🚒A New 911 System, A New Firefighter, and the Princeton Mile

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Happy Thursday morning, Princeton. Between Princeton’s new 911 system, a firefighter who started as a high school intern, and a race called the “Princeton Mile”, it’s clear: we are a town of action. Toss in a few birthday cakes, some track medals, and at least 100 new property transfers, and you’ve got a workout. Don’t worry — refueling with Dairy Queen and watching a craft show still count as cardio.

Let’s check it out.

—Justin Bullington

📬IN THIS ISSUE

💡What You Should Know
⛪️My Easter Story
🗓️Upcoming in Princeton
🪈Flute 66
☀️Princeton Weather
⛽️Princeton Gas Prices
👷‍♂️Princeton Job Opportunities
💼Princeton Businesses
🐰Gateway Easter Fundraiser
💭Remember in Princeton When
🏠Princeton Homes for Sale
📍Outside City Limits

💡WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

• Happy Birthday Corbin Hopkins🎂

• Princeton Fire Department welcomed Tony Maciczak as their newest full-time firefighter after starting as a high school intern four years ago.

• SRM: At Tuesday's Bureau County board meeting the wheels were put in motion to replace outmoded 911 technology. The Board approved the first $150,000 to purchase the Pro Phoenix system which will replace the existing system, put in place when 911 service was implemented.

• The Princeton Tree Board, headed by arborist Dennis Taylor, will be planting 100 trees in historic Oakland Cemetery Saturday April 19 from 9 am to noon.

• The Princeton Area Chamber of Commerce invites runners to the Princeton Mile on June 7 at 10:00 AM. Registration is $25. Register here or call the Chamber at 815-875-2616.

• RMN: The Princeton girls’ track team claimed first place at a five-team meet at Hall on April 8, 2025, scoring 82 points and outperforming Richwoods, IVC, Somonauk, and Hall. Top individual performances included Ashlynn Weber winning the triple jump, Camryn Driscoll winning the 400 dash, Jocelyn Strouss winning the 800 run, and Payton Frueh winning the 3200 run, with several athletes setting personal or season-best marks. Coach Pat Hodge praised the team’s strong showing despite the cool weather, noting the favorable wind conditions.

• BCR: Princeton resident Geraldine Woodlief contributed $1,000 to the city's fireworks show, encouraging other residents to give what they can to help the Princeton Area Chamber of Commerce that organizes the show.

• The 3rd Annual Bureau County Fair Queen Golf Tournament will be held on May 10, 2025, at Spring Creek Golf Course in Spring Valley. Registration is $70 per player before April 10 and $80 after, with check-in at 8:00 a.m. and a shotgun start at 9:00 a.m. For questions, contact Shari Marquez at (815) 252-6835 or [email protected].

• The Rotary Club of Princeton invites kids ages 0–10 to their Easter Egg Hunt on April 19 at 10:30 a.m. in Soldiers & Sailors Park. Photos with the Easter Bunny will be available from 10–11 a.m.

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⛪️MY EASTER STORY

The public is invited to Princeton Bible Church this Palm Sunday weekend for the choir musical “My Easter Story.”  Performances will be on Saturday,  April 12 at 6:00 pm and Sunday, April 13 at 10:15 am at Princeton Bible Church auditorium. No admission will be charged. 

Choir members will dramatize an evening of reminiscing around the campfire as the followers of Jesus recall how He changed their lives, giving them new life. Choir members include (left to right) Katie McCoy, Grace Griffin, Jody Bodamer, Debbie Pease, Deb Basile, Phil Turner, Paul Trotter, Rob Jensen, Shelley Barnett, Jean Whaples, Kate Butler, Chariss Hoffman, and Cheryl Thierry. Absent from the photo are Beverly Neff and Justin Bullington. The musical is directed by Marty Kiser. 

Princeton Bible Church is located 2 miles northeast of Princeton on Us Highway 34. Join us! 

🗓️UPCOMING IN PRINCETON

🛍️ Craft & Vendor Show & Flea Market – A sale just in time for Easter with crafters and flea market vendors at 811 W Peru St, Princeton on Saturday, April 12, from 3 AM–8 AM.

🧀 Grand Opening of The Gamers Guild Lounge – Free play day with VR, board games, pizza, and drinks at The Gamers Guild Lounge on Saturday, April 12, from 1–9 PM. First come, first served.

🥚 Adult Easter Egg Hunt at Barrel Society – A 21+ Easter egg hunt with candy and prize-filled eggs at Barrel Society on Saturday, April 19. Hunt begins at 12 PM sharp. No cost to participate—drinks available for purchase.

🐾 Up Dog at Princeton Animal Care Clinic – A weekend of agility games behind the Princeton Animal Care Clinic from Friday to Sunday, April 25–27. Select games Friday between 3:30 and 6:30 PM; full runs Saturday and Sunday from 9 AM–5 PM or sunset.

🏍️ Princeton Swap Meet – A marketplace for motorcycle enthusiasts at Bureau County Fairgrounds on Sunday, May 4, from 8 AM-2 PM. Admission $10.

🎸 Sweetwater at The Hawg House Saloon – Celebrate Memorial Day Sunday with live music at Hawg House Saloon on Sunday, May 25, from 3-7 PM.

🌳 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.

🏠 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.

🪈ENJOY THE ILLINOIS VALLEY FLUTE ENSEMBLE & BLOOMINGTON-NORMAL FLUTE CLUB IN PRINCETON

The Prairie Arts Council is excited to announce the Route “Flute” 66 concert on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. at the Prairie Arts Center. The concert is free to the public, but a free-will donation will be taken. Described as “a musical cross-country trip following Route 66 from Chicago to California,” it will feature performances by the Illinois Valley Flute Ensemble and the Bloomington-Normal Flute Club.

The Illinois Valley Flute Ensemble, established in 1991 and directed by Sue Gillio, is a premier performance group in central Illinois. Known for a diverse repertoire ranging from Bach to the Beatles, the ensemble is based in the scenic Starved Rock Country. With a membership of 20-25 players, the group maintains an active performance schedule and has appeared at notable events such as the Chicago Flute Club Festivals in 2001 and 2009, as well as at the Epiphany Center of the Arts in Chicago in 2023. The ensemble was honored to perform as one of three invited groups at the 37th Annual Principals Association Conference at the Peoria Civic Center in 2008. The Illinois Valley Flute Ensemble also sponsors the annual Flute Day each February and hosts the Summer Flute Retreat every June.

The Bloomington-Normal Flute Club, founded in 2023 and directed by Rachel Bailey, is a dynamic and growing group that performs extensively in the Bloomington-Normal area. The ensemble is comprised primarily of adult flutists and aims to create an inclusive, welcoming environment for flutists of all experience levels. Rachel Bailey, a former student of Sue Gillio and an alumna of the Illinois Valley Flute Ensemble, is a flute performer and instructor at the Music Shoppe in Normal, IL. The two ensembles previously collaborated on the program “Inspired by Starved Rock” in 2024.

This special concert is an exciting opportunity to enjoy the talents of these two esteemed flute ensembles as they embark on a musical journey across the country.

The Prairie Arts Center is located at 24 Park Ave. E. in Princeton. Founded in 1995, the Prairie Arts Council is dedicated to strengthening and supporting participation in the arts across North Central Illinois. Since its formation, it has sponsored hundreds of concerts, programs, exhibitions, productions, and classes for individuals of all ages and abilities. Programming is funded in part through grants from the Illinois Arts Council Agency and The Closet.

☀️PRINCETON WEATHER

🌥️Today: A few showers are possible early, then skies become partly cloudy later in the day, with a high near 57°F. Winds will be out of the west-southwest at 10 to 20 mph. At night, a few clouds pass through with a low around 37°F. Winds turn northwesterly at 10 to 15 mph.

☀️Friday: The day will be mainly sunny with a high of 56°F. Winds are light from the north at 5 to 10 mph. Skies stay partly cloudy overnight with a low near 35°F. Winds will be light and variable.

☀️Saturday: Mostly sunny skies are expected, with a high reaching 65°F. Winds blow from the south-southwest at 5 to 10 mph. Clouds increase at night with a low near 46°F. Winds shift southeast at 10 to 15 mph.

⛽️PRINCETON GAS PRICES

Regular

Amoco, 720 N Main St: $3.29
Sullivan’s Foods: $3.32
Casey’s West/North: $3.35
Beck’s West/North: $3.35
Road Ranger, N Main St: $3.35
Shell, 2225 N Main St: $3.35

👷‍♂️PRINCETON JOB OPPORTUNITIES

• Dimond Bros Insurance in Princeton is hiring a full-time Client Relations Representative, paying $15–$17 per hour. The role involves handling customer service inquiries and complaints over the phone, requiring strong phone, communication, and organizational skills. Key traits include empathy, active listening, and the ability to manage multi-line phone systems. Benefits include health, vision, and dental insurance, 401(k) with matching, paid time off, and on-the-job training.

• Princeton High School is hiring a full-time paraprofessional to support its Special Education Alternative Program. The position pays from $15 an hour and requires 30 to 40 hours of work per week, Monday through Friday. Responsibilities include assisting with individualized education plans (IEPs), adapting lesson materials, and supporting students’ academic and behavioral needs. Applicants must have a high school diploma or equivalent and either hold or be able to obtain a paraprofessional license. Preferred candidates will have experience with diverse learners, particularly in special education settings, and demonstrate strong communication and problem-solving skills.

• Four Seasons Women’s Apparel is hiring a part-time Retail Associate starting at $15 an hour. Shifts are short and flexible, including after school, lunch coverage, weekdays, and Saturdays—never Sundays or major holidays. The position offers 10–15 hours per week, competitive pay, and a 25% merchandise discount. Benefits include 401(k), paid time off, a flexible schedule, and an employee/store discount.

💼PRINCETON BUSINESSES

• Myrtle’s Pies is open Thursday–Saturday 10:00 AM–2:00 PM. Flavors include Very Berry Cheesecake, Fresh Strawberry Oatmeal, Blondie Brownie Bottom Butterscotch, Caramel Pecan Pumpkin, and many more.

• The Milk Moustache is for sale after nearly a decade of business on Princeton’s Main Street. Buyers have the opportunity to purchase the business and two connected, historic Main Street buildings. Serious inquiries can be directed to Janelle McCarter at Landmark Realty or through the listing here.

• Faith’s Fabulous Treats has just opened at the former Grandma Rosie’s location at 920 W. Peru St. in Princeton. They serve a full menu of ice cream treats like shakes, cones, sundaes, specialty parfaits, and dipped cones, alongside a variety of hot food including pulled pork, burgers, brat patties, fried mushrooms, mini tacos, and more. Hours are Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Delivery is available, and you can call 815-719-6710 to place an order.

• The Bureau County Senior Center will host a craft class “Let’s Get Crafty with Tracy” on Thursday, May 22 at 6 PM. $25 fee. Call 815-879-3981 to reserve your spot. Location: 16 West Marion Street, Princeton, IL 61356.

• Tony’s Butt Shack BBQ & Catering hosts AYCE Wings & Cheap Chicken every Wednesday from 4–9 PM. April drink special: Peep-o-Rita. It is taking Easter Sunday reservations for April 20, with breakfast from 8 AM–2 PM and brunch specials starting at 10 AM. Featured items include stuffed pork loin, chicken broccoli alfredo, broiled cod, caramel bread pudding, and drink specials. Call early to reserve your spot!

• Mavolan’s has Easter basket gift ideas ready to go, from accessories and plush toys to colorful home goods.

• Friends of Strays is hosting a trivia night on Saturday, May 31 at Princeton Moose Lodge. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., trivia begins at 6:00 p.m., with food, a live auction, and a magic show by Cory included. $25 per person, teams of 6–8.

• In-Home Care Connection is presenting a public event titled “A Conversation About Prostate Cancer” at Tiskilwa Public Library on Wednesday, April 10 at 6:00 p.m. The session includes guidance on navigating the VA system.

• Paisano’s Ristorante has announced its April pizza of the month: Taco Pizza. This fan-favorite features taco-seasoned meat, cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, chips, and a refried bean salsa base.

• Steven Becker from Thrivent reminds everyone that spring is a great time to review financial goals or insurance information. He encourages people to reach out for help or questions and visit thrivent.com/social for disclosures.

• Boek-el-ZOO is hosting a giveaway for a Discovery RC Tarantula; spend $10 or more to get a ticket for the drawing. Use it to surprise someone or gift it to a spider enthusiast! The winner will be drawn on the last day of April.

• Wyaton Hills Golf Course is open for the season, and season tickets are available now. Events coming up include the Men’s Scramble on April 26, Two-Man Better Ball on April 28, and the Men’s League Play kickoff on April 30. Junior Golf returns in June, and club fitting days are set for May 7 (Mizuno) and May 21 (Ping).

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🐰GATEWAY EASTER FUNDRAISER

Only two weeks until the Easter Bunny arrives. Order candy-filled eggs to be scattered around your yard for Easter morning fun. Options include 25 eggs for $20, 50 eggs for $37.50, 75 eggs for $52.50, or 100 eggs for $65. Add-ons include treat bags for pets for $5 and personalized signs for $7.50. Delivery available in Bureau, Marshall, and Putnam counties and others, or pickup in Princeton. Order deadline is April 14 at 4 PM. Order form: https://forms.gle/Y3pgeVEXUCSJfLaBAOnly two weeks until the Easter Bunny arrives. Order candy-filled eggs to be scattered around your yard for Easter morning fun. Options include 25 eggs for $20, 50 eggs for $37.50, 75 eggs for $52.50, or 100 eggs for $65. Add-ons include treat bags for pets for $5 and personalized signs for $7.50. Delivery available in Bureau, Marshall, and Putnam counties and others, or pickup in Princeton. Order deadline is April 14 at 4 PM. Order form: https://forms.gle/Y3pgeVEXUCSJfLaBA

💭REMEMBER IN PRINCETON

🏠PRINCETON HOME FOR SALE

• A 4-bedroom, 2-bath home at 914 S Pleasant St is listed for $29,900. The house offers 1,356 square feet and is priced at $22 per square foot. It is being sold in AS-IS condition and needs significant repairs or a complete rebuild. The location is considered ideal, close to downtown Princeton, making it a potential investment opportunity.

• 22590 1075 North Ave is listed for $245,000. This 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home has 2,184 square feet and is located in the Lake Arispie community. It features vaulted ceilings, a stone fireplace, hardwood floors, a master suite with a walk-in closet, and a loft space for an office or play area. The walk-out basement offers storage and access to a fenced backyard extending to the lake inlet.

• 232 N Euclid Ave is listed for $99,900. This 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath home offers 1,754 square feet of living space and sits on a 10,836 sq ft lot. Built in 1881, the home includes updates like a half bath on the first floor and a privacy-fenced backyard. The home features a new fridge, appliances that stay, and a driveway that runs from the street to the alley. It is being sold AS-IS, with the front porch needing repair and central air needing replacement.

🏠PRINCETON HOME FOR SALE

• This home at 719 Park Ave, Princeton, is listed for $315,000 and offers 5 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, and 2,840 square feet of space. Built in 1900, it sits on nearly half an acre and features a 2.5-car heated drive-thru garage. The home has been updated with newer windows, vinyl siding, granite countertops, and French doors, with hardwood floors professionally refinished in 2025. There’s a large main-level bedroom and bath, along with a huge master suite that includes a walk-in closet, bathroom, and attached laundry room. Outdoor features include a front porch, gazebo, and stamped concrete patio inside a fenced yard. Its location near Rt 6, Rt 26, and I-180 makes it highly accessible while offering a park-like private lot.

• 22590 1075 North Ave is listed for $245,000. This 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home has 2,184 square feet and is located in the Lake Arispie community. It features vaulted ceilings, a stone fireplace, hardwood floors, a master suite with a walk-in closet, and a loft space for an office or play area. The walk-out basement offers storage and access to a fenced backyard extending to the lake inlet.

• 232 N Euclid Ave is listed for $99,900. This 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath home offers 1,754 square feet of living space and sits on a 10,836 sq ft lot. Built in 1881, the home includes updates like a half bath on the first floor and a privacy-fenced backyard. The home features a new fridge, appliances that stay, and a driveway that runs from the street to the alley. It is being sold AS-IS, with the front porch needing repair and central air needing replacement.

📍OUTSIDE CITY LIMITS

• Starved Rock Wood Products LLC has notified the state of Illinois that they will be laying off 58 workers on June 8, 2025.

• Johnsonville, a premier sausage maker in Momence, has just recalled a large amount of its product.

• Dixon man sentenced for delivering meth

• Grand Opening Details Released For Utica's Market On Mill

• Final Performances This Weekend For "Hello, Dolly!" At IVCC

• Big Weekend For Easter Egg Hunts Across Starved Rock Area

• Illinois EPA Grants Over $1.24 Million to Village of Buda for Lead Pipe Replacement

• It was 51 Aprils ago when the worst tornado outbreak in United States history began when storms began to impact Illinois.

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