SPONSORED BY

Happy Friday morning, Princeton. June 6th marks the anniversary of D-Day, when thousands of Allied troops stormed the beaches of Normandy in 1944, risking everything to liberate a continent from tyranny. It was a day of extraordinary courage, sacrifice, and unity in the face of overwhelming odds. As we go about our routines today, may we pause to remember that freedom has never been free.

Let’s go!

—Justin Bullington

📬IN THIS ISSUE

💡What You Should Know
👑Future Fair Queens
🗓️Upcoming in Princeton
🏠Homes for Sale
🧺Lunch in the Park
☀️Princeton Weather
⛽️Princeton Gas Prices
🐴Wonder Junction
💼Princeton Businesses
🏋️At the Metro Center
❤️Local Obituaries
📍Outside City Limits
👔Bureau County Father’s Day Weekend

💡WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

• Happy Birthday yesterday, Maria Hartsough — and today Maggie Griggs! 🎂

• BCR: Friends, family and law enforcement officers from past and present came to salute Erik Sorenson at his retirement open house at the Princeton Police Department on Tuesday. Sorenson is retiring after 27 years with the Princeton Police Department.

• New Healthcare Option Settles Into Princeton Location

• Elite runners, including Princeton’s own Collin Mickow, will compete in inaugural Princeton Mile race.

• After 34 years of providing eye care to patients, Dr. Donald Marion has retired.

• SRM: Princeton Police Chief Tom Kammerer says the department has been selected to receive a grant for body cameras in the amount of $66,000. The grant will cover most of the cost of staying compliant with a mandate from the Safe-T Act, requiring body cameras on all police officers by this past January.

• The 4th annual ShrimpFest & Brew Hullabaloo is tomorrow, June 7, from 11 AM to 9 PM at Rotary Park, featuring food, drinks, and live music. Performers include Al Brown, Brass from the Past, and Beatles tribute band American English, with a kid-friendly “Shrimply Fun Zone” open from 11–5; details at www.princetonshrimpfest.com.

• The “More on 34” Father’s Day Weekend Garage Sales are set for June 13–14, 2025, across Bureau and Henry counties. To list your garage sale or highlight a local event like a food stand or car show, email [email protected] by June 4. Sale listings will be printed and distributed regionally.

• The Princeton Mile takes place Saturday, June 7, starting at 10:00 a.m. on Main Street and ending at Rotary Park. Awards will follow at 10:30 a.m. Stick around for Shrimpfest at the park featuring live music and food. Sidewalk sales and other weekend attractions also planned.

• The Great Pages Circus will perform in Princeton on Monday and Tuesday, June 23–24 at the Bureau County Fairgrounds. Showtimes include 7 p.m. Monday and 4:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, with free admission for children 12 and under with a paid adult. Expect thrilling acts, animal performances, and classic circus fun.

• First Lutheran Church will host the Old Wheels Car Show on Saturday, June 14. The event will run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the church’s north parking lot at 116 N. Pleasant St. Classic car enthusiasts are invited to attend and enjoy the display.

• Ride Illinois is hosting the Z Tour Bike Ride on Saturday, June 21, beginning and ending at Zearing Park. Cyclists will enjoy scenic routes through Bureau County with rolling terrain, creek views, and minimal traffic. Proceeds benefit the Zearing Child Enrichment Center, and registration is open at ztour.org.

• A Fourth of July celebration will be held Friday, July 4 at Zearing Park, with food vendors from 5–9 p.m., live entertainment including Birdchild and balloon twisting, and fireworks at dusk. If needed, the rain date is Saturday, September 6.

• Team registration is now open for the 28th Annual Tiger Classic, hosted by the Princeton Tiger Athletic Boosters. This year’s event will be held at a new location—Chapel Hill Golf Course in Princeton, IL—on August 16, 2025, with registration beginning at 8 AM and tee-off at 9 AM. Register your team here and join the fun!

• The Homestead Festival is organizing a friendly competition between Bureau County towns September 4–7. Events include tug-of-war, bags, dunk tank, and 3-on-3 basketball.

👑CALLING ALL FUTURE FAIR QUEENS

The Bureau County Fair Queen Pageants are now seeking candidates for 2025 — and it’s a special one!

This year marks the 170th Bureau County Fair, one of the longest running fairs in Illinois. The 2025 Queens and their courts will reign over an unforgettable week filled with awards, grandstand events, and fun for the whole community.

Interested? Request an application by emailing [email protected] — the deadline is July 1st!

Age divisions:

• Miss: 16–21

• Jr: 12–14

• Little: 6–8

🏋️AT THE METRO CENTER

Junior High Strength and Conditioning Clinic

The Bureau County Metro Center is offering a Junior High Strength & Conditioning clinic from July 14th to July 17th. This one-week program is designed to help junior high athletes in Bureau County improve physically and build foundational strength. The camp targets students entering 5th through 8th grade, with separate time slots: 5th & 6th graders will meet from 10:30–11:15 AM, and 7th & 8th graders from 11:30 AM–12:15 PM. The fee is tiered at $40, $45, or $50 depending on registration timing or other factors. Classes will be capped at 8 participants to ensure more individualized instruction.

Participants will benefit from continued development, better agility, stronger self-esteem, increased skill, a strong base for gaining strength, and safety through strength development. Other benefits include promoting teamwork and encouraging a strong work ethic. The program teaches proper warmups, stretching, exercise techniques, and sport-specific training. It’s an excellent opportunity for youth to gain confidence and compete at a higher level.

To register, visit the Metro Center in person, call 815-872-0840, or sign up online. Early registration is encouraged due to limited spots.

Group Swim Lessons

Group swim lessons are returning to Alexander Pool this summer for kids ages 4 and up. The sessions will run on two sets of dates: June 9th–12th and June 16th–19th. Each class takes place from 11:00 to 11:45 a.m. Participants will get the chance to sharpen existing skills, learn new techniques, and have fun in a supportive environment. The program is open to both members and non-members. The cost is $50 for members, $55 for residents, and $65 for non-residents. To register, visit the Metro Center in person, call 815-872-0840, or register online.

Adult Dodgeball Tournament

The Adult Dodgeball Tournament is coming to the BCMC Gym on Saturday, July 19th. Open to participants ages 21 and up, this event features 5-player teams competing in a double elimination format. Each matchup consists of three 10-minute games, with the winner determined by the last team standing or the team with the most players remaining. Matches begin at 6:00 PM, but all players must arrive by 5:30 PM for a rules explanation. The cost is $100 per team.

Attendees can enjoy a cash bar and free pizza while supplies last. This high-energy evening promises fun competition and great social interaction. To register, stop by the Metro Center in person, call 815-872-0840, or sign up online. Spots are limited, so early registration is encouraged.

🗓️UPCOMING IN PRINCETON

🦐 4th Annual ShrimpFest & Brew Hullabaloo – A full day of food, drinks, and music on Saturday, June 7, from 11 AM–9 PM at Rotary Park. Performers include Al Brown, Brass from the Past, and Beatles tribute band American English. “Shrimply Fun Zone” for kids runs from 11 AM–5 PM. Details at www.princetonshrimpfest.com.

🚜 Foundation Tractor Trek – The 13th annual Tractor Trek rolls out Saturday, June 7, from the Bureau County Fairgrounds. Antique tractors tour portions of Bureau County, with registration at $50. Includes lunch, refreshments, and a fun-filled experience.

🔥🍕 Wood-Fired Pizza Nights on the Farm – Join Hungry World Farm in Tiskilwa on Saturdays, June 7, 14, and 21, from 5–7:30 PM for a relaxing evening with pizza, farm tours, baby goats, and lawn chair lounging.

🚴‍♂️ Bike & Walk Princeton – Join the City of Princeton and Bike & Walk Princeton for a Bicycle Scavenger Hunt in celebration of National Bike Month. Solve location riddles, bike to each site, and snap a photo. Submit pictures and contact info to [email protected] by Thursday, June 13, for a chance to win prizes. More info at facebook.com/bikewalkprincetonil.

🇺🇸 Arukah Freedom 5k Color Run – Start your July 4th at Soldiers & Sailors Park with an 8 AM color run that supports a local cause. Walk, run, or splash your way through red, white, and blue. $35/person or $120 for 4.

🌳 Homestead Lawn Event – A community event at Owen Lovejoy Homestead on Saturday, June 14, from 5-7 PM to raise funds and celebrate local traditions.

🎉 Grand Opening of Pupper’s Run – Celebrate the grand opening of Pupper’s Run Homemade Crafts and Pies on Tuesday, June 17, from 12–7 PM at 640 S Main. Featuring 17 vendors, homemade crafts, and the return of fan-favorite pies!

🃏 Magic The Gathering Saturdays – Gather your friends for casual and competitive Magic play at The Gamers Guild Lounge (104 N Main St) on Saturdays, June 7, July 5, and July 21, from 4–9 PM. $5 entry fee.

🍑 Georgia Peach Stop Event – Tree-Ripe Fruit Co. brings fresh Georgia peaches to the Princeton Moose Lodge (1338 N Euclid Ave) on Monday, June 23, from 3–4:30 PM. Less than 24 hours from harvest to your hands. More info at www.tree-ripe.com.

🎬 Free Movie Night – Watch Green and Gold at Apollo Theater (455 S Main St) on Monday, June 23, at 6:30 PM. A story of a Wisconsin dairy farm family facing hard times. Hosted by the Bureau County Farm Bureau. Free admission.

🏠 Annual Covenant Children’s Home Reunion – A gathering for past residents, staff, and volunteers at Simon Conference Center on Saturday, June 28, from 10 AM-4 PM. Donations welcome.

🤼‍♂️ Micro Wrestling at The Hawg House – A 21+ night of body slams, suplexes, and mayhem on Friday, August 1, from 8–10 PM at Hawg House Saloon. Featuring multiple matches and nonstop action under 5 feet tall.

🥿 Walk a Mile for Freedom House – A one-mile walk in downtown Princeton to support DV and SV survivors on Saturday, August 2 at 9 AM. Activities, teams, and prizes.

🎤 Trace Adkins with Brushville – Bureau County Fair – Country star Trace Adkins performs with special guest Brushville on Thursday, August 21 at 7:30 PM at the Bureau County Fair. Tickets available at bureaucountyfair.com.

🎨 12th Annual Artisan Market – Celebrate fall with 30+ artists, food trucks, baked goods, live music, and more at Hornbaker Gardens on Saturday, September 20, from 10 AM–4 PM. Free admission.

🏠HOMES FOR SALE

• Listed at $84,000, this home at 220 N 1st St in Princeton, IL offers 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, and 840 square feet of living space. The property features a living room, family room, dining room, and a laundry room, with the potential to convert into a 3-bedroom layout. Although there is no garage, there is ample space in the back for a carport or off-alley parking. The listing is presented by Jori Mcrae of River Country Properties and has been on the market for just one day.

• Priced at $149,900 after a $10,000 price drop, this 3-bedroom, 1-bath home at 616 N Pleasant St in Princeton, IL offers 1,520 square feet of updated living space. The home features historic woodwork, two enclosed porches, a formal dining room, and a large kitchen with custom epoxy countertops and included appliances. Numerous updates have been completed, including new vinyl windows, fresh paint, new electrical, and a modern steam heating system. A two-car garage with a second-story bonus room, a clean basement, and a garden-ready yard round out the appeal of this charming two-story home.

• Located just outside of Princeton, this 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home sits on a scenic 5.53-acre lot and offers 2,112 square feet of living space. The property includes a 3+ car garage, three large outbuildings, and a drive capable of supporting heavy equipment loads. Recent updates include new windows, drywall, plumbing, electrical service, and central air, making the home move-in ready. The beautifully landscaped yard features mature trees, perennials, a gazebo for entertaining, and a shed suitable for animals—ideal for those seeking a versatile country lifestyle within the Princeton school district.

🧺LUNCH IN THE PARK SCHEDULE

Lunch in the Park – Every Friday | 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM

📍 Soldiers & Sailors Park

Enjoy delicious lunches and tasty bake sale items from local organizations all summer long!

May

• May 16 – Lunch: AmVets Post #180 | Bake Sale: American Legion Auxiliary

• May 23 – Lunch: Flags of Freedom | Bake Sale: Open Prairie UCC

• May 30 – Lunch: Bureau County Senior Center | Bake Sale: Bureau Co. Republican Women

June

• June 6 – Lunch: Cub Scout Pack #4151 | Bake Sale: Princeton High School POMS

• June 13 – Lunch: New Hope Church | Bake Sale: Seed Of Hope Church

• June 20 – Lunch: First Presbyterian Church | Bake Sale: First United Methodist Church

• June 27 – Lunch: VFW Post #4323 | Bake Sale: Prairie Arts Center

July

• July 4 – Lunch & Bake Sale: City of Princeton

• July 11 – Lunch: Covered Bridge Barbershop Chorus | Bake Sale: First Lutheran Church

• July 18 – Lunch: New Hope Church | Bake Sale: Gamma Phi

• July 25 – Lunch: American Legion Post #125 | Bake Sale: Hampshire Colony Church

August

• August 1 – Lunch: Rotary Club of Princeton | Bake Sale: Princeton Junior Woman’s Club

• August 8 – Lunch: Hands of Hope | Bake Sale: Second Story Teen Center

• August 15 – Lunch: American Legion Post #125 | Bake Sale: St. Louis Parish

• August 22 – Lunch: Princeton Police for Second Story | Bake Sale: Seed Of Hope Church

• August 29 – Lunch: Bureau County United Way | Bake Sale: Second Story Teen Center

September

• Sept. 5 – Lunch: Second Story Teen Center | Bake Sale: MomCo

• Sept. 12 – Lunch: Princeton Chamber of Commerce | Bake Sale: Rotary Club of Princeton

• Sept. 19 – Lunch: Flags of Freedom | Bake Sale: Cub Scout Pack #4151

• Sept. 26 – Lunch: Dementia Friendly Princeton | Bake Sale: Hands of Hope

☀️PRINCETON WEATHER

⛅️Today: Mostly cloudy early, then becoming partly cloudy in the afternoon. High near 79°F, with northeast winds at 5 to 10 mph and humidity around 69%. Friday night will be partly cloudy with a low near 58°F. Winds will be light and variable, eventually shifting to the west-northwest at 10 mph. Humidity will rise to 78%.

🌧️Saturday: Considerable clouds are expected, with occasional afternoon showers. The high will reach about 76°F, with east winds at 5 to 10 mph and a 30% chance of rain. Saturday night will be mostly clear with a low around 57°F. Winds from the west at 5 to 10 mph will bring in slightly drier air, with humidity near 74%.

🌧️Sunday: Expect partly cloudy skies in the morning, transitioning to occasional showers in the afternoon. High temperature will be near 79°F, with west winds at 10 to 20 mph and a 40% chance of rain. Sunday night will be partly cloudy and cooler, with a low near 55°F. Winds will come from the south-southeast at 10 to 15 mph, with humidity around 71%.

🌤️Monday: A mix of sunshine and clouds is expected, with highs reaching 75°F. Winds will be from the southwest at 5 to 10 mph and humidity around 62%. Monday night stays partly cloudy with a low near 54°F. South winds at 5 to 10 mph and rising humidity near 75% will keep conditions mild.

🌤️Tuesday: Mainly sunny skies are expected, with a high near 78°F. Winds will be light from the west-northwest at 5 to 10 mph and humidity around 58%. Tuesday night will be clear and calm with a low around 57°F. Winds from the southwest at 5 to 10 mph and slightly elevated humidity at 74%.

☀️Wednesday: Generally sunny and warmer with a high of 83°F. Winds from the south-southwest at 5 to 10 mph and humidity around 56% will make for a pleasant summer day. Wednesday night will be mostly clear with a low near 61°F. Winds will be from the south-southeast at 10 to 15 mph, and humidity will rise to 70%.

⛽️PRINCETON GAS PRICES

Regular

Amoco, 720 N Main St: $3.04
Sullivan’s Foods: $3.12
Casey’s West/North: $3.15
Beck’s West/North: $3.15
Road Ranger, N Main St: $3.15

🐴WONDER JUNCTION VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL

Wonder Junction Vacation Bible School will be held at Princeton Bible Church from Sunday, June 8 to Thursday, June 12, 2025, running nightly from 6:00 to 8:30 p.m. The program is open to children ages 4 (fully potty trained) through 6th grade. The VBS theme is “Marvel at Jesus, Live for His Glory,” aiming to help kids know who Jesus is and what He has done for them. Activities include energetic assemblies with music, wacky intros, and a mission moment, followed by rotation through five fun stations. Registration is free, and a themed music CD is available for $2.50 at the registration table each evening. The event promises a joyful, Christ-centered experience for kids to grow in faith and wonder.

Register here

💼PRINCETON BUSINESSES

• The Milk Moustache is participating in Princeton’s Sidewalk Sales this Friday and Saturday with major discounts. Shoppers can enjoy over 60% off regular-priced merchandise, plus an additional 10% off remaining inventory. The store is open Friday from 10–5 and Saturday from 10–4, featuring furniture, décor, and fixtures pulled from storage.

• Paisano’s is featuring a Mac n Cheese pizza for June, layered with creamy mac, mozzarella, and cheddar. Customers are adding bacon, chicken, and even BBQ sauce. Delivery available nightly from 4–9 p.m. within 10 miles.

• Explore Illinois French Creole Heritage with Music and Stories at Princeton Public Library on June 10

• The Artisan Market is set for Saturday, September 20 at Hornbaker Gardens. Attendees can help paint a 200-square community mural honoring a beloved local farm dog. The mosaic will come together during the day as part of the art experience.

• Sisler’s Ice Cream is offering a June secret menu item: the Brookie Sundae, which includes fudge brownie ice cream, caramel sauce, and chocolate chip cookie pieces.

• Neighborhood Ace Hardware has Father’s Day gift options including Milwaukee and Craftsman tools, Dr. Squatch and Duke Cannon products, mugs, and gift cards. Great for dads who have everything.

• Myrtle’s Pies is open Thursday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., offering pies like cranberry apple, pecan, peach, Dutch apple, rhubarb, and more. Also available: sugar cookies, lavender cookies, and cinnamon rolls with caramel pecan or cream cheese icing.

• Main Street Dance Academy has summer dance registration due Friday, June 6. Rising Stars Camp runs June 16–20 for Kindergarten–1st grade. Additional intensives include Jazz & Hip-Hop, Jumps & Turns, and Contemporary & Lyrical for grades 2nd–12th on various dates.

• Optimal Health now has Dandy Blend in stock, a popular herbal coffee alternative available in various sizes and options.

• The Knack is offering “Ladies Night Out” beginner pottery classes Thursday nights for groups of 2–4. First three signups get a free bottle of wine.

• MomCo of Bureau County’s summer events include weekly park days at 10 a.m. and special gatherings like bonfires, ice cream nights, and pool parties throughout June–August.

• Monical’s Pizza is running a limited-time deal: 14” thin crust, 1-topping pizza for $15. Ends tonight!

• Fresh Finds has Father’s Day gifts ready—shop today from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. for funny mugs, scratchers, Bear Claws, hats, and more.

• The Bureau County Senior Center will hold a Baked Potato Fundraiser on Monday, June 9, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. All ages welcome. $8 per meal.

• Ellie, a 1–3-year-old Lab/Shepherd mix, is available for adoption from Princeton Animal Control. She’s a playful and sweet girl ready to meet new people.

• Four Seasons now carries ILSE Jacobsen shoes—including the popular tulip style. These lightweight and stylish options pair well with anything in your closet.

• The Princeton Closet is offering the same promotions as last week: spend $15 and get a free throw pillow, buy-one-get-one DVDs, and 12 for $8 Basket Days Friday & Saturday (limit 2).

✉️NEW SUBSCRIBER?

You have access to all previous newsletters: click here to read them.

👉Please, please, please make sure to add the Princeton NOW newsletter email address as a “contact,” “VIP,” or “Whitelist” in your email service. This will prevent it from going to spam or bouncing.

📍OUTSIDE CITY LIMITS

• A glimpse into the historic Stevens House in Tiskilwa, Illinois, nationally recognized and restored

• Organization to Host Public Meeting on Proposed New Marquis Well

• Progress Updated On Turning Former Peru Pizza House Into Meals On Wheels Kitchen

• The Tiskilwa Historical Society is hosting "Jazz in June" by John Cooper, a musician and professor from WIU. This free concert will take place on Friday, June 6th at 7PM in the Community Room of the Museum on Main, 110 E. Main Street, Tiskilwa. Please come and join us to enjoy the music and history of America's Treasure - Jazz!

• A Vacation Bible School is coming to Wyanet Community Bible Church at 215 S Locust Street! Join us July 16–18 from 10–11:30 a.m. for Wonder Junction by Answers in Genesis, with a free meal following for kids and families. Sunday School for all ages is at 9 a.m., followed by our worship service at 10. Register online at Answers in Genesis – Wyanet Community Bible Church or contact Pastor Kevin at [email protected]—walk-in registration is also welcome!

👔BUREAU COUNTY FATHER’S DAY WEEKEND

Garage Sales & Much More | June 12–15

There’s something for everyone this Father’s Day weekend across Bureau County! Enjoy townwide garage sales, great food, classic cars, live music, and family fun:

🚗 Garage Sales & Markets

• More on 34 Garage Sales – Thursday–Saturday, June 12–14

• Bureau County Fairgrounds – Two days of garage sales

• Townwide Sales – Wyanet & Princeton

• Princeton Farmers Market – Saturday

🍔 Food & Fun

• Lunch in the Park – Friday, Main St., Princeton

• Hungry World Farm Wood-Fired Pizza – Friday, Tiskilwa

• Wyanet Locker Cookout – Friday & Saturday

• Buffalo Days Celebration – All weekend, LaMoille

🚙 Car Shows & Music

• Psycho Silo Car & Motorcycle Swap Meet – Friday & Saturday

• Kid Rock Tribute Band & Jeeper’s Creepers – Saturday at Psycho Silo

• Old Wheels Car Show – Saturday, 1st Lutheran in Princeton

• Lake DePue Car Show – Sunday

• Community Band Concert – Sunday, Princeton

🌿 Outdoor Attractions

• Hornbaker’s Garden Open House & Hosta Walk – Saturday & Sunday

📍 Info & Maps:

Garage Sale fliers available at the Prouty Building, the Fairgrounds, and local gas stations.

🔗 For details, visit the Bureau County Tourism Facebook page or email [email protected]

📞 Info line: 815-866-3606

Want to advertise? Email: [email protected].