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Happy Saturday morning, Princeton. This morning: heartfelt stories, community events, trick-or-treat reminders, and a new Letter from Lori that’ll make you laugh, reflect, and maybe even do a cartwheel. Plus, fresh business deals and a shoutout to some of our very own doing great things.

Let’s get it going.

—Justin Bullington

📬IN THIS ISSUE

💡What You Should Know
🎃Halloween Events
👶Zearing Child Enrichment
☀️Princeton Weather
⛽️Princeton Gas Prices
💼Princeton Businesses
👷Princeton Job Openings
🤕Letter From Lori

💡WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

• Happy Birthday, Derek Hoffman and Maribel Kern!🧁

• BCR: Princeton native Keegan Fogarty discovered his passion for entrepreneurship at the University of Iowa, leading him to launch his own company, General Robotics.

• New Aldi Progressing In Princeton

• Two Princeton Tigers Cross Country Runners Ran Best Times Despite the Cold and Windy Day at the Sterling Freshman/JV Meet

• Braveheart Seeks Community Sponsors to Support Families in Need This Holiday Season

• The City of Princeton will host an Electronics Recycling Event on today, October 25, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Bureau County Highway Department; the city’s link provides the list of accepted items.

• River Bend Food Bank’s mobile pantry will be at the Bureau County Fairgrounds on Thursday, October 30. Registration is from 9:15 to 10:00 a.m., with distribution beginning indoors at 10:00 a.m. Attendees are asked not to arrive more than 30 minutes before distribution.

• The Princeton Area Chamber of Commerce invites everyone to shop local this holiday season. Christmas Walk Weekend is November 21–23 and will include free carriage rides and more.

• Small Business Saturday is November 29 with special offers, local Monopoly board promotions, and gift card giveaways across participating stores.

• The annual Christmas Tree Lighting will be held Friday, December 5 at 6:00 PM, followed by the lighted parade, a Candy Cane Hunt, and a chance for kids to visit with Santa.

  📍Outside City Limits

• Darren and Cindy Bailey Mourn The Loss of Son, Daughter-in-Law, and Grandchildren in Montana Helicopter Crash

• You Gotta Eat: Tanners Orchard

• No steering wheel: Farmers test combine technology during Fendt harvest tour

• Updated Home Sales Numbers Across The Starved Rock Area

• Former Chief Medical Officer of OSF in Ottawa Pushes Back on Hospital's Latest Plans

• Multiple Agencies Make Heroin/Fentanyl Drug Bust in La Salle

• Boggio’s Orchard is launching its Flashlight Corn Maze Fridays and Saturdays through October 25, from 7–10 PM. Admission is $12 and includes a meal, with guests encouraged to enter the Corn Maze Contest for a chance to win $250.

🎃HALLOWEEN EVENTS

🎃 Trunk or Treat Events

• Oct. 7 – 5–7 PM, Hegler Park, LaSalle

• Oct. 11 – 11 AM–1 PM, YMCA, Peru

• Oct. 16 – 4–6 PM, Liberty Village, Princeton

• Oct. 23 – 4–6:30 PM, Goldwater Care, Princeton

• Oct. 25 – 10 AM–1 PM, Peru HyVee

• Oct. 25 – 10 AM–1 PM, Crossbridge, Ottawa

• Oct. 25 – 11 AM–1 PM, OSF Medical Group, Peru

• Oct. 25 – 12–3 PM, Advantage Auto, Peru

• Oct. 25 – 4–6 PM, Illinois Valley Auto, Peru

• Oct. 25 – 4–8 PM, LaSalle Speedway

• Oct. 28 – 5–7 PM, Starved Rock Lodge

• Oct. 31 – 4–5 PM, Liberty Village, Peru

🍬 Trick or Treat Hours

• Granville – 6–8 PM

• Hennepin – 5–7 PM

• Henry – 5–8 PM

• La Moille – 5–7 PM

• LaSalle – 5–7 PM

• Ladd – 5–7 PM

• Magnolia – 5–7 PM

• Mendota – 5–7 PM

• Oglesby – 5:30–7:30 PM

• Peru – 5–7 PM

• Princeton – 5–8 PM

• Seneca – 5–7 PM

• Spring Valley – 5–7 PM

• Streator – 5–7 PM

• Utica – 5:30–7:30 PM

👶ZEARING CHILD ENRICHMENT CENTER

CHILDCARE – Immediate Openings

We have immediate openings for a variety of our Infant, Toddler, and Preschool Programs.

Our School-Age program is currently FULL with no openings at this time.

Enrichment Activities

From drawing and writing to pretend play, we provide a diverse range of activities to foster creativity and social skills to set children up for life readiness.

Preschool Programs

Fun and educational hands-on activities to prepare young children for success in Kindergarten. A focus on emotional regulation.

Infant to Two’s Care

Gentle care and attention for our youngest students, ensuring they feel secure and loved. Start as young as 6 weeks old.

Apply Today!

📞 Contact Us: 815-875-2335

🌐 Visit Our Website: www.zcec.org

📍 Our Location: 633 Masonic Drive, Princeton, IL 61356

☀️PRINCETON WEATHER

🌧️Today: We’ll run a classic “mix of sun and clouds” with a spotty shower in a few neighborhoods, but many stay dry; afternoon tops out near 58°F. Light breezes and a cool feel for late October. Evening dries out and turns crisp with lows near 45°F—a jacket night.

☀️ Sunday: A beauty: plenty of sunshine and a milder push brings highs to about 63°F. Air stays comfortably dry, visibility excellent—prime leaf-peeping weather. Cooler again after sunset with lows down around 41°F.

🌤️ Monday: A breezy start gives way to times of clouds and sun; afternoon near 58°F feels seasonably cool. It’s a largely dry day for errands or practice. Another chilly night follows with lows near 41°F.

🌧️ Tuesday: Skies turn mostly cloudy and we’ll see a little rain at times, enough for damp roads but not a washout; expect highs around 56°F. Keep the light rain jacket handy for the afternoon and early evening. Night falls to the upper-30s/near 40°F with lingering clouds.

🌥️ Wednesday: A clouds-and-sun blend with a shower in spots and a breezy feel; cooler with highs near 54°F. Gusts will make it feel a touch brisk at times. Evening turns colder, slipping to the upper-30s—have a warmer layer for the late dog walk.

⛽️PRINCETON GAS PRICES

Regular

Amoco, 720 N Main St: $2.94
Sullivan’s Foods: $2.96
Casey’s West/North: $2.99
Beck’s West/North: $2.99
Road Ranger, N Main St: $2.99
Shell, 2225 N Main St: $2.99

Peru Gas 👀

Sapp Bros.: $2.79

💼PRINCETON BUSINESSES #SHOPLOCAL

• Apollo POP is running a special now through Sunday — $20 refills on their signature tins with up to three popcorn flavors included.

• Enjoy 25% off all Halloween pottery now through Sunday, October 26 at The Knack. These unpainted ceramics are ready to customize and perfect for fall decorating. The store is open Thursday through Sunday from 12–7 p.m. for walk-ins.

• Teddy Ruxpin has returned to Finders Keepers, ready to spark childhood memories. Pants are still just $1 through Saturday, and they’re giving away free socks and select glassware while supplies last. A new loveseat has arrived—pictures will be shared soon.

• Once Upon A Craft is hosting its 5th Annual Christmas Open House on Sunday, November 10 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 518 S. Main Street. Browse handcrafted ornaments and holiday items, and enjoy free cocoa, cookies, and giveaways while you shop.

• Corner Chair Market is clearing out fall decor at 60% off to make room for Christmas items. Stop in soon for major seasonal savings on home accents and gifts.

• Fresh Finds Princeton has stocked a new collection of cozy sweaters perfect for the fall season. Visit their shop to check out the latest arrivals and stay stylish as the temperatures drop.

• Sisler’s Ice Cream has Cinnamon ice cream back for fall, along with Pumpkin Pie and other seasonal half gallons. They also offer dairy-free choices like Chocolate, Pumpkin Pie, and sorbet flavors.

• Dairy Queen is closing for the season in less than a week. Limited cakes and Dilly Bars are still available. The final day to order is Monday, October 27.

• Mavolan’s has restocked with soft, cozy holiday pajamas in sizes for the whole family. The store is open today from 10:00 to 5:30.

• Neighborhood Ace Hardware is offering RV antifreeze at a special of two gallons for $6.50, regularly priced at $7.99 each.

• Wild Honey Boutique now features a new dog lovers section filled with themed soaps, socks, tees, and more.

• Rachel Rene will launch its holiday collection on October 30. Expect brand-new soap scents, lotions, scrubs, and seasonal items for gifting.

• Corner Chair Market currently has a wide selection of desks in all shapes, sizes, and finishes, available for immediate pickup.

• Lit Up Taylor’s Way is now booking holiday lighting installations for homes, businesses, and public spaces. Services include custom lighting designs with both classic white and colorful displays.

• Paisano’s Ristorante is offering Taco Pizza and Giant Pretzels through the end of the month. Dine-in, carry-out, or delivery within 10 miles is available.

• Prime Quarter Steak House thanks the Illinois Valley community for voting them Best of the Illinois Valley 2025 and recognizes their team’s great service.

• Four Seasons in Princeton has released a new Southern Lady clothing collection in Missy, Petite, and Plus sizes. Styles include flounce sleeves, suede vests, and watercolor plaids. Save 24% with code PUMPKIN through October 26.

• Tiskilwa’s Halloween celebration is Sunday, October 26. Costume judging begins at 4 p.m. followed by trunk-or-treat at West Park and village-wide trick-or-treating.

• Wild Honey Boutique is highlighting their new Christmas sweaters, with store hours Friday 10–5:30, Saturday 10–5, and Sunday 12–4.

• Boek-el-ZOO will begin handing out scratch-off coupons to customers starting Saturday, October 25. Every purchase earns a free scratch-off with potential prizes.

• Emerald Tablet Collective will host a Halloween flash tattoo day on November 1 from 12–9 p.m. with designs starting at $70. Walk-ins are welcome and costumes are encouraged.

• The Princeton Closet has stocked its shelves with Christmas décor. Current promotions include buy-one-get-one-free craft books and 12 clothing items for $8.

• Optimal Health has expanded their line of Simple Mills snacks. New almond flour bars and cookies are now available on the shelves.

• Tony’s Butt Shack BBQ is hosting its Annual Trunk-or-Treat “BOO BASH” on October 27 from 4:00–8:00 PM. Everyone’s welcome to participate—there will be candy, local vendors, free hot dogs, sloppy joes, drinks, and the return of the Dancing Haggs. Rain or shine!

Upcoming:

🚜 Heritage Tractor Halloween Howl – Trick-or-Tractor & costume contest with treats and John Deere toys (while supplies last). Heritage Tractor, 20144 1800 Ave N. Saturday, October 25, 8 AM–12 PM.

🏀 Harlem Wizards Game – High-flying hoops and family fun at Logan Jr High School (Pannebaker Gym), 302 W Central Ave. Tuesday, October 28. Doors open 5:30 PM, game at 6:30 PM.

🛠️ Princeton Swap Meet – Find old garage treasures at Walneck’s Motorcycle Swap, 811 W Peru St. Sunday, November 9, 8 AM–2 PM. $10 admission, $50 vending.

🎶 Wild Card at Hawg House – Day drinking and live music at Hawg House Saloon, 18066 US Hwy 6. Wednesday, December 31, 3–7 PM.

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👷PRINCETON JOB O PENINGS

• Dollar Tree in Princeton, IL is hiring a part-time Customer Service Associate, offering pay between $13.75 and $19.25 per hour. The position involves assisting customers, managing transactions at the cash register, maintaining store organization, and helping with merchandise and truck unloading. Candidates are expected to ensure a positive and respectful shopping environment while protecting company assets.

• The Structure Laborer position with Ag View FS in Princeton, IL offers full-time employment at $20–$22 per hour. The role involves assisting in the construction and maintenance of grain bins and buildings under the direction of department managers and foremen. Candidates must demonstrate strong communication, customer service, math, and time-management skills, as well as the ability to perform minor equipment maintenance and lift up to 50 pounds. The company provides competitive benefits, including paid time off, retirement plans with company matching, and an Employee Assistance Program, while emphasizing equal opportunity employment and compliance with federal and state regulations.

• Casey’s General Store is hiring full-time and part-time Team Members at $15.00–$19.75 per hour, offering flexible shifts including mornings, evenings, overnights, and weekends. Responsibilities include stocking, cleaning, operating the register, and preparing food, with no prior experience required and cross-training provided. Benefits include tuition assistance, health insurance, 401(k) with a 6% match, DailyPay access, holiday pay, food and drink discounts, and a customizable career path. Team Members are encouraged to demonstrate a positive attitude, reliability, and teamwork in a fast-paced retail environment.

🏛️CITY OF PRINCETON

Halloween Trick-or-Treat Hours will be from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Friday, October 31, 2025. Participating households should have a porch light on. Trick-or-Treaters should do their best to be visible and be mindful of traffic at all times. Vehicle drivers should do their best to be mindful of low-visibility costumes and children crossing the roadways at all times.

Hosting a Public Event in Princeton?

If you’re planning a public gathering or event on City property — including any of our parks, public spaces, and rights-of-way — please remember to complete a Special Event Application beforehand.

This applies to all types of events, such as:

• Concerts or performances

• Festivals or community celebrations

• Walks, runs, or fundraisers

• Political/Religious rallies or gatherings

• Private parties or large group picnics

Applications can be found on our website here.

Printed copies are also available at City Hall.

Let’s work together to ensure every event held in our community is safe and organized.

🌼DANDELION WISHES REFURBISHED FURNITURE

Michelle DeVoss has this lovely jewelery armoire available at her home shop in Princeton. It has six drawers for storage and has been painted in soft cream tones. It would make a wonderful Christmas gift for someone who appreciates “handmade” pieces. Limited delivery available. Be sure to check out her Facebook page “Dandelion Wishes Refurbished Furniture” for upcoming pieces. She can also be reached at [email protected]

🤕LETTER FROM LORI

Inflammation and swelling.

It’s become a part of my life now that I’m older. Between just being overweight, a popcorn addict, having rheumatoid arthritis, and a plethora of other dysfunctions, I tend to have cankles regularly, along with flexibility issues in my joints. It restricts my movement—and quite frankly, my life. I’ve given up going into stores because I don’t feel like extricating myself from the vehicle and lumbering to the door from a distant parking spot, since I’m not technically disabled as required by law to park closer.

If the picture on the sign were an accurate representation of the qualifications for the parking spot, I might qualify—because to me, it looks like someone with a big butt. But the po-po doesn’t interpret it that way, so I don’t park there. It’s times like those when I seriously consider the difference between NEED and WANT. Do I need that carton of eggs? Or are there enough Little Debbies in the house to get me through the week for breakfast?

So, I deal with the swelling and discomfort… until I make up my mind to do something about it. I realize it will never fully go away, but I’ve learned that when I eat correctly and avoid foods and habits that worsen the symptoms, I’m in far less pain than when I stuff my pie hole with salty snacks and sugary drinks.

A few days of eating right, and I can actually walk, bend, and move like a 40-year-old instead of a declining 58-year-old. After a month, I can pull my still-chubby leg up onto the chair beside me while I read my devotions. Two months in, and I can paint my toenails without the aid of a crane and a respirator. Three months in, and I might be able to do a cartwheel. That remains to be seen… but is probably highly unlikely.

So, we come back to cause and effect—a concept that applies to every area of life. As a Christian, when we indulge in things that aren’t good for our soul, it shows up in other areas too. We allow ourselves to hate or think nasty thoughts. We complain, condemn, or criticize—and suddenly we’re sliding down the slope into gossip and division. But when we intentionally think good thoughts, when we are intentionally encouraging and uplifting, we not only reduce the restrictive inflammation in our own lives, but we may inspire others to walk the same path when they see the results of our efforts.

And it IS an effort. If you’ve ever dieted or tried to change to a healthier lifestyle, you know that temptation is around every corner, and laziness kicks in with the seductive promise of sugary goodness and sweet, sweet lethargy. But with EFFORT, we can resist those detours and stay on track. Once we start seeing positive results, it gets easier and easier to keep going. It also helps to have accountability—someone to motivate you and help you stay strong on the journey.

So, surround yourself with like-minded individuals and become strong enough to be an inspiration to others. This is where a church family comes in. I completely agree that you can be a good Christian and praise and worship in the woods, in a quiet room, or on the highway singing along with WBGL. But there’s something powerful about gathering with fellow believers—speaking openly about your faith with people who understand your walk with Christ, bouncing ideas off each other, and feeding off the fire in your souls. It energizes you to go back out into the world and share it.

I vend at an animal expo in Chicago once a month for my pet store. It’s a long day. Often it’s not convenient, and UGH, I have to get up early. I don’t always enjoy the process of going—but I always go. Because once I get there and set up, I get to talk to people for five hours who share my passion. I learn from them. I share with them. We smile, we laugh, we embrace our passions as like-minded individuals. I always leave with a spark I can’t get anywhere else.

Going to church isn’t always my favorite morning activity either—but once I get there and start singing, hugging, and talking, it fills me in a way I never get just sitting at home reading devotions. So when Sunday morning rolls around, wipe the sleep from your eyes, grab a big jolt of java juice, and go get energized! I promise, the inflammation will ease and you’ll move in ways you didn’t think possible.

Need an advanced workout? Head to a Pentecostal church.

And if you need help finding the right fit for your spiritual fitness level—message me. I’d love to help.

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].