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Happy Saturday morning, Princeton. Have you been to the Bureau County Fair yet? My four kids had an absolute, total blast. The Fireball and The Zipper were wild. The food was sublime as well (Thanks Rossy’s BBQ).

Let’s get it going.

—Justin Bullington

📬IN THIS ISSUE

💡What You Should Know
🎊Homestead Schedule
☀️Princeton Weather
⛽️Princeton Gas Prices
🏆Princeton People of the Week
💼Princeton Businesses
👷Princeton Job Openings
🏃‍♂️The Underground 5K
📝Letter From Lori

💡WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

• Happy Birthday Haley VanAutreve and Seth Woolley!🎁

• The City of Princeton advises that Euclid Avenue will be closed from Elm Place to Railroad Avenue for approximately one week starting Sunday, Aug. 24, while BNSF Railway performs construction; alternate routes are recommended.

• Bureau County Fair continues through weekend

• Shadows of the Blue & Gray announced its Oct 11–12, 2025 living-history weekend at City County Park with reenactments, speakers, a Saturday 1 p.m. dance, and $5 cash entry.

• Princeton Christian Academy is holding a mums fundraiser offering red, orange, yellow, purple, pink, and white blooms in 9-inch pots for $12 each. Orders and payment are due by August 29, with delivery on September 11. Call the school to place your order: 815-875-2933.

• St. Matthews Lutheran Church hosts BLAST! every Wednesday at 5:45 p.m. This program offers an hour of singing and Bible lessons designed for children from kindergarten through 5th grade. The event is open to everyone and encourages community participation. St. Matthews Lutheran Church is located at 416 E Dover Road, Princeton, IL 61356. For more information, call 815-879-6491 or visit their Facebook page or website.

• Bureau County Sheriff Report 08-21-2025

🎊HOMESTEAD FESTIVAL SCHEDULE

The Homestead Festival is happening September 4–7!

Plan for a weekend full of tradition, fun, and community spirit. Don’t forget to grab your 50/50 raffle tickets—the drawing will be held on Sunday, September 7, and you don’t need to be present to win.

Thursday — September 4

• 12–5 PM • Bureau County History Center Tours

• 5:45 PM • Walk of Fame Dedication (Robert Petkoff @ Apollo Theater)

• 6–9 PM • Down on Main Street Concert (Electric Avenue: The 80s MTV Experience)

Friday – September 5

• 12:00–5:00 PM — Explore local history at the Bureau County History Center Tours

• 1:00–4:00 PM — Visit the Owen Lovejoy Homestead Tours

• 4:00–8:00 PM — Take a ride on the Main Street Trolley

• 5:00–7:00 PM — LEGO Design Competition Reception at the Prairie Arts Center

• 5:00–10:00 PM — Homestead Celebration at Soldiers & Sailors Park

• 5:00–9:00 PM — Enjoy food trucks and beverages

• 5:30–7:00 PM — Live music from Rodeo Drive

• 6:00–9:00 PM — Twilight horse-drawn carriage rides

• 7:00 PM — Homestead Festival Announcements: Grand Marshals, winners of the StudioK LEGO Contest, Jr. Women’s Club Baby Contest, and Chamber of Commerce Window Display Contest

• 7:30 PM — Pie Eating Contest, Pie Bake-Off & Auction

• 8:00–10:00 PM — Headliner performance: Infinity Concert

Saturday — September 6

• 8–12 PM — 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament (Alexander Park)

• 8:30 AM — Underground Railroad 5K (Metro Center, 7 AM registration)

• 8:30–12 PM — Farmer’s Market (Soldiers & Sailors Park)

• 9–6 PM — Beta Sigma Phi Arts & Craft Show (Courthouse Lawn)

• 9–11 AM — Homestead Festival Fun Fair (Heartland Bank South Lot)

• 9–11 AM — Princeton High School Tours

• 10–12 PM — Owen Lovejoy Homestead Tours

• 11–5 PM — 4-H Pork Cook-Out (Soldiers & Sailors Park; Drive-Thru at Fairgrounds; 11–2 PM @ Covenant Church)

• 12–5 PM — Bureau County History Center Tours

• 1:15 PM — Main Street Relay Race

• 1:30 PM — Homestead Festival Parade (Grand Marshals: Drs. Barbara Swalve Everett & Richard Everett; Gamma Phi Circus to follow)

• 3 PM — Euchre Tournament (Soldiers & Sailors Park; 2:30 PM registration)

• 3–5 PM — Owen Lovejoy Homestead Tours

• 4 PM — PHS Alumni Concert (Prairie Arts Center)

Sunday — September 7

• 8:00–3:30 PM — BBQ Rib Cook-Off (Central Bank Lot)

• 8:00–12:00 PM — Pancake & Sausage Breakfast (Moose Lodge)

• 8:00–2:00 PM — Homestead Flea Market (Bureau County Fairgrounds)

• 8:00–3:00 PM — 45th Annual Car Show (South Main Street)

• 9:00 AM — Tug Fest (Metro Center; 8:30 AM registration)

• 10:00–4:00 PM — Beta Sigma Phi Arts & Craft Show (Courthouse Lawn)

• 10:00–1:00 PM — Pony Rides (Soldiers & Sailors Park)

• 10:30 AM — Story Hour (with Bureau County United Way)

• 11:00 AM — Dunk Tank (Soldiers & Sailors Park)

• 11:00 AM — Bags Tournament (Prairie Arts Center; 10:30 AM registration)

• 11:30 AM & 2:30 PM — Magic Shows (Soldiers & Sailors Park)

• 12:00–2:30 PM — Tractor Pull (11:45 AM registration)

• 1:00–4:00 PM — Owen Lovejoy Homestead Tours

• 3:30 PM — 50/50 Raffle Drawing (Apollo Theater Marquee)

☀️PRINCETON WEATHER

🌤️Today: A brief, light shower is possible early, then it turns mostly sunny with a few clouds. Afternoon high around 81°F with a NW breeze 10–15 mph; humidity near 69%. The night is mostly clear and cooler, dipping to 54°F with a continued NW 10–15 mph breeze.

☀️Sunday: Generally sunny with a few afternoon clouds. High near 76°F and NW winds 10–20 mph adding a bit of a breeze; humidity about 66%. Partly cloudy Sunday night with a low near 51°F and a light ENE 5–10 mph wind; humidity around 81%.

🌤️Monday: Partly cloudy and pleasantly cool with a high around 73°F. Winds ESE 5–10 mph; humidity close to 65%. Clear and crisp Monday night with a low near 49°F and a gentle NNW 5–10 mph breeze.

🌤️Tuesday: Intervals of sun and clouds and comfortable. High near 75°F with ESE winds 5–10 mph; humidity around 64%. Partly cloudy at night, low near 50°F with a light ESE breeze; humidity rises toward 76%.

🌤️Wednesday: A mix of sun and clouds with a touch more warmth. Afternoon high about 77°F on SE winds 5–10 mph; humidity near 70%. Mostly clear Wednesday night with a low around 56°F and a light SSW ~7 mph wind; humidity about 84%.

⛽️PRINCETON GAS PRICES

Regular

Amoco, 720 N Main St: $3.29
Sullivan’s Foods: $3.29
Casey’s West/North: $3.39
Beck’s West/North: $3.39
Road Ranger, N Main St: $3.29
Shell, 2225 N Main St: $3.39

Peru Gas 👀

Sapp Bros.: $3.29

🏆PRINCETON PERSON OF THE WEEK

Did someone go the extra mile? Did a Princeton Person bless you or someone else you know? Nominate them, give me the details, and they may be chosen as the Princeton NOW Person of the Week. Nominate your Princeton Person of the Week by emailing your nomination to [email protected].

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💼PRINCETON BUSINESSES #SHOPLOCAL

• Princeton Tigers Athletic Booster Club, Inc launched a new 24/7 online store—more sport logos (including Tennis, Cross Country, and two Tiger options) are coming Monday, Pink Night is included, and orders ship to-home in about 10 business days.

• Dairy Queen (Treat) is clearing space for fall by offering buy one, get the second half off on select Blizzards (Confetti Cake, Mixing Bowl Mashup, and Superman) while supplies last.

• The Princeton Closet will donate all donations and 10% of store sales Aug 28–30 to support Travis—please stop in and show love.

• Johnsons Carpet Shoppe is bringing back furniture sales, starting with occasional chairs, recliners, and electric lift chairs. Johnsons Carpet Shoppe says more arrivals are on the way over the next few months to meet community demand.

• Fresh Finds Princeton restocked customer-favorite water candles and new fall styles.

• Optimal Health showcased more organic produce, including jalapeños, chili peppers, tomatoes, basil, zucchini, thunderhead kale and cucumbers.

• Corner Chair Market shared a furniture tour featuring newly styled pieces.

• Friends of Strays, Inc. (Princeton, IL) spotlighted adoptable pup Rosco and invited visits.

• Wild Honey Boutique invited shoppers to check out fun new arrivals this week.

• The Studio • Boutique debuted a Tiger tee for spirited game-day style.

• Sisler’s Ice Cream rolled out fair-week flavors: Salt Water Taffy and Cotton Candy.

• Four Seasons – Princeton launched the Skye’s The Limit fall collection and offered code SHOP for 25% off through 8/24.

• Finders Keepers Resale Store announced a Red Dot Sale Aug. 21–23 with $1 items, benefiting Friends of Strays.

• Little Blue Dress, Princeton, IL highlighted a chambray waist-tie mini dress (sizes S–L) for $50.

• Wyanet Carpet Flooring America explained the benefits of modern vinyl plank flooring and invited customers to view its extensive selection.

• The Bike Place will host the Princeton Bike Fest “Swap & Super Sale” over Homestead Weekend—Fri 9/5–Sat 9/6 (11 a.m.–6 p.m.) and Sun 9/7 (9 a.m.–1 p.m.)—at 701 N. Main St., featuring vintage and collectible bikes, e-bikes, trikes, tandems, memorabilia and more.

• Apollo Theater Princeton lists showtimes for SKETCH (PG)—Fri–Sat 4:30 & 7:15 p.m., Sun 1:45/4:30/7:15 p.m. (last Sunday show open-captioned), Tue–Thu 6:15 p.m., closed Mon—and WEAPONS (R)—Fri–Sat 4:15 & 7:00 p.m., Sun 1:30/4:15/7:00 p.m. (last Sunday show open-captioned), Tue–Thu 6:00 p.m.; tickets at the box office or apolloprinceton.com.

• Boek-el-ZOO announces a noon start for sales of used animal enclosures, stands, and bundled containment packages and invites shoppers to stop by and get set up.

• Paisano’s Ristorante promotes dessert favorites—including chocolate-chip cannoli, rolled ice cream, cinnamon nuggets, and new fried brownie bites—notes hours of 4–10 p.m., and is hiring experienced servers for on-site interviews.

• Fresh Finds Princeton has restocked customer-favorite water candles and introduces new fall styles while supplies last.

• Optimal Health highlights a fresh selection of organic produce, including jalapeños, chili peppers, tomatoes, basil, zucchini, thunderhead kale, and cucumbers.

• Corner Chair Market invites shoppers to tour its latest in-store furniture selections showcased throughout the shop.

• Friends of Strays, Inc. – Princeton, IL features Rosco, a 2–3-year-old, dog-friendly pup who enjoys walks and is ready to be adopted into a loving home.

• Cafe Grace spotlights a limited-time Salmon Rockefeller special and flavored lemonades, with walk-ins, reservations, and takeout available at 1009 N. Main St. (815-872-4000).

• Shane’s Shine Shop is hosting its Open Garage on Saturday, Sept. 20 from 8–11 a.m. at Rotary Park in Princeton. Shane’s Shine Shop invites the community to bring their rides and enjoy a morning of cars and pop-up booths.

• Bureau County Fair will feature a Tractor Show on Sunday, Aug. 24 from noon to 4 p.m. Bureau County Fair welcomes antique and newer tractors, offering two free admissions per tractor.

• Shannon’s Memorials can add names, dates, or other lettering to existing headstones with care and precision. Contact Shannon’s Memorials at 815-878-3682 to discuss your inscription needs.

Upcoming:

• Midnight Rider at Soldier & Sailors Park — Enjoy live music with Midnight Rider at Soldier & Sailors Park on Saturday, September 6, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at 700 S Main Street. Full event details will be posted soon.

• 12th Annual Artisan Market — Spend a beautiful fall day at the 12th Annual Artisan Market at Hornbaker Gardens on Saturday, September 20, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Enjoy 30+ fine artists, food trucks, home-baked goods, live music, beer and wine, local produce, artisan popsicles, and more — free admission.

• Shine Shop Supplies will host the 3rd Annual Open Garage car meet on Saturday, Sept. 20, from 8–11 a.m. at Rotary Park in Princeton; expect more vehicles, additional vendors, and possibly food.

• Barrel Society welcomes The Bart Attacks on Saturday, Aug. 23, at 7 p.m. (930 N. Main St., Princeton) for a night of jam-band tunes—no cover, just great cocktails, whiskey, beer, and live music.

🏆PRINCETON PERSON OF THE WEEK

Did someone go the extra mile? Did a Princeton Person bless you or someone else you know? Nominate them, give me the details, and they may be chosen as the Princeton NOW Person of the Week. Nominate your Princeton Person of the Week by emailing your nomination to [email protected].

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👷PRINCETON JOB OPENINGS

• Corteva Agriscience is hiring a Maintenance Electrician for their Princeton, Illinois location, offering a $2,500 sign-on bonus. The role involves supporting plant operations through maintenance tasks, capital project support, preventative maintenance, and safety efforts. Applicants must have a high school diploma or equivalent and at least two years of industrial maintenance experience, along with the ability to interpret the National Electric Code (NEC). Candidates should be physically capable of working in various environments and have proficiency with Microsoft Office and other company systems.

• AutoZone in Princeton, IL is hiring a full-time Senior Retail Sales Associate to ensure store tasks are completed promptly, operate cash registers, and follow established cash handling procedures. The role requires adherence to company policies, loss prevention practices, and maintaining a safe, clean, and well-merchandised store environment. Candidates should be prepared to work in a team setting and contribute to overall store operations—hiring is immediate.

• The USPS is hiring Mail Carriers in Princeton, IL, with no prior experience required, offering $23.47–$38.62 per hour and up to $72,400 annually with full benefits. Responsibilities include delivering and collecting mail by foot or vehicle, maintaining positive customer relationships, and staying informed on postal laws and services. The position includes paid vacation, sick leave, holidays, and comprehensive medical, dental, vision, and retirement benefits.

• Walmart in Princeton, IL is hiring Stockers/Unloaders at up to $21 per hour to help ensure customers find needed items, unload trucks, and move and sort products in the backroom. The role includes stocking shelves, keeping aisles clean, and maintaining an organized store environment. Team members will also engage positively with vendors, assist customers, and provide prompt, helpful service—immediate hire available.

🌼DANDELION WISHES REFURBISHED FURNITURE

Michelle DeVoss has this refurbished lodge chair available at her home shop in Sheffield. The front and back have been decoupaged with a buffalo and a southwestern design and sealed for durability. The frame and seat have also been redesigned. This is a unique chair that will make a statement. Asking price is $250 and limited delivery may be available. 

Be sure to follow “Dandelion Wishes Refurbished Furniture” on Facebook for upcoming projects! Michelle can be reached through Facebook Messenger or by email at [email protected]. 

🏃‍♂️THE UNDERGROUND RAILROAD 5K

Join the fun on Saturday, September 6, 2025 at the Bureau County Metro Center (837 Park Avenue West, Princeton, IL). The race begins and ends at the Metro Center.

Registration:

• $25 if registered by August 6

• $30 on August 7 and after

• $300 Corporate Team (up to 20 participants)

• Kiddy Fun Run — FREE!

Race shirts are guaranteed for all pre-registered runners and available on race day while supplies last.

Awards:

• Overall Male & Female

• Top Princeton Male & Female

• Top 3 finishers in each Male & Female age division

Questions? Contact Brett Renner at 815-876-0721 or [email protected].

📝LETTER FROM LORI

I love to write. It’s never been intentional—just a hobby, an outlet. I rarely edit or rewrite. It’s pretty raw and unrefined. Sort of like my life.

I was thinking about the parallels to parenting. When you have children, you write this screenplay in your head about how it will all play out. You have main characters and a plot. You weave in a little bit of drama as a realistic twist, but there’s always a happy ending. So you pop some popcorn, grab a soda, and sit back to watch the play.

Opening night arrives, and the curtain rises. As the actors take the stage, you realize that even though some main characters are present, others are missing. You search the sidelines, waiting for them to enter. Surely there’s an explanation. Did they get stuck in makeup? Were they unable to find their props? No—they just aren’t coming.

So you go back to watching. Wait! Who is that? You didn’t write that character into the script! Who is that? They’re overacting and pulling the focus away from your carefully planned plot!

And what is that?? WARDROBE MALFUNCTION!! The main character shouldn’t be wearing that short skirt and have that crazy hair. That doesn’t flow with the story!

You sit in your seat, helpless to change the chaos unfolding on the stage. Your feeble shouts from the balcony aren’t making a difference. Can they even hear you? Do they see you waving wildly, trying to fix what they’re messing up? Are the spotlights blinding them? For heaven’s sake, did they pay attention at all in rehearsal?

After a while, you give up. You shake your head, maybe shed a tear or two, but finally realize you’re powerless from your vantage point, and there’s no way security is letting you backstage to take control of this production. So, muttering under your breath, you plunge your hand back into the popcorn bucket, maybe add a shot of Jack Daniel’s to your soda, and just watch it all unfold.

Munch.

Munch.

Slurp.

Okay, so maybe it’s more tense than you originally wrote it. Maybe that twist took it in a different direction than you planned—but that unwritten character has merit and is a breath of fresh air. The villain you didn’t create dies in the end, so that’s good. The set design is more colorful than you expected, but it actually enhances the feel of the whole play.

In the end, you look at the whole thing and realize that even though it wasn’t true to the original script you created, it was a GREAT production… maybe even better than your imagination allowed.

So, the curtain falls and you smile. Your script gave a good foundation for a fabulous play.

Munch.

Slurp.

Ahhhhh…

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].