🎂A Beauty Queen Turns 105, PHS Hall of Fame, and a 4-Course Meal

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It is a beautiful, bountiful, blissful, breathtaking Saturday in the greatest town on earth: Princeton, Illinois. It’s Overdrive Monster Truck day at the Fairgrounds today. Me, my dad, and the boys are going to go, because, well, why not? Cars are going to get crushed and there will be real big trucks. I’ve never gone to one…don’t know what to expect, but we will enjoy seeing stuff smashed.

Monster trucks originated in the late 1970s, when modified pickup trucks with oversized tires were used to crush cars as part of motorsport events. The first official monster truck, Bigfoot, created by Bob Chandler, gained popularity in the early 1980s, leading to the development of competitive monster truck racing and freestyle events. Today, monster trucks are a major entertainment phenomenon, known for their massive size, powerful engines, and thrilling stunts performed in arenas and stadiums worldwide.

Let’s go.

—Justin Bullington

📬IN THIS ISSUE

💡What You Should Know
✅Places to Go This Weekend
🎤Bring Him Home
☀️Princeton Weather
⛽️Princeton Gas Prices
🏆Princeton Person of the Week
💼Princeton Businesses
🔗Top Links of the Week
👷‍♂️Princeton Job Openings
📍Outside City Limits
🖼️Artisan Market at Hornbakers
🏠Home For Sale
🧢Lego Design Competition
🦶Letter from Lori

💡WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

• Happy Birthday, Jeanine Thompson 🎉

• Beauty queen celebrates 105th birthday: In 1939 Mildred Schuneman (Stroud back then) was named the first-ever Bureau County Fair Queen in Illinois.  Saturday, she celebrated her 105th birthday at Riverhills Health & Rehab in Kerrville with a host of friends and her son, Norman at the party.

• Local 4 News: A one-of-a-kind garden center: Hornbaker Gardens

• BCR: Princeton High School has selected Sarah Scruggs to the Academic and Career Hall of Fame.

• Golf enthusiasts, mark your calendars for the Tiger Classic Golf Tournament on Saturday, August 10th! Participants will enjoy 18 holes of golf, complete with a cart, sandwich, two drinks during play, and dinner for $125 per golfer. With exciting Hole in One and Putting Contest prizes, this event promises to be a highlight of the season—dinner-only tickets are available for $25. This is one of the many fundraisers PHS does to provide equipment, uniforms and other things needed for PHS sports.

• Support local schools by donating essential school supplies at any First State Bank location from July 8th through August 31st. Your contributions will help ensure every child has the tools they need for a successful school year.

• The Princeton Fire Department is offering a Basic Operations Fire Academy starting soon. This $100, four-month program provides structured training for aspiring firefighters, with classes on Monday and Wednesday evenings and two Saturday classes per month.

• The Princeton Junior Woman's Club is now accepting entries for the 2024 Homestead Baby Contest, open to Bureau County residents under 24 months of age as of September 6th. Prizes will be awarded to the top boy and girl winners, as well as the runners-up, with all winners having a spot in the Homestead Festival parade on Saturday. Entries must include a high-resolution photo and be emailed by August 7th, with in-person and Venmo voting beginning on August 9th.

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✅PLACES TO GO THIS WEEKEND

• Feel the ground shake as the Overdrive Monster Truck Show roars into the Bureau County Fairgrounds today at 2pm. Experience the thrill of monster trucks in action, with opportunities to ride in a real monster truck and meet the drivers.

• Experience the serene practice of Tai Chi every Sunday morning from 9:30 to 10:30 AM at Alexander Park. Suitable for all ages, this gentle exercise offers numerous mental and physical health benefits. Join us under the shade of the trees near the pond for a peaceful start to your day. Cost: $2 for Senior Citizens and $6 for Kids and Adults.

• Bring your furry friend to the Canine Massage Clinic tomorrow from 10 AM to 1 PM. Certified Canine Massage Therapist Sue Hovanes will guide you through hands-on techniques to help decrease your dog's pain, improve their range of motion, and enhance their quality of life. Limited to 6 guests, this $60 session includes refreshments and treats for both you and your dog—secure your spot today!

• Celebrate National Ice Cream Day with Sisler’s Ice Cream tomorrow from 2 PM to 8 PM. Enjoy grasshopper shakes, peppermint pie, and a chance to win a giveaway basket. Don't forget to wear your ugly sweater for a special discount!

• Sunday July 21, The First United Methodist Church in Princeton 316 S. Church St. will have a special guest providing the music for the 9 am service. Ji Sun Lee is an exceptional artist, having performed concerts in Korea, US, Brazil, and Italy. Ji Sun has a Doctor of Musical Arts degree in piano performance and a Master's Degree in Organ Performance from the University of Arizona. She has won top prizes in several competitions, including first prizes in U. of Arizona Concerto Competition. Ji Sun will be joined by her husband Michael Lich, a classical guitarist who performs a wide variety of musical styles, including classical, jazz, and bluegrass. You are all invited to hear some outstanding and special music. No charge, No fee. All welcome.

🎤BRING HIM HOME

Dane Suarez, a native of Princeton, has captivated audiences with his powerful and emotive performances. “This fall I am making my professional International debut at Wexford Festival Opera in Wexford, Ireland as Don Ferolo Whiserandos in Charles Villiers Standford’s satirical opera, The Critic, as well as presenting a recital. I will be taking the opportunity to present as many of these pieces from the recital at the concert in Princeton.

The audience can expect a diverse range of music, from heartfelt arias, art songs, and musical theater, to more contemporary and unexpected pieces—certainly something for every musical taste. There may also be some guest appearances from some of my colleagues throughout my journey!”

Joining him is the talented pianist Nick Towns, whose mastery at the keyboard provides the perfect accompaniment to Suarez's vocals. “I am so excited to be collaborating with another Princeton native, Nick Towns. The pieces on the program will showcase his immense talent and we can’t wait to share that with the city that raised us.” Together, they promise beautiful night of music to resonate with all attendees.

By attending this concert, you will be supporting the Prairie Arts Council’s mission to continue offering valuable arts programs and events that enrich the lives of residents in Princeton and beyond. Your ticket purchase will directly contribute to sustaining the arts in our community, ensuring that we can continue to provide opportunities for emerging artists and cultural enrichment for all.

To purchase tickets, please email [email protected] or call 815-875-2631 X 1014.

⛅️PRINCETON WEATHER

Today: The day will start with mostly cloudy skies and temperatures around 70°F. By the afternoon, cloud cover will continue with a high of 79°F and light, variable winds. The evening will remain cloudy with temperatures dropping to around 61°F.

Sunday: The morning will feature a mix of sun and clouds with temperatures around 75°F and light winds. In the afternoon, expect mostly sunny skies with highs reaching 80°F. The evening will see increasing cloudiness with a chance of scattered showers, particularly later in the night, with temperatures around 67°F and light winds.

Monday: The morning will be partly cloudy with temperatures starting at 72°F and light winds. The afternoon will bring light rain showers with a high of 78°F and a 40% chance of rain. Showers will continue into the evening with temperatures around 66°F and light, variable winds.

Pollen Forecast: Expect moderate pollen levels primarily from grasses and weeds on Saturday, with high pollen levels from grasses continuing through Sunday and Monday.

⛽️PRINCETON GAS PRICES

Regular

Amoco, 720 N Main St: $3.59
Sullivan’s Foods: $3.66
Casey’s West/North: $3.69
Beck’s West/North: $3.69
Road Ranger, N Main St: $3.69
Shell, 2225 N Main St: $3.69

🏆NOMINATE YOUR PRINCETON PERSON OF THE WEEK

Did someone go the extra mile? Did a Princeton Person bless you or someone else you know? Nominate them, give me the details, and they may be chosen as the Princeton NOW Person of the Week.

Nominate your Princeton Person of the Week here!

💼PRINCETON BUSINESSES

• Don't miss your chance to win big at the annual Homestead Festival 50-50 raffle! Tickets are available at local banks, salons, hardware stores, and golf courses, making it easy to support your favorite festival while vying for a jackpot that exceeded $25,000 last year. Let's aim even higher this year—grab your tickets today and join the excitement!

• Miss Paula's local pure honey is available in many locations in the area. A 1-pound jar is $8, and a 3-pound plastic flip-top container is $22. Support your local beekeeper and the businesses who carry their honey! You can find Miss Paula's honey at Sullivans in Princeton and Mendota, Optimal Health, Wild Ginger, Bean Buzz, Saylers General Store, Wyanet Locker, Utica Spice, Hennepin Food Mart, Walnut Country Acre Grocery Store, and Valley Fresh Harvest in Ladd.

• Come laugh with the Bureau County Senior Center as certified laughter leader Chris Thompson from Greenfield Retirement Home leads a session on August 8th from 10:30-11:00 AM. This free event promises smiles and fun for everyone.

• Wild Honey Boutique is showcasing their latest fall dresses that are perfect for transitioning seasons. Pair these stylish dresses with a cozy sweater or a trendy denim jacket for a complete, chic outfit. Visit the boutique from 10 AM to 5:30 PM to explore these new arrivals and elevate your fall wardrobe.

• Celebrate National Ice Cream Day with Sisler’s Ice Cream on Sunday, July 21st, from 2 PM to 8 PM. Enjoy grasshopper shakes, peppermint pie, and a chance to win a giveaway basket. Don't forget to wear your ugly sweater for a special discount!

• Don’t miss out on the exclusive four-course dinner at Wild Ginger Bistro and Wine Bar today, featuring perfectly paired wines from Jeff Harris’ vineyard in Alexander Valley, California. The menu includes delicious dishes like field greens with dates and goat cheese, diver scallops with English pea ravioli, braised short ribs with pappardelle pasta, and a delightful mixed farm berry cobbler. At $75 per person, this event promises a gourmet experience with expertly chosen wine pairings—reserve your spot today by emailing [email protected].

• Rachel Rene Boutique is having an amazing apparel sale with a special Buy 1, Get 1 Half Off deal! From 10 AM to 5 PM, you can shop for stylish new outfits at unbeatable prices.

• Neighborhood Ace Hardware has just introduced Tiger Blue stadium chairs for $69.99! These chairs are perfect for the upcoming sports season, offering both comfort and team spirit.

• Mavolan's has the cutest new arrivals for back-to-school season! Check out their adorable first-day outfits, backpacks, and lunch bags to get your kids ready in style. Visit the store today to pick up these must-have items for the school year.

• Once Upon A Craft invites you to stop by and explore their beautiful collection of home decor. They appreciate the community's love and support and welcome you to visit during their open hours: Tuesday and Wednesday from 10 AM to 3 PM, Thursday and Friday from 10 AM to 5 PM, and Saturday from 10 AM to 4 PM. Come in and find the perfect piece to adorn your home!

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🔗TOP LINKS THIS WEEK

• Alarming Number of Dengue Fever Cases in Illinois, CDC Warns

• ‘The damage is extensive.’ Kewanee’s storm fallout in photos

• Discover the elegance of 303 Park Avenue Ave W in Princeton, a historic 5-bedroom, 2.5-bath residence listed at $625,000. Spanning over 4,000 square feet on a generous 5.91-acre lot, this home features a stunning ornate staircase and original hardwood floors that highlight its grandeur.

👷PRINCETON JOB OPENINGS

• KS Lawn and Snow LLC is currently hiring and looking for a dedicated, hardworking individual with prior lawn care experience. Applicants must possess a valid driver's license to qualify. The company offers competitive wages and reasonably flexible hours, making it an excellent opportunity for those seeking employment in this field. Interested candidates should reach out directly at (815) 878-6126 to inquire further or apply.

• The Assistant Manager position at Beck's West offers a full-time role with an hourly wage of $17 to $18. The Assistant Manager is tasked with leading and empowering employees, focusing on onboarding and training new hires, coaching team leads and associates, and ensuring high standards of customer service. Responsibilities include providing excellent customer service, managing store operations, supporting training and development, cross-training in kitchen operations, and assisting in scheduling. The role requires thriving in a fast-paced environment, excellent communication and teamwork skills, professionalism, and proficient computer skills. Beck's offers competitive benefits including a competitive salary and bonus, employee stock ownership plan, PTO, company-matched 401K, health insurance, company-paid life insurance, long-term disability, attendance bonuses, gas discounts, free fountain soda or coffee while working, and 7 paid holidays. Beck's prides itself on being a 100% employee-owned retail operator dedicated to providing a convenient and high-quality customer experience.

• The Account Manager position at Lorita Hellman - State Farm Agent offers a salary range of $32,000 to $70,000 annually and includes benefits such as medical insurance, paid time off, and life insurance. This full-time role involves growing the business through sales and customer service, providing a path for personal and professional growth within an industry-leading organization. Responsibilities include establishing and deepening customer relationships, delivering prompt and accurate customer service, managing inquiries about insurance policies and claims, and achieving production targets. Preferred qualifications include experience in sales, managing customer relationships, and marketing products based on customer needs. Excellent communication skills and a competitive, results-oriented mindset are essential. Benefits include performance-based bonuses, PTO, and opportunities for training and development. The role seeks attentive, sociable, and sales-minded professionals eager to join a high-performing team.

📍OUTSIDE CITY LIMITS

• With Upcoming Retirement, SV Schools Searching for Superintendent

• Some Illinois DMVs impacted by Microsoft outages

• Worldwide outage grounds flights; 22 tornadoes confirmed in Illinois

• Staggering IRS Data Shows 262,000 People Fled Illinois in 1 Year

• Breakfast at Psycho Silo Saloon will be served today from 8 AM to 11 AM, featuring favorites like biscuits and gravy, pancakes with sausage links, and a hearty breakfast platter. Car show registration begins at 8 AM, with the show running from 9 AM to 2 PM. Attendees can enjoy delicious food, admire classic cars, and compete for trophies in various categories!

🖼️ARTISAN MARKET AT HORNBAKERS

The 11th Annual Artisan Market is set to showcase a blend of established and emerging talents on September 14 from 10 AM to 4 PM. The event features a diverse array of artists such as David Anderson, known for his captivating nature photography, and Bonnie Jean, who excels in jewelry and metalsmithing.

This year welcomes newcomers like Marissa Burch with her ceramic pottery, Kathy Carey who designs distinctive hats and leather goods, and Lindsey Chavez, a skilled glass artist. Additional new faces include Emily Maze, noted for her metal sculptures, and Jennifer Mercer, who brings her vibrant oil and acrylic paintings. Dylan Punke will present his photography, enhancing the visual diversity of the event. Anita Young's hand-painted home decor pieces will also debut, offering unique aesthetic enhancements for any home.

The Artisan Market provides an excellent opportunity to engage with local artists and acquire unique, handcrafted pieces ranging from paintings and pottery to jewelry and woodwork. The community is encouraged to support these creative talents and enjoy a day filled with art and inspiration.

🏠PRINCETON HOME FOR SALE

This stunning five-bedroom home at 303 Park Avenue Ave W, initially listed at $625,000, has been recently reduced to $525,000, providing an incredible opportunity to own a piece of Princeton's rich history. The home spans 4,024 sq. ft. across a 0.92-acre lot, offering spacious rooms with original hardwood floors and intricate pocket doors. Features like an ornate staircase, decorative fireplaces, and a cozy sitting room with a bay window and stained glass enhance its historic charm. With a price drop of $100,000, this property invites you to enjoy Victorian elegance with modern amenities, including a renovated loft and a two-car garage with radiant in-floor heat and plumbing for additional convenience.

🧢LEGO HOMESTEAD FESTIVAL DESIGN COMPETITION

Calling all LEGO enthusiasts! The Prairie Arts Center is hosting the Homestead Festival Design Competition, sponsored by Studio K Architecture. This exciting event invites participants aged 3 and up to showcase their creative LEGO designs with the theme "Back to Our Roots." Here are the important details:

Age Categories:

• 3+

• 7+

• 11+

• 17+

Each age group will have a winning prize!

Drop-off Models:

• Dates: August 28 and August 29

• Time: 4 PM - 6 PM

• Location: Prairie Arts Center Gallery, 24 Park Ave E, Princeton, IL

Note: No sets or Duplo Legos allowed; only MOC (My Own Creation) designs. Please title your creation.

Gallery Show and Voting:

• August 31 and September 1: 1 PM - 3 PM

Opening Reception & Winner Announcements:

• September 6: 5 PM - 7 PM

Gallery Open Hours:

• September 7: 11 AM - 1 PM

• September 8: 1 PM - 3 PM

• September 9, 15, 21, 22: 1 PM - 3 PM

Model Pick-up:

• September 22: 3 PM - 5 PM

For special arrangements, please contact Libby at [email protected]. Join the fun and let your creativity shine in this unique community event!

🦶LETTER FROM LORI

Reckless Abandon

The phrase reminds us of our youth. I remember running all over creation barefoot, and my mother yelling at me that someday I would pay for not protecting my feet. So here I sit, at 56 years old, shaking my head and humbly admitting she was right. I was speedy on those feet—the feet of my youth. I didn't have time for shoes. They were confining and restricting. They made my feet sweat and stink (look up the Frank Zappa tune "Stinkfoot" for reference!). The calluses were thick, so rocks didn't hurt. I loved the feel of mud between my toes. Dirty? Just hose them off! I worked with horses and cloven-hoofed mammals on the farm. I got stepped on. SNAP. OUCH. BRUISE.

But I continued life at top speed, never considering the long-term consequences. My mother was just being overprotective, paranoid, and overly dramatic! She was never without shoes—even in the house. How lame and old was that?

But, like I said, now I'm 56. I'm probably older than she was when she lectured me. By my age, she had discovered what I am now experiencing with my Charcot Foot that led to spinal problems due to overcompensating from the pain of walking. I have even been to specialists (gasp). At this point, there is no easy fix. All of the band-aid remedies don't work anymore. Now, the solution is surgery, three months off my feet, and physical therapy.

How could I have avoided all of this late-life inconvenience? By listening—not just hearing. I heard my mother's words as I ran across the gravel driveway, off on a Hobbit-like adventure over hill and dale, splashing through creeks and exploring ditches and ravines. If you've ever chased a rogue toddler, you are well aware of the difference between hearing and listening.

How often do we hear words of advice from someone who has 'been there, done that' and dismiss them? Maybe we need to turn on our listening ears (a throwback phrase from my years as a daycare provider) and heed warnings. Maybe, just maybe, not everyone is as dumb as they might seem. So, let's sit down and lace up some 'kicks' before we dart off into the wild blue yonder. Our future selves will be grateful.

Lori owns the Boek-el-ZOO in Princeton. It’s not just a pet shop — it’s an experience!

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