🅿️Cicadas, Robinhood, and Magic Shows

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Hola, neighbor. I’ve lived on South Main. I’ve lived on Backbone Road. Downey Drive. Harvey Drive. Erickson Drive. Lora Avenue. Park Avenue. Probably a couple more I’m forgetting. My dad (Mike Bullington) had a construction company, so would move into homes, fix them up, and move into a different one after a few years. It’s always been a joy to live in this town.

Enough about me. Let’s roll.

—Justin Bullington

📬IN THIS ISSUE

💡What You Should Know
☀️Princeton Weather
⛽️Princeton Gas Prices
💼Princeton Businesses
👷‍♂️Princeton Job Openings
📋Things to Do This Week
📍Outside City Limits
💈Local Hair Salons

💡WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

• Happy Administrative Professionals’ Day, Christina Eggers!👩‍💻

• Report: Princeton to add a new disc golf course at City County Park, as early as this summer.

• Witness "The Adventures of Robinhood" brought to life by Princeton Christian Academy on April 26th-27th at 7pm at Princeton Bible Church. Admission is free.

• PJStar: “Over a trillion periodical cicadas will emerge this spring across much of the United States after over a decade spent underground. Millions of the loud, large insects will appear in Illinois. Nonetheless, it will be a rare event.”

• BCR: “The Princeton Tiger tennis team won their invitational on Saturday and remain undefeated in eight matches.”

• $1,951,475.07 was gambled via video games at Beck’s North and West through the month of March. $1,771,050.40 was won. $6,047,148.34 was the total amount gambled in all Princeton establishments, $5,523,159 was won.

• Starved Rock Media: “The four-day youth turkey season had 14 birds taken down by young hunters in Bureau County, up a few from last year. Young turkey hunters in Marshall and Putnam counties shot down 11 wild turkeys, the same as last season. In La Salle County, 1 turkey was taken down during the youth season, compared to 0 last year.”

• Get ready for a thrilling performance at the Bureau County Fair! Mitchell Tenpenny, joined by special guest Lauren Alaina, will take the stage on August 22nd for an unforgettable evening. Be quick to secure your spot—tickets go on sale at 10:00 am on April 19 at www.bureaucountyfair.com.

• Have items around the house you’d like to give away? Share it here. You just might meet a need in someone’s life.

• Princeton NOW+ subscribers now receive Marriages, Board, and City Council meeting summaries — along with local obituaries, arrests, and property transfers, ad free. Upgrade your newsletter today and join 121 others.

  • Todd: “I love this newsletter. Very well written, excellent coverage of topics with good timing!“

⛅️PRINCETON WEATHER

Today: A bright and sunny day is ahead with abundant sunshine and a high of 59°F. Expect a gentle breeze with northeast winds at 10 to 15 mph. By evening, the skies will be partly cloudy with temperatures dropping to a low of 32°F. The winds will ease slightly, coming from the east at 5 to 10 mph.

Thursday: Look for partly cloudy skies with a high of 63°F. Winds will be from the east-southeast at 10 to 15 mph. As night falls, expect partly cloudy conditions to continue, leading to cloudy skies overnight with a low around 46°F.

Friday: Rain is on the horizon. The day starts with a steady rain early, transitioning to showers and possibly a rumble of thunder in the afternoon. The high will be around 63°F with southeast winds at 15 to 25 mph, and gusts might be higher. Thunderstorms become more likely in the evening, with the possibility of scattered storms later at night. Temperatures will remain mild with a low of 61°F. The chance of rain is very high throughout the day and evening.

⛽️PRINCETON GAS PRICES

Regular

Amoco, 720 N Main St: $3.71
Sullivan’s Foods: $3.79
Casey’s West/North: $3.79
Beck’s West/North: $3.82
Road Ranger, N Main St: $3.82
Shell, 2225 N Main St: $3.82

Diesel

Beck’s West/North: $3.99
Road Ranger, N Main St.: $4.15
Casey’s West/North: $3.92
Amoco, N Main St: $3.99
Sullivan’s: $3.99

💼PRINCETON BUSINESSES

• The Bike Place is hosting a special treat this Saturday! Erie Street Cookies will offer their delectable cottage baked goods, including jumbo muffins, scones, and cinnamon bars, from 9 am to 12 pm on April 27th. This is a one-day-only event, so make sure to visit early and indulge in these homemade delights before they sell out!

• The Fiocchi-Jensen Funeral Home is offering a special deal for the month of May: they will be deducting the sales tax on any grave markers purchased during this period.

• The Bureau County Metro Center is hosting the final NERF NIGHT this Friday. There are two time slots available: one for kindergarteners through 2nd graders from 4 PM to 4:45 PM, and another for 3rd through 5th graders from 5 PM to 5:45 PM. The fee for all five sessions is structured in three tiers: $20, $25, or $30. Participants are required to bring their own launchers, and standard 2.75” darts and balls will be provided by the BCMC. Those whose launchers require bigger darts will need to bring their own ammunition and are reminded to initial them. For questions, Brett Renner, the Recreation Supervisor, can be contacted at 815-876-0721.

• Lee’s Kinetico Water Systems is now promoting its Premier Series S650 XP as the world's most efficient non-electric water softener, a must-have for anyone in need of such a system.

• Landmark Realty of Illinois LLC is celebrating mothers with a relaxing basket giveaway. To enter, participants can tag as many moms as they like in the comments of this Facebook post by May 8th, but only one tag per comment is permitted. The winner will be chosen and announced on the morning of May 9th.

• Shawna Fillenwarth Photography is offering lemonade stand-themed photo sessions on Saturday, May 4th, located 7 miles outside Princeton. The price is $75 for a 30-minute session, yielding over 40 edited digital images available the same night. Time slots are 12-2 pm and 2-3 pm.

• Optimal Health announced a new shipment of Rowe Casa products, emphasizing the relief they can offer from various issues. Among the featured products are tart cherries, which are touted for benefits such as improving sleep quality, supporting healthy cell function, reducing anxiety, lowering the risk of heart disease, aiding digestion, enhancing fertility, alleviating joint pain, and supporting healthy melatonin levels.

• Meadows On Main is thrilled to announce their reopening. Regular hours for the week will be from 10 am to 6 pm, Wednesday to Thursday from 10 am to 4 pm, and Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm. They’re eager to welcome patrons back and look forward to the community's support.

• Chapel Hill Golf Course and Event Center has announced that registration is now open for their Memorial Day Scramble event. It is set to take place on Sunday, May 26th, starting with registration at 8 am and the event kicking off at 9 am. Teams of four are invited to participate in the best ball competition, with an entry fee of $30 per person. Interested parties should stop by to register their team.

• True Leaves Bookshop is gearing up for a festive weekend to celebrate World Book Day on Saturday. The event is packed with activities, including spin-the-wheel giveaways for all customers, an exciting hunt for a Libro Golden Ticket offering 12 free audiobooks, and an array of tea and coffee samples to enjoy.

• Grandma Rosie's Sweet Treats is offering a delectable dessert called Ice Cream Nachos for $10. Customers have the liberty to choose any ice cream flavor and pair it with any sauce or topping of their choice. Available sauce options include marshmallow, peanut butter, hot fudge, caramel, butterscotch, and chocolate. For toppings, there's a variety to pick from like strawberry, candy, brownies, Oreos, and cookie dough, among others. Head over to Grandma Rosie's for this sweet treat extravaganza!

• Rock out with Joe Rian and The A.M. Drinkers at Hollywood & Vine on April 27th at 7pm.

👷PRINCETON JOB OPPORTUNITIES

• Wild Ginger Bistro is hiring for multiple positions: Dishwashers at $12-$14/hour, responsible for maintaining cleanliness and sanitation standards; Servers/Bartenders at $10-$12/hour plus tips, expected to deliver exceptional hospitality and handle multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment; and Line Cooks at $14-$16/hour, tasked with preparing meals according to the menu and food safety standards. All positions require weekend availability. Interested applicants should contact the manager for an application: [email protected].

• Rover is offering part-time Dog Walker/Dog Sitter positions in Princeton, IL, where individuals can be their own boss, set their own rates, and work as they wish. Qualifications include a love for pets, experience in pet care, and the ability to pass a background check. The role includes a variety of pet care services such as dog walking, doggy day care, and house sitting, with prompt responses to business requests through the Rover app.

• Illinois Valley Credit Union is on the lookout for a dedicated Teller/Member Service Representative in Princeton. The role promises a full-time opportunity complete with a suite of benefits, including 401(k), dental, health, vision insurance, and paid time off. Candidates should bring enthusiasm for providing outstanding service and a readiness to handle a range of responsibilities, including loan payments and account transactions. High school diploma or equivalent preferred. This is a great chance for those seeking a stable career in financial services with a supportive team. Apply on Indeed or in person.

• AmericInn Lodge & Suites in Princetonis looking for a part-time Front Desk Receptionist for the 3 pm - 11 pm shift, offering training, a starting wage of $14.00 per hour, employee discounts, and a flexible schedule. The job requires enjoyment of public interaction, excellent communication and problem-solving skills, and basic computer and typing knowledge. Responsibilities include guest check-ins, handling cash and cards, and ensuring guests feel welcome throughout their stay.

• Ag View FS is hiring a full-time General Laborer, requiring a high school diploma or equivalent and the ability to maintain a valid driver's license. The position offers an hourly wage with 401K benefits and involves daily operational duties, maintenance of the facility, and provision of excellent customer service. Applicants should be able to lift 51-70 lbs, work in extreme weather conditions, and handle various work environments, with a readiness to work flexible hours to meet seasonal needs.

• Corteva Agriscience is seeking a full-time Production Technician in Princeton, IL, offering $20-$24 per hour with a $2,500 sign-on bonus. The role involves diverse tasks related to plant operations and field activities, adapting to seasonal changes, and requires a proactive work ethic and good time management skills. Benefits include robust time off, health benefits, and a competitive retirement savings plan, among others.

📋THINGS TO DO THIS WEEK

• The University of Illinois Extension is hosting an event titled "Comfort Foods Reinvented" at The Princeton Public Library. This event is set to take place today from 5 PM to 6 PM and aims to teach participants how to enjoy comfort foods in a healthier way by learning simple ingredient swaps. Attendees will have the opportunity to participate in a taste test class, gain new meal ideas, and feel more confident about making healthier choices. The event is public, and tickets can be obtained here.

• Discover your creative flair with a Vase Painting Class at Prairie Arts Center on April 25th at 6:00 PM. This artistic event, guided by our very own Colette Yelm, is perfect for all skill levels. For just $25, bring a glass vase and leave with a masterpiece. Only 15 spots are available—make sure to reserve yours. For registration or details, email [email protected].

• Festival 56 is presenting a family-friendly magic and illusion show featuring David Casas. The event is scheduled for Saturday at 7:30 PM, located at 316 S Main St. Buy tickets here.

• Hornbaker Gardens invites you to a green thumbs-up event: "New Plants for 2024 – Free Workshop." Set for this Saturday from 10 AM to 11 AM, it's a one-hour session where you can learn about new plant varieties, including hostas, perennials, trees, and shrubs. Molly will be there to share some essential growing tips and how to integrate these plants into your space. The event promises to be a fruitful venture for gardening enthusiasts. Visit them at 11491 2300 St E.

• Hawg House Saloon is hosting an event this Saturday at 9pm, featuring Brushville. They are known for high-energy live performances that have been likened to a dynamic sports game. This public event promises an unforgettable experience with talented musicians and an explosive stage show, blending an array of instruments and harmonies.

📍OUTSIDE CITY LIMITS

• KWQC: Crews responded to a report of a truck-tractor flatbed trailer on fire on I-80 on Friday.

• CIProud: Teen dies in single-vehicle crash in LaSalle County.

• Starved Rock Media: A new wood carved sculpture is now part of Utica's Tornado Memorial. It portrays an eagle about to take flight and was unveiled Saturday night on the 20^th anniversary of the 2004 tornado. About 100 persons gathered at Mill and Church streets under cloudy, breezy and cold conditions.

Buda

• Buda Community Club has announced Buda Fun Day on July 20th. It’s a community event featuring new activities, with many thanks to give to sponsors who make this free event (excluding pony rides and food) possible.

Wyanet

• Enjoy a series of free, monthly art-centered events for children in May, with activities suitable for various age groups including toddlers and preschoolers. The events are themed around gardening and will take place at the Community Bible Church, 215 South Locust Street Wyanet, IL 61379, with specific sessions like "You Are My Sunshine" craft stations on May 11th, "Gardening Songs and Rainmakers" on May 15th, "Arbor Arts and Craft Stations" on May 25th, and a "Wiggle Worms Lesson and Yarn Art" on May 29th.

Sheffield

• Sheffield Public Works is currently hiring summer help. We are looking for a dependable, hard working individual to join our team. The majority of hours will be spent mowing/weed eating Village properties. Must be a team player, have good communication skills, be self motivated with the initiative to complete tasks timely and accurately. Minimum hourly rate $14 an hour - To begin as early as May 1, 2024. Candidates wishing to apply for the above position should submit a cover letter, resume, and references electronically to Village Office Manager Adrienne Ries via email to [email protected]. No paper applications will be accepted.

Walnut

• To support the Main Street Walnut Flower Project, you can reach out to Anya Barnas at (815)878-4824 or Tonya Spencer at (815)440-6167 for donations or volunteering to water the flower pots. Contributions are appreciated by May 17th, 2024, to help beautify Mainstreet with flower pot installations beginning the week of May 20th.

Tiskilwa

• The Tiskilwa Inn, a bed and breakfast located at 155 High Street in Tiskilwa, Illinois, United States, is always open and can be contacted at +1 815-646-1300 or via email at [email protected]. The inn boasts newly finished basement amenities, including a card room, wine cellar, billiards, foosball, darts, a media room, and an exercise room, offering a cozy yet engaging stay. For more information or bookings, visit their website at thetiskilwainn.com.

💈LOCAL HAIR SALONS

• Rustique Hair Studio: 815-872-3434

• Guys N Gals Salon: 815-875-4075

• Jillians: 815-872-0600

• J’s Salon: 815-875-8900

• Sophisticuts Salon & Day Spa: 815-875-4332

• Ultimate Salon & Spa: 815-875-8321

• The Studio: 815-872-5252

• A Second Glance: 815-875-3285

• Franklin’s: 815-875-2508

• Act III Hair Studio: 815-879-9019