SPONSORED BY

Good Saturday morning, Princeton friends. Hope you have a happy and joyful Easter weekend. I will be celebrating at Princeton Bible Church. Come celebrate with us if you’re looking for a place to go!

He is risen!

—Justin Bullington

📬IN THIS ISSUE

💡What You Should Know
🏠 Princeton Homes For Sale
🌽 Ag Updates
☀️ Princeton Weather
⛽️ Princeton Gas Prices
💼 Princeton Businesses
🗓️ Upcoming in Princeton
👷‍♂️ Local Job Opportunities
🐶Letter From Lori

💡WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

• Arukah Institute received $2 million in federal funding, presented by Congressman Darin LaHood, to renovate its Princeton facility into a centralized hub for mental and behavioral health services serving a multi-county region of roughly 210,000 people. Construction is expected to begin this summer.

• Bureau County Republican shared that Charlie Waca was inducted into the IHSFCA Hall of Fame after a 38-year coaching career as an assistant football coach.

• Princeton Police Department issued a scam alert warning residents about fake court notices tied to unpaid tickets or tolls. The department said courts will not request payment through QR codes or urgent payment demands and urged residents not to scan or pay if they are unsure.

• The City of Princeton announced semiannual fire hydrant flushing will begin Monday, April 6, and continue weekdays from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Residents may notice low water pressure, discolored water, or a stronger chlorine odor during that time.

• Bureau County Fairgrounds Easter Egg Hunt Welcomes Kids for Family Fun April 4.

• Princeton Tourism highlighted the Prairie Arts Center as a community hub for theater, gallery exhibits, classes, workshops, and children’s programming. The post also promoted the April gallery opening on April 11 from 6–7:30 p.m. and weekend gallery hours April 12–26 from 1–3 p.m.

• OSF HealthCare is hosting a Nutrition and Heart Disease Prevention class April 13 from 3–5 p.m. at the Bureau County Metro Center. The free session will cover heart-healthy habits, nutrition, and prevention strategies.

• Spring flag football at the Bureau County Metro Center runs every Saturday from April 18 through May 23 for kids in kindergarten through 5th grade, with games at Zearing Park — register by March 27 at princetonparkdistrict.org or call 815-872-0840. The BCMC also is hosting an adult dodgeball tournament (21+) on Saturday, May 23, starting at 6 p.m. — teams of five can register for $100.

• Bureau County Fair promoted signups for its Sports Cards, Pokémon, TCG, Memorabilia & More Show set for Saturday, May 23, 2026, at the Bureau County Fairgrounds.

• Mexican Grill, an Iowa-based fast-casual restaurant known for its fresh-pressed tortillas and made-to-order burritos, is coming to Princeton as early as this summer.

• Princeton Tourism announced planning for America’s 250th anniversary celebration in Princeton. Parade registration is now open, and residents are encouraged to participate in upcoming community celebrations.

• The Rotary Club of Princeton announced its annual Easter Egg Hunt on April 4 at 10:30 a.m. at Soldiers and Sailors Park. Children ages 0–10 are invited to participate, and photos with the Easter Bunny will be available.

📍Outside City Limits

• Walmart is marking 40 years in the Illinois Valley — Princeton's original store opened on March 5, 1985, with the current Supercenter location opening on October 16, 2002, part of a regional presence that also includes stores in Peru, Ottawa, Streator, and Morris.

• The late Chester Weger's lawyer is hosting another discussion on the much talked about “Starved Rock Murders” case.

• The National Weather Service has confirmed three tornadoes from Thursday evening’s storms.

• When it comes to firefighting in the Illinois Valley, you'd be hard pressed to find anyone with more experience than Gene Scheri.

• A young Oglesby man was the driver in a fatal rollover northwest of Ottawa.

• The sheriff's office says Jeffries is wanted on a warrant for grooming based on an investigation from February 2025.

• Nearly two years to the day he was arrested for dealing cocaine, a Spring Valley man has been sentenced to prison.

• The Walnut Chamber of Commerce announced its Townwide Garage Sales will take place May 1 and May 2. Residents and visitors are encouraged to participate and shop throughout the community.

• The Tiskilwa Community Association announced the headline bands for Pow Wow Days 2026. Flatland Ridge will perform Friday, July 31, and Hairbanger’s Ball will perform Saturday, August 1.

🏠PRINCETON HOMES FOR SALE

• This listing at 206 N. Linn Street in Princeton is a $305,000 single-family home offering 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 1,852 square feet, and a 0.91-acre lot. Built in 1893 and remodeled in 2014, the home features refinished hardwood floors, a formal dining room, a heated enclosed porch, and an updated kitchen with granite countertops, a farmhouse sink, and a breakfast bar. The layout includes one main-floor bedroom, two upstairs bedrooms, a bonus room, an unfinished full basement, and an upgraded tiled walk-in shower with double showerheads. Outside, the property includes a stamped concrete patio and a 2.5-car detached garage, along with a large heated barn-style outbuilding that adds substantial space for vehicles, storage, hobbies, or workshop use.

• This listing at 405 E. Peru Street in Princeton is a $385,000 single-family home offering 4 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, 3,712 square feet, and a 0.77-acre corner lot. Built in 1891, the Queen Anne-style residence blends historic character with extensive restoration, featuring Brazilian cherry flooring, crown molding, period millwork, a formal dining room, a custom chef’s kitchen with granite countertops and a Five Star gas stove, and two fireplaces. The second floor includes four bedrooms, two full baths, a laundry room, abundant storage, a quiet office nook, and access to a walk-up attic, while the partial basement adds additional storage and a bathroom area. Outside, the property includes a preserved vintage carriage house used as a two-car garage, along with a fenced yard, new brick patio, updated roof, tankless water heater, radon system, replacement windows, and other major improvements that support both comfort and long-term value.

• This listing at 417 W. Hudson Street in Princeton is a $299,500 ranch-style home offering 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 1,468 square feet, and a two-car attached garage. Built in 2002, the home features an open floor plan with 10-foot ceilings in the main living areas, engineered hardwood floors, a gas fireplace, a modern kitchen with updated Samsung appliances, and a heated four-season sunroom. The primary suite includes double vanities, two walk-in closets, a whirlpool tub, and a separate shower, while the full unfinished basement provides added storage and future finishing potential. Additional highlights include thermal windows with built-in blinds, solar tube skylights, a covered concrete patio, a partially fenced yard, solar panels, a high-efficiency furnace and air-conditioning system, and a location within easy walking distance of downtown.

🌽AG UPDATES

Illinois Governor Pushes for E15 to Help Farmers. Illinois Governor JB Pritzker is urging Congress to allow year-round E15 gasoline sales, saying it would create stronger corn demand and provide stability for Illinois farmers facing volatile markets and rising costs. The move is aimed at improving ethanol demand and strengthening rural economies. Read more about E15 fuel.

Financial Risk Growing for Farmers in 2026. A Purdue agricultural economist warns that farm financial risk is increasing heading into the 2026 growing season due to lower crop prices, higher interest rates, and rising input costs. Many farmers may face tighter margins despite stable yields. Read more about farm risk.

Farmland Prices Holding Strong Despite Low Crop Prices. New data shows Midwest farmland values remain steady even while corn and soybean prices remain relatively low. Strong investor demand, limited land supply, and long-term confidence in agriculture are helping keep land values high. Read more about farmland values.

Fertilizer Tariffs Could Affect Farm Input Costs. Major fertilizer companies are supporting continued tariffs on phosphate fertilizer imports from Morocco and Russia, which could impact fertilizer prices for U.S. farmers heading into planting season. The decision could influence crop profitability across the Midwest. Read more about fertilizer tariffs.

Corn Acres Falling While Soybeans Increase in Illinois. New USDA planting estimates show Illinois farmers planning fewer corn acres and slightly more soybean acres this season due to changing input costs and profitability outlooks. This shift is happening across much of the Midwest as planting season approaches. Read more about crop acreage.

☀️PRINCETON WEATHER

🌬️ Saturday: Mostly cloudy and windy with the chance of a few scattered showers. High near 50°F with west winds 20–30 mph and higher gusts possible. Saturday night turns partly cloudy with a low around 34°F and WNW winds 10–20 mph.

🌤️ Sunday: Breezy with sunshine and some cloudy intervals. High around 54°F with WNW winds 15–25 mph. Sunday night becomes partly to mostly cloudy with a low near 34°F and lighter west winds 5–10 mph.

🌤️ Monday: Cool and breezy with sunshine mixed with a few clouds. High near 52°F with WSW winds 10–15 mph. Monday night is mostly clear and chilly with a low around 27°F and north winds 10–15 mph.

⛅ Tuesday: Intervals of clouds and sunshine with a high near 48°F. South winds 10–20 mph develop during the day. Tuesday night remains partly cloudy with a low near 36°F and SSE winds 10–15 mph.

🌬️ Wednesday: Windy and milder with cloudy skies becoming partly cloudy later. High near 65°F with south winds 20–30 mph. Wednesday night brings evening showers, then partial clearing overnight with a low around 48°F.

⛽️PRINCETON GAS PRICES

Regular

Amoco, 720 N Main St: $4.09
Sullivan’s Foods: $4.17
Casey’s West/North: $4.19
Beck’s West/North: $4.19
Road Ranger, N Main St: $4.19
Shell, 2225 N Main St: $4.19

💼PRINCETON BUSINESSES #SHOPLOCAL

• Meadows On Main is offering 35% off Easter merchandise, excluding vintage and Amish eggs.

• Tailholt Trading Post announced new floor and hanging lamps are available and said the shop is open until 4 today at 925 N. Main Street in Princeton.

• Rossy’s BBQ Joint said it will be open regular Easter Sunday hours from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. with its full menu plus BBQ ribs, with dine-in, carryout, and delivery available.

• Rachel Rene - Princeton IL announced Easter basket ideas are available in store and encouraged shoppers to stop in today or Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

• Neighborhood Ace Hardware announced 2x4x8 lumber is back in stock.

• Optimal Health promoted a cotton candy-flavored fiber snack, noting it contains no sugar and no added fiber in a fun alternative to regular cotton candy.

• Sisler’s Ice Cream announced spring seasonal flavors are now available, including Lemon Raspberry and Lavender & Honey. The shop is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

• The Knack invited families to paint pottery eggs for Easter weekend and said reservations are only needed for parties of eight or more. The shop also promoted take-home pottery kits and shared Easter weekend hours, including free kids studio fees on Friday.

• Apollo POP promoted last-minute Easter basket fillers, including 1-gallon Easter tins and Easter popcorn bags in caramel, cheddar cheese, and carrot cake flavors, while supplies last.

• Onthehomesteadcrossfit congratulated Eric Thompson and Jeremy House for advancing to the semifinals of the 2026 CrossFit Games.

• Hornbaker Gardens announced its 2026 food truck schedule and said a few vendor dates are still available on May 23, May 30, and June 6.

• The Princeton Closet is selling a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles collection for $40, including more than 20 figures, vehicles, and accessories.

• Sisler’s Ice Cream announced it has restocked locally handmade pint sleeves designed to keep hands warm while eating ice cream straight from the container.

• Little Blue Dress shared new Easter basket ideas on its website and said the store will be open tomorrow from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and closed on Easter Sunday.

• Neighborhood Ace Hardware announced it will be open on Easter Sunday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

• Princeton Christian Academy announced enrollment is open for preschool through high school and invited families to learn more at mypca.info.

• Four Seasons - Princeton is featuring Perception spring styles and announced shoppers can use code SHOP to save 25% through April 5, with some exclusions applying.

• Wild Honey Boutique promoted Easter dress options and announced Good Friday hours of 10–5:30 and Saturday hours of 10–5.

• Corner Chair Market showcased a storage cabinet and highlighted its function and style as a featured item.

• Dairy Queen in Princeton announced its summer Blizzard lineup is now available.

• Paisano’s Ristorante introduced its April specials, featuring the Pineapple Express pizza of the month and the Sunshine Berry Bliss Taco dessert of the month.

• Second Story Teen Center is collecting financial donations for its 2nd Annual Shoe Drive for local kids. Donations can be made online or at 125 S. Main Street, with contributions accepted through the end of March.

• Friends of Strays shared updated surrender requirements for cats and dogs. Animals must be vaccinated and tested prior to surrender, with adoption fees set at $75 for cats and $200 for dogs.

• Cafe Grace announced an Evening of Culinary Art and Wine Pairing on April 25 at 6 p.m. The event includes a five-course chef tasting with optional wine pairings and limited seating.

🗓️️UPCOMING IN PRINCETON

🥚 Saturday, April 4: Easter Egg Hunt at Liberty Village of Princeton — A family-friendly evening event from 10:00–11:45 PM featuring an egg hunt, hot cocoa, and cookies, with age groups for 1–4, 5–8, and 9–11 years old.

🍷 Wednesday, April 15: Wine Tasting Wednesday at Coal Creek Brewing Company — A 6:00 PM red wine tasting featuring a curated flight of reds paired with a charcuterie board full of savory bites.

🌷 Saturday, April 18: Discover What’s New for 2026 at Hornbaker Gardens — An informational workshop at 10:00 AM highlighting new plants for the 2026 season, including perennial introductions, notable trees, and expert guidance for gardeners and landscapers.

🎨 Wednesday, April 22: “Pots & Prickles” Paint Party at Downtown Pub & Event Center — A 6:00 PM creative night where guests will paint “Pots & Prickles” on canvas, enjoy food and drinks, and can come early for dinner; spots are limited.

👷‍♂️LOCAL JOB OPPORTUNITIES

Warehouse Associate - Inventory Control — Ollie’s Bargain Outlet, Princeton: This full-time Princeton position is listed at $19 per hour and focuses on supporting inbound and outbound inventory movement in a warehouse environment. The role appears geared toward candidates who can work safely, stay organized, and assist with daily operational projects tied to merchandise flow. Based on the current listing, it is one of the more prominent active warehouse openings in Princeton itself.

Customer Service Representative — Adam Hellman State Farm, Princeton: This Princeton-based opening is listed at $45,000 to $55,000 per year and is centered on client communication, service support, and daily agency operations. The position appears suited for someone with strong interpersonal skills who can handle customer needs professionally while helping maintain office efficiency. It stands out as a local office role with a clearly posted salary range and full-time structure.

Office Manager / Bookkeeper — Greenfield Retirement Home, Princeton: This full-time role in Princeton is listed at $40,000 to $43,000 per year and includes managing office operations, front desk responsibilities, phone systems, and general administrative support. The posting suggests a position that blends financial organization with day-to-day office leadership in a residential care setting. It appears to be a solid local option for someone with bookkeeping and administrative experience.

Farm Hand/Laborer — McCune Farms, Walnut: This Walnut opening, which is within roughly 10 miles of Princeton, involves general farm work connected to conventional and organic row crop production as well as work tied to a swine finishing operation. The listing notes that a current driver’s license is required, indicating a practical, hands-on agricultural role with transportation and equipment responsibility. For applicants seeking outdoor or agricultural work near Princeton, this appears to be a relevant nearby opportunity.

Custodial and Warehouse Associate — Sherman’s, Peru: This Peru position, which is within roughly 20 miles of Princeton, is listed at from $20 per hour and combines warehouse support with maintaining a clean, organized, and welcoming retail environment. The posting emphasizes store appearance and guest experience, suggesting a role that blends operational reliability with customer-facing standards. It appears to be a practical option for someone looking for steady work in facilities, stock, and general store support.

🐶LETTER FROM LORI

“They’re so STICKY.”

My brother declares this statement every time my grandchildren eat, play, sneeze, cough, or touch anything. He’s constantly wiping them and every surface they come into contact with in an attempt to keep their fluids and crumbs contained so they don’t latch onto passersby or unsuspecting victims.

I’m not as vigilant. After 2 decades of running a daycare, and with a basic philosophy about herd immunity and the futility of maintaining any sort of realistically sterile environment, I only mop up the biggest spills in an effort to maximize my time and efficiency. I LIVE sticky. If you approach me and I DON’T have some unknown substance stuck to me, or hanging out in my hair, I consider it a good day and a definite anomaly.

My daily life includes a plethora of dog hair, dirt, dust, and destruction. My Nerds chant, “No puddles, no poop,” as they navigate the terrain between the car and the house, trying not to drag water or feces onto my carpets or floorboards in their travels. Children are masters of spreading stuff. They can take one dot of paint and create a mural on a wall. A drop of syrup can capture a whole herd of flies (flock? gaggle?). What starts as a 32-qt.-sized tote of toys can clog up the high-traffic areas in your house within minutes of being overturned.

What children can also spread, like a stick of butter on a kitchen floor, is JOY. One smile… hearts melt. One mispronounced word… raucous laughter. One sassy side eye… core memories created. One sleepy snore from an ample lap… tears of joy running down a wrinkly face.

Spreading limited resources isn’t always a bad thing. As we walk through our day, what are we distributing? Do people come in contact with us and leave with mud and poop on them, or when they walk away, do the corners of their mouths turn up in amusement? Do they leave feeling depleted, or lifted up? Even when you aren’t aware someone is listening, do they hear happiness or sadness coming from you?

Often, when in public with my Grand Nerds, I engage in playful banter with them and very often spy an innocent bystander giggling at our exchange. I delight in knowing that someone’s day is a little brighter because of what they have encountered with me.

So, the next time you have a chance, make sure that what you leave behind will be worth hanging onto and won’t require a package of diaper wipes and Lysol to remove the residue.

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

Want to advertise? Email: [email protected].