⏲️Christmas Eve Services, A Recipe, and Mufasa

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Good morning, Princeton. I hope you and your family have a wonderful Christmas together! For the Bullingtons, the festivities begin with the Christmas Eve service at Princeton Bible Church at 6 PM. After that, we’re off to my in-laws’ for a meal, games, and presents. On Christmas Day, my extended family is coming over to our house for lunch, more games, and presents, and then we’ll head back to my in-laws’ for another meal.

That’s a lot of eating! Here we go.

—Justin Bullington

📬IN THIS ISSUE

💡What You Should Know
🏠Princeton Homes for Sale
☀️Princeton Weather
⛽️Princeton Gas Prices
🎭Festival 56
💼Princeton Businesses
🪩Father/Daughter Dance At The Met
👷Princeton Job Opportunities
💝Magi Baby Chest
⏲️A Christmas Recipe
🏀Upcoming High School Sports
📍Outside City Limits
🍿At the Apollo

💡WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

• Happy Birthday, Keith Varland! 🎁

• FYI: There will be no Wednesday newsletter. Merry Christmas!

• BCR: Princeton’s Kane Dauber, Casey Etheridge, Cade Odell take first at Saber Wrestling Invite

• Christmas came early for Steve Searle: “I was born in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, the Bratwurst Capital of the world,” Steve laughed. “We stayed there until I was four and then moved to Princeton, Illinois when my Dad bought a farm. My mom, Donna was a homemaker, and Dad always trained horses.” 

• Keighley Davis has been named to the Ottawa Holiday All-Tournament Team for her outstanding performance.

• Returning Bureau County 4-H families must register in Zsuite by March 1. To learn more about Bureau County 4-H, contact the local extension program coordinator, Poignant, by calling 815-875-2878 or emailing [email protected].

• The City of Princeton has announced the garbage and recycling schedule for the holidays. Garbage Routes for Tuesday, December 24, will remain unchanged, but Wednesday’s (December 25) pickup will move to Thursday, December 26. There will be no recycling pickup during the week of Christmas. For New Year’s, routes on Tuesday, December 31, remain the same, while Wednesday’s (January 1) collection will shift to Thursday, January 2. Residents are reminded to put items out early.

• Princeton City Hall will be closed December 24 and 25 for Christmas and December 31 and January 1 for New Year’s. Plan accordingly and have a happy holiday season!

• 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.

• Princeton Bible Church invites you for their Christmas Eve Service, The Story of His Love, at 6pm. Yours truly will be singing a song with his family.

• Princeton NOW Premium subscribers now receive:

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🏠PRINCETON HOMES FOR SALE

• This stunning property at 16127 2500 East St. is listed for $963,000 and sits on a 60-acre lot with a private, fully stocked lake. Built in 2018, the home offers four bedrooms, three and a half baths, a 1,780-square-foot main floor, and a fully finished walkout basement. The property includes two master suites with lake views, a whole-house generator, a barn for equipment storage, and 14+ acres of income-producing farmland. Outdoor features include ATV trails, hunting blinds, food plots, and bridges, making it ideal for a full-time residence, weekend retreat, or Airbnb investment. This unique property offers tranquility and versatility.

• This spacious home at 13336 Lovers Lane Rd. is listed for $379,000 and features five bedrooms and four and a half baths across 3,500 square feet. The property includes two master suites, a remodeled kitchen with quartz countertops, a family room with a wood-burning fireplace, and a large fenced backyard with mature trees for privacy. The partially finished basement offers additional living space, a full bathroom, and plenty of storage. Outdoor amenities include a three-car garage, a 30x40 red barn with a small office and half bath, horse stalls, and a pasture with turnout shelter. Situated in a serene neighborhood, this home provides both comfort and functionality for country living.

• This beautifully maintained Victorian home at 1402 S Euclid Ave. is listed for $285,000 and offers three bedrooms and one and a half baths across 2,824 square feet. The house features original oak woodwork, light-filled rooms, high ceilings, and hardwood floors that create a warm and inviting atmosphere. The first floor includes a double living room, formal dining room, and a modern kitchen with handmade hickory cabinets, an island, and stainless-steel appliances. Unique highlights include a large family room with vaulted ceilings and a gas fireplace, as well as an expansive unfinished attic and basement for additional storage or customization. Situated on an oversized lot with a 30x40 four-car tandem garage and workshop, this property blends charm with practicality.

🌤️PRINCETON WEATHER

🌨️Today: Expect mostly cloudy conditions with a mix of rain and snow showers in the morning. Highs will reach 42°F with winds from the southwest at 10 to 15 mph. By night, skies will become partly cloudy as temperatures drop to a low of 32°F. Winds will persist from the southwest at 5 to 10 mph.

🌥️Tuesday: Partly cloudy throughout the day with highs near 36°F. Winds will come from the northwest at 5 to 10 mph. In the evening, a few scattered showers are possible under partly cloudy skies. Lows will hover around 32°F with southwest winds at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain is 30%.

🌧️Wednesday: Mainly cloudy skies during the day, accompanied by light rain showers. Temperatures will peak at 37°F with winds from the southwest at 10 to 15 mph. Overnight, expect partly cloudy skies transitioning to cloudy conditions. Lows will settle at 35°F, with winds continuing from the south at 5 to 10 mph.

According to the National Weather Service, freezing drizzle is expected to develop icy patches likely between 12 a.m. and 9 a.m. Monday. Minor ice accumulation is possible, especially on untreated roads, sidewalks, and bridges. Areas north of a line from Cedar Rapids, IA, to Princeton, IL, are at the greatest risk for slippery conditions. Gusty south winds up to 15 mph may further reduce visibility in some areas. Drivers are urged to use caution, monitor road conditions, and allow extra travel time for the Monday morning commute.

⛽️PRINCETON GAS PRICES

Regular

Amoco, 720 N Main St: $3.03
Sullivan’s Foods: $3.16
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

🎭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.

💼PRINCETON BUSINESSES

• Once Upon A Craft has posted their holiday hours: Monday, December 23rd (10-4:30 PM), and Christmas Eve (9-1). The store will be closed on Christmas and December 26th but will reopen on December 27th and 28th (10-4) and New Year’s Eve (10-2), with closures on New Year’s Day.

• Kinetico Water Systems lists benefits like brighter laundry, reduced cleaning time, spotless dishes, softer skin, less soap use, cleaner showers, and better-tasting water. Customers are encouraged to fulfill their Christmas wish list with a Kinetico system during the year-end sale.

• 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 Christmas coffee in a variety of options, including beans, ground, decaf, and regular, with numerous flavors available.

• Downtown Liquidation shared their holiday hours: December 23rd (10-5:30), December 24th (9-4), December 25th (closed), December 30th (10-5:30), December 31st (10-4), and January 1st, 2025 (closed). Shoppers are encouraged to visit during these times to enjoy the holiday season.

• Five 22 has shared its holiday hours: December 23rd (9-5:30), December 24th (9-1), December 25th and 26th (closed), December 27th (10-5:30), December 28th (10-5), December 29th (12-4), December 30th (10-5), and December 31st (10-3).

• 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.

• Mavolan’s is offering last-minute gift items and all Christmas clothing at a 20% discount. Shoppers can choose from festive apparel, including Christmas pajamas and themed shirts. The sale is available for a limited time in-store.

• Rachel Rene is offering 40% off all regular-priced holiday apparel and accessories. The store has extended hours leading up to Christmas Eve, including 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on December 24. Shoppers can browse a selection of seasonal clothing and gifts.

• 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 closed from December 22 through January 1, 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.

• Prime Quarter Steak House offers a $20 bonus with every $100 in gift card purchases made through Christmas. Holiday hours are extended, though the restaurant will close on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. This promotion is ideal for last-minute gift shoppers.

• Sisler’s Ice Cream is selling holiday popcorn in small bags for $4.99 and large bags for $6.99, with tins available for $20 or $35. Flavors include caramel, cheese, and plain options. The popcorn is freshly made and available for a limited time.

🕯️CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICES

• Princeton Bible Church invites you for their Christmas Eve Service, The Story of His Love, at 6pm. Yours truly will be singing a song with his family.

• St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church will host a candlelight service on Christmas Eve at 7 p.m., offering a peaceful celebration in a rural setting.

• The People Church invites everyone to their Christmas Eve services at 3:30 p.m. and 5 p.m. on December 24.

• First Christian Church Disciples of Christ plans a Christmas Eve service at 4 p.m., welcoming the community for a special celebration.

• A Christmas Eve candlelight service is set for 6 p.m. at Christ Community Church.

• Evangelical Covenant Church plans two Christmas Eve services: a family-friendly gathering at 5 p.m. and a traditional service at 10 p.m., both featuring candlelight.

• Candlelight services at St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church are scheduled for 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Christmas Eve.

• St. Louis Catholic Church will celebrate Christmas Eve Mass at 4 p.m., 7 p.m., and 10 p.m., with a Christmas Day Mass at 9 a.m.

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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

• Dugosh Farms offers honey, maple syrup, popcorn, and dried spices as Christmas gift options. Additional produce includes butternut squash and baking pumpkins. Items are available for purchase at 815-878-2831.

• Bureau Valley High School sends off teacher enlisting in the Navy

• Illinois Department of Human Services privacy breach exposes more than 4,500 Social Security numbers

• New Illinois laws affect drivers beginning Jan. 1

• Missouri and Illinois Walmart stores are sharing concerns about food issues as we all prepare to move into the new year.

• Illinois dentist charged with stealing pain meds from patients

• As Big Lots plans to close remaining stores, here are the Illinois locations affected

• Mendota Woman Sent To Prison For Theft, Biting An Officer, And Possessing Meth

🪩FATHER/DAUGHTER DANCE AT THE MET

The Princeton Park District is hosting a Father/Daughter Dance at the Metro Center on Saturday, December 28, from 3:00 to 4:30 p.m. This special event will feature crafts, photos, and dancing for all attendees. Admission is $10 for BCMC members, $12 for Princeton residents, and $15 for nonresidents. Fathers and daughters are invited to enjoy an afternoon of bonding and fun activities. Don’t miss this chance to create lasting memories together!

💝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.

⏲️A CHRISTMAS RECIPE

Peppermint Hot Cocoa Truffles

A rich and indulgent treat that melts into hot milk for instant peppermint hot cocoa—or enjoy them as bite-sized truffles!

Ingredients

• 1 cup (200 g) semi-sweet chocolate chips

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

• 1/4 tsp peppermint extract

• 1/4 cup cocoa powder (for rolling)

• Crushed peppermint candies or candy canes (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Heat the Cream: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just starts to simmer. Remove it from heat before it boils.

2. Melt the Chocolate: Place the chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Pour the warm cream over the chocolate and let it sit for 2-3 minutes. Stir until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth.

3. Add Peppermint: Stir in the peppermint extract. Taste and adjust the amount if you want a stronger mint flavor.

4. Chill the Mixture: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 2 hours, or until the mixture is firm enough to scoop.

5. Shape the Truffles: Using a small spoon or melon baller, scoop the chilled chocolate mixture into 1-inch balls. Roll each ball between your palms to smooth it.

6. Coat the Truffles: Roll the truffles in cocoa powder for a classic finish. For a festive touch, roll them in crushed peppermint candies instead.

7. Serve or Store: Store the truffles in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks. To enjoy as hot cocoa, drop one or two truffles into a cup of hot milk and stir until melted.

🏀UPCOMING HIGHSCHOOL SPORTS

Thursday, December 26th

• Boys Basketball - Freshman: @ LP vs. (Win) play again

  • Location: @ LP High School

  • Start Time: 10:15 AM

• Boys Basketball - JV: @ Sherrard vs. Mercer County

  • Location: @ Sherrard HS

  • Start Time: 12:30 PM

• Boys Basketball - Varsity: @ Sherrard vs. East Dubuque

  • Location: @ Sherrard HS

  • Start Time: 4:00 PM

Friday, December 27th

• Wrestling - Varsity: @ Abe's Rumble

  • Location: @ Springfield Convention Center

  • Start Time: TBD

• Boys Basketball - Freshman: @ LP vs. TBD

  • Location: @ LP High School

  • Start Time: TBD

• Boys Basketball - JV: @ Sherrard vs. TBD

  • Location: @ Sherrard HS

  • Start Time: TBD

• Boys Basketball - Varsity: @ Sherrard vs. TBD

  • Location: @ Sherrard HS

  • Start Time: TBD

Saturday, December 28th

• Wrestling - Varsity: @ Abe's Rumble

  • Location: @ Springfield Convention Center

  • Start Time: TBD

• Boys Basketball - JV: @ Sherrard Tournament vs. TBD

  • Location: @ Sherrard HS

  • Start Time: TBD

• Boys Basketball - Varsity: @ Sherrard Tournament vs. TBD

  • Location: @ Sherrard HS

  • Start Time: TBD

🍿AT THE APOLLO

🎥Now Playing Through December 19th

Mufasa (PG)

• A touching prequel to The Lion King, exploring the origins of Mufasa’s journey to becoming king of the Pride Lands.

• Showtimes: Christmas Day: 6:00 PM only

• Thursday: 4:15 PM & 7:00 PM

Sonic 3 (PG)

• The high-speed sequel in the Sonic series, following Sonic and friends as they race to save the day.

• Showtimes: Tuesday: 4:30 PM & 7:15 PM; Christmas Day: 6:15 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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