🍦Custard Corner, a Scholastic Bowl, and AirBnB’s

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Good morning, Princeton. The PHS Scholastic Bowl team, led by Brody Anderson, celebrated winning the first-ever PHS Tiger Cup. Great job, everyone. You know a lot about a lot of things!

Onward.

—Justin Bullington

📬IN THIS ISSUE

💡What You Should Know
🏛️Detainee Housing Agreement
☀️Princeton Weather
⛽️Princeton Gas Prices
👷‍♂️Princeton Job Opportunities
💼Princeton Businesses
📍Outside City Limits
🏠Princeton Homes for Sale
💭Remember When…
🤼Upcoming High School Sports
💝The Magi Gala
🍿At the Apollo

💡WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

• Happy Birthday Buc Grey and Jason Behrends! 🎈 

• The City of Princeton has announced upcoming changes to garbage collection dates due to holidays. For Presidents’ Day on February 19, collection will take place on February 20, and for Good Friday on April 18, collection is scheduled for April 17. Memorial Day adjustments move collection from May 26 to May 27.

• BCR: Princeton will keep its 1% sales tax on groceries after the state passed legislation that would eliminate the tax in 2026. Princeton Mayor Ray Mabry warned extended stay facilities, such as Airbnb or Vrbo, to collect the city’s 5% pillow tax.

• The Princeton Knights of Columbus is organizing a community blood drive on January 24. ImpactLife will provide blood components for local hospitals during the event.

• The Princeton Public Schools Foundation is hosting Trivia Night on February 22 at The Cliff Event Center. Teams can register until February 14 to enjoy prizes, raffles, and snacks at this 21+ fundraiser.

• The Rotary Club of Princeton is planning its annual Shrimpfest and Brew Hullabaloo with live music and local food. The event is set for June 7, with more details to be announced soon.

• Walneck’s Motorcycle Swap Meet will take place on February 9 at the Bureau County Fairgrounds. Visitors can explore a variety of motorcycle-related items at this anticipated event.

• Bureau County Senior Center is hosting an emergency preparedness class led by Lori from the health department. The session will take place Friday at 10 a.m. and will focus on natural disaster readiness.

• Registration is now open for Session Two of the Youth Basketball League at the Bureau County Metro Center. The league, for K–5th grade students, starts on Saturday, February 15, with games at 8:15 a.m. Registration ends Friday, January 24, and entry fees range from $45 to $55.

• Princeton Youth Soccer League is looking for individuals interested in becoming referees. For more information, email [email protected].

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🏛️COOK & BUREAU COUNTIES MAY PARTNER IN DETAINEE HOUSING AGREEMENT

The board is exploring an agreement between Cook County and Bureau County that addresses overcrowding — by housing Cook County detainees in Bureau County Jail.

Bureau County will provide housing, medical care, commissary, and other essential services, with Cook County compensating $65 per inmate per day.

Medical care for detainees will be comprehensive, including physical, psychiatric, and medication needs. Cook County will cover all associated costs, including routine and emergency care, with billing details outlined for transparency. Bureau County will provide medical records to Cook County upon request and coordinate with Cermak Health Services for a smooth transfer of detainees and their health records. Commissary access will be available, with Bureau County ensuring compliance with jail policies and returning unused funds upon release or transfer.

Read it here: http://bureaucountyil.iqm2.com/Citizens/FileOpen.aspx?Type=1&ID=1296&Inline=True

UPDATE: The intergovernmental agreement between Bureau County and Cook County has been tabled to next month (Wednesday, February 5th at 5:30 PM) in the County Board Room in order to gather more info and give the public a chance to attend the committee meeting.

📞Follow the links here to express your opinion to a board member.

☀️PRINCETON WEATHER

🌤️Today: The day remains cloudy with a chance of light snow, and temperatures peaking at 27°F. Winds come from the southwest at 10 to 20 mph, making it feel colder. By night, skies clear slightly with a few passing clouds, and temperatures drop to 13°F. Winds shift to a lighter westerly direction at 5 to 10 mph.

🌤️Thursday: Expect intervals of sunshine and clouds with a chilly high of 21°F. Winds remain steady from the west at 10 to 15 mph. The night brings partly cloudy skies and a low of 7°F, with calm winds continuing at 5 to 10 mph. It will be frigid but mostly dry.

☀️Friday: The day is generally sunny, though a few afternoon clouds may appear, with a high of 25°F. Winds shift slightly to a southwesterly direction at 10 to 15 mph. The night will stay partly cloudy and chilly, with temperatures bottoming out at 18°F. Winds maintain a light southwest breeze.

🌤️Saturday: Partly cloudy skies dominate, and temperatures rise to a relatively milder high of 34°F. Winds continue from the southwest at 10 to 15 mph, adding a slight chill. Overnight, expect partly to mostly cloudy conditions with lows of 17°F. Winds settle in from the west-southwest at similar speeds.

Midweek Snowflakes and a Weekend Warm-Up

Wednesday morning and afternoon we could see a few snowflakes under cloudy skies. Up to an inch is possible in some spots. Wind chills will gradually improve during the day. Wednesday afternoon highs reach the mid and upper 20s and we’ll stay in the 20s through Friday with low to mid 30s into the weekend. Next week warmer air could arrive bringing highs in the 40s!

Adapted from kwqc.com

⛽️PRINCETON GAS PRICES

Regular

Amoco, 720 N Main St: $3.19
Sullivan’s Foods: $3.26
Casey’s West/North: $3.29
Beck’s West/North: $3.29
Road Ranger, N Main St: $3.29
Shell, 2225 N Main St: $3.32

👷‍♂️PRINCETON JOB OPPORTUNITIES

• Driver | Amazon | Part-time, hourly, eco-friendly, flexible schedule, $16.50/hour

• Delivery Driver | Pizza Hut | Full-time, $31K-$39K/year (estimated)

• Rural Carrier Associate | US Postal Service | Full-time, $38K-$47K/year (estimated), mail carrier/delivery driver

• Cashier | Beck’s Princeton North | Part-time, $16/hour, easy application process

• Personal Shopper | Walmart | Part-time, $15-$22/hour, evening shifts

• Team Member | Casey’s General Stores | Full-time, $15.00-$19.75/hour

• Electronics Department Associate | Walmart | Full-time, $15-$22/hour, evening shifts

Medical Assistant

• Location: Illinois Urologic Health Surgeons

• Position Type: Full-Time (40 hours/week)

• Schedule: Monday–Friday, daytime hours (with 6 paid holidays)

• Overtime: Saturday overtime opportunities available

• Travel: Travel required to multiple clinic locations, including Dixon, Princeton, Peru, Ottawa, and Streator

• Contact: Email your resume to [email protected]

Position Summary:

Illinois Urologic Health Surgeons is seeking a dedicated and skilled Medical Assistant to join our growing practice. The Medical Assistant will perform a variety of clinical and clerical duties in a busy urology clinic. This role involves direct patient care and supporting clinic operations, including maintaining accurate documentation, administering injections, assisting with medical procedures, and managing inventory.

Key Responsibilities:

• Patient Flow Management: Room patients promptly to minimize wait times.

• Medical Records Management: Ensure patient records are accurate and up-to-date before and during appointments.

• Clinical Tasks: Administer IM injections and assist with basic laboratory and medical procedures as directed by clinicians.

• Insurance and Lab Processing: Verify insurance details and manage lab processes efficiently.

• Daily Task Management: Respond promptly to tasks assigned by providers and assist with patient scheduling as needed.

• Inventory Management: Conduct inventory checks, manage travel supplies, and prepare orders for necessary items.

• Travel: Travel to various clinic locations as required.

• Confidentiality: Maintain patient confidentiality in compliance with HIPAA regulations.

• Facility Maintenance: Report building or equipment issues promptly.

• Other Duties: Perform additional department-related tasks as assigned in a dynamic medical environment.

Required Qualifications:

• Medical Assistant Training: Completion of relevant courses and/or certification.

• Recordkeeping Skills: Ability to read, write, and maintain accurate medical records and charts.

• Basic Computer Skills: Proficiency in Electronic Health Records (EHR) management.

• Office Equipment Proficiency: Comfortable using standard office equipment.

• Interpersonal Skills: Strong ability to interact professionally and warmly with patients, visitors, and team members.

• Organizational Skills: Ability to manage multiple tasks and maintain a well-organized workflow.

• Reliability: Must be dependable and committed to the role.

We are an equal-opportunity employer and encourage individuals of all backgrounds to apply.

If you’re interested, please email your resume to [email protected].

We look forward to hearing from you!

💪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!

💼PRINCETON BUSINESSES

• Meadows on Main has introduced a selection of Nora Fleming items, including decorative pieces. Tiered stands are still expected, with updates to come once they arrive.

• Friends of Strays has updated its adoption hours, including times on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Appointments can also be scheduled for Tuesdays and Thursdays.

• Once Upon a Craft is organizing a Galentine’s Paint Party on February 7 at 6:30 p.m. Guests can enjoy creating crafts along with pizza and snacks for $49 per person.

• Wild Honey Boutique, located inside Mavolan’s, has started showcasing Valentine’s Day gift options. The shop is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

• The Princeton Closet has shared updated hours for donations and store visits. Shoppers are advised to call ahead for any changes to the holiday schedule.

• Optimal Health is offering a variety of hearty soups, perfect for cold days. The store is open until 5 p.m. today for those looking to stock up.

• Kinetico Water Systems emphasizes the importance of water quality testing for healthier living. They provide insights into common contaminants and how to address them.

• Shane’s Shine Shop recently restored a trailer damaged by a car wash brush. The shop invites others to contact them for detailing or cleaning services.

• True Leaves Bookshop announces the closure of its west entrance for renovations but invites customers to explore its refreshed inventory and new bargain book section. Hardbacks are $3, and paperbacks are $1.50.

• The Neighborhood Ace Hardware introduces new Dr. Squatch products, including shaving items and themed deodorants. Items like the “Diamond Sticc” deodorant and “The One Ring Rinse” soap are available for $11.99 each.

• Sisler’s Ice Cream celebrates National Ice Cream for Breakfast Day with a special cinnamon roll donut sundae. Enjoy this indulgent treat featuring a glazed donut, cinnamon caramel sauce, and whipped cream. Sisler’s is now booking their mobile ice cream cart for 2025 events, perfect for weddings, birthdays, and more. Interested parties can email to secure this sweet treat for their next celebration.

• Optimal Health now offers a variety of cold-pressed and high-pressure juices, along with real fruit sodas. Stop in to try these refreshing and health-conscious beverages.

• Corner Chair Market announced the arrival of beautiful antique furniture, including a vintage hutch and a classic chest of drawers. These unique pieces will soon be available for purchase.

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📍OUTSIDE CITY LIMITS

• A Walnut home was destroyed in a chimney fire that caused the chimney to collapse through the roof. The fire spread to the first floor, leaving the property a total loss.

• An 18-year-old from Wyanet was found unconscious on East Second Street and was determined to have died from exposure. The coroner confirmed no signs of trauma in the case.

• The Gathering Place Community Center in Wyanet is accepting reservations for graduation parties, with dates filling up quickly. The venue offers an indoor space with tables, chairs, and a full kitchen for $100 per day, with no double bookings. Contact Debi Johnson to reserve a date.

• Donald Soens is offering snow shoveling services. For inquiries, call 1-815-940-6730.

• The 9th annual Sheffield Tractor Pull is scheduled for July 12, at its new location, Psycho Silo Saloon. More details about the event will be announced soon.

🏠PRINCETON HOMES FOR SALE

• This charming home at 1111 N Jacqueline Ln, offers three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and 1,372 square feet of living space. Recently updated with luxury vinyl plank flooring, this property features a recreation room/family room on the lower level, an inviting eat-in kitchen, and a sunny deck overlooking the backyard. The attached one-car garage and additional storage shed add convenience and functionality. Built in 1981, the home combines modern updates with timeless appeal. Priced at $184,900, it’s an excellent opportunity to enjoy comfortable living in a great location.

• 1402 S Euclid Ave is a stunning Victorian home filled with history and charm, hitting the market for the first time in 33 years. The inviting front porch opens to an elegant entryway featuring natural light, original oak woodwork, and a custom staircase. The main floor boasts a formal dining room, family room, and a modernized kitchen with handmade hickory cabinets and stainless-steel appliances. Upstairs, you’ll find generously sized bedrooms, a unique Coca-Cola sundae gathering space, and a cozy family room with a gas fireplace. This property also includes an expansive unfinished attic and a heated garage, making it an exceptional find for anyone seeking character and functionality.

• The beautiful 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath home at 1006 W Central Ave, Princeton, offers an array of standout features. From its stunning original woodwork and spacious layout, including a living room, dining room, den, and mudroom, to the large kitchen equipped with Amish cabinetry and a breakfast nook, this home embodies classic elegance and modern comfort. The primary suite is tucked away for privacy, featuring a walk-in closet, glass shower, and double vanity, while the second floor houses three additional bedrooms and a full bath. The property also boasts a 26’ x 26’ garage, a large front porch, a back deck, and a patio for outdoor dining. With updated systems like a 2018 boiler and a central air system, this home provides comfort and convenience for any family.

💭REMEMBER WHEN…

🤼UPCOMING HIGHSCHOOL SPORTS

Thursday, January 23rd

• Girls Basketball (Varsity): @ Kewanee vs. EP, 5:30 PM

• Wrestling (All): vs. Geneseo, PHS Prouty Gym, 6:00 PM

Friday, January 24th

• Boys Basketball (FS, JV & Var): vs. Newman, PHS Prouty & South Gym, 5:30 PM

Saturday, January 25th

• Scholastic Bowl (Varsity): @ Riverdale Invite, Riverdale High School, 10:00 AM

• Girls Basketball (Freshman): vs. LP and Moline, PHS Prouty Gym, 9:00 AM

• Girls Basketball (FS & Varsity): vs. Orion, PHS Prouty Gym, 1:00 PM

💝THE MAGI GALA

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.

The deadline for purchasing gala tickets is January 31st.

There will be some great silent auction items, as well as vacations available, to purchase that night. You can buy a vacation and also benefit the Magi Baby Chest.

🍿AT THE APOLLO

A Complete Unknown (R)

• A biographical drama about Bob Dylan’s rise to fame and his impact on music and culture.

• Showtimes: Tuesday-Thursday: 4:15 PM & 7:00 PM

The Fire Inside (PG)

• A moving story of perseverance and hope in the face of life’s challenges.

• Showtimes: Tuesday-Thursday: 4:30 PM & 7:15 PM

The Apollo Theater is celebrating its 16th anniversary on Sunday, February 2nd, with free popcorn, door prizes, and a charity poster sale all day.

Tickets are available at apolloprinceton.com or at the box office.

Want to advertise? Email: [email protected].