for managing invoices and reports.

💪KATE BUTLER: R3 EXPERT

The holiday season is in full swing, and with it comes lots of food temptations and goodies. It's easy to overindulge, but let's make good choices and stay healthy. That way, we can get a head start on our New Year's resolutions! 

How many of us resolve to start a new diet in January, only to fall off the wagon and gain back all the weight we worked so hard to lose? I can help you break that cycle with a sensible plan that helps you enjoy the blessing of good food, resets your metabolism, and helps you break the cycle of overeating, dieting, and regaining weight. 

For more info: https://mylastweightlossprogram.com/kate or just call me at 815-878-3278 and we can chat in person..which I prefer!

🏠PRINCETON HOMES FOR SALE

• A beautiful farmhouse located at 23779 1480 Ave N, Princeton, is listed for $325,000. This 4-6 bedroom home, sitting on 4.3 acres, blends old charm with modern updates, including a new water softener, electrical system, and furnace in 2024. The home is well-equipped for horse owners with a two-stall barn and a large machine shed. Inside, the property offers spacious wood flooring, a sunroom, and main floor laundry. With its serene country setting and updated features, this home offers both comfort and functionality.

• Located in the charming Timber Ridge subdivision, this ranch home at 2332 Amelia Dr. offers a grand and welcoming feel with a beautiful brick front exterior. Inside, you’ll find a spacious open floor plan living and dining area featuring high ceilings and a gas log fireplace. The kitchen boasts quartz countertops, ample cabinet space, and soft-close hardware, perfect for hosting. The home includes a sunroom, a fully finished lower level with two additional bedrooms, and a large family room with in-floor heating. Key updates include a new HVAC system in 2022 and a new roof in 2023, ensuring low maintenance for years to come.

• A well-maintained four-bedroom, two-and-a-half-bath home located at 1133 W Clark St, is available for $219,000. The kitchen has been updated with stainless steel appliances and opens to a cozy family room featuring a gas log fireplace. Recent updates include new patio doors, a roof from 2020, and a Generac generator installed in 2022. The upstairs has four bedrooms, with the primary bedroom featuring a bath and double closets. The property includes a two-car attached garage and is situated on a crawl space with access to the garage.

💼PRINCETON BUSINESSES

• Sislers Ice Cream is open Wednesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Customers can enjoy a variety of treats during these hours.

• “Sonic 3” will be shown at the Apollo Theater until Thursday. Tickets can be purchased online or at the box office.

• Cafe Grace is offering cozy specials, including hearty soups, comforting entrées, and seasonal drinks. Thursday’s feature is scallops with avocado bruschetta, while Friday includes a breakfast steak skillet and scallops for dinner.

• Bug Off Taylor’s Way offers professional pest control to keep your home critter-free this winter. Studies show hiring experts can reduce infestations by up to 50%. Call 815-875-8231 for effective and lasting results.

• Scooter’s Coffee introduces their new Strawberry Protein Shake, packed with 27 grams of protein to help you meet your fitness goals. Stop by today for a tasty way to fuel your resolutions.

• Once Upon a Craft now offers hand-painted ornaments all year round. Share your ideas for custom designs and find the perfect keepsakes.

• Connections Studio hosts a Winter Open House on January 25. Parents and kids (ages 5–14) can attend classes together. Visit ConnectionsStudioInc.com for details.

• Boek-el-ZOO invites you to visit their store and meet their adorable birds, including two still available for adoption. Stop by starting Wednesday at noon to join the fun.

• The annual Sweetheart Bowl will take place on February 8th for $40 per couple, with lanes reserved for four couples each. Call or message Pin Splitter Lanes to register and secure your spot for this Valentine-themed bowling event.

• Optimal Health has fresh baked goods, including jumbo muffins, monster cookies, peanut butter cookies, and protein bites. These items are available inside the store starting Wednesday.

• Wild Honey Boutique is offering 30% off all sweaters this week only. Stop in Monday through Saturday, 10–5:30, to grab your favorite styles.

• Little Blue Dress is featuring new Sorel shoes in sizes 7.5 to 9. Customers can request additional sizes if needed.

• Golden Rice Authentic Thai Food will be open Wednesday to Friday this week. Lunch is available from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., and dinner from 4 to 6:30 p.m.

• Kinetico Water Systems offers free water tests to address hard water issues. Interested individuals can schedule a test for their home water supply.

• Paisano’s Ristorante launched its Birria Pizza, inspired by the Birria Taco, featuring marinated beef, queso, onions, and a consommé dipping sauce.

• The Knack invites participants to reserve private “Paint Your Partner” parties, combining art with fun in a BYOB setting. This creative experience is open to all, with no painting skills required. Contact them to schedule a memorable session.

• Hornbaker Gardens features Polywood Adirondack furniture designed for all seasons, with various colors and styles available. Customers can find these durable and stylish pieces in their showroom.

• Simply Nutrition invites customers to stop by for shakes, teas, and positive vibes to fuel their day. The business focuses on health and hydration for achieving goals.

• Miss Betsy’s has made it easier for donut lovers to place their orders by phone. Simply call 815-878-9066 to enjoy their delicious treats. Don’t miss the chance to satisfy your cravings with a quick call.

• Eclectic Joy is offering a sale with discounts of 40–50% on seasonal items, including decorations and gifts. Shoppers are encouraged to stop by for these special deals.

Upcoming:

January 8, 3:30 PM: The Princeton Closet will host “Lending a Hand” at their location, where the 2024 Lending a Hand recipients will be announced.

January 8, 6:00 PM: A “Winter Visitor” Paint Night will take place at Downtown Pub and Event Center. Participants will paint a snowman and cardinal winter scene on a 16x20 canvas for $35 per person. Full menu and cash bar will be available.

January 12, 12:00 PM–6:00 PM: Cousins Maine Lobster food truck will serve fresh Maine lobster at the Walmart Supercenter. The event offers a variety of lobster dishes for attendees to enjoy. The location is 2111 Claude Bailey Parkway.

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📍OUTSIDE CITY LIMITS

• Home On Northwest Side Of Streator Catches Fire

• Need a place to put your bike? Sublette has the answer

• 11-year-old hosts second annual cocoa bomb fundraiser to support Bureau County community

• COVID-19 Relief Funds Scheme Outed In La Salle County

• 3 people killed, 3 injured following overnight house fire in Davenport

• Peru Police Arrest Two on Domestic Battery, Criminal Damage, Warrants

• The Knights of Columbus are hosting a Free Throw Championship for boys and girls aged 9-14 at Bureau Valley High School’s small gym. The event takes place on Saturday, January 18, with registration at 1 PM and competition starting at 1:30 PM, sponsored by St. Patrick’s Knights of Columbus Council 4537.

• The Gathering Place Community Center in Wyanet is accepting reservations for graduation parties, with dates filling up quickly. The venue offers an indoor space with tables, chairs, and a full kitchen for $100 per day, with no double bookings. Contact Debi Johnson to reserve a date.

• Donald Soens is offering snow shoveling services. For inquiries, call 1-815-940-6730.

• The 9th annual Sheffield Tractor Pull is scheduled for July 12, at its new location, Psycho Silo Saloon. More details about the event will be announced soon.

🚗LOCAL VEHICLES FOR SALE

• This listing showcases a 2019 Toyota C-HR Limited priced at $17,999 with 97,337 miles, marked as a “good deal” on the market scale. The car features a black exterior and interior, front-wheel drive, automatic transmission, and offers an estimated 27–31 MPG. It includes advanced features such as adaptive cruise control, heated leather seats, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and multiple safety systems like automatic emergency braking and blind spot monitoring. Financing options and prequalification without credit impact are available, and the seller can be contacted directly for inquiries.

• This listing highlights a 2015 Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring priced at $12,255 with 99,636 miles, labeled as a “good deal” within its market range. It features a Crystal White Pearl Mica exterior, sand-colored leather interior, all-wheel drive, automatic transmission, and an estimated MPG of 16–22. The vehicle is equipped with convenience and safety features such as heated seats, keyless start, a premium sound system, backup camera, blind spot monitor, and third-row seating. Financing options are available with no impact on credit score, and the price reflects a recent $1,740 reduction.

• The listing highlights a used 2019 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon priced at $27,999 with 87,995 miles, falling within the Kelley Blue Book fair market range of $26,665–$29,446. This 4WD vehicle has a black exterior and interior, a 2.0L 4-cylinder turbo engine, and an 8-speed automatic transmission. Notable features include Bluetooth connectivity, navigation, rear-view backup camera, remote engine start, and heated mirrors, along with interior comforts such as leather accents, LED lighting, and ample storage. Financing and trade-in options are available, with an estimated monthly payment of $458 based on a 20% down payment.

🍼HELP BABY ZANE

Reyne Dockins recently welcomed her baby boy, Zane, who is now two months old and facing significant health challenges. He was born with a serious heart condition involving a double right ventricle outlet deposition, two VSDs, and a damaged pulmonary artery. Zane recently underwent open-heart surgery and fought through it, but doctors have now discovered brain bleeds, and additional heart surgeries will be needed in the future. Reyne is doing her best to care for Zane while also supporting her 13-year-old son, Brayden, but the demands of this situation have left her unable to work. The family is in need of help to cover essential expenses like rent, groceries, travel, and gas during this time. Support is being requested to ease their financial burden and help them focus on Zane’s recovery and Brayden’s well-being.

Find out more here.

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