🍼Baby Zane, Sonic 3, and Healthy Habits

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Good morning, Princeton. 2024 was a whirlwind! 2025 is already upon us. Time moves so quickly, doesn’t it? James 4:14 puts it this way — “Your life is like the morning fog—it’s here a little while, then it’s gone.“ Don’t waste your 2025!

—Justin Bullington

📬IN THIS ISSUE

💡What You Should Know
🏠Princeton Homes for Sale
☀️Princeton Weather
⛽️Princeton Gas Prices
🍼Help Baby Zane
💼Princeton Businesses
🎭Festival 56
👷Princeton Job Opportunities
💝Magi Baby Chest
🥕Tips for a Healthier 2025
🏀Upcoming High School Sports
📍Outside City Limits
🍿At the Apollo

💡WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

• Happy Birthday yesterday, Jessica Odell, Jessica Hardy, Cherie House! Happy Birthday tomorrow Erika Luft! 🎂

• Princeton Wrestling secured third place in the Silver Bracket with a strong win over Monticello at Abe’s Rumble Wrestling Tournament.

• The Princeton City Council approved a bid of $177,302 from Ski Seal Coating and Maintenance of La Salle for the Marion Street storm sewer project. The decision was made during the council meeting on December 16.

• Ring in 2024 with Literary Magic at Princeton Library’s Virtual New Years Bash

• OSF HealthCare announces updated safety measures starting today, requiring masks for all employees, patients, and visitors due to widespread respiratory illnesses. Visitor restrictions limit patients to two adult visitors at a time.

• The City of Princeton has announced the garbage and recycling schedule for the holidays. Garbage Routes for tomorrow’s (January 1) collection will shift to Thursday, January 2. Residents are reminded to put items out early.

• Tickets for the Bureau County Fair’s upcoming concert featuring Trace Adkins are on sale. The event is scheduled for August 21, with various seating options available, including pit, track, and grandstand areas. Pricing starts at $30, with additional fees applied at checkout.

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🏠PRINCETON HOMES FOR SALE

• This delightful farmette at 20763 2215 East St. is listed for $240,000 and spans 2.4 picturesque acres. The 3-bedroom, 1-bathroom home features a spacious living area, updated wiring and plumbing, and a brand-new roof and radon mitigation system. The property includes an attached bonus room that can be used as a fourth bedroom, adding versatility for families. With beamed ceilings and carpeted flooring, the home exudes charm and comfort. Completing the property are a two-car garage and scenic surroundings, making it a perfect blend of country living and modern convenience.

• This inviting property at 13279 Lovers Lane Rd. is listed for $250,000 and offers 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and 1,444 square feet of living space on a spacious 2.7-acre lot. The living room features a wood-burning fireplace, while the family room boasts a wood-burning stove, cathedral ceilings, and skylights for a bright and airy feel. The dining room is generously sized, perfect for gatherings, and all three bedrooms include new carpeting and ample closet space. A new roof was installed in 2020, adding value and durability to the home. Additional features include a three-car garage and serene surroundings, making this property ideal for comfortable living and entertaining.

• This lovely home at 3101 Bedford Dr. S. is listed for $119,900 and offers 3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, and 1,300 square feet of living space. Featuring vinyl siding and a spacious primary bedroom, this property is perfect as a starter home or rental investment. It sits on a full-size lot with room for outdoor enjoyment and includes an attached one-car garage for convenience. With its affordable price, this home is a great opportunity to customize and make your own. Ideal for first-time buyers or those seeking a manageable investment property.

🌤️PRINCETON WEATHER

🌨️Today: Snow and a rain/snow mix will taper off during the day, leaving cloudy skies. Highs will reach 36°F with NW winds at 10 to 20 mph. The night will bring considerable cloudiness and cooler temperatures, dropping to 23°F. Winds will remain steady from the NW at 10 to 15 mph.

☁️Wednesday: Mostly cloudy skies will dominate the day with temperatures holding steady in the low to mid-30s. NW winds at 10 to 20 mph will bring a brisk feel. Partly cloudy conditions in the evening will give way to more clouds overnight. Lows will fall to 20°F with winds remaining from the NW at 10 to 15 mph.

🌨️Thursday: The day will be partly cloudy with a chance of isolated snow showers. Highs will reach 30°F, with NW winds at 10 to 15 mph. Overnight, skies will turn mostly cloudy, and late-night snow flurries are possible. Temperatures will drop to a chilly 14°F with lighter winds at 5 to 10 mph.

☁️Friday: Partly cloudy skies will persist throughout the day with a high of 23°F. WNW winds at 5 to 10 mph will add to the winter chill. The night will bring partly to mostly cloudy conditions with lows falling to 9°F. Winds will remain calm, coming from the WNW at 5 to 10 mph.

Farewell to Mild: Winter to Take Over for 2025

Time is running out on the mild weather of 2024, with temperatures over the past week staying unusually warm, continuing a trend that makes this year one of the top five warmest on record. However, the mild conditions won’t last as colder air moves in with the new year, bringing temperatures near or below normal for the first two weeks of January. A system leading to a wintry mix or light snow may hit this morning. This pattern could bring additional chances for snow later, though details will become clearer in the coming days. As we enter 2025, the colder air will firmly take hold.

Adapted from tswails.com 

⛽️PRINCETON GAS PRICES

Regular

Amoco, 720 N Main St: $3.03
Sullivan’s Foods: $3.06
Casey’s West/North: $3.19
Beck’s West/North: $3.09
Road Ranger, N Main St: $3.09
Shell, 2225 N Main St: $3.09

🍼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.

💼PRINCETON BUSINESSES

• 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.

• Los Ranchitos Restaurant announces its holiday hours, serving customers on New Year’s Eve from 11 AM to 6 PM and New Year’s Day from 12 PM to 8 PM. Guests are welcome to enjoy their meals during these extended hours.

• Downtown Liquidation showcases a mid-century modern table priced at $180. The store encourages shoppers to explore unique finds with ever-changing inventory.

• Scooter’s Coffee invites customers to enjoy an Ice Berry Ignite Red Bull Infusion to enhance their winter. The drink promises a refreshing and energizing experience.

• Starved Rock Media reminds wedding professionals to save the date for the upcoming wedding show at The Barn at Hornbaker Gardens on February 2, 2025. Vendors are encouraged to secure a booth for this highly anticipated event.

• Niel & Shorty’s BBQ will be open today on New Year’s Eve for dinner from 4–8 PM. Carryout orders are available by phone.

• Once Upon A Craft is hosting a one-day-only Christmas sale with 50% off items and an open painting session today on New Year’s Eve from 10 AM to 2 PM.

• Golden Rice Authentic Thai Food announced its New Year’s Eve hours, serving lunch from 10:30 AM to 2 PM and dinner from 4 to 6:30 PM. They thank customers for their continued support.

• 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.

• Rachel Rene highlights its year-end sale with 40% off select bath and body products, apparel, and accessories. The shop will also be open on New Year’s Day and offers online shopping.

• Boek-el-ZOO celebrates seven years and invites the community to join their anniversary event on Wednesday. Festivities will include special activities to mark the occasion.

• The Freedom House is seeking community support to address shortages of essential cleaning supplies. Items needed include dishwasher detergent, laundry detergent, spray cleaner, and toilet paper. Donations can be made through their Amazon Wishlist or dropped off at 440 Elm Place. These contributions will help ensure hygiene and cleanliness for those relying on their services.

• The holiday season brings many food temptations, but making healthy choices now can set you up for success with your New Year’s resolutions. Many people struggle with dieting cycles, losing weight only to regain it, but there’s a better way. Kate Butler offer a sensible plan to reset your metabolism, enjoy good food, and break the cycle of overeating and dieting. For more information, visit mylastweightlossprogram.com/kate or call her directly at 815-878-3278.

• The Clark Street Pet Pantry accepts donations of pet food to help furry friends in need. Donations can be left at 309 W. Clark Street, with larger quantities portioned into smaller bags.

• Cafe Grace invites patrons to celebrate three years of business with a New Year’s Day brunch crafted by chefs Marcelena and Eran. Menu highlights include eggs benedict, beef tenderloin hash, and lemon blueberry pancakes. Reservations are encouraged for this special event to kick off the new year.

• Bean Buzz is offering a 24% discount to students on purchases made through the end of the year. Students must present a student ID, lunch card, or report card to receive the discount. The offer celebrates winter break and the upcoming new year.

• Wild Ginger Bistro and Wine Bar is hosting a New Year’s Eve dinner with a four-course menu for $69 per person. The event includes dishes like oysters, pan-seared scallops, and chocolate-covered strawberries. Reservations are required for both indoor and igloo outdoor dining.

• The Princeton Closet’s donation center will be reopening on January 2. Security cameras are in place, and unauthorized dumping is prohibited outside the center’s operating hours. The organization thanks donors for their support and asks the community to respect posted guidelines.

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👷‍♂️PRINCETON JOB OPPORTUNITIES

• Cashier, Drive-thru | Beck’s Princeton West | Full-time

  Handles customer service tasks and drive-thru operations. Offers paid time off and dental insurance.

• Housekeeper | Goldwater Care Princeton | Full-time and Part-time

  Ensures cleanliness and upkeep of facilities. No degree required.

• Online Order Filling Team Associate | Walmart | Part-time

  Assists in fulfilling online orders. Benefits include dental and health insurance, as well as paid time off.

• Shift Manager | Pizza Hut | Full-time

  Oversees shifts and staff operations. No degree required.

• Assistant Store Manager | O’Reilly Auto Parts | Full-time

  Supervises store activities, manages inventory, and supports customer needs. Offers health insurance, dental insurance, and paid time off.

• Retail Sales Associate | AutoZone | Part-time

  Assists customers with product selection and maintains stock levels. Includes health and dental insurance.

• Senior Retail Sales Associate | AutoZone | Full-time

  Supports store operations and customer needs. Includes health and dental insurance, along with paid time off.

• Server | Pizza Hut | Full-time

  Provides excellent customer service and ensures prompt food delivery. No degree required.

• Stocking & Unloading | Walmart | Full-time

  Manages inventory unloading and stocking. No degree required.

• Manager Trainee | AutoZone | Full-time

  Develops leadership skills while managing store tasks. Benefits include health and dental insurance, and paid time off.

• Construction Laborer | Express Employment Professionals | Full-time and Contractor

  Performs various construction tasks. Requires communication and motor coordination skills.

• Lead Sales Associate | Dollar General | Part-time

  Assists with customer service and sales goals. Includes health and dental insurance, and paid time off.

• Sales Associate | Dollar General | Part-time

  Provides customer service and processes transactions. Pays $14–14.10 per hour with benefits including dental and health insurance.

• Medical Office Assistant (Gastroenterology) | OSF HealthCare | Full-time

  Handles office administrative tasks and assists patients. Includes health and dental insurance.

•  Production Technician | Corteva | Full-time

  Operates equipment and ensures production quality. Includes paid time off and dental insurance.

• Receptionist | H&R Block | Full-time

  Provides front-desk support and assists with administrative tasks. No degree required.

• Restaurant General Manager | Pizza Hut | Full-time

  Oversees restaurant operations and ensures customer satisfaction. No degree required.

• Porter | Culver’s | Part-time

  Supports restaurant cleanliness and guest experience. Pays $15–17 per hour with health and dental insurance.

• Warehouse Specialist | ACE Hardware | Full-time

  Handles warehouse tasks, including stocking and logistics. Pays $19–21.50 per hour with benefits.

• Operations Assistant Manager | Dollar Tree | Full-time

  Supports store operations and staff. Includes health and dental insurance.

• Assistant Store Manager | Dollar General | Full-time

  Assists with daily store management. Benefits include health insurance, dental insurance, and paid time off.

• Warehouse Associate (Production) | Ollie’s Bargain Outlet | Full-time

  Processes and stocks inventory for efficient store operations. Includes health and dental insurance.

💪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!

📍OUTSIDE CITY LIMITS

• The Shed Tap N Grill in Walnut invites guests to celebrate New Year’s Eve with special surf and turf or twin lobster tail dinners, complete with sides and dessert. Kids eat free with an entrée, and a champagne toast at midnight adds to the festivities.

• Parlor Coffee & Cream Co. in Sheffield is hosting its 3rd Annual Noon Years Eve celebration with giveaways and a mocktail toast at 11:30 AM. Guests of all ages are welcome to join the fun starting at 8 AM, with each drink purchase earning entry into prize drawings.

• 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.

• Three new Illinois laws to know for 2025

• New law in Illinois protects gives renters more protection from landlords

• Illinois laws impacting employers go into effect Jan. 1

• Illinois man to complete decade-long 1 million pushups challenge

• After the 1893 Chicago World Fair, there was debate over where the Ferris Wheel would go. Designer George Ferris wanted to build an entertainment park for it, but Chicago residents opposed the idea. Read more on how it was settled in court.

• Starbucks Strike Expands, Closes Nearly 60 US Stores

• Illinois climbs to No. 22 in latest poll

• QC posts Illinois’ biggest November jobless rate hike, IDES says

• SV Man Accused Of Scheme To Defraud Bank In La Salle Out Of More Than $17K

🎭Festival 56

Festival 56 asks: Are you looking for the perfect Christmas gift for your favorite theatergoer? Or perhaps you’d like to treat yourself to the world of drama, laughter, and unforgettable performances? Don’t miss out on ticket savings!

The Santa Special Festival Pass for 2025 is $150.00, and the Flex Four package for 2025 is $110.00. Purchase online at Festival56.com or at the Box Office at 316 S. Main St., Princeton, which will be open on Saturdays, December 14th and 21st, from 9 a.m. to 12 noon.

Summer Schedule

•  “Hairspray the Musical” will be staged from June 27 to July 5 at the Grace Theater. This vibrant production follows Tracy Turnblad, a bold teen striving for racial equality on a 1960s TV program.

•  “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” will grace Soldiers and Sailors Park from July 6 to July 30. Shakespeare’s enchanting play delves into love, confusion, and whimsical fairy interventions.

• “Carrie: The Musical” runs July 11 through July 20 at the Grace Theater, unraveling the story of an outcast teenager navigating bullying and family conflict while discovering her supernatural abilities.

• “The Little Mermaid” is set for July 25 to August 3, showcasing Ariel’s quest for freedom and transformation in a captivating tale of courage and sacrifice.

• The Cabaret Series offers performances from June 20 through August 3, spotlighting diverse musical styles and creating a dynamic connection between audiences and performers.

Tickets can be purchased online at Festival56.com, at the box office, or by calling 815-879-5656.

💝MAGI BABY CHEST

The Magi Baby Chest in Princeton has set the date for its Magi Gala, a Valentine’s evening celebration, on Saturday, Feb. 15, at the barn at Hornbaker Gardens.

This formal fundraising event will feature dinner and dancing in support of the Magi Baby Chest. Guests can enjoy cocktails and hors d’oeuvres starting at 5 p.m., followed by dinner at 6 p.m. The Steve Sharp Band will provide live music, and the evening will include a small silent auction and additional activities. The nonprofit describes the event as a mix of fun and sophistication, designed to help babies and toddlers in need.

Proceeds from the gala will fund baby supplies for families. The event’s aim is not only to generate financial support for the Magi Baby Chest but also to engage the broader community and highlight the services the organization provides to local families.

The Magi Baby Chest hopes to expand its donor base and inspire ongoing support beyond the St. Louis parish community. The nonprofit encourages attendees to invite friends interested in learning about and supporting a pro-family initiative.

Tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis and can be purchased online at magibabychest.com or at the St. Louis parish office. Open seating will be available unless a table of eight is reserved. Tickets are priced at $75 per person or $600 for a table. Quantities are limited. Donations can also be made online or by mailing a check to St. Louis Church, with “MBC” noted in the memo line.

🥕TIPS FOR A HEALTHIER 2025

Start the new year strong with these practical strategies for better physical health and overall well-being:

1. Stay Active

Commit to at least 30 minutes of exercise most days. Whether it’s running, strength training, or a favorite sport, regular movement supports cardiovascular health, builds strength, and boosts energy.

2. Prioritize Sleep

Quality rest is essential. Aim for 7–9 hours of sleep each night and keep a consistent sleep schedule, even on weekends. Better sleep improves focus, mood, and immune function.

3. Eat Whole, Nutritious Foods

Make whole foods the foundation of your diet. Focus on vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats. Minimize processed foods and added sugars for better energy and long-term health.

4. Stay Hydrated

Water is key to keeping your body functioning optimally. Start your day with a glass of water and keep a reusable bottle on hand to meet your daily hydration needs.

5. Focus on Preventative Care

Don’t skip regular check-ups, screenings, and recommended vaccinations. Staying proactive with your health is one of the best ways to prevent future complications.

6. Set Goals You Can Stick To

Small, measurable goals make it easier to stay on track. Whether it’s running a 5K or incorporating more vegetables into your meals, consistent progress adds up over time.

7. Simplify Your Space

A clean and organized environment promotes a sense of order and reduces distractions, helping you stay focused on your health and wellness goals.

By taking small, consistent steps, you’ll be ready to make 2025 your healthiest year yet!

🏀UPCOMING HIGHSCHOOL SPORTS

Saturday, January 4th

• Girls Basketball

  • Freshman: vs. Riverdale High School at 10:00 AM, away

  • JV: vs. Riverdale High School at 10:00 AM, away

  • Varsity: vs. Riverdale High School at 12:00 PM, away

• Boys Basketball

  • Freshman: vs. Rock Falls HS at 10:00 AM, away

  • JV: vs. Rock Falls HS at 11:30 AM, away

  • Varsity: vs. Rock Falls HS at 1:00 PM, away

🍿AT THE APOLLO

🎥Now Playing Through January 2nd

Mufasa (PG)

• A prequel to The Lion King, chronicling Mufasa’s rise to become the King of Pride Rock.

• Showtimes: New Year’s Eve: 4:15 PM only

• Wednesday & Thursday: 4:15 PM & 7:00 PM

Sonic 3 (PG)

• Sonic and his friends return for another high-speed adventure filled with action and fun.

• Showtimes: New Year’s Eve: 4:30 PM only

• Thursday: 4:30 PM & 7:15 PM

Tickets are available at apolloprinceton.com or at the box office. Thy now have Electronic Gift Cards available on their website as well. Instantly available for use, they make the perfect last minute gift or if you don't have the possibility to hand over gift in person.

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